It looks like Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton is still staying true to her love of the high street, as she turned up to the Royal Albert Hall last night in a fuss-free but totally stylish ensemble comprised of some fabulous high street finds.
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We think we can all agree Pippa Middleton’s Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen bridesmaid dress attracted an obscene amount of attention since its debut at the Royal Wedding almost seven months ago, and the hype doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon.
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Forget Kate Middleton and Twilight‘s Bella Swan, the real big wedding of the year is on New York’s Upper East Side, with Blair Waldorf playing the role of the blushing bride on our beloved Gossip Girl.
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It’s been over six months since the royal wedding and almost a year since Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton, but the engagement ring he gave his bride (which was originally Princess Diana’s) is an iconic piece of history that shoppers still can’t seem to get enough of.
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Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, has topped the British Harper’s Bazaar Best Dressed List 2011, pipping Florence Welch and Kate Moss to the post for the coveted title.
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Last week, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended the 100 Women in Hedge Funds gala at London’s St James’s Palace. The event supported the Child Bereavement Charity and the royal guests of honour helped to raise over £675,000 for the extremely worthwhile cause.
Read MoreIf it’s good enough for Kate Middleton, it’s good enough for Hollywood. Kate may be a serial sartorial offender, recycling her outfits and championing the high street when she’s the future queen; it now appears Hollywood’s top girls want in on the action, too. Succumbing to the high street bargain bait, Zoe Saldana, Emmy Rossum and Amanda Seyfried were all spotted sporting a striped $50 dress by Express. The nautical-inspired thigh-skimming dress seems a perfect companion for the scorching temperatures those across the pond are luckily basking in, and seeing Hollywood’s elite heralding the high street good enough is refreshing. Beyonce’s recent Topshop splurge – £5,000 in under an hour, if we’re talking figures – speaks volumes about the faith the showbiz elite has in the humble high street retailer. It isn’t feasible for a mere aspiring mortal to even begin to dream about owning 25 pairs of Louboutin heels – another wallet-emptying goodwill gesture from Beyonce, for younger sister Solange – but turning the page of a magazine, or surfing the internet to see high-profilers in ‘normal’ clothes we all have access to is positive – both personally and economically. Kate Middleton has played a huge part in bringing to the fore, esteemed high street brands Zara and Reiss. Seeing Kate in high street wares has allowed women to view the said high street stores with a new perspective: suddenly, a dress from Zara is good enough to wear to a wedding. The Something Borrowed star, Ginnifer Goodwin, delivered a solid seal of high street approval, when she wore a custom Topshop Unique green silk twist front gown to the 2011 Met Gala – the fashion calendar’s most coveted event. All Hail the high street. Need we say more?
Read MorePippa Middleton shot to fame for two reasons: firstly, she’s the fortunate sibling of Kate Middleton, who happens to be married to the future king of this country; secondly, she has a much applauded derrière, which revealed its perfect form to 2 billion watching around the world in a perfect McQueen bridesmaid dress, on April 29. Having seen her sister splashed across every possible medium; fashion critics poring over her every sartorial choice, never-ending legs and over-kohled eyes, it’s refreshing to see Pippa jump on the dress-and LK Bennett style wedges- bandwagon. Spotted in London, Pippa skilfully echoed her older sister’s style in a cropped leather jacket and black dress. She accessorised with a beige clutch and what appear to be the tan versions of older sister Kate’s black patent LK Bennett wedges – she so happily recycles. Pippa looked relaxed, her ‘Royal Mocha’ tan glowing perfectly, but a clutch in the day? After getting accustomed to Pippa’s casual tote-clutching appearances, it’s slightly dressy for an a.m. appearance. Although Kate wins in the height section, Pippa looks equally as good, but I’d like to believe she won’t take to repeating her sister’s wardrobe choices. She’s the ‘hotter’ younger sister with a world-renowned behind and a string of admirers including Prince Harry, who quietly but definitely stole a big chunk of the limelight at the Royal Wedding. I want to see her rebel in her style choices, not to become a permanently papped style icon, and to make her own mark in this land of newfound fame she now belongs to.
