“Springtime Fun-In-The-Sun… Vegas-Style!!”

 

I’m not a bit mad at it, friends…

… a smoked salmon, champagne brunch, at the “Caviar House and Prunier”, accompanied by cheery, if, somewhat sporadic, conversation with fellow diners, in transit, via Heathrow Terminal 3, to global destinations…. with the occasional gawp at the latest offerings of high-end chic, from Louis Vuitton…

…. Nope, I’m not averse to it at all!

In fact, if you were to take the very same letters from, arguably, the most famous acronym in fashion, you’d have a clue as to my own point of disembarkation…

… which, has become my landing location, of choice, on three occasions, since last November…

… Getting warmer?

We-l-l-ll…

…  it has a “Strip” and…. more hotelier options than you can shake a stick at… and secures the hottest performers in the music world…

Yes.. you’ve got it!

Lovely Las Vegas was calling me back to its eclecticisms and idiosyncratic party culture… and this time, I was going to get a lot warmer… Say, 80 degrees, warmer!

… But these days, when the Time-Space continuum is in conjunction… and offers up a week of poolside-living and distinctive style-stories… how can one deign to reject such potential for adventure?!

The answer is, one simply cannot!

… Oh and there might, just, have been the opportunity to celebrate life in, quite, the most glamorous front-row mosh pit in town… Otherwise known as “losing yourself” to the swingin’-est sounds, at the, one and only, “Matt Goss Experience”, within the sassy surrounds of “1OAK Nightclub”, enveloped by the “Grande Dâme” of venues, “The Mirage Hotel”!

Yes…

…  that might, indeed, have alleviated the extensive airtime… although, I was probably the most excited, yet, to be heading back into the arms of my best-loved recreational hot-spot, for an impromptu hug!

Until then…

 I do not succumb to the, deceptively, time-consuming temptation, of purchasing Duty Free…

Rather, I am as focussed as possible, in order to enjoy every other element of my experience (as always)… and, rather expeditiously, am settling into my home-for-the-day… A red-and-white liveried Virgin Atlantic plane (entitled “Lady Freedom”, no less!)… spanning reminiscent listening-sessions of Jeff Buckley’s intensely-moving masterpiece, “Grace”, through to my chosen touchdown tunes, served up by the irrepressible futuristic-disco of Daft Punk… interspersed by power-naps and nourishment, as only the “Branson Brigade” can, so expertly, and elegantly, provide.

I also checked-in with the flight tracker, but needn’t have bothered, since, as we drew ever closer to Nevada, the cabin temperature took a distinct upturn, like the curve of a smile upon the face of someone who has a delicious secret, nestling on the tip of their tongue…

… and, before we knew it, the Time-Space continuum had transported us, to a new Destiny-moment… to make new discoveries, in the awaiting, ensuing days of ensuites and lively beats…

… and what a treat it was!!

Firstly, having dressed for the inclement weather which I’d left behind (i.e. layered in Zara Knitwear, M & S tweed trousers and Julien McDonald biker jacket, etc. etc.), the air con-infused limo ride was an entire blessing!

Then, in keeping with the, seeming, multi-dimensional convergence, a speedy arrivals desk, saw myself and luggage, whisked away in an, equally, expedient elevator, into a newly laid-out, ever more spacious, dwelling, overlooking the expansive pool area, which was soon to be my next stop.. after a freshen-up… and another power-nap…

… which was never going to work when, engrossed by CNN’s Don Lemon and Chris – “#LetsGetAfterIt” – Cuomo, as I arose, in time for the pool to be closed and the restaurants to have been open, for their first and second sittings!

… Yet, the anticipation for my mini outdoor excursion, in search of the perfect placement, for the girl-about-town, writing situation, was not wasted on one, such as I… Assuredly not! … Neither was my beloved shrimp pasta, with the creamiest of sauces, well-accompanied by bubbles, of the soda-pop kind!

At which point, the secret smile was, altogether, mine!

… As was “The Dolphin Bar”, which, for me, was the ultimate setting, for cooling shade on the one side and sizzling sun-trap on the other… and with a waterfall, gently caressing the air, with trickling sound and guests, close by, in deep relaxation or laugh-out-loud revelry… I couldn’t have asked for better…

… except, for the über-cool tracksuits that The Mirage servers were sporting… which were not available, thus remaining exclusive and even more desirable! However, a little multi-coloured batwing top from French Connection, matching coral plissé skirt, with high-low hem and black flip-flops, were my delight… A 70’s throwback and precursor to some Halston Heritage couture, hanging in the closet, to be debuted at a later date… I thank you!!!

