The Very Simon G

Bafta Awards 2012 Best Dressed: Meryl Streep in Vivienne Westwood

2012-02-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

The title says it all. In what was a particularly poor red carpet fash-off, Meryl - not that I'm scraping the barrel because I did actually say WOW out loud - won it for me. Once again the heavy weight actress wore Vivienne Westwood, after wearing Westwood couture for the the SAG Awards.

Tonight she chose a gorgeous floor length black gown with a 3/4 sleeve cover up. Oh, and that A List smile that just warms my heart.

Let's hope she takes away the best actress award too!

Rihanna's personally signed Louboutin heels at Pre-Grammy's event...

2012-02-12T04:40:00.000-08:00

I personally think Rihanna lost her self a bit in recent months: the overdone red hair, the rather too-provocative-for-her-young-female-fan-base performances etc. However here, at the Roc Nation Pre-Grammy brunch, she looks sensational. Could this be one transformation from the ever-evolving star that is a great move? I think so!

Or could all the smiles be because of her personally signed Christian Louboutin heels?? She's one lucky lady... he hand signed the sole of one of her shoes with little hearts and a message. JEALOUS!

I have no idea who she's wearing - I know I know, bad fashion person - I need Red Carpet Fashion Awards' help - but Rihanna in trousers is, I think, one of my favourite red carpet looks.

If anyone knows who the corset/trouser combo is by, by all means put me in my place!

Dolly Parton's statement after Whitney Houston's death...

2012-02-12T04:17:00.000-08:00

“Mine is only one of the millions of hearts broken over the death of Whitney Houston. I will always be grateful and in awe of the wonderful performance she did on my song, and I can truly say from the bottom of my heart, ‘Whitney, I will always love you. You will be missed.’”

Another great talent lost to the ravages of drug abuse. So so sad.

Currenty obsessed with... Joseph Turvey's London College of Fashion MA 2012 collection!

2012-02-10T10:08:00.000-08:00

Last week's London College of Fashion MA 2012 show was a fashion sensory explosion. From painted fabrics to heavily beaded jumpsuits and big scary mens army shoes, there was something for everyone and, it seems, from all over the world. But one designer caught my attention in a BIG way... Joseph Turvey, who I actually spoke to afterwards (video to come). Here is his signature print for 2012. He drew this man and then had it screen printed onto the fabric. It reminds me of the Jil Sander collection with the face/eyes print. Pure genius!

Do you love it as much as I do??

Ahhhhhh Mary Katrantzou for Topshop is COMING!!!

2012-02-10T06:02:00.000-08:00

*Full skirt AMAZING satin dress, £350*

Remember when I talked non stop about the H&M and Versace collaboration... well this is kind of similar. Maybe a fraction less so as there is unfortunately no menswear at the moment, but all the same I am SOOOO excited for you gals! MARY KATRANTZOU FOR TOPSHOP IS ON IT'S WAY!!!!

The press release just landed in my inbox, so expect a flurry of eager bloggers to be talking about it all at once, but I couldn't stop myself sharing the news and the pics with you!!

It's a nine-piece collection and I have to say, if you were to buy nothing else this season, this lot would do you nicely - you could wear some of the pieces with wardrobe staples that you'll already have and that will be that. A print spectacular!!

It's all available to buy from February 17th, just in time for Fashion Week. AHHHHHHH!

Look...

*FAB silk dress, £150*

*Blue jersey STUNZ dress, £180*

*INCRED blouse, £80* and *INSANE structured dress, £300*

Today I'm SERIOUSLY loving...

2012-02-09T08:51:00.000-08:00

...this rather fabulous turquoise lambskin trench coat, £2995, from
the masters of outerwear - Burberry Prorsum. Coloured
leather is EVERYWHERE at the moment, so this really is
the ultimate way to buy into the trend!

... and this amazing bird print tee by Ann Demeulemeester
for the boys! Best £185 you could spend on a designer t-shirt. Love it!

The Very Simon G TV - Grayson Perry talks fashion!

2012-02-09T04:18:00.000-08:00

Skinted//Minted

2012-02-07T15:15:00.000-08:00

SKINTED...

***Primark's car-print pleated skirts, £12 (in store 20th February, sorry to tease ladies!)***

MINTED...

***Prada's 50s car-printed pieces, £Tooexpensive***

The Very Simon G TV - first episode with River Island!

2012-02-07T09:27:00.000-08:00

In a bid to bring all this stuff I write about to life, I've decided to launch The Very Simon G TV. It sounds a lot posher than it actually is, most of it will be shot on my iPhone or Flip camera, but isn't that all part of the blogging/online fun? Something handmade and quick!

My friend Brooke is going to be helping me out quite a bit with the videos because unfortunately I can't try on and show off the amazing women's clothes available on the high street, I can only wax lyrical about how you should be buying this and how gorgeous that is. Brooke can show you all how it looks and tell you how it feels and even give you tips on how to wear things. We're a good partnership I think.

For men's clothes I will of course be happy to try them on and film myself to show them off and to maybe give you men some suggestions!

My first video, with Brooke, is all about some lovely new-in bits from River Island. The lovely people at RI very kindly gave us some pieces to style up and talk about, all of which are incredibly versatile and amazing. And they are all available in store now, so by all means click on the links under the pictures below!

I really hope you enjoy it, let me know what you think!!

*Video edited by the boyf*

***Shop the shoot...***

Floral blazer, £45; Floral trousers, £30

Yellow cable jumper, £35; light wash denim shirt, £28

Glenn Close has a Stella McCartney moment at the Academy Awards Nominations Lunch!

2012-02-07T01:51:00.000-08:00

I've waited a long time to see Stella McCartney's uber-printed Cruise collection pieces on someone worthwhile. Glenn Close is JUST the woman!

Here's the Albert Nobbs star at the Academy Awards Nominations Luncheon (still no invite for me!!) making a statement in her Hawaiian print coat and fabulously matched cobalt blue trousers (in fact, her entire outfit is by Stella McCartney!). It's SO SO refreshing to see someone a little, dare I say it, older in Stella. I think it gets a little boring seeing virtually unknown starletts in these amazing designer creations... it takes a veteran actress or singer to really show them off - like Meryl Streep in her gorgeous Vivienne Westwood frock at the SAGs, or for a British equivalent, Carole Vorderman in the same Alexander McQueen frock that Kim Kardashian wore.

It's a little bit of genius styling.

And what's more, blues on blondes is SUCH a good mix. More please Glenn. Chose more Stella McCartney.

Hawaiian print coat, £1,370
Hawaiin print tee, £180

Slim blue trousers, £435
Fold over chain clutch, £495

Today I'm SERIOUSLY loving...

2012-02-06T08:52:00.000-08:00

... this gorgeous mint green (THE colour of the season) exposed
shoulder blouse by Silence + Noise at Urban Outfitters, £42!

... this Marni contrast-panel sweater that I really must own!!
It's styled here with Paul Smith cobalt blue shorts, a great combo!

Madonna Exclusive... her Super Bowl throne made by Jimmie Martin...

2012-02-06T03:04:00.000-08:00

Never mind the Givenchy couture Madonna chose to wear for Super Bowl Sunday (which, by the way, was so overly amazing - she looked like a knock out - good job Ricardo Tisci!), it was all about her custom made Jimmie Martin throne that she stood, sat and writhed on as she was dragged out onto the stage by a gaggle of rather hunky gladiators!

Jimmie Martin, who I've blogged about in the past, is a London design duo worth their weight in interior design gold. They take old furniture, usually something Renaissance, re-upholster it and decorate it in some way with their signature graffiti style. So fabulous are their designs that they obviously caught Madonna's eye, or her team anyway!

Featuring a black polished walkway and gilded poles raised above two sphinx' dripping in black Swarovski crystals, the one of a kind Egyptian inspired piece tied in perfectly with Givenchy's AMAZING clothes.