Read MoreBefore you read the title and assume the royal marriage is now defunct, read on. Kate is still very much married to Britain’s most eligible bachelor and she still has to curtsey before the woman with a penchant for pastels and lady like handbags: Queenie. But the woman: our future- squeakily clean and perfect dimple sporting – queen has recently come into the spotlight for matters other than her immaculate Reiss and Whistles ensembles. Simultaneous firing from the fashion gentry, criticising Kate’s elevated style status, overindulged eyeliner and ‘thrifty’ trait has been interesting. See, in fashion, it is believed some people have the ‘right’ to comment and reflect, while others should silence their opinions for lack of a Vogue subscription. In my opinion: Kate Middleton is good at being as normal as they get. ‘They’ being the girls, who shop in local supermarkets, wear the same dress on more than one occasion and even agree to wear silly hats to match their husbands – who in Kate’s case just happens to be a prince. That’s all. If anything, there is a heightened need for Kate to maintain normality when reflecting on the haunting past of her late mother-in-law. In an interview with Sunday Times magazine, fashion veteran Vivienne Westwood spoke of her disagreement with Kate’s heavily kohl-rimmed eyes. This followed on from the comments made by Dutch design duo, Viktor & Rolf, who pleaded with Kate to de-kohl in order to let her natural beauty shine though. A fair criticism, considering there have been times I have seen images of Kate with her eye makeup looking stark in comparison to her rosy complexion, but you have to applaud her confidence for going DIY with the makeup brushes – even on her wedding day! But it isn’t so much Kate’s makeup […]
Read MoreOnce again we have an inventory placing who’s-who in the land of the style-privileged on a pedestal for their wardrobe choices. Vanity Fair released a preview of the 72nd International Best Dressed list yesterday, and we’re loyally championing our stylish British ambassadors! The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, naturally made it onto the list after wooing fashion critics so far this year with her strategic outfit recycling and a fervent appreciation for the high street – not to mention the mammoth praise she received for her choice of wedding dress designer. She first appeared on the list in 2008, but this is her debut entry as a royal. She’s got fashion conscious women fascinated and makes us envious when parading those never-ending pins in yet another Reiss dress. But one thing does strike me slightly: although she’s been hovering in the royal limelight for some time prior to her wedding to Wills, her meteoric rise to ‘style icon’ figure (a term often loosely used) has been rapid – 4 months to be precise – and makes me ask the question: is she really a seasoned style veteran, yet? Others Brits appearing on the list included the notably beautiful and sartorially sound Tilda Swinton, alongside An Education star, Carey Mulligan, both making their second appearance on the style roll call. Veering towards the stars and stripes, I have to declare my admiration for Janelle Monáe – another style maven who made it into the Fashion Originals category alongside Gaga– and her androgynous obsession, listing the tuxedo as her favoured fashion form. Flying the flag high for Britain, Oscar winner Colin Firth and Formula 1 superstar Jenson Button – both dapper suit enthusiasts – clocked up recognition in the Men’s International Best Dressed category. There is, however, a certain individual I was […]
Read MoreThe Second Wedding as it will probably come to be known took place on July 30, when the Queen’s granddaughter wed long-term beau Mike Tindall in what was a surprisingly innovative affair by royal standards, complete with drunken merriment thanks to a vodka fountain; fish and chips and a best man with a black eye (Yes, we’re just as intrigued). But let’s cut to the chase – were not concerned with the finer details of the biggest day of this royal’s life as much as we’re feasting our eyes on what she wore. Yes, (deep breath) another dress to dissect and ingest, only to throw up and re-examine in a different light. We were taken aback by Kate’s dress choice as she stayed true to her homeland but chose a designer so eccentric, the fashion population couldn’t help but choke with happiness. She broke free from the quintessential shackles of ‘well-behaved’ royal wedding wear, and chose to let her fashion personality coyly peep through her silk tulle McQueen veil. But for me, equestrienne Zara’s novel approach to selecting her wedding dress truly defines the term ‘granny chic.’ She only went and chose Stewart Parvin, her grandmother’s regular (and favourite) outfitter and the very man who kitted out Queenie on the day. OK, to the dress: a fussy silk tulle cathedral veil which appeared to oddly sprout from the top of Zara’s head rather than fall gently onto her face wasn’t the most appealing first view as she stepped out from the car, but things improved slightly as we focused lower down. The dress itself; a silk faille and duchess satin creation with a corseted waistline appeared flattering, but averagely exciting. It didn’t give me the sudden I-will-replicate-very-dress-for my-wedding-day moment as I got with Kate’s. For a person considered something of a […]
Read MoreIt’s Monday, and we’re in need of a little pick-me-up to get us through the rest of the working week. And, since it’s still sunny out there, this floral organza dress from Topshop’s Dress Up collection is sure to put a spring in our step.
Read MoreShe may have lost the title of Most Anticipated Wedding of The Year to the other Kate, but Ms. Moss may have just won the award for the most stylish, thanks to her custom-designed Galliano dress, husband Hince’s YSL suit, and the bridesmaids’ Stella McCartney gowns.
Read MoreThere’s no denying the female population’s heightened obsession with wedding trivia and ‘trying to fit into Vera Wang’ syndrome post April 29. It’s as if we manufactured the ultimate wedding dream overnight and woke up on 30th April making wedding planner appointments.
Read MoreIt’s always a horrifying experience when you find out that one celebrity dress you’ve been lusting after, was in actual fact, an exclusive one-off. And yes, we’re talking about you Pippa Middleton.
Read MoreEdward Enninful’s had an extraordinary life in the fashion world, starting off in front of the camera as a model and shifting to the editorial side as the fashion director of i-D magazine at 18. Now, with Vogue Italia and American Vogue under his belt, he’s settling down at W magazine, and will reportedly replace Alex White as the glossy’s fashion and style director as of April next year.