Ice-cool beverage and poolside stroll later, I was fuelled for more exploring…

… To Las Vegas Boulevard!!! To “The Fashion Show Mall”!!!

To “The Pinto Ranch“ … an absolute find, for those who adore the outdoor lifestyle and its complementary accoutrements… which, within two days, with the minimum of fuss, under the sagesse and adaptability of store supervisor, Greg, became an educational outlet and morphed into a “Country Music Awards” hang-out for shoppers and browsers, alike!

What I did not fork out for in Duty Free, I more than made up for in the acquisition of some wonderfully unique gifts, which made me look like I came straight out of Southfork… (I’m talkin’ cowboy hat, my darlins.. and then, some)!

How I loved the onslaught of action!!!

Learning more about traditional creative design processes, talking vinyl with “DJ After School Special” and his fabulously fashion-forward manager (and twin brother!), being drowned-out by cars, screaming sonic Morse code, via their horns, using skywalks to cross roads and enter other hotels, like the impeccable, “Venetian”… comparatively quieter, until reverberant opera singing shook the soundwaves of the brain to life… and all in micro-minutes!!!

I, mean, I absolutely, loved it!!!

… Oh, and, what was I not, dear friends?… I was not mad at it, at all… not even a bit perturbed, in the slightest!

I was in Vegas… I wanted more… and more is exactly what I got…

… namely, on Sunday night, for the, now weekly, major Matt Goss show!

Further inspired by my 70’s mood, I went all-out “Studio 54”, honey… All regal, royal blue, backless, halter-neck, jumpsuit joy, golden platform-shoe’d goodness and accordant cobalt, beaming Biba accessories… with a snazzy, ladder-link necklace… and, did I mention, a certain dalliance with “bareMinerals” glitter eyeshadow in “Twilight” and “Hot Commodity” highlighter, and luscious “Sleek” lip gloss… for day-y-y-ys?!!!

Oh, yes, friends, it was, categorically, on… and I was ecstatic with it all!

…. And. What. A. Show!!!

… No matter, how many times, you see it, hear it, experience it… the undeniable force, that is Mr Matt Goss, himself, somehow manages to upstage existence and smash the living daylights out of every moment, regardless of the vocal dynamic of any song, or any time signature!

This is his playground… his artistic vortex in which he, politely, yet, no less insistently, demands you let loose… and it takes no time at all for the whole room to, willingly, yield…

In fact, it gets sweaty, it gets rowdy, it takes a great, big, bite out of life and, quite frankly, is the only show which seems to be a Time-Space Continuum, all of its own…

… a fitting reward for going boldly, and a perfect vault for priceless memories…

… which, along with the turquoise-blue skies, that greeted me upon my return to lovely London, are exactly what I shall treasure…

… until the next clarion call upon dreamy desert winds, hails me back unto the sweet heartbeat of the Nevada Valley…

… and, do you know, what?

I’ll be truly glad, not a tad mad of that, friends…

… not at all!!

 

 

 

©A_F_R_O_W2019. All Rights Reserved.

 

 

“#SAVE The Last Dance…”

You will not leave.

You,

offspring of Dvorak.

You,

who distort fallen leaves,

underfoot,

in your vernal rendition,

your rich, Autumn rite.

You,

sprites,

who contort and convert the Now-century,

writhing

and crumpled in Krump,

gyroscopic and free…

… You, nymphs,

 who behold fawns of fashion,

whilst trashing the air of the après-midi,

causing blithe interference…

… Yes, you,

elvish synonyms,

interface rhythm,

Parisian protocols,

banking and flanking,

from left and from right,

as myriad moving material

slices through spotlight.

You,

who transform Nature’s atmosphere,

piercing the raven-haired habitat,

writing in space with your form,

split the atom,

the norm,

as an army of classics, abstracted,

defy and define,

with news-worthy chronicles,

re-setting garments, to zig-zag convention,

re-dressing the balance

of how to keep cool,

when the weathervane indicates, ‘warm’.

You will not leave me.

You will not leave my mind’s eye.

You,

living portals of dreams,

have affected my Soul,

with your

mischievous movement

and palette of

fanciful,

creative schemes.

 

 

 

©A_F_R_O_W2018-2019. All Rights Reserved.

 

 

 

 

 

“TOMMY X LEWIS is a-GO, GO, GO!”

It’s the dawn of a brand new day.

Different type of race day.

Same type of build-up.

… As my computer monitor buffers, I’m already getting the idea that Lewis Hamilton has been, subliminally, winding his way around the circuit of his life, all of his life, to this major, visionary moment….

