Her Ribbons and Her Bows

Photoshoot: New York 1962: Jean Shrimpton by David Bailey

2012-01-27T12:37:00.000-08:00

You just can't beat the Sixties for good old fashioned style, can you? These shots of Jean Shrimpton taken by David Bailey for Vogue in 1962 encapsulate everything that the decade came to stand for, marking the dawn of a new era in photography and fashion as well as changing the face of class structure and sexual politics for good. Bailey and Shrimpton defied Vogue Fashion Editor Lady Clare Rendlesham, shooting mid-range (yet oh-so-chic) clothes in the grittier parts of Manhattan, with Jean doing her own hair and makeup. The shoot has been immortalised in a one off BBC drama We'll Take Manhattan, available to watch here on BBC iPlayer.

Photoshoot: Gaia Repossi by Karim Sadli

2011-11-15T02:54:00.001-08:00

From Diane Keaton in Annie Hall to Phoebe Philo at the CFDA's, the most stylish women wear menswear. Another case in point: Gaia Repossi, shot by Karim Sadli, for Issue Four of The Gentlewoman. Photographed in a mixture of Dior Homme and YSL with her father's suit thrown in for good measure, Repossi is the epitome of effortless chic, perfectly striking the balance between masculinity and femininity.

(images: Repossi.com)

Essentials: The Polo Neck

2011-11-09T13:16:00.001-08:00

If black polo necks make you think of the milk tray man, think again. My most recent acquisition from COS has become a much loved staple in recent weeks. Made out of merino wool, it's the perfect weight for that tricky stage between seasons. I like to wear mine tucked into a leather A-line skirt with black opaque tights in a nod to the sixties, but I love the way it's paired in the images above with a classic pair of cigarette pants. Hey, if it's good enough for Phoebe Philo, it's good enough for me...

(images life.com via la mignonette's tumblr)

Olympia Le-Tan

2011-08-22T02:39:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the lack of updates! I'm currently interning at 1883 Magazine, a London based publication which promotes new, innovative talent within fashion and the arts. I've been writing for their blog here as well as doing a series of interviews with up and coming designers. My latest was with French accessories designer Olympia Le-Tan, a favourite with Clémence Poésy. It's now up on their website so I can cross post it here!

Olympia Le-Tan’s collection of hand crafted clutches are geek chic personified. With her quirky fusion of fashion and literature, Le-Tan has won the hearts of fashion’s darlings both across the channel and closer to home. Her most recent collection, Housewife’s Choice, inspired by the life of a Fifties housewife, features embroidered covers of recipe books as well as a handful of classics such as Flaubert’s Madame Bovary and Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina. We caught up with Olympia to discuss the joys of a good book and eating jacket potatoes.

Hi Olympia. Can you introduce yourself for us?

I'm Olympia Le-Tan, I am a British born French fashion designer. I make bags that look like books.

Could you tell us about your childhood in Paris? Has Paris influenced your designs in any way?

I grew up in the 2nd arrondissement, where I now live again. I love Paris. It's the prettiest city in the world. I could never live anywhere else. I suppose it does have an influence on my designs.

Your father, Pierre Le-Tan is a renowned French illustrator. Do you think he has influenced your creativity?

Definitely. Growing up watching him draw all the time made me want to do something creative. Thanks to him, I was always surrounded by beautiful things, which I suppose also helps. I think I have inherited his patience. He crosshatches and I stitch. We are both very meticulous.

Can you tell us about your most recent collection?

It's called Housewife's Choice. It is inspired by the life of a 50s housewife. So there are cookbooks, books about marriage and divorce, things for the kitchen...

Describe the design making process.

First I select the book cover, then I make the embroidery based on the image of the cover. The embroidery is sent to a small workshop where they mount it onto a brass frame and line it with Liberty print fabric, and the clutch is ready!

What is your preferred material to use and why?

I love using felt. I love the simple and naïve aspect. It's also very retro and I am a nostalgic person.

How do you decide which books to use on the bags?

At first I chose my favourite books and found the first edition covers. Now I pick themes, and find books with great titles and inspiring graphic covers. I seem to mostly select books from the 40s and 50s.

What’s your favourite book?

The Heart is a Lonely Hunter by Carson Mc Cullers.

And your favourite author?

Roald Dahl.

You’ve recently incorporated silk scarves into your collection. Could you tell us the inspiration behind this?

I love silk scarves and have a big collection. So I asked my father and my friend Mathias Augustyniak to design some scarves inspired by my last collection. They are handmade in France, and are stitched by hand all around the edges.

What’s been the highest achievement of your career so far?

Seeing my bags on people like Natalie Portman, Clémence Poésy or Tilda Swinton.

What are you working on currently?

My next collection.

Describe your perfect day.

A day out with my niece and little brother. They are the funniest people I know.

Can you tell us your 3 favourite things to do in London?

Buying fabric at Liberty, eating jacket potatoes, visiting the Museum of Childhood.