Read MoreWhen Kate Winsor, née Middleton, stepped out at the Queen’s birthday celebrations last weekend, all eyes were on her. Wearing a mix of designer and high street, she dazzled in Alexander McQueen and Zara and caused a fashion frenzy in the process, as per.
Read MoreKate Middleton’s affection for Alexander McQueen didn’t just stop at her wedding day – she wore another piece from the great British label for the Queen’s birthday at the weekend.
Read MoreAs we predicted, Kate Middleton’s L.K Bennett wedges (the ones she wore before and after the wedding), are set to be reissued in June this year, in what has got to be the largest band wagon running. So if you haven’t already got her blue Issa dress, Reiss’s Nannette dress or her engagement blouse, perhaps you can get these. Originally called Greta, the British brand is re-launching the black patent espadrille wedges under a new name – The Kate – which is a little tacky whichever way you look at it. Still, at least their price will remain the same (£150), unlike a certain Whistles blouse. Apparently ‘The Kate’ already has a waiting list, or so says the Daily Mail, so if you were hoping to get your paws on them, you’d better join now. Frankly, we can think of better wedges to spend £150 on, but we can’t deny The Kate Effect. Will you be putting your name down?
Read MoreGap sacks creative director: Shocking news broke this week of Gap’s creative director, Patrick Robison, receiving the doomed fire. After working with the brand for four years, the decision to sack Robinson arose from the need for “a fresh approach to continue the work to improve Gap’s fashion relevance”, according to Pam Wallack, head of the Gap Global Creative Centre in New York. Read more here! Kate Bosworth sings for Cotton Inc.: Actress Kate Bosworth has leant her cute vocals to the latest Fabric of My Life campaign for Cotton Inc. Following in the footsteps of fellow crooners Leona Lewis, Colbie Caillat and Zooey Deschanel, Kate was anxious to make her singing debut but pulled it off with aplomb. Read more here! Mulberry launches Mulberry the book: Mulberry has tended to the whims of its fashionista bookworms by launching a namesake coffee table tome. Documenting everything from the label’s humble beginnings in the British countryside to backstage shots of fashion shows and celeb parties in full swing, the creation marks the brand’s 40th birthday and we went along to its launch. Read more here! Lanvin to launch childrenswear: Luxury label Lanvin has decided to spread its couture magic to include the offspring of its fashionable customers. Lanvin’s first ever childrenswear line launches this November – perfectly timed for spring/summer 2012 – and is set to be nothing short of luxurious. Read more on the 25-piece collection here! John Galliano sacks lawyer: Recently circulating rumours suggesting that John Galliano’s lawyer had quit have fallen flat on their face. Instead, it has been confirmed that Galliano sacked lawyer Stephane Zerbib – just weeks before his trial – amidst apparent irregularities in respect of his firm’s administration of Galliano’s financial affairs. The ill-fated designer has now appointed Aurélien Hamelle as his new […]
Read MoreWhen McQueen creative director, Sarah Burton, turned up at Saks department store earlier this week for a meet and great with the customers, she was unsurprisingly inundated with questions about Kate Middleton’s wedding dress (despite visitors being told they couldn’t talk about the royal wedding).
Read MorePippa Middleton has become quite the hot topic since taking centre stage as her elder sister’s maid of honour at the momentous royal wedding last friday, and it seems she’s bagged herself a firm A-list designer fan in the process.
Read MoreDespite her Duchess of Cambridge title, Kate Middleton’s a self-confessed bargain hunter. Sure, she might wear designer labels like Issa and Temperley, but she’s also a sucker for the high street. Favouring classic stores like Reiss, Whistles and LK Bennett alongside more fashion forward options like Zara and Warehouse – where she shopped for her honeymoon a few weeks ago – Kate’s style is something us ordinary folk can totally relate to. How much of an impact, then, does she have on the sales of her favourite stores and pieces? Let’s do a little digging. When Kate wore her off-white Nannette wrap dress from Reiss in her official engagement photos, the retailer rushed to reissue its AW09 dress just one month later, such was the hysteria surrounding the style. Naturally, it sold out again almost immediately. Similarly, when Kate wore her Whistles blouse for her engagement photos – y’know, the other ones – the store re-released it at £30 more than it was originally priced in 2008, only for it to sell out in record time. But Kate’s style doesn’t just impact on the pieces she owns and wears – it impacts on any piece remotely similar to something she’s worn. Take her Burberry trench coat, for example. The princess stepped out rocking one of the British label’s iconic cover-ups in the rain back in February this year, and women the world over went crazy to get their hands on a similar design. George at Asda reported its online sales of classic camel macs to rise by 300% following Kate’s appearance – and that’s just a supermarket store. So what are we saying? If you’re a high street store and Kate wears you, you’re sorted. Sometimes it pays to be a princess.
