Category: Fashion

  • Fashion That Makes A Statement: Are You Brave Enough?

    There are many ways to get your word across in this day and age, especially with social media right at our fingertips. However, fashion has always been a method by which people choose to make a statement, whether it’s through studious-looking Carrera glasses or hard-wearing Birkenstock boots. Whether it be to show off their personality, a style they choose to follow, or even to help a good cause, it’s an extremely creative way of doing so and most importantly, it gets noticed! Focusing on fashion that’s created to support a good cause is a great way of having clothes you love while also helping out a cause you’re passionate about. So, to help raise awareness even further, here are some fashion statements for a good cause for you to try out!

    Photo by rawpixel.com from Pexels

    Taaluma Totes

    Taaluma Totes takes wool and cotton from all around the world and brings it back to the U.S. where disabled adults are employed to craft each tote. The purchase of each tote then goes back into the country where the fabric is from as a micro-loan to farmers and small business owners there. Whenever they can, they pay the loan back and the repayment funds the purchase of more fabrics, creating an economic flow in that country and creating a wonderful product along the way!

    You Don’t Want This Life

    You don’t want this life run themselves on a premise of overcoming adversity, hard work, and creativity which is expressed in what we choose to wear. The brand represents how you feel about what you want in life and how you want to get there. A brilliant way of sparking conversation and making people cherish what they have too. View You Don’t Want This Life today to see their range and learn more about them.

    Gandy’s Flip Flops

    Two brothers from the UK create this firm when their family of six was travelling in Sri Lanka and their family was killed by a tsunami. Being made orphans at the age of 15 and 17, they were inspired to help other parent-less children around the world, especially those affected by tsunamis and the devastating effects that are left behind. Enter Gandy’s Flip Flops. They’ve already managed to build orphanages in India and Sri Lanka!

    Chakra Bracelets

    Did you know that over 6 million people in the UK alone live with anxiety? That’s a staggering amount of people! Anxiety is a mental illness that causes you to feel scared, alone, experience heart palpitations, cold sweats, and many more symptoms. Anxiety can completely take over a person’s life if not treated properly, and many people choose to wear Chakra bracelets in support of those who suffer, or to show that they are fighting the disease.

    There are many ways that you can support a good cause and if you’re into your fashion like us, you might consider fashion that makes a statement. Are you brave enough?

  • Hannah Morgan

    Hannah Morgan

    From her studio in London, Hannah Morgan works on a variety of projects across art and fashion, ranging from sculpture and performance to trend and colour forecasting. We caught up with Hannah to find out more about how her interest in design began, her inspirations and how collaboration plays a vital role in her work.

    www.hannahmorganstudio.com

    Photographs by Ellie Tsatsou.

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    Could you please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your background and education?

    Hi! My name is Hannah Morgan, I am a maker of objects, that spans art, design, and fashion. I’m a native Londoner, and I’m thankfully still able to live and work not far from where I grew up.

    My first degree was in Film Theory and English Literature at the University of Sussex. I then went into assisting fashion and photographic art directors, and Trend Forecasting at East Central studios before embarking on a series of making courses (notably Kensington and Chelsea Collage) before ending up in the Fashion Department at the Royal Collage of Art under the supervision of Julie Verhoeven/Tristian Webber/Noel Stewart. It was there that I felt like I had entered Willy Wonka’s factory – the scope of what I could make, think about, and engage with was mind blowing!

    After the RCA MA as well as setting up my own practice I worked at Studio Xo for clients such as Wayne McGregor/Lady Gaga. In my own studio I undertake a variety of projects as well as assisting artists such as Julie Verhoeven (as a performer), colour consultant Hilary Scarlett, and collaborating with fantastic creatives like Robert Binet, Ellie Tsatsou, and Liam Hodges.

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    Do you remember about when you first got interested in design?

    It probably started in the Dalston Oxfam when I was a kid, I was given free reign to get my outfit… it was an explosion of expression! I grew up in a family of artists/architects/writers that valued looking analytically at the world, and encouraged the ideas and creativity of even the youngest members. So design, fashion and art were always around, a trick of circumstance and osmosis that initially shaped my interests.