5 things you can’t live without.

My camera, my computer, my phone (embarrassing but true!) a good book and my cat.

Look of the day

2011-08-11T04:23:00.000-07:00

These recent photographs of jewelry designer Lara Melchior on vogue.fr make me long for a wardrobe consisting solely of silk shirts and loose fitting trousers. Citing Dries Van Noten and Phoebe Philo among her favourite designers, it is no surprise that for Melchior comfort is key. Her wardrobe is awash with simple jersey tee shirts by Isabel Marant, wide leg trousers and breton tops, all accessorised with her line of delicate gold jewelry inspired by Viennese Art Nouveau and Fauvism. The allure of her wardrobe lies in well cut, good quality, comfortable basics which work just as well for day as for evening. Plus, anyone who owns a pair of Chanel espadrilles gets my style vote...

I wanted to give a woman comfortable clothes that would flow with her body. A woman is closest to being naked when she is well-dressed — Coco Chanel

(photographs: Linus Ricard for vogue.fr)

Manhattan

2011-07-24T04:21:00.000-07:00

Woody Allen's Manhattan, 1979

Recently I have been inspired by films of the late seventies and eighties; Meryl Streep in Kramer vs Kramerand Out of Africa, Diane Keaton in Annie Hall. Last night I watched Woody Allen's Manhattanand was inspired by Meryl Streep's long skirts and tucked in silk shirts, Diane Keaton's tweed blazers paired with shirts buttoned all the way up and Mariel Hemingway's combination of loose fitting striped shirt with a man's pull over draped over the shoulder. A must see.

What films are inspiring your style?

(photographs: imdb via my tumblr)

Stand The Test of Time

2011-07-18T03:51:00.000-07:00

Ever since the baby doll dresses and stacked wooden heels popularised during her reign at Chloé in the Nineties, Phoebe Philo has imprinted herself onto fashion's collective conscious as the go to designer for luxury, wearable staples that women want to wear. I, like every other fashion fanatic, have followed Philo's evolution from the romantic Chloé days to the more grown up, pulled together aesthetic at Céline and find myself victim to what can only be described as the current Philo epidemic. Inspired both by Philo's personal and professional style, I was interested to read this profile of the designer via The Independent website. Philo's straightforward, industrious approach to the world of fashion design, reflected in her classic, discreet creations comes as a breath of fresh air in an industry renowned for its frivolity. "I think it's quite liberating for women not to have to be so preoccupied with different silhouettes, with different things," she says. It is this no-fuss, substantial approach that has struck a chord with the educated, modern women who comprises the brand's primary market. The success of Céline undoubtedly lies in its wearability factor and relevance to the current economic climate. As much as we can admire the effort and hours of grooming gone into the larger than life outfits of the likes of Anna Dello Russo, it is currently much more desirable to be able to throw on perfectly cut pair of cropped trousers or a simple shift within a mere matter of minutes without having to forsake that million dollar feeling.

"I absolutely love fashion. I love doing new things and finding ways to swerve in a different direction. But one of the reasons why I try to use fabrics and cuts that don't go out of fashion is because I like the idea of women buying the clothes and then... I don't know what the word is... cherish sounds over-emotional for a relationship with a piece of clothing... but for a woman to feel proud, satisfied, comfortable and powerful in them, to wear them and get on with their lives." - Phoebe Philo

(photograph: Phoebe Philo by David Sims for Vogue Paris)

Tomboy

2011-06-20T12:57:00.001-07:00

I know I have written about Argentinean stylist Marina Muñoz's style before, but this is just pure outfit perfection. I never cease to be impressed by the way she so effortlessly exudes that elusive tomboy ease with a confidence I can only hope to emulate in my day to day dressing. Inspired by classic tomboy icons such as Jane Birkin and Charlotte Rampling, as well as photographer August Sander's portraits, Marina is a one of a kind style maverick. You can only imagine how happy I was to discover she was Vogue.fr's most recently featured Une fille un style...

Gaucho Gipsy Ethnic Chic, quatre mots indissociables qui me décrivent parfaitement. Tout ce que je possède est d'abord un choix personnel, un choix que je fais au hasard de mes rencontres, mes voyages, la musique que j'écoute, les livres que je lis. Ce sont ces choix qui font mon style. - Marina Muñoz

(photograph: Street Peeper)

The French Pharmacy

2011-06-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

One of the many charms of living in Paris for the year includes having constant access to that holy grail of beauty: the French Pharmacy. If pouring over Into the Gloss and tearing out pages out of the beauty supplements of Vogue has taught me one thing, it is that, when it comes to skin care, French products are the crème de la crème of the skin care industry. Here are a few of my favourite French discoveries, any other recommendations are welcome!

Bioderma Crealine H2O Micelle Solution: A favourite amongst make up artists, this is frankly the best cleanser you will ever use, it is super calming on the most sensitive skins and gets rid of even the most stubborn eye makeup.