… the destination, of which, is already a prize, now becoming a victory lap, of vêtements, if you will…

… which is apt, since, it is beneath the banner of his exceptional, other-worldly willpower and drive, that the boy-turned-man racer, Hamilton, launches his first collection, in collaboration with zeitgeist style-powerhouse, Tommy Hilfiger.

Paying homage to their “Icons of Tomorrow”, the “Tommy x Lewis” fashion line comprises a co-ed capsule range, which is raising the chequered flag of sartorial success, in no uncertain terms!

Yes, we know him as the prodigious driving genius, who, from his karting days, was set apart by an uncommon work ethic, but today demonstrates a new discipline in Lewis’s creative kitbag, which complements his well-developed, but lesser-known gifts in music and his holistic appreciation of the artistic.

As I speed-type, with cartoon-smoke coming through my fingertips, “Everybody’s looking forward to what comes up next” is piping through my speakers.. and, if the superfast stream of reactions is an indication, millions are, like me, joining the throng, to preview exactly what “next” is going to “be“.

Who cares if the feed keeps dropping in and out, like a fan, fainting, from being overwhelmed at meeting their long-time idol?!!!

What does it matter if this begets the necessity to minimize the resolution?!!!

The track blaring out at me that “it’s time to start the show…” could not be more right…

LET’S. DO. THIS. LEWIS!!!!

A sliver of floating runway, is set in a Shanghai harbour, adjacent to a bright-lights-big-city backdrop and flanked by a deep river of stillness as guests, comparatively, on the edge of their seats, are being treated to fierce, high-octane sport-luxe, with codes of crisp, colour-blocking and crop-topping…  Non-stop Iconic, stomping, in block-heels and stepping, in worker-boots, khaki parkas, pewter puffas, go-faster, F1 stripes, chromatic geometrics are team-mates with over-grown plaids, on models with plaits… overlaid by a palette of clean-lined, lightning white through midnight black and texturised by sweatshirts and sweater-vests, drenched in shimmering sequins…

No time for pitstops though, as proportions collude, from full-length coats, that effortlessly cloak, to a cutting-edge tux that, seemingly, carves the silhouette out of living space. They scream and holler “New-York-minute” elegance, for the fashion-conscious connoisseur-cum-global traveller!!

It’s full-on, new-pep, Preppy-for-the-People… irresistibly-twisted, Ivy-League-on-overload and, branded with the insignia of “H”, brings to mind that, for such a time as this, were Hilfiger and Hamilton destined to be one.

The finale walk, was the perfect reminder that this was no empty, celebrity-endorsed exercise but a bonafide collaboration… the result, of which, delivered on desirability for the masses and then some. It is achievable, believable design, filled with on-trend enthusiasm, yet fuelled by an energy of endurance, and, in a sloganized, tie-dyed top of his own, the root-message from Hamilton’s heart is clear.. “UNITY” is the new dress-code of the day.

… A garment that I should be proud to sport, any and every day…

 

 

©A_F_R_O_W2018-2019. All Rights Reserved.

 

~

Click-through below, to peruse and purchase from the “Tommy X Lewis” capsule collection Now!

TOMMY X LEWIS (Tommy Hilfiger UK)

Social Media Links:-

@TommyHilfiger @LewisHamilton

#TommyxLewis #TommyNow #IconsOfTomorrow

 

 

 

“Jermyn Street, St James’s…”

It is in turning left,

that the cord is cut with the contemporary.

Graphite, cross-hatched with hard-black cement,

sketched by artisans,

touched by global hands,

indented with dust of the centuries.

Sunlight,

Nature’s photoshop, clings to each crevasse,

casting its warm solar wash,

round corners, akin to Rascasse…

Façades and facscias glint in the eyes

of faces,

reflecting on craft’s expertise,

free-floating and hanging on historic air,

as they breeze by.

Working through ‘hows’ and the ‘whys’…

Centred by scent,

sensibility governs respect of the labour required

to purpose bespoke personality.

Channelling rows of embroidery,

stitches so scantily set and refined,

leave a long tale of coloured mosaics behind…

Threads intertwined into conjured creations,

embellished, beyond the prosaic.

Jet joins patina of chestnut,

so lovingly burnished, the polish controlled,

whilst a peacock effect, is adorning footsteps on display,

with a brogue and a lilt

which demands that you move, with a gait that is bigger than bold.

Walk with intention, whilst other folk stroll.