Company Director Martin Nihlmar said: “The atmosphere watching Madonna carried out by an army of dancers on our creation - even from sitting at home in the UK felt utterly electric. We [Jimmie and I] both felt such a sense of gratification in terms of brand recognition and business growth from our humble beginnings. We owe her and her team a huge thank you, just for the experience we have had working on this. We very much hope to be working with Madonna and her creative team again in the future, as well as a various other exciting projects that are currently in the pipeline – watch this space!”

Dancing models at the River Island high summer press day 2012!

2012-02-05T03:47:00.000-08:00

Kim Kar-diaries: buy some of Ms Kardashian's wardrobe on eBay!!!

2012-02-04T08:27:00.000-08:00

OMG I can't believe this. I can't believe I've only just found out about it. I can't believe I'm not a woman and therefore can't take advantage of it. Ladies, the time has come to buy an ACTUAL piece of Kim Kardashian's wardrobe. We've all seen a million news flashes of Kim in her sexy, figure-hugging dresses, we've all had our opinions about her barely there outfits (you know in my opinion she can't do a thing wrong!) and we've all loved at least one of them so it seems excellent timing to transform your wardrobe with a designer item once warn by Kim. Or is this part of the new her? Is this closet clear out time? Are these just remnants of a failed relationship, a failed marriage?

Oh for God's sake just buy some. Who really cares?! This is actually for charity, some of the proceeds go to Life Changing Community Church.

Look, here's a few...

***S&B Vie Sass & Bide geometric print dress - current bid $300***

***Dolce & Gabbana's musical note strapless number - current bid $1,525***

***Herve Leger beige and black bondage dress - current bid $2,025***

Theresa May in Vivienne Westwood... what's so funny, Harold?

2012-02-03T06:44:00.000-08:00

Here's Theresa May, Home Secretary, and Harold Tillman, British Fashion Council's chairman, from last night's London College of Fashion MA 2012 graduate show. Theresa wears a Vivienne Westwood multi coloured patchwork jacket... do we think that's what Harold is laughing at? It better not be - this is the best she's ever looked!

What do YOU think they're laughing at???

Look out for more of my LCF MA show coverage coming SOOOOON!

Today I'm SERIOUSLY loving...

2012-02-03T05:13:00.000-08:00

...this OMGorgeous floral print blouse from Reiss, £125. I love
a women who power dresses, and this is probably the
ultimate shirt to wear with a trouser suit girls!

Worn here with blue curve front jacket, £265 and
slim blue trouser, £135

Today I Wish I Was Wearing...

2012-02-01T04:26:00.000-08:00

*D&G's super bright, super fab, super glam scarf print shirt,
trouser, wedge, bag combo - pure brilliance!*
*An Anna Dello Russo type smile*

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills season 2 reunion trailer - NOT TO BE MISSED!

2012-02-01T03:40:00.000-08:00

And, as I love her so much, here's Lisa Vanderpump and her brand new motor out and about in Beverly Hills this morning. Check out those wheels, and that Dolce & Gabbana glittery bag!!

River Island glam it up for spring summer, plus YOUR chance to win some of it!

2012-01-31T06:46:00.000-08:00

I think you all know by now how much I love love love anything super glamorous. I've spoken about multiple Versace campaigns, more than one uber fabulous shot of Joan or Jackie Collins and several (thousand) pieces of clothing that would leave any woman feeling powerful and amazing. And now, thanks to one of my favourite high street retailers River Island, there's even more glamour to talk about... in the shape of their Spring Summer 2012 campaign!

I'm sure these images do all the talking, but it's still worth a mention that this new campaign was shot by fashion photographer Ellen Von Unwerth (responsible for some of the most mesmerizing black and white shots in fashion) and doesn't it look like they're having the best Miami holiday ever? Any minute DVer (Donatella Versace obvs!) is going to walk past that pool!!

And now for the REALLY exciting part... the lovely folks over at River Island are giving YOU, lovely reader, the chance to win £250 worth of vouchers to shop the new collection (get that black and white shirt dress, I urge you!). HOW AMAZING?

All you have to do is answer the following question in the comment section below (click on 'What do YOU think??) and I'll pick one person at random.
What was River Island called in the 60s???

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!! The competition will close in one week, 7th February.

Congratulations to jasmine lambton for winning the £250 voucher prize!!

The Queen covers Radio Times...

2012-01-31T03:05:00.000-08:00

OK, so it's not Harper's Bazaar or Vogue, but how cute does HRH look on the cover of Radio Times this week?? Regal in green, with her signature pearls and brooch, the Queen dons a big smile which, in the past, I've said is really so lovely to see once in a while. And what a headline! The two Princes have given an exclusive interview with Andrew Marr in today's magazine, so go check it out.

Make way for the mountain of Royal headlines and press on the run up to the Golden Jubilee. I can't WAIT!!

Today I'm loving... (for the boys)

2012-01-31T01:55:00.001-08:00

...these few bits from the Topman LTD collection! Is this the
high street's version of Sport Luxe for us men?? I think so!!

***'S' sweat T-shirt - my favourite - £22***

***Diver print shirt, £32***

***Washed blue skinny chinos, £44***

***Blue tennis print shirt, £36***

Eye Candy - David Beckham goes LARGE on H&M bags around London...

2012-01-30T10:06:00.000-08:00

I imagine every girl, women, gay man in London is going absolutely CRAZY today after H&M have 'dropped' their big, massive bags over the capital with the delicious David Beckham Body Wear images emblazoned across them. Doesn't he look super handsome?? This is probably one of the cleverest advertising ideas I've seen - well, since H&M's HUGE Versace bags popped up everywhere anyway! You'll be able to spot a giant David in Westfield London and Stratford, near Tower Bridge (I bet the Queen shudders with excitement every time she sees it!), Victoria Station and Covent Garden.

I'm heading down to the official opening on Wednesday, and for a press conference with DB himself, so I'll fill you all in. To be honest, I'm just hoping firstly he'll be in his boxers, and secondly he brings his style icon wife with him!!!

Anyway, enjoy David Beckham spotting, I know I will! Thanks H&M!

Behind the scenes at Vogue Japan Beauty's March 2012 shoot with Anna Dello Russo...

2012-01-30T08:44:00.000-08:00

If only I lived in Japan. And if only I was friends with Anna Dello Russo. If I did, and if I was, maybe I'd be invited down to amazing shoots like this one! Here's Anna at work on the main shoot for Vogue Japan Beauty's March 2012 issue, in which Dolce and Gabbana's florals were the main stars! The energy of this video makes me happy, as does the soundtrack, which I'm pretty sure is one of my heroes, Bette Midler (no surprise there then, I hear you all saying!).

Love it!

***The shots from Anna's blog...***

The Very SAG Awards 2012 red carpet rundown...

2012-01-30T02:15:00.000-08:00

The knockouts...

*Sofia Vergara's sex appeal is nothing short of miraculous,
especially in this custom Marchesa gown. Best dressed nominee!*

*Daring in green, Emily Blunt never seems to fail in
the red carpet fashion race! Oscar de la Renta at his best!*

*I can't get enough of Meryl. One of the best dressed at the Golden
Globes, she's done it again in Vivienne Westwood couture! GORGEOUS*

The really good surprises...

*She usually tries a little too hard, our Kelly, but last night
she looked INSANELY amazing in white Badgley Mischka.
Best dressed nominee!*

*Rose Byrne took a big risk in this crystallized Elie Saab jumpsuit,
and it paid off. So well put together, including the hair!*

*Tilda went unusually feminine last night in this Grecian Lanvin
gown, a move away from her favoured androgyny look. And I likey!*

*Jessica Chastain dresses for her hair it seems, and didn't
she do well in blue Calvin Klein?*

*Ultra glamorous in Reem Acra, Glee's Jayma Mays
sent the flashbulbs into a frenzy! What a figure!*

The Versace Goddess...