Homeoplasmine: Meant for skin irritations, works perfectly on chapped lips to condition and plump. The French equivalent of Lucas Paw Paw Ointment.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen: A very effective and affordable sunscreen that has a large selection of skin type specific variations. As someone who burns incredibly easily, this is a must-have. It doesn't appear greasy on the skin so I can wear it as a substitute to moisturiser in the summer season.

Avibon: Rich in vitamin A, this product is great for getting rid of blemishes and tackling dry skin.

Embryolisse: Cult moisturiser used by everyone from Jane Birkin to Gaia Repossi which is said to simultaneously cleanse and moisturise the skin. It can also be applied as a mask for when your skin is feeling especially parched. Also a great primer for makeup.

Klorane Camomile Shampoo: I usually like to chop and change the products that I use in my regime so that my skin and hair don't get too used to anything. Having said that I have used this shampoo every time I have washed my hair for the past year! It leaves my hair clean and soft and actually lives up the claims that it enhances and lifts your natural highlights. Their Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oatmilk is also brilliant for in between washes.

Decléor Aromessence Rose D'Orient: This oil immediately calms irritations and gives a luminessence to the skin. Smells absolutely DIVINE.

If you happen to be in Paris, my recommendation would be City-Pharma in St Germain as it's tax free!

(Photograph: Into The Gloss)

Trans-seasonal wish list

2011-05-24T04:47:00.000-07:00

Travelling between a warm and heady Parisian springtime and a much less clement London got me thinking about the need to master the art of trans-seasonal dressing. I've always been a winter clothes (read coats) enthusiast, finding it tiresome to shop for summer items that I spend a maximum of two weeks of the year wearing. In recent months, I have found myself less and less inclined to purchase clothes specifically for my summer holidays. I instead anticipate 'borrowing' items from my everyday autumn/winter wardrobe such as breton tops and lightweight shirts and pairing them with denim shorts and sandals (ideally this pair from 3.1 Phillip Lim) rather than with my usual staple of black jeans.

Today's constantly changing weather conditions have rendered seasonal fashion obsolete resulting in a need for more transitional clothing. Dressing for that tricky 'in-between' stage requires a mastering of loose and light layering - think jackets or a lightweight spring coat layered over a loose tee with rolled up jeans or a sweater dress paired with bare legs as demonstrated on The Sartorialist. I foresee my key investment for summer being a jacket, the ultimate trans-seasonal item. I particularly like this version from Vanessa Bruno Athé or this denim style by A.P.C.

And if you're in need of more summer wardrobe inspiration, check out Lin's series of Summer Days posts. They act as an A-Z of summer essentials!

(Photo credit: various, all from my tumblr)

Summer Essentials: The Oxford Shirt

2011-05-01T01:57:00.001-07:00

After careful consideration I think my next purchase will be a blue Oxford Shirt. Plain, simple and the epitome of tomboy chic, it will go with everything in my wardrobe and can be dressed up or down. I'll wear mine tucked into black cigarette pants, or my Acne flares for a comfortable yet pulled together look. How do you wear yours?

(Photographs: j.lindberg via the knight cat)

Uniform

2011-04-18T03:20:00.000-07:00

My most recent go-to for sartorial advice is the Essentials Section of Self Service magazine's blog. Having had a sneak peak into the must-haves of stylish individuals from Sofia Coppola to Emmanuelle Alt, it is clear that to some extent style is synonymous with uniform. When I think of stylish women, from fail safe icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Coco Chanel to more modern taste makers like Phoebe Philo, there exists an underlying connection between them in that all of their outfits (for the most part) subscribe to their respective standardised silhouettes. Take Emmanuelle Alt for example, whose style exhibits and rarely strays from the formula of skinny jeans + impeccably cut jacket + towering heels. Where would Sofia Coppola be without her classic silhouette of black slim fit jeans, Charvet shirt and flats? Even the Queen of Eclectic Anna Della Russo is consistent in that the very definition of her style is in it's strict outrageousness.

I think that in setting yourself certain wardrobe limitations, you come to figure out a true sense of your own style. Shopping becomes more of an enjoyable challenge which in turn makes you consider your purchases more carefully. For example, I am now far more likely to choose an item entirely based on a cut that would compliment the other items in my wardrobe rather than making an on- trend purchase that I will later come to regret. But, most importantly of all, the thing about uniforms is that you come to have a signature look, instantly recognisable as being 'you', which, for me, is the holy grail in an industry dominated by the next big thing.

(Photograph: Accessories Designer Giorgia Tordini on Kenya's Style)

Blank canvas

2011-04-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

It's rare that I post editorials on this blog but I just had to share Géraldine Saglio's feature for the Spring 2011 issue of Vogue Enfants photographed by Matthew Brookes. It makes such a change from the overtly sexualised images seen previously in Vogue Enfants under Carine Roitfeld's editorship. Instead, the styling is on trend, low key and age-appropriate. It's a breath of fresh air in a sea of editorials in which audacious appears to have become synonymous with plain risqué. Alt's plans for a more "feminine vogue" seem to have been accomplished to great effect; the harshness of older Paris Vogue editorials has faded and been replaced with an almost intimate mood, resulting in a magazine that women really want to read.

