Can Céline Clothes Transform Us?

I think all of us like to think of ourselves as Céline kinda gals. Dressing with simple, clean lines that speak of perfectionists, achieving at our high-flying jobs and up-to-the-minute fashion sense. Looking elegant and impeccable where ever we go. Sigh.
Most of us are just not built that way.
But what is encouraging is the way in which the advertising for the winter line is inclusive of women of all ages. The latest ads, shot by Juergen Teller, cast models in their twenties, fourties and, let's just say, past retirement age. All looking elegant and impeccable.
And then the lovely director/mother/bag designer/writer Sofia Coppola turns up at an event last week looking elegant and impeccable, dressed in Céline and it made me think - maybe it is the clothes that make you look like that...maybe you don't have to be made that way! Now the saving starts.
I am determined I will look elegant and impeccable one day before I retire. I will!
UPDATE: Luisa was just at Apsley 2 at the V&A Waterfront and the dress that Sofia is wearing came in while she was standing there. And some other garments of loveliness. It is my dream.

Celia Birtwell Originals Vintage Store Online

I love this new age when the most amazing stores in the world are now opening online so that we all can play with.
I am a fashion geek. In other words, I am entranced and somewhat obsessed with the history, origin and socio-economic development of fashion and its impact on our lives. One of my favourite stories is of the relationship between designer Ossie Clark and print-lady and photographer, Celia Birtwell, as they traversed the late 60s and 70s together, making fashion.
Now their son, George, has set up an online store where you can purchase not only her new designs by Celia Birtwell but also a selection of original unique vintage pieces designed by Ossie Clark.
I am lucky enough to have an original Celia Birtwell piece - it is part maxi dress, part flamenco, so you know I am going to be spending both time and money on this site. As is great Clark/Birtwell collector, Kate Moss, I assume.
Each vintage piece will come with a certificate of authenticity as well as a copy of one of Celia’s archive sketches signed by the lady herself: www.celiabirtwell.com.

Dannii Minogue and Victoria Beckham Create Style Magic on X Factor

So my mate Dannii wore another dress from my mate Vicky's collection for the UK television series X Factor this weekend. A beautiful fitted blue sheath, with a cowl drape at the neck was a hit in the style stakes, if rather subdued for the UK public. Having trawled the comments sections of many a web site looking at what the TV audiences thought, the overwhelming verdict is CLASS.
For the results show on Sunday night, Dannii went a bit more playful and brought out the floral Dolce & Gabbanna 50s prom dress. There really was so much flirty in this dress, I almost winked at it.
I know that my book club is just a fantasy one, but seriously, if DM and VB are going to get any closer I really am going to have to alert them to their book club responsibilties.

Shopping With Alex: The Return of the Veldskoen

So, recently we have seen the return of the traditional South African veldskoen boot as a trend in fashion, first overseas (as a 'desert boot') and now locally. I noticed whilst out and about that the retailers are doing their own version of this boot for women.
I think this can be a great look leading into summer worn with dresses, shorts and denim with laces loosely tied to show off the calves/ankles.
These are my picks of what is available in store right now:
1. Mr Price: I think this is a great option for the colour (which is very fashionable at the moment), shape and the price.....R120!
2. ZOOM: I think that this is a gorgeous little boot! Lovely soft leather and in 2 very wearbale colours. This is actually my favourite and I think this one would look particularly good with dresses, rompers and shorts, as it is a more lightweight and feminine option. This retails for R799.
Have fun
Alex xx
PS: For any overseas readers, I also know that Clarks produce a similiar boot to the Mr Price option.

FESTIVAL OF THE WEEK

hoot hoot

have you noticed it? This year Halloween seems to have taken full force in the stores - as if they've just realised this is a brilliant marketing opportunity. All Hallows Eve - as it's been known since the 16th  century - is not a bad holiday to co opt - especially from a crafting point of view. Lets face it, there are costumes, pumpkin carving, and trick or treat bags to make. I picked up my Kent pumpkin to carve this morning at the market and bought too darling little birdies from Cottage Industry to spook up the front door (more on that project tomorrow!)

Of course I've been on board the Halloween spook train for years thanks to my much derided Martha obsession - you want proof - here's a link to a post this time a couple of years ago - lets hope I have better luck this time!

RAMONA

Have a wonderful week!

R2D2 on the Beach!

This constitutes the random post of the day, but never-the-less a charming one. I am not sure of the overlap in interest between those of you who love fashion AND Star Wars, but you are the niche that this is aimed at. Or for those of you who have Star Wars blokes they are trying to impress. After all, nothing says 'I Love You' more than dressing up as a Star Wars character. And Princess Leia is so, like, done.
Designed by Australian James Lillis as a commentary on how everything is technological these days, this simple, yet lovely, this R2D2 bathing suit is perfect for those of you who want to hit the beach in a different kind of style. This sort of suit says more about you that a skimpy bikini!