    I think design became something that I wanted to know more about as an adult when I studied film for my BA. I was intrigued by the importance of objects in a scene or what the dress of a character signified within the narrative, from a character’s psychological state to a plot twist. It was through the screen that the power of design and its meanings in popular culture were reflected back, and I was hooked.

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    You describe your work as interdisciplinary, could you tell us a little bit more about it and where your inspiration comes from?

    My work has always been about process and ideas and I am interested in the way in which the same ideas can apply across different media and disciplines. I find I’m too inquisitive about different processes and outcomes when investigating a subject or idea. If a photograph/film/sound fulfils a direction, then I’m content with that, if a sculpture works better on a wall than a body, that’s fine. I think in the process of play, discovery, and mishaps are vital as a maker. That need to be definitive has become less important as I went through different education and contexts, I still hold on to some stubbornness though – you know when something is right.

    My focus or inspiration comes from trying things out around a subject. Since the RCA I have been investigating the relationship between a body and object. I can’t seem to shake it, probably because the subject can have so many different interpretations and change according to context. It feels like there are infinite possibilities!

    At the moment I’ve been looking at Neolithic statues, listening to D’Angelo and the Reith Lectures, watching A.Curtis’ HyperNormalization, eating curry, and if I’m lucky go for long walks in and around the city.

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    Could you tell us about your collaborative work?

    I have always preferred working with other people, especially if they come from a different context or creative background; it’s the easiest way to learn and challenge your work and the world. At the moment I’m very privileged to be working with choreographer Robert Binet, who is based in Canada. We are using his imagination of what a body can do, and my methods of analysing and abstracting form to re-interpret the language of movement in a space. I’m also at the beginnings of a project with the photographer Ellie Tsatsou, looking at making and documenting processes and methods.

    Collaboration is key! I recommend it to everyone – even if you’re colluding with someone over the dinner! We are all in part a product of circumstance, who we are friends with, where we are born, etc. I’m so happy and lucky to be where I am right now, and crossing paths with the people I do, it’s a sobering thought in today’s world.

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    What are your plans for the upcoming months?

    At the moment I’m working on an exhibition that will open on 2nd of December, Works in Progress: Haptic Methodologies, at Second Six Galley in Dalston. It is a mixture of sculpture, photographs, film and ephemera looking at the ongoing relationship between my body (as performative) and an object (as static), and its impact on the making process. Also coming up is more collaborative performances with Robert Binet across the pond and here in London.

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  • 6 Mistakes To Avoid When Shopping For Clothes

    Most people love to shop. Though short-lived, the joy of acquiring new things can have a therapeutic effect on your mood. Finding the best buys for every season sometimes goes beyond only hunting for the best deals. Knowing what to look out for will help make your shopping experience more fulfilling. If you’re planning to buy some clothes, here are some mistakes to avoid to help save your hard-earned money. 

    Ignoring reviews

     

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    Online reviews act like a stamp of approval on your purchase and its source. They are a useful part of your online shopping. A lack of reviews could increase your likelihood of making a wrong decision. It also helps you to know the right goods to buy. Skipping them and considering them unimportant could cost you, and you might end up with something you don’t like or need.

    Shopping without a plan

     

    A shopping plan or list is your saviour if you are prone to impulse buying. Write down all you need and stick to the plan to escape buyers’ remorse. It’s best to plan accordingly, starting with your needs rather than your wants. Chances are, by the time you are halfway through the list, you might scratch off some items and save money. With a plan, you can avoid gravitating towards the same pieces and adding bulk to your wardrobe. 

    A spree with no budget

     

    Setting a limit before you get excited over new clothes is a smart way to approach shopping. More often than not, one shirt can become five new shirts, while two pairs of shoes become ten pairs. Immediately after the excitement wears off, your credit card alerts remind you how much you have overspent. There is no shame in looking for the best discounts and coupons on your favourite clothing outlet as long as they provide the quality you seek.