(Photographs: thefashionspot)

Simplicité sophistiquée

2011-03-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

It appears Italian jewelry heiress & artistic director Gaia Repossi might just have my dream wardrobe. Not only does she have an endless supply of Repossi rings at her disposal (an item I can only stare longingly at in the confines of Colette) but an enviable collection of clothing which includes pieces from Céline, vintage Yves Saint Laurent and Isabel Marant amongst others. However, what most caught my eye when I saw Vogue Paris's feature on her was the fact that her look is so accessible. If you ignore the fact that all her pieces are high end, her look is that laid back, relaxed style that us mere mortals can easily recreate with a savvy mix of Cos and Zara with the odd ebay-ed Isabel Marant piece thrown in for good measure. Her classic, tomboy silhouette is both covetable and wearable. The perfect hybrid of Italian elegance & French effortlessness.

(Photographs from Vogue.fr)

Kunstkammer

2011-03-15T02:22:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I visited the Fondation Pierre Bergé to see it's Saint Laurent rive gauche: La révolution de la mode exhibition. What struck me, aside from the vast array of impeccably crafted garments dating from 1966-1978, was the notion of collecting. The exhibition relies heavily on the private collections of Loulou de la Falaise, former Chanel model and Saint Laurent's muse Betty Catroux, and the man who is allegedly responsible for starting the 'vintage' craze, Didier Ludot. The 'collector' is nowadays revered as someone who exhibits qualities of both perseverance and passion. Indeed, the famed Anna Della Russo has an entire flat dedicated to housing her impressive clothing archive. The only thing I intentionally collect is Vogue UK, much to my mother's chagrin, as they are stacked on top of one another resulting in a sort of makeshift bedside table, the rest neatly arranged in date order in bookshelves concealed in my wardrobe. I started collecting in 2002 and have continued with each yearly subscription. I imagine they are worth very little but I prefer to see my collection more as a tangible outlet for my love of fashion; it gives me such pleasure to see an inspiring fashion photograph in the knowledge that I can go and look up the rest of the editorial in my own little archive. However, undoubtedly there is money to be made in collecting, I constantly regret not jumping on the Lula bandwagon earlier, with issues 1 to 4 going for as much as £130 on eBay. My collection starts at #5, and it is my life's aim to acquire the full set! Sadly my bank balance does not allow for this at the present moment! For drastic times such as this, there's always The Fashion Spot which holds a vast archive of every magazine you could possibly dream of. I've recently been reminiscing with editorials from Carine Roitfeld's reign at Paris Vogue here. But for me digital will never be an adequate substitute for print, so if anyone has a copy lying around of the June 2005 issue of UK Vogue, then please let me know, it's the only one missing from my collection!

(photograph: the Selby, title: 'kunstkammer' or 'Cabinets of Curiosities' were popular amongst collectors in 1750-1800)

“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.”

2011-03-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

Caroline Issa, market editor of Tank and editor in chief of Because magazine is my new style crush. Edgy without sacrificing elegance and grace, she is a perfect style icon for our time. Her outfits are an endless lesson in paired down chic. Who's style have you been stalking this fashion month?

(Photographs: Caroline Issa fashionspot, quotation: Coco Chanel)

“I prefer to call it ‘pure’ — minimal can be very empty"

2011-02-26T10:48:00.000-08:00

These two looks from the Jil Sander RTW Autumn/Winter show were just too good not to be posted. The cocoon silhouettes and ski pants combo remind me of Audrey Hepburn in the opening of Charade. Simple, and elegant. What did you think to the show? And what are your stand out shows of the season so far?

(photographs: style.it, title: quote from Jil Sander)

ps. Jil Sander was interviewed by Suzy Menkes here, well worth a read.

"A mille-feuille of colour"

2011-02-23T11:34:00.000-08:00

As I am writing this, my hair is scraped back into a neat ballerina bun, my face bare all but for the swipe of bright pink lipstick which adorns my lips. Very Carrie Bradshaw-esque you might think but in fact I have been revisiting Jil Sander's spring 2011 RTW show... slightly incongruous for a self-proclaimed colour-neophyte. I really can't fault this show - the striking colour palette coupled with Raf Simons' signature tailoring culminates in a collection which readily translates into everyday wear despite the couture-like craftsmanship. I can't wait to see what he produces this Milan Fashion Week.

I am always impressed with a woman who chooses less and is serene. - Raf Simons.