Wind your way up to the stage…

You’re alone, but not on your own…

Got to step right on, with heart and with soul…

… slink with the cool cats and kittens,

who strut in a program of head-to-toe glamour and glitz,

spritzed in House check,

decked-out in exclusives…

A menu of tailoring,

linear, monochrome, neutrals and flashes of brights…

… finished in detail,

the process, of which, is a mastery of the tradition,

time-honoured technique,

that appears to be married to something elusive.

Front-row patent,

viewing heritage and legacy,

basking in the glare of shining novelty.

Perfected in ateliers’ secrecy.

Inventive collections of structure

and

sheer,

living poetry.

 

 

©A_F_R_O_W2018-2019. All Rights Reserved.

“The Power and Glory of Balenciaga!”

“Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion” at the Victoria and Albert Museum, is a veritable rhapsody.

A rapturous round of applause to the unmitigated guile and talent of a supremely-gifted tailor and cutting-edge innovator.

Laid out over two amazing floors of crystal-clear creativity, a culmination of past, present and future clauses of the highest quality design are seamlessly-rendered, through quintessential craftsmanship and ground-breaking technology, as only the V&A can do!

From the tenderest beginnings of a Cristobal, who is born in País Vasco, Spain, raised against the backdrop of a consummately-skilled dressmaking Mother and instructed under the tutelage of only the very best in their respective fields of design, to the Master Couturier, in his own right, it is an utter delight to quick-unpick and unpack the realm of raiment which would see him thrust into the fashion foreground and remain there.

Breathless, at every turn, am I. Inspirational in every era of his existence, was he.

Moreover, this exhibition is a power ballad to sartorial intent…

…the curation process, of which, began in 2015 and reaches its maturation in an assemblage which extends beyond the ‘comprehensive’, but is deep-dyed in its sensitive depiction of a uniquely imaginative and inventive world.

From the lab-coat efficiency of pattern-cutting precision (which we might now call ‘minimalist’), to the command of experimental flights-of-fancy (which we might now call avant-garde), the genius of Balenciaga is honoured, with the finely-tuned accuracy of the Maestro, himself. It is effortless glamour-on-demand!

Rather fitting, then, that the ground-level should be sprinkled with the glitter of socialites and movie-star patrons, such as Anne Bullitt Biddle, Elizabeth Parke Firestone and Ava Gardner.

…Toile-to-attire, the entire archival lay-out is akin to the ultimate ensemble…

Yet, not to be outdone by such levels of haute grandeur, the inclusion of C21st advancement is employed, with distinct aplomb. Not only do dress-making demonstrations adorn expansive HD screens, but, on ascending a staircase as grand as the pinpoint pick-ups of a couture wedding gown, they continue to be displayed upon the vast columns of the V&A, itself. Further revelations of the boning construction which lies beneath the gowns, are discovered through inspired collaborations between The London College of Fashion and X-Ray photographer, Nick Veasey, respectively. Each technique serving to enlighten the creative process in all of its methodical glory, acting like a hand-through-time in enlisting modernity to mirror and reflect the labour of love which it took to create, then, and disseminate Balenciaga’s originality, now.

 Earnest testimonials from couturiers and contemporary designers throughout the timeline, signify pertinent reminders of the extraordinary profundity and reach of Balenciaga’s influence. As if his, own, dextrous fingers had extended through history into the gloves of their giftings, such stand-out creators as Molly Goddard, Simone Rocha, Josep Font and J.W. Anderson recall, not only, his pure innovative power, but the exact point of departure for its impact in their own lives, let alone practice… although, it soon becomes clear-cut, that the two are, most definitely, one-in-the-same…

… which brings a romantic reciprocity to the story… for the glorious Balenciaga blueprint is bold and beautiful…the perfect parure… an unmissable suite of style, woven into every echelon of fashion finery, from menswear to womenswear… and echoing through functionality, from sportswear to eveningwear, with architectural sensibility.

All-encompassing proof, if proof were necessary, to “[re-assert] the fact that he’s not just shoes and handbags, he’s so much more”*…

…and always will be.

 

©A_F_R_O_W2018-2019. All Rights Reserved.

***

“Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion” is on now, until Sunday 18th February at the V & A.

~

Quotation Credit: * Cassie Davies-Strodder (Curator)

 

 

“Katharine Hamnett gives ‘Liberty’ to captivating SS18 collections!”