    Missing the return policy

     

    Buying clothes in person or online can be tricky at times. Pay attention to the return policy so you can return the clothes for a refund when necessary. You could assume a certain size is the right fit, only to wear it and discover it is not. What if regret kicks in or you find out the quality of the clothing is poor? Without reading the policy, you will be stuck with the item.

    Choosing quantity over quality

     

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    A price slash can be tempting and lead you to buy an item on the spot. You begin to imagine and calculate all the money you will be saving. However, it is not always a good way to shop. Buying a few good quality clothes will help you save a lot as they are long-lasting. 

    Following trends

     

    Trends have no longevity and are not always for everyone. Investing in them means changing your wardrobe whenever a trend dies out. That is not good news. Going for things you love and wouldn’t mind wearing years down the line is essential. Consider creating your style, so you don’t end up getting sucked into the habit of shopping for new trends all the time.

    Shopping for clothes with these pointers will make your sprees more fun and economical. Don’t skip the return policy, have a plan and a budget, choose quality over quantity and stick to your style. Happy shopping!

  • How To Dress Smartly When You Don’t Like To

    There will likely come times in your life when you need to dress smartly. Whether it’s dressing up for a special occasion, for an interview, or for your new place of work. However, not everyone likes dressing smartly, and if this is you, it can make dressing in the morning an unpleasant experience. So here is how to dress smartly when you don’t like to.

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    Ditch The Jumpsuits

    You can wear jogging bottoms, and you can wear a hoodie, just not at the same time. A tracksuit or jumpsuit outfit is never going to impress anyone and if anything should be worn in the comfort of your own home only. Jumpsuits are comfortable, and there’s definitely an appeal in wearing them, but they shouldn’t really be worn out in the public eye, especially when you’re going somewhere important or in a social occasion. Tracksuit bottoms are good if they’re paired with a smart jumper and a hoodie can be styled with a leather jacket or a long a-line coat. Just try to keep the two apart.

    Go For A Linen Suit

    If you don’t like the feel of a suit, then there are plenty of options available out there. Dressing smartly doesn’t mean you need to be in a three-piece suit. You could go for a linen suit which is more breathable and is a lot softer and more comfortable to wear. It’s also good to have when you’re working or in a place that’s quite warm. The last thing you’d want is to be in something you don’t like wearing and then sweating in it. You can also pair these linen suits with some other suitable ties for men. There are some great options for styles of ties and bow ties, and don’t forget that there’s always a clip-on option if you don’t fancy trying your hand at tying a tie.

    Invest In A Nice Watch

    A watch is a great accessory for anybody who’s wanting to dress up their outfit and to make a casual outfit appear more smartly put together. Accessories can help with this, and when you’re out at a function or event, a nice watch can be eye-catching and can distract from the rest of the outfit. Try to find a watch that is going to match with most of your outfits. A lot of watch brands now offer an additional coloured strap so that you can swap it up with another alternative and give the appearance that it’s two different watches when, in fact, it’s just the one.

    Shine Those Shoes

    Dirty or scuffed shoes can bring even the most formal attire down. You can get new shoe advice from shoehero.com. It looks messy and unkept that you may as well be wearing a tracksuit! So whatever you end up wearing, ensure that those shoes have been shined or if they can’t be shined with polish, then given them a good wipe down to get rid of any dirt marks. The shinier the shoes, the more elevated your look will appear to be. When it comes to shoes, it’s good to go with a leather or faux leather because these materials are easy to shine up and to make it look luxurious. If you love shoes, then it’s worth investing in a good pair of leather shoes that you can wear with most outfits – make sure you learn how to clean your leather shoes in order to make them last longer!