(photographs: jak&jil & vogue.com; title: Raf Simons as quoted in a review by Tim Blanks)

The Céline Effect

2011-02-22T12:14:00.000-08:00

I have been known to wax lyrical about Yasmin Sewell's style before but I couldn't help but do another post on her having seen these recent images taken of her on day four of New York Fashion Week. The much coveted Céline clutch is the perfect foil for her crisp white shirt and vintage Chanel coat. And that necklace. Definitely my favourite look of fashion month so far.

(Photographs from streetsfn, all the pretty birds & Tommy Ton for style.com)

Thought for the Day

2011-02-11T02:15:00.001-08:00

I rarely wear skirts. My daughter is just the same. I’ll try to convince her to wear a skirt, or a dress, and she’ll look at me say, ‘Why? You don’t.’ - Emmanuelle Alt

Recently, all my outfits have been based around the trousers I'm wearing. Navy chords with ankle zips and leather detailing, snapped up in the Cos sale for a mere €45. It's got me thinking, are you a more of a trousers girl or a skirt kind of girl?

The Coveted

2011-02-01T13:10:00.000-08:00

Everyone's guilty of lusting after that one dream purchase, you know, the one that would be the perfect accent to every single item in your wardrobe but which you'd have to remortgage your house to afford? Case in point: Repossi's Ere Twin Ring. Pure, simple perfection.

(Photograph by elle.com)

Peekaboo

2011-01-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

Over the past few years, we have witnessed the monumental influence bloggers have had on the fashion community. Having just reached my one year blogging anniversary I got to thinking about what blogging means and where it will lead fashion to in the future.

Recently I have found myself addicted to blogs such as The Coveted, Into The Gloss, The Selby & Closet Visit which all offer a behind-the-scenes insight into the lives of the fashion crowd, whether the focus be on the inner workings of their wardrobes, make-up bags or apartments. These blogs essentially serve as platforms which allow the viewer to discover the (most probably artificially constructed) world of the 'other' i.e. the fashion insider we all, myself included, long to emulate. It is the ability to tap into this sense of romance and mystery that is, for me, what makes the blogger powerful in the world of fashion. However, this voyeurism, so intrinsic to the concept of blogging is nothing we fashion followers haven't seen before. Indeed, in the days long before blogs existed, I always found myself drawn to features such as the Closet Confidential in Elle UK and Une Fille Un Style in Paris Vogue, longing to see what my style icons wore and were inspired by. For me, despite the blog’s ability to provide instant gratification, it will never come close to the pleasure of spending my last five euro note on a copy of Vogue and the subsequent excitement that comes with pondering which stylish ingénue’s wardrobe I’ll be able to snoop around that evening.

What sort of blogs do you enjoy reading? And what are your favourite magazine features?

edit: Have just discovered this wonderful project - Where They Create - basically The Selby but solely for creative work spaces. Well worth a look.

(photograph by Ana Kraš)

Une femme est une femme

2011-01-07T02:28:00.000-08:00

Whenever I am in a style rut, one thing never ceases to inspire me: the sixties. This decade wholly encompasses that perfect balance of elegance and Lolita that is ever-present in my style. It that signifies both independence and emancipation, whilst at the same time being alluring in a way no other style of any other decade achieves. Yesterday I watched Godard's Une Femme est Une Femme and was once again stuck by Anna Karina's coquettish yet chic way of dressing which to me epitomises what is missing in fashion today. It's that unassuming sexiness which French women do so well, the antithesis of 'in your face' dressing. Today I'm wearing a tartan skirt, knitted cardigan, black opaques & my trusty penny loafers in homage to a true style icon! All finished off with a smattering of liquid eyeliner and my hair in a chignon.

(Images from the fashion spot)

Gentlewoman

2010-12-06T10:45:00.000-08:00

If you've been following my blog for a while, you'll know that simplicity, for me, is key. These images from La Garconne perfectly illustrate how to throw on an outfit made entirely out of basics without any fear of looking boring. In fact, it is the almost invisible nature of the clothes which really catches my eye, creating that nonchalant-thrown together look that is just perfect for autumnal dressing. Both practical and chic.

The Essentials

2010-11-30T02:53:00.000-08:00

Essentials #1 - The Trench Coat

I am on a life long quest to pick up the perfect charity shop Burberry Trench. Whenever I discover a new Vintage shop, the first thing I do is scour the rails for the Trench coats. Double breasted, slim fitting and finding just the right shade of beige are a few things that are, for me, key. Looks perfect with cropped denim jeans, repetto flats and a breton top.

Essentials #2 - A pair of trusty Brogues

There's nothing like the juxtaposition of a pair of men's brogues against a floral dress. It's that old age trick of androgyny: to have that one masculine element which sets off an otherwise perfectly feminine look. A pair of Church's would be my dream buy, but due to being 1,000 ft tall, my feet are a whopping size 42 and I don't want to stray into clumsy feet territory!