*There had to be at least ONE Versace gown to ogle over...look at that thigh! I don't find Lea Michele particularly sexy, however this
Atelier Versace gown IS! A good pair I say!*

The plus size beauty queens...

*That's the way to do it, Octavia, with Tadashi Shoji's
clever side knot. Looking gorgeous, girl!*

*Melissa McCarthy works her draped Badgley Mischka
gown to perfection, giving plus size women everywhere
a masterclass in glamour-dressing!*

The full skirt amazements...

*Kaley Cuoco's Romona Keveza is probably the most
romantic frock I've seen this award season so far.
What an absolutely gorgeous powder blue! YUM*

*I should have really put Jane Lynch at the top with the
knockouts, but she fit here so well too! This David Meister
gown is what she should wear EVERYWHERE!*

The unsures...

*I love this Jenny Packham dress, don't get me wrong,
but come on Angie love, it's too safe for someone who
wore white Atelier Versace last week!*

*It pains me to be negative about Givenchy couture, but I
get the feeling Zoe is trying a little hard to be off-the-wall?*

*Now, Giambattista Valli is one of my favourite designers,
but I think this is a litte lost on Natalie. I prefer her in red*

*Love the Marchesa Viola, but maybe for your wedding?*

*I should love this McQueen, but it's not right for Emma Stone.
It made me go 'hmmmm'. Don't think it's the right shape for
someone who looks sensational in long gowns*

The 'that's too old for you' ones...

*After her wow laser cut swan dress for the Globes, this
pink thing doesn't come close. It's also Giles, but not good for
Dianna*

*There's something weirdly middle aged about this Valentino
dress. And Michelle Williams is NOT middle aged. Don't do it
again Mich!*

Fern and Phillip's funny bits...

2012-01-29T04:18:00.000-08:00

I know I've put this up before but I just couldn't resist on this rather cold Sunday. It really is the funniest bit of TV I've ever seen. These two were a force to be reckoned with, PLEASE let's start a petition to bring them back!!!

Dolly Parton revelas new plans AND who she's dying to work with...

2012-01-27T14:07:00.000-08:00

Here she is, my hero, Dolly Parton, revealing that she is in fact opening ANOTHER park in her home land of Tennessee! No, it's not going to be another Dollywood - which I am still DYING to go to by the way - but it will be a fab 'recreational' ground for families. Oh I just friggin' LOVE this woman. She's probably the biggest philanthropist in the world, giving millions of her own dollars to various charities. Dolly is also the single biggest employer in Tennessee. She's amazing.

Oh, and Johnny Depp is her true love it seems!

Today I'm SERIOUSLY loving...

2012-01-26T04:33:00.000-08:00

...Christopher Kane's fabulous silk rainbow print shirt!
Girls, you can literally wear this with anything!
Quite quite jealous of ya'll right now!

Elle Macpherson wears Tom Ford at National Television Awards 2012

2012-01-26T02:12:00.000-08:00

THIS, ladies and gentlemen, is what a red carpet is all about. FINALLY a star worthy of taking pictures of and talking about. I wax lyrical all the time about how this country has the worst celeb turn out on red carpets, and thanks to Elle Macpherson in her AMAZING charcoal sparkly Tom Ford gown, last nights National Television Awards got a WHOLE lot better!!!

Any wonder why she went home with the accolade of best dressed last night??

Look at her. Wowing us all at the Golden Globes last week in her gorgeous Zac Posen dress, the supermodel beauty was clearly the best dressed last night by a mile. Like a Goddess. Pure class and elegance.

Once again, I'm in awe of Elle!

The Very SG predicts for menswear autumn winter 2012/13...

2012-01-25T10:45:00.000-08:00

...that red is most definitely le colour de season! Blood, pillar box or
scarlet, don't forget to buy some rouge next season guys!!

***Givenchy and Balmain***

***Acne and Versace***

***Viktor & Rolf and Prada***

Go see Carmen Dell'Orefice...

2012-01-25T04:36:00.000-08:00

I've strolled past the London College of Fashion many a time and admired the well-dressed people going in, always thinking to myself that maybe I should have actually followed through with my old plans of studying there. But yesterday something caught my attention in the window. Something so fabulous that it actually made me RUN over the road to see it up close.

No, it wasn't Kim Kardashian or Cher. It was Carmen Dell'Orefice. Or at least an eye-poppingly incredible shot of her. Yes, the London College of Fashion have a whole exhibition dedicated to the 81 year-old model.

Unfortunately I only made it to the teaser wall gallery, not the actual exhibition, although I fully intend to go and see it in its entirety, and took some pictures to show you just what to expect.

She really is a force to be reckoned with. Reading her story on various websites, it seems she's had quite a life, losing her entire life savings TWICE due to really bad decisions. However, she has overcome everything and is still gracing catwalks, magazines and even the odd catalogue. Well, a girl's gotta earn a living, right??

Take a look at the pics below, and an old post of mine here....

It says until January 14th, but it's been extended a couple of weeks!

...And a little video of Carmen talking with her model booker!

Joan Collins and Stephanie Beacham's Snickers ad (plus behind the scenes)...

2012-01-24T04:55:00.000-08:00

I LOVE how Snickers never forget the divas. In their brand new ad, Joan Collins - one of my all time favourite actresses, and Stephanie Beacham, another legend, have lent themselves to the chocolate bar in a hilarious footballers changing room scene. I love it when Joan pops up on the TV, not nearly enough anymore, and the fact that she's done this completely tongue-in-cheek ad fuels more rumors that she might be coming back a little more!

Check out the ad and the behind the scenes vid below, and also Snickers old ad, with divas Liza Minnelli and Aretha Franklin..

The Very SG predicts for menswear autumn winter 2012/13...

2012-01-24T04:23:00.000-08:00

...that big, gorgeous blanket coats are going to be SO in!
The coat and jacket needs a bit of a revival, moving away
from just a trench or a pea, and with an asymmetrical statement piece,
you'll be all set for the cold next year!

ABOVE: Louis Vuitton and Etro
BELOW: Dior and Vivienne Westwood

Kim Kar-diaries: K Kardashian steps out in Versace for H&M!

2012-01-23T15:44:00.000-08:00

That's ma girl! Kim Kardashian plus Versace (whether for H&M or mainline, doesn't bother me!) equals a VERY happy Simon G! Doesn't she look beauts? She knows just how to work sexy security chic - what with the sky-high Louboutins, all she needs now is a pair of black frame glasses!

The studded leather jacket from Versace's H&M collaboration was probably one of the quickest sellers of the lot, retailing at just £199 (although you can still find some on eBay, put be prepared to pay over the odds). Donatella herself was seen wearing it at the London launch of the range, so it's only right that Kim has it too, although she is a tad late with it, isn't she?

It's interesting to see a platinum blonde, advanced in years, wearing it AND a Kardashian sister. Shows just how versatile it is! I wonder what it would look like on a 6 foot 1 male blogger... hmmmmm.

Today I'm SERIOUSLY loving... (for the men)

2012-01-23T15:28:00.000-08:00

...this AMAZING pigeon print t-shirt by Lanvin, £131! Boys, there ain't no better
way to layer up than with this spring wardrobe staple!

What a year 1984 was for Cosmopolitan magazine's covers!!!

2012-01-22T14:02:00.000-08:00

***Joan Collins, August 1984***

***A rather gorgeous Boy George, December 1984***

***Annie Lennox, October 1984***

The Very SG predicts for menswear autumn winter 2012/13...

2012-01-21T11:50:00.000-08:00

... that leather detailing is were it's at! Women have been privy to this trend
for a while now, what with Burberry's leather sleeves and then, subsequently,
the high street's MASS explosion of the same. So now, men, it's our turn!

Men, meet YSL's leather-clad influences for autumn winter 2012...

Nicki Minaj debuts Stupid Hoe video extravaganza!