Read MoreIf there’s one way to shoot to success overnight, you can bet it’s being the maid of honour at your sister, the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding. Before Friday, Pippa Middleton was known as Kate’s lesser-known, slightly-uglier sister, but when she stepped out in her Alexander McQueen gown at the royal wedding, she caused quite the stir. With a rear perter than most – she now has an Ass Appreciation Society on Facebook with over 170,000 fans at time of publishing, by the way – she’s found herself at the forefront of fashion chatter as an emerging style icon, and we, for one, are rather intrigued by her new-found celebrity. Here, we delve into the style of Kate’s younger sister to see what all the fuss is about… Pippa shares her sisters affection for the high street, and stepping out for her very public departure the day after the wedding, she chose a classic royal blue blazer from Zara costing £69.99. It’s reserved and regal, made modern with white skinny jeans, but it’s an appropriate choice for the occasion. Classic and elegant, Pippa’s perhaps a bit more daring in her choice of colour and cut of dress that Kate. For her sister’s reception at Buckingham Palace, she opted for an emerald floor-length silk dress by Temperley with a plunging neckline and embellishment under the bust. A tad risque for the royals, but she totally pulled it off for the evening occasion. If we’re to believe the rumours that emerged before the royal wedding on Friday, Pippa was supposedly rather vocal towards what her bridesmaid dress should be like. While we very much doubt that was the case, it takes a killer figure and serious confidence to pull of a McQueen dress like that (sorry, we couldn’t resist the obligatory bum shot). […]
Read MoreWe’ve just about recovered from the excitement of the Royal wedding with its vast array of stylish guests and, of course, Kate Middleton’s breathtakingly beautiful McQueen gown – but the weekend hit us with more star-studded events as the Met Costume Institute Gala landed in New York last night. The Met Ball brings the best of the fashion, film and music industry together for a night of fabulous fashion and exhibitions, and this year’s gala was hosted by none other than Vogue editor Anna Wintour, who honoured the late Alexander McQueen with an exhibition called Savage Beauty. Naturally, the prestigious event is harder to get into than Wonka’s chocolate factory, so we’ve cast our sartorial eye over the fashion elite who bagged a Golden Ticket and strutted their stylish stuff on the red carpet. Here’s our top 10 best dressed from last night’s Met Ball… Ashley Green She may play a vampire in Twilight, but Ashley Green managed to look positively angelic in a custom Donna Karen strapless gown. The nude voluminous tulle was adorned with silver sequins that trailed into a wedding-like train. Teamed with a sleek up-do and touches of sparkle in her ears, clutch and cuff, she looked positively radiant. Jessica Alba Always one to look utterly fabulous on the red carpet, Jessica Alba didn’t disappoint at last night’s Met Ball dressed in a custom Ralph Lauren platinum strapless bustier gown covered in a sparkly crystal-encrusted overlay that highlighted her growing baby bump. Blake Lively Being the face of Chanel has been a dream come true for this Gossip Girl starlet, and last night she was joined by Mr Karl Lagerfield himself. Naturally, Blake opted for Chanel couture by means of a nude embellished dress covered by silver-lilac a chiffon sash to flaunt her fabulous figure too much. Beyoncé […]
Read MoreIt’s the video footage we’ve all been waiting for, Daphne Guinness undressing at Barneys New York store window, and to top it all off, she’s wearing McQueen. Naturally.
Read MoreIf you missed the royal wedding, or just want to relive it all over again, we’ve rounded up the best bits from the weekend’s coverage to make sure you don’t miss one magical moment. From Kate’s dress to guests outfits and get the look beauty guides, here’s our highlights of everything you need to know from the royal wedding… First look: Kate Middleton’s McQueen wedding dress We responded to Kate’s McQueen wedding dress within minutes of watching it – catch our initial reaction here (warning: we got a little excited). Victoria Beckham wears Victoria Beckham to the royal wedding We won’t lie, we couldn’t wait to see what Victoria Beckham was wearing, and we loved her modified own-label dress. See what she wore here. Sam Cam wears Burberry – and no hat – to the royal wedding Samantha Cameron made a suitably stylish entrance to the royal wedding wearing British label Burberry, but we were a little surprised to see no hat. See her outfit here. Kate’s dress from all angles From her entrance at Westminster Abbey to her walk down the aisle and appearance on the balcony, we’ve got every angle of Kate’s dress covered. See it in action here. Royal wedding fashion: who wore what All eyes may have been on Kate, but we couldn’t help casting an eye over what the other major players were wearing, too. Check out who wore what here. What does Kate’s McQueen dress say about her? What Kate wore on her big day was the decision of a lifetime, but what did it say about her? We delve into the design to do a little digging here. The fashion verdict: designers react to Kate’s dress A very fashionable jury had their say on Kate’s dress with […]
Read MoreYou’ve seen Kate Middleton’s wedding dress – from every angle – by now, but the Duchess of Cambridge gets two custom-made dresses, don’t you know, and yes, this one’s by McQueen too. For round two at the Buckingham Palace reception, Kate wore a white silk gazar evening dress designed by Sarah Burton with a full circle skirt and a sparkling diamante-embroidered waistband, where she joined her 300 guests for dinner and dancing – a right royal knees up, in other words. Much like her highly-praised wedding dress, Kate’s second look was understated but elegant, combining classic cuts with a modern simplicity that suited both her sense of style and her role as a new royal. And, proving that even princesses aren’t an exception to the cold, she accessorised with a fluffy angora shrug for evening’s events, letting her half-up hair down in the process for a classic curled ‘do (we hear she used secret extensions to keep her hair bouncy in the breeze – see how to get her beauty look here). Doesn’t she make the perfect princess?