Essentials #3 - An understated, practical leather bag

Bags are one of those items you can really afford to splurge on (along with the perfect coat) - good quality leather only gets better with age and wear. Case in point; my mum's old mulberry binocular bag which must be the same age as me! Sofia Coppola for Louis Vuitton's exquisite example sadly takes splurging to a whole new level... I can but dream!

(Images from Jak & Jill)

All children, except one, grow up.

2010-11-27T02:53:00.000-08:00

Despite my current love of all things minimalist, sometimes there's nothing I'd rather do than throw on a flirty 1960's baby doll dress with a Peter Pan collar... I think it's the Lula girl within me. Although at first these two styles seem to sit at opposite ends of the fashion spectrum, one label has managed to marry the two, resulting in a line that perfectly tiptoes the line between playful and ladylike-chic. I'm referring to Carven, the French couture house founded in 1945 which has recently had a resurgence thanks to Guillaume Henry's appointment at the creative helm and exposure from fashion's current darling Alexa Chung. At the top of my wishlist is the crepe collar which could be coupled with everyday staples such as a black wool skirt, a cashmere jumper and a pair of loafers. Girlish without falling into fully fledged Lolita territory.

I like dresses but it doesn't have to be a costume. It's something you want to wear to straight away. You don't need make-up or strong hair. It's effortless. At Carven, we took off more than we added with the clothes. We like the idea of not making any distinction between day and night. It's more about living in the clothes. - Guillaume Henry

Ode to Isabel

2010-11-07T02:30:00.000-08:00

So yesterday I was strolling through the Marais on my way for my favourite lunchtime treat at Breizh Cafe when who should I bump into but the most sought after of French designers and one of my ultimate style icons, Isabel Marant. She gave me as a smile of recognition as she clocked my jacket... the exact same one she was wearing! Marant is one of my favourite designers for a number of reasons but namely because she is so indifferent to 'fashion' despite being one of the most desirable designers of our generation. My love affair with her designs started upon seeing her Fall-2007-Ready-to-Wear on vogue.fr , something I am still constantly returning to for references. These looks are as relevant today in fashion as they were three years ago. Her designs embody the essence of Gallic insouciance... low-key basics which have become steadfast classics. The label's philosophy has slowly become embedded in fashion's conscience, encompassing the of the moment trend for real clothes for real women. Indeed, Marant designs for herself, forming a very personal relationship with each and every garment... she is even her own fittings model. Most of all, I love the fact that her pieces sit perfectly within my wardrobe of slouchy basics from lower end stores such as Zara and Cos, serving to enhance them and adding that distinct something which takes my outfit to the next level. As Marant herself says, the Isabel Marant girl embodies 'discretion, style and attitude. But, above all, comfort.' What more could a girl want?

Voilà!

2010-11-04T05:36:00.000-07:00

A couple of you on my FAQ post suggested that I start doing outfit posts which is definitely something I will consider. In the meantime I'll save you my mediocre photography skills and leave you with one of the images Tamu Mcpherson of All The Pretty Birds took of me during Paris Fashion Week outside the Grand Palais. (The other image can be seen here.) To be honest, my day to day outfits are mostly a variation on the above theme!

I'm wearing heeled desert boots by Carvela, Acne jeans, a COS polo neck, my beloved Isabel Marant coat and my mother's old Mulberry bag which she passed down to me!

FAQ Part I

2010-10-27T09:58:00.001-07:00

Here are the answers to your questions from my FAQ post, feel free to ask me more!

Could you recommend some places to see/shop etc in Paris? I love going for walks in the Jardin du Luxembourg with a box of Pierre Herme macaroons to dip into along the way! Also the Parc Buttes Charmont is beautiful, you get really dramatic views of the city. Shopping wise I like to wander around the shops in le Marais but sadly I can only afford to window shop there! I love Cos, Isabel Marant and Comptoir des Cotonniers though. And I love the Poilâne bakery and Mamie Gâteaux when I feel like indulging my sweet tooth!

What are your favourite books? I read Patti Smith’s Just Kids over summer and it was the most beautiful book I’ve ever read. As soon as I finished, I had to start it over again.

Suppose you could pack your bags and leave for any place in the world tomorrow, where would you go? Top of my list at the moment is Japan, I’d love to visit Tokyo and Kyoto when the cherry blossom’s in bloom.

If you were to blog about another subject, completely fashion unrelated, what would it be? I used to always write journals when I went abroad as a youngster so it would most probably be a travel blog.

How old are you?  I’m 20 years old.

What's your favorite item in your closet? It changes from day to day but at the moment it has to be my Isabel Marant Bator coat that I saved up for. No matter what I’m wearing underneath I always feel good when I put it on.

 What do you do for a living? I’m currently a studying French and History of Art at university, whilst dreaming of becoming a fashion journalist or stylist!