2012-01-21T03:43:00.000-08:00

Today I'm Loving...

2012-01-20T08:41:00.000-08:00

FOR THE BOYS...

***Marc Jacobs' gold shimmer sweatshirt, £240***
***Burberry Prorsum's printed linen trousers, £595***

***Topman's Loake brogue boot, £165***
***Vivienne Westwood's triple placket shirt, £234***

FOR THE GALS...

***H&M's neon and sheer dress, £49.95 (in store in Feb)***
***Mango's wool coat, £134.99***

***River Island's scarf print bomber, £40***
***YSL's red Tribtoo sling backs, £524***

***Miss Selfridge's neon trimmed shirt, £30***
***Jil Sander's two-tone knit, £559***

For the dog lovers... Volkswagen 2012 Superbowl commercial teaser...

2012-01-20T01:58:00.000-08:00

In love with this, but quite annoyed they didn't ask Dhillon to participate!

The Very SG predicts for menswear autumn winter 2012/13...

2012-01-19T15:13:00.000-08:00

...that brick print is going to be HUGE!! Seen on the catwalks of Moschino and Jean
Paul Gaultier (respectively below), I've been dying to see this print for men since Olive Rubin
made it big for women (see my post on her jumper below).

Men, meet the new autumn winter 2012 print!

Versace's new glasses!

2012-01-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

Not only has Donatella just shown a fabulous men's autumn winter 2012/13 collection AND has just launched Young Versace in Florence (pics to come) but now she has a new collection of AMAZING eyewear to coincide with her spring summer 2012 show - called Etoile de la Mer. And guess who's modelling it?? Yes, gorgeous Gisele Bundchen, who modelled in Versace's spring summer 2012 clothes campaign too!

The Etoile de la Mer collection is made up of two sunglasses and one optical model and are just the most incredible example of Versace's classic opulence.

And seeing as I've just been told by the lovely people at Tesco Opticians (free eye tests everyone!) that I need glasses, I'm looking for a fab pair. These might just be them! Wooooo!

Donatella says: "Gisele was the perfect choice for this campaign. Her beauty is so bold in these images and she radiates true strength and sensuality... The images of her in the collection are stunning and powerful. This is exactly the vision I had when I started the design process"

Enjoy...

The Etoile de la Mer collection will be available in Versace boutiques from March 2012.
Check on www.versace.com for a list of stockists, or call 0207 2595700

The dress code is a-changing for Royal Ascot!

2012-01-19T04:32:00.000-08:00

You know it's time for Royal Ascot when you get emails and see tweets telling us that certain milliners are doing particularly well. It's probably my favourite British event of the year. Not only is it a chance to see really posh women dress up to the nines - the bigger the hat, the bigger the bank balance? - but it's also the time of year, June, when the Queen, and all royals actually, pull out their pastels or brights. As you know, I'm a Royal fan, so it's a key event of the year to see them out and about, showing off their rather fabulous wardrobes.

BUT, ladies and gents, dress codes are a-changing. For this year's Ascot, 19th-23rd June, there has been small changes for the Royal Enclosure and Grandstand Enclosure. However Charles Barnett, Ascot's chief executive, assures us that "It isn't a question of elitism and not being modern in a world where there is less and less requirement to dress smartly - far from it. We want to see modern and stylish dress at Royal Ascot..."

I have to say, and I do think sometimes the Monarchy are quite slow to modernise, but Royal Ascot really is a British tradition for which I fully support a formal dress code. People expect it. Could you imagine if The Only Way Is Chelsea (or whatever it's called) turn up wearing Lipsy? No siree! It would horrify the regulars, the Royals, the commentators and me!

So, if you are heading down to Ascot this year, here's what you MUST remember...

Royal Enclosure – Ladies:

“Dresses and skirts should be of modest length defined as falling just above the knee or longer.” This replaces the less clear instruction that miniskirts are considered unsuitable.
“Hats should be worn; a headpiece which has a base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat.” This clarifies that fascinators are no longer permitted in the Royal Enclosure.

Royal Enclosure – Gentlemen:

“Gentlemen are kindly reminded that it is a requirement to wear either black or grey morning dress which must include a waistcoat and tie (no cravats), a black or grey top hat and black shoes.” This clarifies that cravats are not acceptable and that black shoes should be worn with morning dress.

Grandstand Enclosure – Ladies:

“A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times.” This replaces advice that many ladies wear hats but this is not compulsory.
“Strapless or sheer strap dresses and tops are not permitted.”
Grandstand Enclosure – Gentlemen:

“Gentlemen are required to wear a suit and tie.” This replaces the instruction that gentlemen must wear a shirt and tie, preferably with a suit or jacket.

A couple of dresses you might like that are Ascot worthy...

***Emilio Pucci's ruffle dress, £1265***
***Lanvin's gathered back dress, £1545***

***Etro's paisley print silk dress, £860***
***Alexander McQueen's silk-chiffon evening dress, £1865***

Today I'm SERIOUSLY loving...

2012-01-18T06:29:00.000-08:00

...this pink brick print jumper by Olivia Rubin. It really is
the statement jumper you all need, especially that it's now
only £44, reduced from £110! Go on, get some classic Olivia!

Versace's autumn winter 2012-13 menswear collection...

2012-01-17T09:39:00.000-08:00

She doesn't disappoint does she, Donatella. Not only has she smashed all expectations with her recent plunge into high street collaborations, but DVer (get it, DVer - diva - Donatella Versace) has only just gone and sent down the catwalk a gorgeous gorgeous collection of menswear for autumn winter 2012-13!

You think she's playing it safe with the first look, a pinstripe suit, but woe betide he who thinks it will be a safe collection. Before you know it we are right back to were the fashion house started - pure excess and colour. Big cartoon-y floral prints in blues, monochrome, camouflage and multi, big fluorescent fur and shearling collars on pierced leather jackets, and chains and adornments to denim and coats that only add to the campness. A rather light hearted salute at the Navy officers uniform one would say.

Don't think Donatella is taking any notice of a struggling economy. She'd no such thing. Don't be so silly.

Here's a few of the best bits...

Show me the lights...

2012-01-17T07:41:00.000-08:00

I think I want to live in Primrose Hill. In fact, I KNOW I want to live in Primrose Hill. Apart from the weird breed of mothers that live around the area (posh, well dressed, bossy, strict but strangely cool), there is lots to offer, not least the fact that every shop, cafe, restaurant is dog friendly so Dhilly get's star treatment too. It's one of those places that is equally gorgeous in the summer and the winter. Which probably explains the million pound price tags on the homes.

Whilst on a stroll through the high street last weekend I popped into the Daniel Poole gallery, somewhere I regular when I'm in the area. Daniel is a fashion and interiors designer. He had a streetwear label in the early 90s and now concentrates his efforts on his shops and art.

The website states: 'The shop is a cornucopia of bizarre and wonderful vintage finds and one-of-a-kind works of art - a curiosity shop for the 21st century.' A very accurate description.

Amongst other amazing pieces in his shop at the moment (including a sold silver men's brogue and a women's heeled shoe - both I was drooling over), there are lots of pieces of neon art by Chris Bracey - another incredible artist. Hand made or sourced from vintage locations and re-conditioned, Chris Bracey's pieces are the epitome of pure self-indulgent, fun art. Very contemporary, very current.

Look... aren't they fab??!!

Today I'm SERIOUSLY loving...

2012-01-17T03:56:00.000-08:00

...this Stolen Girlfriends Club techno floral print silk shirt dress from
my-wardrobe.com. It reminds me of Mary Katrantzou's insane
floral prints from this season!

The Very SG predicts for menswear autumn winter 2012...

2012-01-17T00:06:00.000-08:00

...that Frankie Morello's tasselled cardis will be to menswear what Isabel
Marant's fringed knits were to womenswear last season.

Men, meet the new It Autumn Winter 2012 warmer!