Read MoreThis week no one shone in the beauty stakes more than the stunning future Queen of England, Kate Middleton. Being watched by billions of people around the world on her big day, you may have expected the princess to hire a team of the most talented makeup artists on the planet to get her looking picture perfect, but not so – the newly-elevated Duchess of Cambridge chose to do her own make up (a girl after our own hearts), after receiving a few lessons from makeup artist Arabella Preston. And we reckon she did a pretty brilliant job. Although we would have opted for a little less eyeliner (she simply doesn’t need it), the natural rosy pallette of soft greys and pink blush was a perfect wedding look, but we’d happily rock it any summer day. Here’s how to DIY at home, just like Princess Catherine did… Kate’s opted for a matte finish foundation to leave her skin looking flawless all day. To get a similar look, choose a longlasting foundation that will wear well through all weathers. We love Estee Lauder’s Double Wear stay-in-place makeup. Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Make Up, £22.50, available at House of Fraser. BUY NOW! Loose powder is a must-have in any bridal makeup bag – it will seal your foundation to keep it looking as fresh as possible and remove any unflattering shine on your T-zone. Press Bobbi Brown’s loose powder onto your face with a puff or dust onto your t-zone with a brush for a lighter finish. Bobbi Brown Sheer Finish Loose Powder, £23, available at House of Fraser. BUY NOW! Kate’s blusher was the perfect choice. In a classic rose shade, it made her look fresh and subtly flushed all day, and according to makeup artist Kay Montano, Kate used Chanel’s ‘Rose Temptation’ to achieve that look. Dust onto the apples of your cheeks for […]
Read MoreWe’ve got to hand it to Sarah Burton, that’s one hell of a poker face. After being rumoured as the favourite to design Kate Middleton’s wedding dress for the best part of two months – a sentiment she strongly denied, the devil – Burton finally confirmed she was the designer of the highly anticipated dress when she was spotted entering the Goring Hotel, where the bridal party was staying, on Friday morning. And now that the world has seen her Chantilly lace and silk gazar creation, Sarah Burton has finally opened up about what it was like to design the dress of a lifetime. “It has been the experience of a lifetime to work with Catherine Middleton to create her wedding dress, and I have enjoyed every moment of it. It was such an incredible honour to be asked, and I am so proud of what we and the Alexander McQueen team have created,” she said in a statement. “I am delighted that the dress represents the best of British craftsmanship. Alexander McQueen’s designs are all about bringing contrasts together to create startling and beautiful clothes and I hope that by marrying traditional fabrics and lacework, with a modern structure and design we have created a beautiful dress for Catherine on her wedding day. The last few months have been very exciting and an incredible experience for my team and I as we have worked closely with Catherine to create this dress under conditions of the strictest secrecy.” She goes on to explain why the house of McQueen repeatedly denied it had any involvement in the dress: “Understandably, Catherine has been very keen to keep the details of her dress a secret, which is every bride’s prerogative, and we gave an undertaking to keep our role confidential until the day […]
Read MoreAmong the 2 billion people watching the royal wedding on Friday was a surprising amount of leading designers, who tuned in to discover Kate Middleton’s dress had indeed been designed by Sarah Burton on behalf of the house of McQueen. With a lot of love going around for the already-iconic creation, a very fashionable jury have given their verdict on Kate’s dress – Karl Lagerfeld called it “very pretty”, Valentino loved it, and Donatella Versace thought she looked beautiful – with a triumphant applause, save for Vera Wang who “would have preferred a closed neckline” and Elie Saab who “would have liked it even more with a little extra volume and longer train.” Here’s what the fashion heavyweights had to say about Kate’s dress… Karl Lagerfeld: “She is very elegant. The dress is classic and goes very well in the Westminster decor. It almost reminds me of (Queen) Elizabeth’s wedding, the royal weddings in the Fifties. The proportion of the train is good. The lace is very pretty. I like the veil a lot.” Vera Wang: “This was great for Sarah Burton, and whether it was intentional or accidental, everything worked. It is amazing and wonderful for someone who does not usually do wedding dresses to show such restraint. The dress was cut beautifully, in a subdued way. I found the fitted lace bodice and the fairly large skirt, without tiers or technical draping, just right — a modern version of a tradition that will never be outdated. I would have preferred a closed neckline, however.” Prabal Gurung: “I thought it was pretty and appropriate. A high-profile wedding like this is not the place for making a crazy fashion moment. It sounds like an oxymoron but it was a personal moment in a very public place. The dress clearly said […]