    Tailor Your Outfits

    The reason as to why you may not like dressing smartly is because what you’re wearing isn’t comfortable. And who would want to wear something that’s ill-fitted or causing discomfort? That’s why you should try to get as many of your outfits tailored as possible. This can be your jackets and coats, trousers and shirts. The clothing that’s produced in-store is not going to fit everyone’s body type. A lot has been sized up with specific measurements, and the likelihood that it’s going to fit you perfectly is slim. So tailor your outfits where you can, and you’ll probably surprise yourself when you come to favour more smart outfits than casual wear, which is likely not to fit you properly either. You can get great info from Threadcurve about dressing for your body shape, It’s a great way to start with your own style.

    Being able to dress smartly is something that you should enjoy, but if you don’t, then you don’t need to do anything too drastically to change up what you’re already wearing. Think about tailoring some of your wardrobe and investing in the pieces that make a difference to your outfit and create the illusion that you’ve put in the extra effort. Shop the clothes that you want to wear and then work around it to get the right level of smart.

  • How to Find and Embrace Your Own Personal Style

    In order to have a successful career in fashion, it is crucial to find and embrace your own personal style. This may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! There are many ways to find out what your personal style is, and once you know, it is important to stick with it. This blog post will discuss how to find and embrace your own personal style. We will also provide some tips on how to stay true to yourself and your style, no matter what anyone else says!

    1) Do some research

    One of the best ways to figure out your personal style is to do some research. Look at your favorite fashion bloggers and celebrities, and pay attention to what they wear. Notice what you like about their style, and try to recreate it yourself. Experiment with different looks until you find something that feels right for you.

    Another great way to research your personal style is to look at old photos of yourself. What did you used to wear when you were younger? What styles make you feel the most comfortable and confident? Use these as inspiration when creating your own unique look.

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    2) Be true to yourself

    Once you’ve figured out what your personal style is, it’s important to stay true to yourself. Don’t let anyone else dictate how you dress or what you like. Instead, wear what makes you happy, whether it be a labret piercing as an accessory or a funky colored dress, and feel good in your own skin.

    If you’re ever unsure about an outfit, ask yourself if it is something that you would normally wear. If the answer is no, then chances are it isn’t your style, and you should probably avoid it. It’s also important to remember that your personal style can change over time, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things.

    3) Dress for your body type

    One of the most important things to keep in mind when dressing is your body type. Not all styles will look good on everyone, so it’s important to find something that flatters your figure. If you’re not sure what style works best for you, consult a friend or family member who has a good eye for fashion. Or, you can always ask a salesperson at your favorite store for help.

    Once you know what styles look good on you, stick with them! It’s tempting to try new trends all the time, but if they don’t suit your body type, then you’ll just end up feeling frustrated and unhappy with your wardrobe.

    4) Be confident

    No matter what your personal style is, the most important thing is to be confident in yourself. If you don’t feel good about what you’re wearing, it will show. So, wear something that makes you feel fabulous and watch as the compliments come rolling in!

    By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding and embracing your own personal style in no time! Just remember to be true to yourself, dress for your body type, and always rock your outfits with confidence. You’ll love the results!

    5) Choose an inspiring bag

    Choose an inspiring bag that reflects your unique style and stands the test of time. Leather bags are usually best because of their unmatched elegance and durability, which effortlessly complement various outfits, from casual to formal. Investing in a high-quality leather bag ensures long-lasting beauty and versatility for years.  

    Clutches are great for formal occasions and can make a fashion statement with embellishments, unique textures, or envelope designs. Satchels are timeless and can add a touch of sophistication to your style, particularly in leather. 

    Vintage bags, whether handbags, clutches, or satchels, allow you to showcase your appreciation for classic fashion. A statement bag with a bold pattern, vibrant color, or unique embellishments can be a centerpiece of your outfit. Personalized bags, art-inspired designs, and eco-friendly options can also reflect your personality and values.  

    Finally, boho bags with fringe, beading, and unique textile patterns add a free-spirited vibe to your look, and novelty bags in whimsical shapes display your playful and unique style. The key to an inspiring bag is to choose one that resonates with your tastes and the message you want to convey through your fashion choices. 

    Conclusion  

    Highlight your fashion style by applying the tips above. Ensure to choose high-quality products to ensure longevity and comfort.