The Golden Globes 2012 red carpet 'Very' best bits...

2012-01-16T06:23:00.000-08:00

Wow. Last night the Golden Globes well and truly kicked off award season with a bang. The A listers were out en force in Hollywood, in their glad rags (and some not-so glad rags), showing off on the red carpet. I did stay up last night to bring you a few of what I considered the standouts, but after seeing all the pictures today, there are CLEARLY some I've missed out!

Here's another little run down from last night's red carpet.

Enjoy!

***Zooey Deschanel in custom Prada - GREAT colour!***
***Emma Stone in fab two-tone Lanvin***

***Helen Mirren looking INSANELY gorgeous in navy Badgley Mischka***
***Paula Patton in daring canary yellow Monique Lhuillier***

***Sophia Vergara really stole the show in navy Vera Wang - a favourite***
***Jessica Chastain in romantic beaded Givenchy***

***Ariel Winter in my favourite purple - Dolce & Gabbana fabulousness!***
***I'm GREEN with envy at Evan Rachel Wood's feathered Gucci!***

***Kelly O makes a splash in inky blue Zac Posen, not sure about the 'do'!***
***Charlize Theron adds Hollywood glamour in Christian Dior***

***My gorgeous girl, Kate Beckinsale, in Cavalli***
***Mila Kunis representing her employer, Dior***

***Love a pink clash on the red carpet, in the form of Natalie Portman in Lanvin***
***Lea Michele stole my heart in a liquid Marchesa***

***Salma Hayek glitters in gold Gucci***
***Good girl Nicole Kidman, wearing Versace!***

***Another favourite, Tilda Swinton in powder blue Haider Ackermann***
***Meryl Streep in a dramatic black cut-out shirt-gown***

***Jessica Alba set off her complexion perfectly in this nude Gucci gown***
***Shailene Woodley in a dazzling Marchesa***

I few I wasn't sure about...

***Tina Fey looks a bit straight up-and-down in Oscar de la Renta***
***Nicole Richie looks cheap in Julien Macdonald's baco-foil gown***

***Madonna... just NO NO NO. What with your real face trying to
escape that new one, and your boobs screaming for release, and
the weird patchwork effect on the bottom of your Reem Acra,
just not for me. Non***

Golden Globes 2012: Elle Macpherson wears Zac Posen

2012-01-15T17:04:00.000-08:00

OK, one more and then I really must sleep. Elle Macpherson, The Body herself, looking more amazing then ever - if that's actually possible - wearing the most gorgeous gown from Zac Posen's spring summer 2012 collection. In fact Zac has done incredibly well this year so far at the Golden Globes, as he does on most red carpets. This stunning off white gown, with froths of tulle at the base, was one of the star dresses on his catwalk, and now Elle has made it the same on this years red carpet.

*Elle's dress on the catwalk...*

*Two other gowns from Zac's collection I think would look
amazing on Elle...*

Golden Globes 2012: Dianna Agron wears Giles Deacon

2012-01-15T16:53:00.000-08:00

Well I can go to bed a happy man now. I've seen big gowns, Atelier Versace and now Giles. Thanks to Glee's Dianna Agron, at tonight's Golden Globe awards, I've now seen the one dress from Giles' spring summer 2012 collection that I was desperate to see on the red carpet, and Dianna does it such justice!

The red laser cut dress is probably one of the most intricate of all dresses shown for spring summer 2012. Giles' attention to detail astounding everyone, and so did his obsession with swans that remained throughout, and on this dress too!

Amazing.

*Dianna's dress from the catwalk...*

Golden Globes 2012: Angelina Jolie wears Atelier Versace

2012-01-15T16:38:00.000-08:00

THANK GOD FOR ANGELINA JOLIE... for she wears Versace. Atelier Versace at that.

My heart stopped a little bit. She looks breathtaking in her red and cream gown with simple hair, red clutch bag to match and a sleek 'do'. Someone needed to honour the house of Donatella, and who better than Angelia herself!

This is one of the best for me! No surprise there then!

Golden Globes 2012: Piper Perabo wears Theyskens Theory

2012-01-15T16:11:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure who she is (is that really bad??), but I'm kinda in love with her already!

Here's Piper Perabo on the red carpet of the Golden Globes tonight wearing Theyskens Theory, from the spring summer 2012 collection. It's another bold choice... a nude, see-through, big dress, and definitely a way to get noticed on the carpet! Similar to Sarah Michelle Gellar, it's another not-sure-if-you-should-actually-like-it gown but... I think I do! She'll sure show up on the pages of the magazines as either a thumbs up or down. Hopefully the former.

*Piper's dress on the catwalk...*

Golden GLobes 2012: Sarah Michelle Gellar wears Monique Lhuillier

2012-01-15T15:45:00.000-08:00

A dress I'm sure I'm not really meant to like, but I just do! Sarah Michelle Gellar looks gorgeous in the swathes of inky blue and white fabric that is the star dress from Monique Lhuillier's spring summer 2012 collection.

Sarah is short, so this dress may swamp her a tad, but I think she's got balls wearing it, and actually she's the one celeb I've actually said WOW to!

*Sarah's dress on the catwalk...*

***And two other gowns from the collection I think would look
GREAT on Sarah Michelle...***

Anna Dello Russo and I have a POP!

2012-01-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

When I got my Native Union Pop phone, there was one picture that came to mind... Anna Dello Russo with hers, coming out of her Louis Vuitton clutch. I loved Anna's picture so much, I thought I'd have a little fun and recreate it - sans Louis Vuitton dress and Piers Atkinson hat.

Here's me and Anna, having a REALLY funny conversation on our colour-pop Pop phones. We're laughing about her friend, Kayne West, and his rant on Twitter justifying himself as a designer. Obvs I find it funnier than her though, so she put her Pop down on me in the end! Rude!

Her in Louis Vuitton, me in vintage Gianni Versace shirt and my new Vivienne Westwood bag (my most amaze Christmas present from the boyf!).

Who looks best, me or Anna?

You can buy a Pop phone from £24.99 here to match your outfits!

Today I'm Loving... Charlie le Mindu for Aqua!

2012-01-13T07:44:00.000-08:00

What a genius collaboration! Aqua, one of this country's truly unique, wearable labels for both men and women (I own practically every piece from last season), and Charlie le Mindu, surely France's most outlandish fashion designer - famous for not only adorning Lady Gaga's head with hairy head pieces which sometimes defy gravity, but also for having naked models walk his catwalks.

There's only two t-shirts, which is possibly the only downside to this collaboration because, of course, you just more and more. The black one, with a pair of controversial legs and Aqua's logo and a cobra, and the second, the white one, with a reflected image of a snow leopard.

At £50 each, they are a fashion steal!

And here's Aqua's new season video, for which Charlie did the hair!

Jessie J wears River Island's floral print ensemble!

2012-01-13T00:10:00.000-08:00

Who says these pop stars just go for the designer threads?? Jessie J has always been a fan of the high street. Let's not forget where she came from - a Youtube clip in her bedroom - so it's nice to see the singer in something we can all afford. And here, last night out and about in London, Jessie doesn't go unnoticed.

With floral print being so huge for spring summer 2012 (reminds me of that quote from Devil Wears Prada - 'Florals, for Spring... groundbreaking!'), we can rely on high street superstars River Island to bridge the gap between the rather high end counterparts.

Get it before it sells out ladies!

***Blazer, £45***

***Trousers, £30***

Selfridges buys in Versace for men, and here are the buyers favourites...

2012-01-12T14:15:00.000-08:00

When I got a whiff that Selfridges were buying in Versace's spring summer 2012 menswear collection, I needed to know more. As you well know, this blog is dedicated to Versace and Kim Kardashian amongst other things, so when this news reached me, you can imagine how high I jumped for joy.