Read MoreThere’s few occasions special enough to warrant a real fashion moment, but when Kate Middleton walked down the aisle to marry her prince on Friday, we witnessed a piece of history in the making. We all know that dress was the creative conclusion of Sarah Burton for McQueen, who designed the most important dress in her career for what was also the most important dress in Kate’s life to date, but what does Kate’s choice of dress and designer really mean for her future as fashion icon? Let’s take a look at the dress in more detail. An ivory-white silk gazar gown with a delicate Chantilly lace upper leading into long sleeves and an elongated neck, Kate’s dress boasted a modest 2.7 metre train with subtle embroidery to the skirt. It’s both classic and modern, understated and elegant – inspired, no doubt, by both Queen Elizabeth’s wedding dress in 1947 and, most memorably, Grace Kelly’s in 1956. But though her dress reflects her inspirations, it also reflects Kate at a pivotal moment in her life as princess, combining tradition with the contemporary; encompassing the past as well as the future. Why, then, choose a label that’s served a controversial – if albeit very successful – career? Kate’s choice in McQueen over classic royal couturiers is a statement in itself – it’s a highly successful label that’s rooted in traditional tailoring and controversial art-like creations, but above all, it’s a real fashion label. It highlights Kate’s position as a style icon and a risk taker, and it shouts in the face of critics who’ve accused her of dressing too middle-aged; it shows she’s got an understanding of fashion and flare, and that she knows when to use it. For Sarah Burton, it’s the commission of a lifetime – let’s not forget […]
Read MoreLike you didn’t know already, Kate Middleton married Prince William on Friday and became the envy of every girl in the world when she stepped out in a Sarah Burton-designed McQueen dress in front of 2 billion people. Long lace sleeves, an elongated neckline and a modest 2.7 metre train flowing from a fluid embroidered skirt, it was understated and elegant, and everything we wanted it to be. In case you haven’t seen it yet (yeah right), we’ve got snaps of Kate’s dress from every angle to make sure you don’t miss out on one slip of silk. Flick through our gallery below to see every inch of lace on the perfect princess… [nggallery id= 28]
Read MoreIn case you missed it (er, where have you been?), Prince William and Kate Middleton got married on Friday in what was, quite possibly, the grandest ceremony we’ve ever witnessed. Pulling out all the pageantry and pearls, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, as they’re now known, celebrated the most-talked about event of the century in true regal style – but they weren’t the only ones who made the effort. Guests – including the royal family and those sitting high enough up on the social ladder to be invited – put on a pretty spectacular performance in the sartorial department with enough fascinators to form a faction, and naturally, our eyes were cast firmly over the fashion spotlight. Here’s our run-down of who wore what to the royal wedding… Pippa Middleton Maid of honour and sister of Kate, Pippa wore a white silk Alexander McQueen dress designed by Sarah Burton. With a scooped cowl neck and delicate lace trim – not to mention an incredibly pert bum – she was the envy of pretty much every woman in the world (except, perhaps, for Kate). Carole Middleton Kate’s mum opted for a powder blue dress coat by Catherine Walker, which sat wonderfully against her skin and matching hat – a proud mother and a proud choice. The Queen Dressed head to toe in lemon, Queen Elizabeth chose a matching dress and overcoat by Angela Kelly. Who knew the Queen was so on-trend? Camilla Parker Bowles Camilla Parker Bowles, Duchess of Cornwall, chose a pale blue and nude gradient look from Anna Valentine, the designer who created her 2005 wedding dress when she married Prince Charles. Princess Eugenie & Beatrice Princess Eugenie opted for a blue Vivienne Westwood dress which unfortunately did little to flatter her figure whilst her sister opted for […]
Read MoreSo the Beckhams have flown in to town for the Royal wedding, which means if you’re not excited already, it’s time to get suitably stoked. And if there’s one thing we’re more almost as excited about as what Kate will wear, it’s what the guests will pull out – especially as Victoria‘s been stressing over dressing her bump. So if you missed what everyone else will be wearing to the royal wedding, here’s an update: Victoria Beckham – she’s not spilled the beans, but it’s more than likely she’ll wear one of her own designs with a hat courtesy of millinery friend Philip Treacy. Anya Hindmarch – the designer’s chosen a chic and classic look from Emilia Wickstead. Tamara Mellon – her dress is unknown, but she’ll be wearing Jimmy Choo shoes, naturally. Camilla Duchess of Cornwall – Camilla will be wearing a dress by Anna Valentine, the designer who created her wedding dress in 2005 when she married Prince Charles. Sara Parker-Bowles -SPB will be wearing a look from London-based designer Osman. Viscountess Serena Linley – lucky girl, she’ll be wearing Roland Mouret with Manolo Blahnik shoes, an Anya Hindmarch clutch and a hat by Stephen Jones. Lady Helen Taylor – she’s chosen a dress from fashion favourite Erdem Chelsea Davy – Prince Harry’s ex (yes!) will be wearing Italian label Alberta Ferretti.