Nights like this should not be reserved for sleep…

… Not when you have had a meeting of minds, hearts and souls on monumental scales…

…and all in the premium package of the eagerly-awaited launch of Katharine Hamnett London’s SS18 women’s and menswear collections…

It takes someone truly revered to draw a crowd such as congregated in the hallowed halls of Liberty London’s lower ground floor. Place “Katharine Hamnett” into a sentence with a bona fide, high-end retail treasure of this great capital, and, together, you have the cadence of perfect creative alchemy, epitomising Balance…. Harmony…

….which neatly summarises the most captivating capsule collections of dreams… (that is, if I were to succumb to sleep!)… However, as stated, tonight is not one for repose, of any kind!

Having arrived early, it is still a veritable hive of organised activity… From re-merchandising to maximise optimal exposure of every piece, to hoovering the most out-of-the-way corners, nothing is left to chance, in achieving the flawless, final look. To say that the hard work paid dividends, would be a vast understatement, for the mission was more than accomplished!

 I am cordially-greeted by Janine Constantin-Russell, General Manager of Liberty, and immediately taken aback by her generosity of time taken out of overseeing the build-up, to talk all-things “Hamnett” with me! Even more delighted was I, to be conversing with this lit-from-within energy, herself as excited as I was about the need for such a grounded presence to be back, once again, so rightfully, front-and-centre. Sparkling with expressiveness, vis-à-vis collaborating with the prestige label on such an auspicious launch, Janine encourages my taking a tour, to see the gorgeous results for myself and so, I promptly set off on my voyage of discovery!

In an atmosphere replete with swirls of hiphop-jazz, my initial walk-through to get acquainted with the latest sartorial offerings from the living legend, synonymous with ubiquitous style, was like a fresh breeze through the beautifully-landscaped garden of menswear. From Lanvin to Loewe, Thom Browne to Burberry, Marni to Moncler, Hamnett’s re-entry into the design atmosphere is rife with delicate defiance, in the swish of one organic silk shirt.. or the sharp swoop of a billowing, full-length, draped dress.

Slogan Tees are refreshed, with hard-hitting, visual exclamations to address the “now”, such as “Protest And Survive” and “Women Against War”, bringing to an end the misconception that silence is easy… As Katharine so eruditely put it, “We have to up our game, as we aren’t achieving very much, considering the amount of man and woman-hours that have [already] gone into fighting.” In accordance, both collections are steeped in revolution and the messages carry as confronting a narrative, as the days in which 80’s pop phenomenon, “Wham” boldly proclaimed “Choose Life”, whilst gleefully waking up musical empires on both sides of the Atlantic!

That the collections should be so deeply-embedded in such a spirit of the indomitable, should come as no surprise. It is well-known that Katharine Hamnett has always been ahead-of-the very same game, socio-politically, economically and creatively. Her battle to imbue the fashion system with the plausibility of sustainability and fighting for the human rights of those within the supply chain of production… has been her clarion call… Her voice has continually chimed through the annals of design to a point, whereby, ethical practice is, now, beyond an intangible vision and is an actual, going concern.

Enthusiastically-steered through a fascinating life story, filled with industry anecdotes of both, the glamour and the grit, by British Vogue’s esteemed Chief Critic, Sarah Mower MBE, who was pristine in Celine, the fact that “it all came too easily” was a testament to the authenticity of truth which runs through Hamnett, like a rod of iron. So-much-so, that she could be the real ‘Woman of Steel’, what with her proverbial determination to change the world-at-large, by changing the world around her.

Recounting, at blistering pace, that her production process is “paraben-free, [with] no heavy metals”, is just the preface to an inventory which includes organic cotton, “certified by Diamond Processing” standards, silk, which is “about as clean a fibre as you can get”, “nickel-free zips, [because] nickel is poisonous” and an endless quest “to find more sustainable fabrics, as techniques develop”. Further insight into her supply chain being the “Made In Italy”, export route, affords her the opportunity to “stick [her] nose up to anyone who talks about trade”, in addition to promoting and benefitting from their artisanal passion, “know-how, legacy and technical expertise.”

The superior quality of craft on display in the exposition of her new season selection, is undeniable evidence of this specialist provenance. From the considered nature of precision-pleating, on the wide-legged khaki trouser, with double-buttoned front and notched-back waistband, with slim-leg, ankle-skimming lengths, the wondrous working of a tissue-fine silk shirt, with an, ever so gentle, high-low hemline, to the perfectly-tempered palette of lightning white, through super-jet black, energised by richest reds and texturised by stonewashed denim treatments, the Katharine Hamnett man is spoilt-for-sophisticated and understated choice!