I emailed Selfridges PR to find out more and to my delight, I've been told that they will probably be stocking the whole collection (which pleases me even more), but will start off slowly, THIS WEEK, with a few key pieces. And, lovely reader, I'm lucky enough to be privy to the menswear buyers FAVOURITE items.

Just to be clear, I won't be going out at all over the next few months to save up for all of it.

So, without further ado, let me introduce Versace menswear for Selfridges...

*I'm dying... the buyers first favourite - this entire outfit!*

*The yellow shirt*

*The long blue robe (and the man??)*

*The collarless shirt*

*The AMAZING double buckle blazer*

Cor blimey! I couldn't agree more, buyers. You've done INCREDIBLY well. I can't quite believe how lucky you've made us all. Men, if you buy one thing this season, please please please let it be one of the above pieces!!

Bravo! Encore!

The People's Choice Awards 2012 red carpet 'Very' best bits...

2012-01-12T04:49:00.000-08:00

It's hotting up in Hollywood. Tis the award season, after all. Which means lots of over eager stylists, assistants, editors, interns and minions running all over LA gathering last minute bits of information, dresses, hair spray, you name it!

And last night's People's Choice Awards was a great way to kick off the red carpet extravaganzas! Apart from Kim Kardashian's non-appearance, and the fact that there was NON Versace present - a travesty for any red carpet - all the other starlets in attendance did a pretty good job, if you ask me!

Here's a few of my favs...

*Usually quite cheap looking, Miley does this
David Koma dress proud! Sophistication with an (coloured) edge*

*My favourite of the evening, Ginnifer Goodwin
in shocking pink Roksanda Ilincic. An elegant statement*

*Lea Michele chose Marchesa, one of her favourite labels
(and mine!). Her best red carpet look yet me thinks!?*

*Emma Stone proves why every red-head should
don green! Amazing Gucci ensemble*

*Finally someone wearing a piece from Viktor & Rolf's
spring summer 2012 collection. IN LOVE!*

*Jennifer Morrison, in Oscar de la Renta, does
Victoriana so so well*

*Drama and goth in one, Vanessa Hudgens' Jenny Packham
gown is a stunner!*

*And can't forget the Osbourne gals... Kelly working colour
and Sharon sparkling next to her!*

Today I'm SERIOUSLY loving...

2012-01-11T08:22:00.000-08:00

...this Helmut Lang draped dress with leather trim from Mytheresa.com, £495. Styled with Lanvin's diamond print wedges.

And so it begins... Kate Beckinsale in Donna Karan for David Letterman's show!

2012-01-11T03:32:00.000-08:00

Photo source - The Late Show twitter account

Thank god for her new movie, Underworld: Awakening. Now we are privy to sensational Kate Beckinsale in dresses like this... an asymmetric neckline, one shouldered, glittering Donna Karan. She's breathtaking, isn't she? Effortlessly gorgeous.

Do you love Kate's dress too??

Tiny Dolly Parton attends premiere of Joyful Noise...

2012-01-10T06:28:00.000-08:00

Last year I posted the trailer for Dolly Parton's new film, Joyful Noise, after getting very excited that my favourite pint size diva would be back on the big screen. And now it's nearly time to see her in it, but first... the premiere!

I'm sure she's invited to all the Hollywood premieres, envelopes mounting at her door, but Dolly has never been one to bask in her stardom. She's selective. Probably because she does actually live in Tennessee still, so the schlep to LA would be a nightmare. But this is different, this is her film, her premiere, her red carpet.

And for once it's not about what or who she's wearing, because as we all know Dolly is not one for designers. She likes a rhinestone, a gem, a jewel and a perspex heel!

If only she were to agree to a few more appearances, then we'd get shots (and boobs) like these to marvel at...

Today I'm Loving...

2012-01-10T04:32:00.000-08:00

FOR THE BOYS...

*Simple yet a must-have, Acne's grey crew neck, £130*
*Topman's blue 'hug me' tee, £45*

*Christian Louboutin's 'Rollerboy' spiked tartan slippers, £825*
*Aqua's melting triangle sweatshirt (ordered!), £60*

FOR THE GALS...

*Minkpink's animal print oversize shirt, £55*
*Zara's scarf print shirt, £39.99*

*COS' twisted drape dress, £70 (approx.)*
*Givenchy's bloody amazing floral print blouse, £895*

Kim Kar-diaries: Kardashian Glamour for True Reflection shoot...

2012-01-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

OK, if Kim Kardashian looks any more amazing it might start to be criminal. Yes, so she's been air-brushed, I know, I'm not stupid. But, dear reader, it still takes some kind of beauty to look good even after the Photoshop-er has had a damn good go at your pictures. You can't turn a pig into a unicorn. You can just make the pig look clean.

Here's Kim in the campaign shots for her new fragrance, True Reflection. God help her if she comes to London again to promote it's release because I will be there again, just like last time, but this time I will be determined to make her laugh and fall in love with me and become best friends and use her credit card when ever I like. Oooops, did I say that out loud???

Any way, Kim says on her website: "I just wanted to share these shots from my True Reflection fragrance shoot! I think you guys are going to love my new fragrance, which is coming out this spring".

Kim, you look OMGorgeous. Keep this classic Hollywood glamour look for a while. Enough with the fringe!

Cher Lloyd and Astro Want U Back, plus Cher wears Horace for single cover!

2012-01-07T07:06:00.000-08:00

Don't panic lovely reader, I'm not about to become a Cher Lloyd fan. Not even after her foray into the American market with her new single, Want U Back featuring Astro. Nope. There's only one Cher for me, and we all know who that is... the one and only, the only woman with more fake hair than Kim Kardashian, the one who's been warbling away for centuries... I mean decades.

No. I'm not a fan of Cher Lloyd. However, and I did think about posting this altogether, but I do like her new video. And I did kinda like Astro on X Factor USA.

What do you think?

What's more, and I'm not sure if this is a good or bad thing, but Cher is wearing a Horace t shirt, from the summer 2011 collection, on the single cover. Now yes, it looks cool on her, but I think Horace should be saved for other celebs, if any at all. The label's clothes pretty much sell themselves, hence why I have nearly every shirt from their past collection (ooo maybe I'll blog them!).

Anyway, she's wearing it. And I do love it.

Do you?

*Cher's tee from the campaign shots*

What I love about Horace is that all their clothes, all their collections, are basically unisex. The prints are universal and the cuts can work for everyone. BIG fan! Here's a few tees that might take your fancy...

Prism pattern tee - WAS £57.50 NOW £46
Nuwave tee - WAS £61.25 NOW £49

Leather arm top, - £254
Floral tee - WAS £61.25 NOW £49

Today I Wish I Was Wearing...

2012-01-06T07:05:00.000-08:00

*Giles Deacon's white and red trim blouse and AMAZING swan
print trousers*
*Lanvin's diamond print clutch*
*Versace's skyscraper heels*

Emily Blunt talks about Salmon Fishing In The Yemen, wearing Marios Schwab!

2012-01-06T05:49:00.000-08:00

I've loved Emily Blunt since her dazzling performance as Emily in The Devil Wears Prada (well, actually before that, but this was her big break that everyone is aware of!). I love her English Rose-ness, her hair, her wardrobe... yes, her wardrobe. Which, incidentally, has become super high end of late - just look at her in this gorgeous lattice Marios Schwab spring summer 2012 frock for the Palm Springs International Film Festival yesterday.

Here she talks about her new film, Salmon Fishing In The Yemen. I'm tres intrigued!

***Emily's dress on the catwalk...***

***Two other dresses from Marios Schwab SS12 that would
look AMAZE on Emily!***

Hello Jon Bon Jovi for Versace...

2012-01-05T08:21:00.000-08:00

...no one told me about this little campaign! Quite clearly shot in the 90s, Bon Jovi looks super hot here, and I've never really been a big fan of his! If only a fabulously printed piece of Versace fabric could make us all look this good!!!