Read MoreWith the Royal Wedding on Friday, speculation about Kate’s dress has gone fever-pitch. Everyone’s got their own opinion on who the lucky designer will be, but my money is on Alexander McQueen. The label is famed for producing iconic British creations and I think it would be an incredible tribute to the man if Sarah Burton were to design it. But enough about Kate, you could be your very own princess for the day in this show-stopping Alexander McQueen angel drape dress. Made from the finest cream and green silk, it really is an ethereal masterpiece. The embroidery consists of fine silver coils and crystals, beautifully constructed into the shape of angel wings, and the intricate back has a hem falling lower than the front, giving it a slight train. This really is an once-in-a-lifetime dress which needs no accessories. With all that crystal embellishment, a small pair of diamond studs would suffice just fine, and keep shoes and bags super-sleek for a look which is all about the dress. Alright, so I don’t actually have close to ten thousand pounds to spend on a dress, but if I did, this would be my dream one. I don’t know what Kate Middleton’s dress will be like, but if McQueen is involved, I’m sure it’s an outfit we’ll remember for years to come. Alexander McQueen Angel Drape Dress, £9,135, available at Browns. BUY NOW!
Read MoreWith the royal wedding just three days away, it’s fair to say we’ve got wedding fever good and proper. But hey, if there’s one thing we’ve heard enough of, it’s Kate Middleton’s dress – who’s designing it? (no, really, do spill); what will it be like? Will she actually wear one? We think it’s high time we paid a little attention to all the other beautiful brides to be out there, and as such, we’ve scoured the rails of the best bridal boutiques, high street stores and high end hot spots to bring you our edited selection of the best bridalwear out there. From luxe designer dresses to show-stopping alternatives and pretty purse-friendly frocks, we’ll be delivering our must-see guide to wedding dresses throughout this week so you can all indulge in a little wedding fever of your own. If you’re a bride-to-be, take inspiration from our picks, and if you’re not, hell, indulge a little. See below for our round-up of the luxe wedding dresses you’ll be lusting after for life… Temperley Long Twinkle Dress Scattered with hundreds of three-dimensional silk flowers and embellished with Swarovski crystals, Temperley’s long twinkle dress is every bit the fairytale gown. And to seal the deal, embroidery alone takes four days. Feeling special now, right? Price upon request, available at Temperley. Amanda Wakeley Ruched Tulle Dress For minimalist brides, Amanda Wakeley’s ruched tulle dress is a dream. A light, free-flowing gown in the finest silk, this dress has strikingly simple angled straps and a removable satin belt for the ultimate understated luxury. £2,600 available at Amanda Wakeley. Vera Wang Fawn Wedding Dress Soft and ethereal, Vera Wang’s mermaid wedding gown is utterly gorgeous. With a strapless pleated neckline, we love its floating Chantilly lace applique and tissue-like pouffe organza skirt. Price […]
Read MoreIt’s about time we took our attention away from what bride-to-be Kate Middleton will be wearing on her big day and focus on the other glorious outfits guests will be wearing to one of the biggest Royal weddings of them all, right? Right.
Read MoreMulberry’s BBQ pool party at Coachella: With Coachella fever taking over the style stakes last weekend, Mulberry creative director Emma Hill decided to take it up a notch or 10 by hosting an impromptu poolside BBQ party at Parker Hotel in Palm Springs, California. Sunny climes, Mulberry-dripping A-listers and a crazy concoction of foods and wonderful cocktails to keep the party going – this undoubtedly was the hippest hoodang in town! Read more here! Libulela’s Sophie Cranston denies designing the royal wedding dress: With much gossip circulating earlier in the week around Libulela’s Sophie Cranston being honoured the commission to design Kate Middeton’s wedding dress, this story too – like many before it – has fallen flat on its face. Read more here! Tomasso Aquilano and Roberto Rimondi booted out from Gianfranco Ferre: Gianfranco Ferre’s creative directors Tomasso Aquilano and Roberto Rimondi have departed from the Italian label. The designer duo reportedly received the red card from Paris Group, the brand’s new owners, amidst speculation that the label’s recent poor performance and dip in sales are to blame. Read more here! Is Sarah Burton next in line at Dior? Alexander McQueen’s Creative Director, Sarah Burton, is the latest recruit to the already overstretched list of names proposing John Galliano’s successor at Dior. Burton is hotly tipped to take place as Dior’s creative director in a line-up pitching Riccardo Tisci, Tom Ford, Hedi Slimane, Olivier Theyskens, Nicolas Ghesquière, Alber Elbaz, Haider Ackermann and Prabal Gurung all as hopefuls. Read more here! First look: Pamela Love for Topshop: American designer Pamela Love brings her South and Native American-inspired charm to the British high street with her debut jewellery collection for Topshop. Inspired by images of 1970’s gypsy rockers, Love’s creations depict an off-hand earthy feel, captured perfectly within strong metal designs adorned with […]
Read MoreIf you’re a fan of Kate Middleton’s style and you clamber to get your claws on her outfits every time she steps out, you need to scoot over to Warehouse. The bride-to-be was spotted shopping at the high street store along King’s Road in London yesterday, apparently snapping up pieces for her honeymoon (maybe she’s as sick of the wedding dress rumours as the rest of us). And here’s what she bought: A lace trim blouse, £55; a feather print one shoulder dress, £45; a tropical bird print dress, £65; and a bright bandeau frill dress, £45 (all pictured above). The location of the royal couple’s honeymoon still remains a secret, but we’re guessing they’re off somewhere tropically sunny, if her purchases are anything to go by. Also, kudos where it’s due, it’s refreshing to see Kate with something other than dresses a middle aged woman might wear. Now go shop before they sell out!