This same exacting, yet, polished prowess is celebrated in a Katharine Hamnett woman, who is savvy, edgy and endlessly elegant. The slogan “Maggie” Tee, which was fabulously-styled and modelled as a T-shirt dress, will fast need replenishing upon the rails, as will the stunning gold jumpsuit and, my personal favourite, the floor-sweeping, fire-engine red, puff-of-a-gown, with deep, plunge-front and back neckline…as ready for the red-carpet, as for the beach-front after-party!

It is all as impressive as her unconditional covenant to create, in order to benefit the greater good and embolden others to, similarly, make their voices heard. In a time of “freefall manufacturing, cheap labour and bad labour”, the crusader for social justice entreats the amassed assemblage of admirers to put literal pen-to-paper and compose letters to those who are paid to represent us, as well as to those brands who could and should make vast improvements, with regard to recognising and lessening the negative effect of their ethical footprint upon, both, people and the environment. “They’re trying, but they should be trying harder and faster”, not only summons affirmatory nods, but also gives rise to further adoration.

Questions from the floor prompt reiteration of the Katharine Hamnett stance towards making sustainable fashion more affordable and accessible… that of “better prices, with bigger production… online [to avoid extra capital costs].” However, it is her vocal nod to the lengths to which award-winning proponents of the circular economy, “Rapanui Clothing”, will go, in order to manufacture and deliver her T-shirt lines, which seems to, most, touch those in the room. Describing the “adorable” enterprise as “a perfect prototype of a C21st company, based in the Isle of Wight” is high praise, heartfelt recognition and truly symbolic of someone who “collaborates with anything that’s exciting or touches [her] heart.”

It is also indicative of her humility.

She seems oblivious to the attention which revolves, tornado-like, around her.

Absorbing selfies with timely patience and grace, she is pure, radiant class, with the spirit of a lioness, within the physique of a prima ballerina. Effortlessly-chic in black-out shades, nothing looked cooler than sharing a camera-frame with her, nothing more inspiring than observing her, back in her artistic habitat…

…and whilst her name might end “CBE” (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire), when asked the final question of how she would like to be remembered, she pauses and, with what must, surely, be accompanied by a twinkle in her concealed eyes, she cheekily replies “Watch. This. Space.” I, for one, cannot wait to see what this visionary next devises but, in my heart, I believe that the acronym will signify the success of her unrelenting message and stand for ‘Choose Buying Ethically’!

 

©A_F_R_O_W2018-2019. All Rights Reserved.

***

Katharine Hamnett London ~ Katharine Hamnett (Facebook) ~ @katharinehamnett (Instagram) ~ @khamnettlondon (Twitter)

Liberty London ~ Liberty London (Facebook) ~ @libertylondon (Instagram) ~ @LibertyLondon (Twitter) ~ Liberty London (YouTube)

Rapanui ~ Rapanui (Facebook) ~ @Rapanuiclothing (Twitter) ~ Rapanui: Sustainable Fashion (Google+) ~ @rapanuiclothing (Instagram) ~ rapanuiclothing (Pinterest)

Sarah Mower MBE ~ @sarahmower_ (Instagram)

***

Wholehearted @A_F_R_O_W-Appreciation goes to Katharine Hamnett CBE, for her utterly impeccable collections, relentless inspiration and unswerving passion for contributing towards a better world…to her team at Katharine Hamnett London, who faithfully facilitate her creative and societal vision, to Janine Constantin-Russell and the absolutely fastidious Team Liberty, for extending such congenial hospitality and creating a truly unique and outstanding event, and to Sarah Mower MBE, whose lively repartee and unabated dedication to the quest for talent, catalyse that of my own, ongoing editorial development.

 

 

“Un grand ‘chapeau’ to VV Rouleaux!”

I am Alice. Self-titled. Hear me roar!

I am striding towards my hypothetical wonderland.

I reach a literal treasure trove of Arts and Crafts.

I meet a modern-day Titian, a holidaying American, a collective of creative guides.

I am led through the open pages of this story-book establishment…encompassed by feathers that flutter and fashion, oh my!!

Vintage, contemporary, tassels and pom-poms, twinkling, sparkling… I am enveloped within the beating heart of a life-sized trinket box!

I am in maker’s heaven!

Yet…for all of the fantastical frou-frou, quaint this working atelier-cum-accessories hotspot could never be, as I am at the legendary VV Rouleaux, being escorted to my home, for the foreseeable… which is sure to be the ultimate venue, for a morning of marvellous millinery!

Perched at the end of a distinguished wooden table, with my creating companions, I pause to imbibe the sounds… Momentarily, my mind is elastic enough to breach the force-fields of time and witness the whispers of a tree which was to become the support for so many anticipatory participants before me… Looking up to the blue sky, it would be destined to carry the weight of future blue-sky schemes, being sedulously sculpted in ‘sinamay’.