 What are your favourite blogs to read? Here are my current favourites:

http://thisisnaive.com/, http://deadfleurette.blogspot.com/, http://trois-douze.blogspot.com/, http://definitelygolden.com/, http://ifyouweretherebeware.blogspot.com/, http://mag-laflaneuse.blogspot.com/, http://www.garancedore.fr/, http://www.turnedout.tv/index.php, http://sheswildatheart.blogspot.com/, http://portillon.wordpress.com/, http://theepitomeofquiet.wordpress.com/, http://thethinkingtank.wordpress.com/, http://millyfellintothewardrobe.blogspot.com/, http://fashion-filled.blogspot.com/, http://la-vie-en-rose.tumblr.com/

What kind of music do you like? Bob Dylan, always. Mostly folk music such as Leonard Cohen, Neil Young & Karen Dalton. But I also love all those weird, ethereal female artists like Charlotte Gainsbourg, Sophie Hunger, Joanna Newsom, Au Revoir Simone, Cat Power etc.

Where in Paris do you live? In the 14ème.

What are your favourite movies? I could watch Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation over and over again (and all her other films as a matter of fact!) Audrey Hepburn films of the 1950’s & 60’s, Jean Luc Godard’s Breathless, Grey Gardens, all Wes Anderson’s movies... The list goes on!

edit: Thank you to two of my favourite blogs En Voyage and Capture the Castle for awarding me the I love your blog prize.

Questions:
1. Why did you create the blog? I started Her Ribbons and Her Bows as an outlet for me to practice fashion writing as it is something I would love to do in the future and just as a sort of scrap book for all the things that I love.

2. What kind of blogs do you follow? Mostly I follow style blogs which have a good balance between writing and images.

3. Favorite makeup brand? Chanel for makeup and French pharmacy brands like Weleda & La Roche Posay for skin care.

4. Favorite clothing brand? Isabel Marant Etoile, Cos, Zara, Comptoir des Cotonniers, Chanel, Lover & Orla Kiely

5. Your indispensable makeup product: Chanel liquid eyeliner or Lucas Remedies Papaw Ointment

6. Your favourite color: Navy blue

7. Your perfume: I alternate between Marc Jacobs' Daisy in the summer and Serge Lutens' Fleur d'Oranger in the winter

8. Your favourite film: see above

9. What country would you like to visit and why? see above

10. Make the last question and answer to yourself: Favourite magazines? My ideal magazine would be a combination of Lula, Russh, Paris Vogue and The Gentlewoman.

(Collage by me. Images thanks to Vogue Paris, Jalouse, Vogue UK & ELLE US)

FAQ

2010-10-10T06:36:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the lack of updates - I have been drowning under a the sea of French bureaucracy having made the move to la belle Paris. My days have been spent exploring the florists and patisseries of left bank, spending lazy afternoons wandering through the Marais with friends making mental outfit notes and not forgetting some all important shopping! My most recent purchase: a camel coloured polo neck from COS which has become a steadfast staple in my wardrobe. I was even photographed by Tamu Mcpherson wearing it with my Bator, high waisted jeans and some grey high heeled desert boots outside the Chanel SS11 show (which made my day!) I find the street style here is just so inspiring - I wonder if this quiet chic will ever get old? I see thousands of muted colours interspersed with scarves, blazers and ballet flats yet they never cease to inspire me and introduce me to new ways of wearing things.

So having been off the radar for a while, I thought it was about time to give something back and do a Q&A session with my readers. And one thing I ask of you - any suggestions of your favourite things to do in Paris would also be most welcome! So fire away...

Dressing Down

2010-09-27T03:05:00.000-07:00

As I was doing the fashion week blog rounds, I stumbled across this post on Vanessa Jackman's street style blog and was reminded of my love for stylist Marina Muñoz's elegant and boyish way of dressing. She has been a fashion inspiration of mine for a long time ever since one of my friends emailed me a link to a feature on her over at Jak & Jil blog with the subject heading 'YOU'. I love her philosophy to dressing, the way she plays with the details - a string belt mixed with basic white jeans and a navy jacket from the little boys section. I really admire the way Muñoz incorporates feminine pieces into a skeleton wardrobe consisting largely of menswear - she doesn't need to sacrifice comfort in order to remain grown-up and graceful.

I find that if something looks good on me, I tend to stick to it like men's shirts, hats, trousers and simple shift dresses. - Marina Muñoz

(Image Credits: Hanneli, Citizen Couture, Vanessa Jackman & Turned Out)

Bonjour Paris!

2010-09-16T04:35:00.000-07:00

Oh the joys of packing a wardrobe worthy of moving to the most stylish city in the world! My imminent move to Paris has been causing me sartorial anguish in bucket loads! Not only is my studio matchbox sized (I'm seriously considering my microwave as potential shoe storage) but I have the added pressure of Parisian style to contend with! However, whilst drowning in a sea of wooly tights, polka dots and denim I came across this inspiring collage of Gallic beauty Clémence Poésy from Elle Ukraine and was reminded of my number one fashion rule - simple is always chic. Problem ~~almost~~ solved.