Meryl Streep's Maggie goes high end in Ferragamo!

2012-01-05T03:50:00.000-08:00

It seems with Meryl Streep at the helm of 1980s/90s Britain in her new role as Maggie Thatcher in The Iron Lady, the country's first Prime Minister has become a bit more... fashion-y!

In the film, I've just been informed, Meryl/Maggie dons some rather fine Salvatore Ferragamo heels and a gorgeous bag to match! Who knew Maggie was into high end threads? The answer is, of course, she probably wasn't, but it adds to a film that will surely be the 'It' movie of the year!

*Bag, £815* (similar)
*Heels, £295*

Versace Versace everywhere...

2012-01-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

Gaga in head-to-toe and J Lo too!

Miss Selfridge chain print dress, £35
River Island dress, £25

Topshop's tiger print sweater, £28

Liz Hurley in THAT dress, and vintage Versace campaign pic!

A vintage silk printed shirt, Oasis' print dress, £65

Rupaul surprises 11-year-old fan!

2012-01-04T05:11:00.000-08:00

Ben is so cute in this clip! An 11-year-old fashion designer whose role model is Rupaul gets the surprise of his life when Ru makes an appearance on the Rosie Show. The look of sheer surprise on his face is heart warming, he really does love Ru!

Rupaul's motto is a really great one, to get all serious on you: 'What other people think about me is none of my business!'.

Today I Wish I Was Wearing...

2012-01-03T06:23:00.000-08:00

*Jil Sander's entire look from SS12 - the new 'It' jumper of the season!*
*Bottega Veneta's crocodile box clutch*
*Brian Atwood's embroidered pumps*

A right Royal ride - the Queen saddles up at Sandringham!

2012-01-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

[Photo credit: Dailymail.co.uk/Albanpix.com]

I watched 'The Queen' starring Dame Helen yesterday, so scenes of HRH in a headscarf are still fresh in my mind. Helen Mirren doesn't actually go horse riding, yet there are plenty of outdoor shots of her: stalking, walking the dogs, crying to herself when the car breaks downs. One presumes HRH has done/does one or more of these things in real life, and seeing her like this, vulnerable and essentially alone (save for a suited and booted groom), adds to her realness.

Is she escaping from one's Christmas chocolate stash, or is this preparation for her Jubilee celebrations later this year? Hmmm.

As much as I love seeing the Queen like this, I do think she could do with some coat help. I've given her some other options below!

*Burberry Prorsum's belted down coat, £1,495*
*Issey Miyake's origami detail coat, WAS £1612.86 NOW £1129*

*Theyskens' Theory long wool coat, WAS £1241.43 NOW £869*
*Givenchy army coat with faux fur lining, £2,605*

A belated merry Christmas from Dolly Parton...

2012-01-01T12:38:00.000-08:00

Dolly wasn't late, I was! As if I only just found this video from my favourite
diva. Pretend, if you can, that Christmas is in a few days, and take these
festive wishes with you into 2012!

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Watch: Cleo magazine cover star!

2011-12-29T01:57:00.000-08:00

And another woman I'm completely obsessed with - Rosie Huntington-Whiteley who, unlike Kate Beckinsale, has no problems venturing out in public for all to see! Or, much like Kate recently, she likes to grace a magazine cover or ten - this time it's Australia's Cleo magazine for their January 2012 issue.

'She's too thin', 'She's not a good representation of the normal woman', 'Who looks like that when you get out of bed?' - shut up critics... when you look this good in a string vest and not much else, who really cares??

Stunning.

End of.

LOVE IT: Kate Beckinsale covers Harper's Bazaar Arabia!

2011-12-28T15:53:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry, why is this woman so intent on staying behind closed doors for so long? Starving her adoring public of that gorgeous face, making us pine for her. It's not fair Kate Beckinsale. It's not fair I say. But then again, that's probably the exact reason behind her stints of no-public-eye activity - it makes us love her even more when we DO FINALLY SEE HER. And seeing her on a cover of a magazine... not just any magazine, my favourite magazine - Harper's Bazaar Arabia - is literally music to my eyes!

She's having a long 'out' stint of late. This latest shoot with Harper's Bazaar Arabia - does she not look utterly flawlessly gorgeous in these pics? - is just one of three magazines she's posed for. My pal Fashion Foie Gras tells me that Kate has also appeared on Harper's Bazaar Russia's January 2012 cover (a tad weird that two Harper's mags have her as the cover star, but the more the merrier I say!) and she is also on the cover of Redbook January 2012. FABULOUS!

Not only this, but I've just imdb'd her and, much to my amazement, the website tells me that in fact Kate has two movies in pre-production (The Trials of Cate McCullough and Happy Holidays, Katherine Sloane), two in post-production (Total Recall and Underworld Awakening) and one that is completed - Contraband out in 2012. What a busy lady she's been! No wonder he haven't seen her. Ooops, apologies Kate!

You know what this means though?? LOTS AND LOTS OF RED CARPETS AND PRESS JUNKETS FOR KATE!

I can't wait. Thank God we'll (I'll) be seeing more of this gorgeous creature!

Jessie J - Domino video fashion extravaganza!

2011-12-27T03:06:00.000-08:00

We're all well aware that Jessie J can now wear practically any designer in her music videos - she can almost be considered one of those new breeds of music personalities - the walking clothes ad. And in her new video, Domino, Jessie proves just that.

To be honest, the video isn't anything new. Am I right in saying it borders on boring? There she is, in all her colourful glory, in several outfit changes, standing or sitting... blah blah blah, you know the rest, you've seen it all before.

But, first you see a little Mark Fast, then some Jeremy Scott, then some Versace for H&M then a pink suit with hearts on (someone help me out here?) then what I thought was a D&G spring summer 2012 cropped jacket and shorts combo (?). It's a fashion feast!

Anyway, here's the video, do you love or hate it??

Emily Blunt, the new face of YSL Opium - video campaign

2011-12-23T04:14:00.000-08:00

In an interview recently, Emily said she had no idea why they chose her to be the face. "There was no one else? They made a mistake, a terrible mistake." [Source: dailymail.co.uk]

I'm so glad she did accept it. She looks breathtaking in the video campaign, don't you think? To model for YSL and to get to touch a leopard too... that's when you know you've made it!

Today I Wish I Was Wearing...

2011-12-23T02:45:00.000-08:00

*L'Wren Scott's amazing Victoriana to-the-floor blush shirt dress*
*Dolce & Gabbana's purple sequin heels*
*Alexander McQueen's studded leather clutch*
*A Jane Austen novel in the other hand*

VHI1 Divas 2011 - Jennifer Hudson's Night Of Your Life

2011-12-22T10:35:00.000-08:00

Here's the super skinny Jennifer Hudson performing her new song, Night Of Your Life, at the VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul event. JHud looks even thinner in her red corseted number by The Blonds - burlesque-chic!

*Jennifer's dress on the catwalk!*

Westminster Abbey's Christmas card, featuring Kate and Wills!

2011-12-21T02:17:00.000-08:00

Forget all these designer Christmas cards being sent out (not that I'm getting any!), and hold the e-cards, this is surely the card of the festive season. How pretty is this from Westminster Abbey?

Following on from the extreme hype around the Royal Wedding back in April, the church has designed this Christmas card with a teeny tiny Wills and Kate standing outside the Abbey and crowds cheering either side. It really is very lovely.

I wonder if I'm on their list? I'd love to be! (forget the Kardashians, it's all about the Royals!)

Gisele Bundchen stars in Versace's spring summer 2012 ad campaign!

2011-12-20T09:42:00.000-08:00

I don't really need to say much else. Well, apart from the fact that these few pictures have single-handedly capitulated me from the freezing cold of winter to a hot summer, probably somewhere like Miami maybe??

Gisele looks AMAZING. As do the shoes, bag, dress and MALE MODEL!! That typical Versace print ensemble has gone straight in my virtual shopping bag!