Yes, “sinamay”, announced the voice of Faye, our esteemed mentor, was to be the material of choice… A banana fibre, not keen comrades with, either, humidity or precipitation, and my introduction to the ‘freeform’ method of hat-design, from ‘curling ends’, through stitching on the hat-base, to the execution of especial embellishment!

More memory-scapes emerged… rifling through my love of design, like back-copies of make-do-and-mend magazines. My first sampler, my first print, my first embroidered tote… Vivid 3-D images in multi-dimensional pop-ups held me in history, whilst the scent of Earl Grey tea had me winging my way back to the present.

Something about the beauty of the unknown inspired me to entrust Faye with the size of sinamay which I would be working. Although, in theory, the smaller the piece, the better, I was ready to face the challenge of a larger cut… and so it began… the blush-pink medium, cut on-the-bias to facilitate the curling process, with which to fashion my one-off fascinator…

Water was to be utilised. Water was to be respected.

Too much would become the arch nemesis of the technique, rendering it too soft to turn. Too little, and the fabric would not yield… in effect, becoming more free-from, rather than free-form! I was to learn this, friends, as the supple, became the squidgy, in quick succession! Faye had made the method a constant motion of contemporary dance. Under her haute handiwork, tight curling transformed into abstract curvature… I was, initially, all fingers and thumbs, until the recognition of my favoured direction to loosen the edges, before performing the process of rolling, became apparent! Ever the eternal voice of positive reinforcement, Faye advised that 1cm was the optimum size in order to avoid fraying or breakage… She also reassured us that there was no rush, which made utter sense to me, as my joy was in following the fibre… letting it show me the way, rather than coerce a structure.

I cannot recall it… but, at some point, my Titian-haired and American associates had turned their talents to the business of sewing the initial element of their works-in-progress onto their selected bases…always using new thread, as previous lengths left on needles might be damaged..

Hats were blossoming like a mixed meadow of midsummer flowers… and it was such a pleasure to behold the exhileration with which they began to observe the best positioning for the final placement of adornments.

My vision and, thankfully not my edges, unfurling, I felt a contrasting black base necessary, so as to blend with my darker hair colour and highlight the blushing pink hue of my creation. Owing to my enthusiasm for embroidery, I knew that I would tackle the next task with greater confidence, which had grown with my achievement of overcoming a brand new modus operandi of making! Sinamay resembling a lotus shape, Faye demonstrated how to navigate the undulations of fabric, setting me free to fix the components together with nigh-on invisible stitches… Very satisfying!

My adrenalin on the upswing, I moved on to the moment which had been filled with such promise… That of sifting through such an array of ornamentation, in which I could have happily burrowed down and nested! I blinked-back shiny, smooth, sparkling… pastels, purples… neutrals, nickels… gold, gold and more gold… All, of which, would suit any personality trait… All, of which, to me, spelt glamour, glamour, glamour!!!!!

“Nothing is too much!” was jettisoned into the air…

…and it took extreme discipline, on my part, not to apply that approach to what was taking shape! However, jet black leaves with subtle sequins shouted louder and I dared not resist… I did strike-a-pose or twenty-two, yet, rather than rush the finale, I took all of the necessary accoutrements with me, to add the finishing touches in my own time…

…which was the first time I was aware of it slipping away…

…and as I bid my farewell, VV Rouleaux bag in hand, I realised that the best take-away had been the luxury of spending a Saturday morning, not simply sharing a love of learning, but learning to love the simple joy of sharing, so much more!

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©A_F_R_O_W2018-2019. All Rights Reserved.

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Click through for more information about all of the fantastic VV Rouleaux workshops/ events!

VV Rouleaux, 102 Marylebone Lane, Marylebone, London, W1U 2QD

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Deepest A_F_R_O_W-thanks to Faye and the Marylebone Team for such a superb session and to fabulous Lucy, for the lovely invitation!

 

 

 

 

 

STYLE, WITH A CAPITAL ‘S’, FROM ‘TITLE A’!

*STOP THE WORDPRESS!*

Fashion news, of the major kind, has hit Afrow-H.Q and left us all in a flurry of excitement!

You see, Agyness Deyn is back–with-a-brand and what a design-debut she has made!

With the dream-team of Tracy Moore (uber-inspirational designer, with whom Agyness had previously collaborated for ‘Doctor Martens’) and Emily (Deyn’s supertalented sister), the multi-hyphenated model-actress-musician, has launched a superslick collection, as recognisably ‘Aggy’, as her crown of megawatt, blonde tresses!