(Image from thefashionspot)

Masculin Féminin

2010-08-28T04:43:00.000-07:00

If you've been following my blog, you'll have probably noticed that I'm a self proclaimed tomboy. To me there is nothing more appealing than a woman dressed in a man's clothes. Ever since I was little, I would always be the girl dressed in the denim romper climbing trees and role playing Star Wars with my partner in crime (I assumed the role of Han Solo, he Luke Skywalker.) Whether it be down to my boyish figure (read: flat chested and gangly) or my attempts to break the mould in an all girls' school, my style has always bordered on the side boyish. My look has definitely evolved since my school days and now I've discovered that dressing with a tomboy edge needn't mean sacrificing femininity - my peter pan collared dresses are toughened up with mannish brogues or lace up ankle boots and my off duty uniform of white shirt, cropped trousers and penny loafers are made more feminine with a bow tied in my hair à la Brigitte Bardot. Despite the fashion forecast for this season being all about the new womanly silhouette, I'd still rather be in the boyish camp, embracing the new trouser shapes and array of capes on offer. After all, who wouldn't want to be associated with a band of women that includes such style icons as Charlotte Gainsbourg, Lou Doillon, Annie Hall, Alexa Chung and Katherine Hepburn?

(Images from thefashionspot & my tumblr)

ps. Follow my blog with bloglovin!

Gloria

2010-08-23T03:29:00.000-07:00

I once read an interview with Valentine Fillol Cordier in which she described her style as "something between Coco Chanel and Patti Smith"... quite possibly the perfect combination! Lately, having just finished Just Kids, I myself have been undoubtedly influenced by Patti Smith's blasé approach to dressing. Her uniforms of black skinny jeans, blazers & mannish white shirts, although formulaic, never air on the side of boring. Patti Smith is one of those rare style phenomenon's who makes the most understated of outfits look so desirable and incessantly cool that you want to wear the look head to toe... But somehow you just never manage to recreate that same nonchalant attitude. It thrilled me to discover that during one period of her youth, she rotated between variations on outfits inspired by French new wave films and Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face. Her cultural influences are embodied in many of her outfits, whether it be the way she flings her jacket over her shoulder on the cover of Horses à la Frank Sinatra or her Keith Richards-esque haircut. Just perfection.

My style says ‘Look at me, don’t look at me,’ ... It’s, ‘I don’t care what you think.’ - Patti Smith

Elegance is refusal

2010-08-04T05:17:00.000-07:00

As my obsession for all things French steadily grows (and showing no signs of abating), so does my interest in the concept of the French Wardrobe - the notion that you can base your entire wardrobe on a skeleton of 4-5 (usually high quality) key pieces. In the recent months, I've found this idea especially appealing namely due to the alarming prospect of having to fit my vast array of clothes into my matchbox studio in Paris. Long gone are the days of envisioning a wardrobe worthy of a place in UK Elle's monthly feature Closet Confidential...

Although at the tender age of 20 my style is constantly evolving, I definitely have a uniform that I can always fall back on which consists of good quality basics - a pair of Acne jeans, a Zara leather blazer and my French Sole ballet flats for day and a black See by Chloe dress or Day Birger et Mikkelsen blouse for evening. It's fair to say that I wear a variation of these outfits seventy five percent of the time in place of the more frivolous, 'on-trend' pieces in my wardrobe. Although this at first seems like a boring approach to fashion, the less-is-more approach to dressing is ultimately far more satisfying. After all, I would much rather by one more expensive, classic item that I really love and can wear in a multitude of ways in place of the latest highly covetable Balmain jacket or It bag.

When I think of women whose style I admire - Coco Chanel, Sofia Coppola, Jane Birkin, Emanuelle Alt et al - they all embrace a distinct uniform without sacrificing the covetable nature of their style.

See my 5 autumn/winter essentials on my previous post here. And my edit if money were no object...

1. Chanel 2.55 or Sofia Coppola for Louis Vuitton leather duffle bag

2. Chanel two tone ballet flats

3. Isabel Marant Bator Coat

4. Repossi yellow gold maure ring

5. Maison Margiela or Helmut Lang tee shirts

(image from I Heart Sofia)

Winter Lady

2010-08-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

Saturday marked a momentous occasion for me - my first autumn/winter purchase. I've always preferred winter's sartorial offerings and have even been known to rip endless pages out of my precious magazine collection for my annual winter coat countdown! My most recent purchase, however, was a camel coloured cable knit sweater - perfect teamed with my Acne high waisted jeans and brogues in the city or over a tea dress with thick socks and my wellies for long walks at the seaside (see The Edge of Love for inspiration!) My winter wishlist includes some new suede ankle boots (I'm still dreaming of those suede Isabel Marant boots from a gazillion seasons ago), a camel coloured coat (Celine would be nice but Zara will do!) a navy blue blazer, a blue oxford shirt and some cropped wool trousers. All topped off with some samples of the new Burberry makeup collection. What's on your winter wishlist?