Read MoreMore recently than not, Kate Middleton has received a continuous flow of praise and compliments from admirers the world over – but somehow, we don’t think she’d be expecting to hear Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld‘s latest comment.
Read MoreMany of us haven’t been able to contain our excitement at the prospect of another royal wedding, but it seems Elle Style Awards 2011 winner, Emma Watson, has taken a step back to look at the bigger picture – offering sympathy instead to Kate Middleton.
Read MoreRoger Vivier’s artistic director, Bruno Frisoni, has decided to give his two-pence worth when it comes to what Kate Middleton should be wearing on her big day later this month – and for once, it’s not about her wedding dress!
Read MoreListen up all you Kate Middleton fashion lovers, the re-launch of Kate’s Reiss engagement dress is a thing of the past, now the hot buzz of attention focuses on her Whistles fitted engagement blouse – you know the other outfit she wore and styled herself – as the high-street super re-issue this one-of-a-kind piece.
Read MoreIt looks as though our future Queen of England isn’t in everyone’s fashionable good books – after being hailed as the style icon to watch by the industry, it seems Kate Middleton has a skeptic amongst the high-class fash pack.
Read MoreDaphne Guinness has long favoured the work of Alexander McQueen, so it comes as no surprise she expects great things from the label if Kate Middleton were to ask the brand’s creative director, Sarah Burton, to design her exclusive wedding dress. Here she talks openly, and honestly, about why Burton would be the best candidate to create such an historic marital gown. “A marriage is a solemn affair. The tempest of emotions and the myriad of arrangements are giddying, and when one is faced with these, clothing seems to be the last of one’s priorities. But if the rumours of Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen being the architect of Kate Middleton’s wedding dress are to be believed, it is both wonderful news and an inspired choice. I do not use the word “architect” lightly, because one of the keys to good dressmaking is to know the rules backwards in structure – if you are to break them! And Sarah Burton most certainly does. Burton worked for such a long time – 14 years – with Lee Alexander McQueen, and this commission was clearly her calling. She is such a feminine designer and I would expect the dress to be nothing short of astounding. She will not disappoint Miss Middleton, nor the world watching. In fact, I would wager that it will be one of the most interesting and beautiful dresses ever made. Burton’s creations, after all, are the apogee of fantasy and beauty.” But what does Daphne think the dress will look like? “The dress will most likely have an imperceptible but highly evolved structure. Its elegance will appear effortless, despite the fact that an enormous amount of thought will have gone into it. My guess is that dressed in a Sarah Burton creation, Miss Middleton on her wedding day […]
Read MoreAs the royal wedding in April looms ever closer, speculation over who Kate Middleton will choose to design her dress for the big day seems to be increasing by the hour – with British fashion house Alexander McQueen the latest label under the designer spot light. Reports from The Sunday Times over the weekend claim that the brand’s chief executive, Jonathan Akeroyd, told a colleague that the label had secured the UK’s most coveted design commission, and with royal aides of the Palace not denying such news either, it looks as if Sarah Burton could have an almighty task on her hands. “We are not commenting on speculation about the designer’s identity,” said a spokesperson from the Palace. “Miss Middleton wants it to be a surprise for Prince William on the day.” It’s thought Kate may have chosen the coveted design label after being impressed by a modern silk strapless gown made especially for the wedding of Sara Buys and Prince William’s step-brother, Tom Parker Bowles in 2005. Although both McQueen’s ceo, Jonathan Akeroyd, and creative director, Sarah Burton, have both strongly denied such allegations. “I am not doing it,” said Burton to Vogue UK, whilst Akeroyd added: “No, not at all. I am the ceo. I would know if we were doing it.” At this rate, the only way we’ll ever know who really designed Kate’s wedding dress is when she’s walking down the aisle!
Read MoreWhen it comes to celebrity weddings, there’s only one thing on our minds, and that’s the dress. What will it be like? Who’s designing it? Although some are more secretive than others about their wedding dress – yes, Kate Middleton, we’re talking to you – there’s another Kate getting married, and she’s quite happy to tell the world the secrets of her nuptial gown.
Read MoreAfter showing her fabulous AW11 Red Label collection at London Fashion Week on Sunday, Vivienne Westwood denies rumours that she’s first in line to design Kate Moss‘s wedding dress.
Read MoreIt seems the up and coming royal wedding in April is set to be a huge family affair, with reports now leaking the official attendants for the big day.
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