Imagine it…

Timeless twists on classic menswear, harmonised with flowing, luxe fabrics, for that undeniably feminine feel…

Price-points that reflect the wisdom of an investment-buy, without having broken the bank…

Find them, on ‘Net-A-Porter’s’ ‘New Designer’ roster, in such elegant separates as the cool, oversized, cotton shirt (£170), the drape-necked ‘Boa’ blouse, in sumptuous plum (£240), the metallic ‘Pillar’ skirt, in textural jacquard (£180) and the beautiful, bespoke aesthetic of the double-breasted, ‘Chesterfield’ overcoat, a celebration of the straight-line silhouette, in navy/white wool and pinstripes (£360)!

With these attributes, ‘Title A’ already bears the hallmarks of an enduring label legacy. However, don’t even think of blinking, since expansion plans are set to include a comprehensive complement of, wallet-welcoming, high-end accessories – from eyewear to footwear – completing the top-to-toe, ‘Title A’ appeal. Furthermore, the aforementioned collections are due to drop four times a year, which is fantastic news, as the ready-to-wear looks of this line, are ready-to-rise upon a perpendicular trajectory and will surely sell-out, sooner than they arrive!

Freshly-installed at the top of my ‘style alphabet’, as ‘Title A, for Awesome Apparel‘, I’d advise the shrewd fashionistas amongst you to also get very acquainted… ‘Title A, for ASAP’!

TITLE A ~ NET-A-PORTER

©AFROW2014-2019 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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TWITTER SHOUT-OUT FROM TITLE A!

LFW: SIMONE ROCHA…TOTALLY TONGUE-IN-CHIC!!!!

Ahh Miss Rocha, with your style, you are really spoiling us!!!

Now before you tell me… I know it’s Roch-a as in ‘Ma-MA‘, not Roch-a as in, well, Rocher, but I couldn’t resist it! Nor could I take my eyes off this collection, which was, at once, stunning, as well as scintillating!

First impressions?

The ‘Simone Rocha-girl’ is the ‘Chanel-girl’s’ naughty little sister!!! The opening black ensemble of a sleeveless top with pearl-embellished neckline, which delicately surfed the stomach, a knee-skimming skirt, sheer popsocks, and a twist on the quintessential ballet flat, again, accentuated with pearls, nigh-on shouted LOOK AT ME..NOW!’, on its way down the catwalk!

What followed was an edgy, yet, romantically-inspired journey, which would incorporate glistening, black, texturised jackets and trousers, adding depth and balance to the strength of looks. A semi-tonal shift to grey, facilitated floral motifs to shine upon knee-length dresses, with the gradual movement through the neutral palette made complete by a welcome blast of lightning-white. Models resembled paper dolls in dresses, the material of which, appeared to be the most delicately-crushed, lily-white petals. As if to conclude the theme, Miss Rocha stripped away any tonal suggestions whatsoever, presenting us with her take on the see-through mac, choosing, instead, to use a doily/ crochet motif as the point-of-interest. However, the colourful introduction of a luxurious moss green, three-quarter length, leather coat, reminded us not to be deceived by the apparent fragility of the looks which had gone before!

With the optical amuse-bouche delivered, the journey meandered through variations, on a brocade theme. Top-to-toe separates which glimmered beneath the lights, as sunrays settling upon the fresh, morning dew, were quickly followed by pieces which saw a reprise of pearls, unexpectedly outlining single-slash cut-outs. This surprise adornment soon took a more recognisable format, with golden pearls being applied around the neckline of a fabulous white coat.

The finale was a breathtaking way to end the tour, with the last three models wrapped in peach-hued, gossamer-like material, featuring pearl-encrusted cut-outs and pop-socks…It was as if they had just been taken down from the shelves of a high-end fabric shop, ready to be unfurled, or were fairy-tale brides, ensconced beneath the most ethereal wedding veils!

What we had here, ladies and gentlemen, was a masterclass in meekness… In other words, power under control, which, I believe, not only befits the ‘Simone Rocha aesthetic’, but also extends to her ability to harness her unique talent. A talent which she deftly uses to deliver gifts of exquisite designs, complemented by an irrepresible measure of wit, that can only be described as truly tongue-in-chic!

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SIMONE ROCHA.COM ~ @Simone_Rocha_

©AFROW2013-2019 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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A TWITTER-FAVOURITE WITH CAROLINE RUSH (CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE BRITISH FASHION COUNCIL)!