Today I'm Loving...

2011-12-20T07:09:00.000-08:00

FOR THE BOYS...

*Rick Owens' amazing sleeveless coat, £1359*
*Kurt Geiger's lovely purple Dovers, NOW £109 WAS £220*

*Zara's open-knit sweater, £39.99*
*Givenchy's pin up-lined blazer, £650 (click for a closer look!)*

*Topman's two-tone cropped mac, £75*
*Markus Lupfer's sequin German Shepherd sweater, £275*

FOR THE GALS...

*Kurt Geiger's Londons, NOW £125 WAS £250* *Mango's colour block dress, NOW £29.90 WAS £54.90*

*Vivienne Westwood's fun Anglomania coat, £345*
*Haider Ackermann's gorgeous suede coat, £2,655*

*Peacock's By Design asymmetric hem dress, NOW £28 WAS £40*
*Acne's jade crop cable knit, £220*

*Miss Selfridge's cute sheer LRD, £46*
*River Island's brown faux fur trim coat, £100*

The Kar-diaries - The Kardashian's Christmas Kard 2011!

2011-12-19T10:07:00.000-08:00

Here it is, lovely reader. The Khristmas Kard of the year. The only card I'm wishing and preying would fall through my letter box... The Kardashian's Christmas card!!

I love it when they release the pictures of the cards. You can tell how much effort has gone into them, how much money, how many arguments between Kourtney and Scott. It's hilarious!

This years card is rather glam isn't it? For a Christmas card though, as usual, there is a distinct lack of anything festive. No tinsel (OK, a bit of sparkle!), no tree, no fake snow. Just harsh poses and black and white. I do like the play on masculine/feminine though, always works a treat!

Do we think this reflects the attitude towards my favourite TV family at the moment?? No one seems to like them anymore!

P.s. Obviously Kris Jenner, the one true matriarch, looks the best in that glittering (Dolce & Gabbana?) dress!

Dolly Parton does VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul... with LOTS of smiles!

2011-12-19T05:50:00.000-08:00

Use the word diva, and Dolly Parton's name should magically appear. And by diva obviously I mean an amazing female singer who's survived many a decade in the music industry, who is worth their weight in diva-gold, who is, probably, over the age of 40 (no offense), who usually wears what the hell she likes without anyone criticizing. I don't mean a 20-something girl who shaves off her hair or appears on the front of OK! magazine pregnant and naked with her husband clasping her boobs from behind for publicity!

No. Dolly is a Diva of epic proportion. And she proved it on the red carpet of last night's VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul event wearing a frayed crystallized top - boobs straining, leggings, boots and a variety of hilarious smiles!

Dolly sang with Queen Latifah, which seems to be the start of the promotion of their new film Joyful Noise, released early next year.

I miss Dolly. It's only when you see her fabulous pint-sized self that you realise what fun she brings to the red carpet. All we needed was Cher - but my spies, or Twitter, tell me she's in Germany!

Here's a little vid of Dolly on the red carpet... isn't she just precious?!?!

A Worldwide Campaign - Jennifer Hudson to stop losing weight!

2011-12-19T03:29:00.000-08:00

Here's Jennifer Hudson at the VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul event in New York last night. Now, I'm all up for losing weight - as you probably know I've lost quite a lot too in the last decade - but do we think J Hud is taking it too far? I mean, is she now what is technically and clinically known as a Lollipop Head??

Part of her appeal, way back when on American Idol, was the fact that she was slightly bigger, or at least curvaceous. Now she is little more than skin and bone. By all means Jen, lose weight, but there has to be a point, or a weight, where you stop... i.e. NOW.

What's more, what's with the ugly dress/boots combo?? No really, what are those boots about? Not even I can justify them!

Luckily she changed, twice.

Dame Helen Mirren at the British Comedy Awards in Dolce and Gabbana's stars!

2011-12-16T14:08:00.000-08:00

Helen Mirren has shown us, a number of times, that age has absolutely nothing to do with fashion. We've seen her in a skimpy bikini on the beach (amazing body), in head-to-toe leopard print gowns (amazingly daring) and figure-hugging dresses. And tonight, at the British Comedy Awards 2011, the dame showed us that no matter what age you are (66, ahem), it's never too old for a few Dolce and Gabbana stars.

Here she is wearing a lace panel dress from D&G's autumn winter 2011 collection. Now, here's the thing, I salute Helen, I really do, but - sorry but there is a but - I think this dress is a little too much for her. Don't hate me, please. It's just that I do think, in this instance, that this particular dress is very... young. That's not to say that she doesn't look hot in it, because she does. I know I sound like I'm contradicting myself, I suppose I am slightly, it's just there are other ways to show off your body without using lace panels.

I do however think there were other dresses in the collection that would have been more appropriate, still featuring star print..

*Helen's Dolce & Gabbana dress on the catwalk...*

*Two other dresses from the collection that would look (better) amazing
on Dame Helen*

Skinted//Minted

2011-12-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

SKINTED...

*River Island pink glitter peep toes, £55*

MINTED...

*Miu Miu's suede and glitter peep toes, £359*

*Miu Miu's glitter pumps, £370*

Little Marcus Collins wears an amaze Topman jumper...

2011-12-16T02:39:00.000-08:00

It seems even the contestants got properly styled on this year's X Factor. Not only did Miss Kelly R give us gorgeous gown after gorgeous gown, and Gary Barlow with his uber sleek Tom Ford and Vivienne Westwood suits, but I noticed some Versace for H&M on both Misha and Marcus! Oooo!

And I've just seen this pic of Marcus in one of my FAVOURITE Dusty for Topman jumpers (£90). It features a lovely big knitted collar, and that blue hue... mmmmmm!

Oh why didn't I buy it!!!!

Nicole Scherzinger reaches for her Christopher Kane dress on X Factor USA semi final!

2011-12-15T04:45:00.000-08:00

Nicole Scherzinger is definitely the Dannii Minogue of the American X Factor this year, meaning TOP OF THE FASHION POPS! (oo, was that a bit cheesy?)

Here she is in tonight's show, the semi-final, doning a colourful Christopher Kane dress form his resort 2012 collection!!! Nicole could wear a bin bag and look fierce, but this rainbow bright lace number is SUCH a good fashion choice by her and her stylist.

Raise up those hands Nicole and shout HALLELUJAH for Christoper Kane and his colour pop vision!!

*Nicole's dress, and more from the collection, all very much
suited to her as well!*

*Nicole's dress to buy, £715 (sold out but you can order it!)*

The library is OPEN... Rupaul's Drag Race season 4 is nearly here!!

2011-12-14T08:57:00.000-08:00

Dazed & Confused show off the Givenchy!

2011-12-14T05:10:00.000-08:00

Following on from my last blog post, I've just been informed (thanks Dil!) that Dazed & Confused magazine have shot some of Givenchy's spring summer 2012 birds of paradise collection for their new issue. Naturally I pounced onto the computer to check out the shoot, and was amazed to find a whole wealth of high end pieces all piled on top of each other in a story shot by Ben Toms.

The fab blog Tom and Lorenzo picked up on the shoot, but weren't all that enthused by it. I won't paraphrase, I'll directly quote them: "Where’s the styling here? Because “pile as much shit on one skinny kid as we can” is NOT a style philosophy worth considering, darlings." And I guess they do have a point.

The Givenchy picture DID do the clothes justice because you can see them, but then again this shot included the least amount of clothing. The rest were, as T&L point out, overloaded with pieces that ordinarily would look fab pared down.

I guess it's a case of personal preference. And the point of hiring a stylist is to get new perspectives on how clothes will work with other clothes AND what's more, appointing a stylist is always a risk really isn't it? Their work comes from a personal point of view. Just like writers!

Who do you side with. Tom & Lorenzo or Dazed & Confused?

See the full shoot here...