Fashion
THE 5 MOST ICONIC FASHION CAMPAIGNS
By Tarun Daryanani
The fashion industry has grown into a landscape that consistently evolves to meet the ever changing demands of the modern day consumer, drawing inspiration from designer’s heritage and worldly cultures, to modern issues that the world faces to this day. Fashion is known to be more than just superficial, and more like an outlet where one can truly express their persona and remain unapologetic for who they are.
This expression of personality and individuality stems not only from the garments itself, but the image the collections portray, and how this identifies with the consumer. Ultimately it is the marketing and campaigns that make the fashion world that bit more exciting.
Campaigns can be both aspirational but also relatable to a level where the modern consumer feels that they can relate to a designer’s story behind their creative work.
With fashion embracing the digital age, marketing has seen increased presence through digital channels and have become an accessible route for consumers to access the most desired pieces that have been displayed.
This evolution of the industry proves it truly is an archive of ‘history’ displaying how design ideas have grown and superseded what they once were, to embrace modern trends and touch on subjects that appeal to the millennial and Gen-Z consumers. It is worth appreciating the transformation of fashion and ultimately the change in consumer appetite.
1) VERSACE – F/W 1994
It is no surprise that Gianni Versace is an expert of maximalism. A true designer that honed in on the celebrity culture, the brand exudes sexy, power dressing that make women feel powerful in the world today. With Donatella at the helm of the brand she had large shoes to fill, and did it in a fashion that would make her late brother Gianni proud. Gowns with thigh high slits and logo mania plastered amongst form fitting garments elevated this brand to an Italian powerhouse celebrating sexuality.
The SS1994 campaign is one that hones in on the Italian heritage displaying the iconic models of the 90’s in bold colours and micro miniskirts, truly fitting for the modern day woman.
2) Gucci – S/S 1995
The era of 1990’s Gucci was truly the brand in its prime. With Tom Ford at the helm, he had managed to turn a business nearing bankruptcy, to a fashion superpower that whet the appetite of shareholders and consumers alike. Tom Ford made the brand relevant by challenging the status quo. How is that achieved? Causing controversy and challenging social norms of dressing during that time period. Tom had celebrated hyper sexuality and sensuality in a manner that was classy and scandalous. Revealing gowns and form fitting suits alongside the iconic GG thong, celebrated the feminine body. With the men’s fashion, Tom expressed his desire for tailoring which can be seen in the iconic SS1995 campaign. Block colouring and sharp silhouettes truly resembled Gucci as a force to be reckoned with.
3) Balenciaga S/S 20
Balenciaga designed by Demna Gvasalia is one that bridges the gap between fashion and reality. No stranger to conceptualising modern day issues from climate change to world hunger, Demna has managed to translate realities into his work in a manner that is bold and statement making. Oversized shoulder coats and chunky dad sneakers, teamed with skin tight dresses in floral prints and bold colours, broke the norm of the ideal, prim and proper wardrobe. This particular campaign was eerie and intriguing, displaying models as spokespersons in a modern apocalyptic world that succumbed to climate change. With the clothes on full display, Demna manages to explicitly display the message of risks to the world today.
4) Givenchy F/W 15
The SS15 campaign of Givenchy displays the lust for worldly cultures that Ricardo (the brands creative director) possesses and conveys in his collections. Blood red florals and gothic suiting, coupled with facial piercings and beaded jewellery, honed in on the fusion of renaissance Europe and Asia. Softly draped dresses and bejewelled jackets depicted a bold gang of rebels adorning pieces influenced by both the past and the present.
5) Chanel S/S 17
DIGITAL!! DIGITAL!! DIGITAL!! Lagerfeld themed the SS17 collection around circuitry and digitalisation- perhaps a hint at the movement of the world and specifically the fashion industry into an age where robotics and electronics is prevalent in all walks of life. With tweed suited clad robots, modern clean fabric lines and circuitry on minaudiere bags, Lagerfeld themed the collection on the speed of technology and how fashion is heavily influenced by this major development.
The IT LIST
By Jai Joshi
The hottest pieces of fashion that are totally worth the investment. These men's’ and womenswear staples will survive the test of time.
1. Sunglasses – A well-made pair of sunglasses can never go out of style. The ultimate upgrade to any outfit. With so many pairs to choose from, one particular style of mirrored lenses always seems to champion above all the rest. Opting for the right frame shape is crucial. Ultimately dependant on the client's face shape. Once you have determined your face shape, select the right frame.
Add mirrored lenses and voila! You are officially on-trend. We particularly recommend this pair from Taylor Morris Eyewear called ‘ZERO’. Retro-inspired by a classic vintage pair made in the 1950s, handmade Italian acetate and suitable for any face shape, need I say anymore? Available online. Price £210.00
Link: https://taylormorriseyewear.com/collections/all/products/zero-c10
2. Semi-fine to demi-fine jewellery trend is always a necessity. An intricate ring or bracelet, both shows your personality and can also assist to embellish your look. Whatever your budget, high or low we have selected a few pieces from brands that are chic and are worth the splurge. Bonus points if you are already a ‘stacker’ with either your rings or bracelets. We love this trend.
Plus, jewellery can last a lifetime! Honorary mention to the luxury Maison of Cartier, creating beautiful and timeless pieces since 1847. We love the classic Cartier Love bangle. If you want something with a splash of design then opt for the Juste Un Clou bracelet. Each collection replicates the same designs in ring versions. Available online and instore at Cartier boutiques worldwide. Price: £950 - £3,650.
Link: https://www.cartier.co.uk If trendy, architecturally crafted pieces, handmade in Italy are more synonymous with your style and a budget that won’t break the bank account opt for New York-based jeweller Vita Fede. Prices range from £250 - £270, Available only on their website exclusively! Link: https://vitafede.com
3. Crossbody bags. The infamous cross-body bags made a strong come back on the international runways of Paris, Milan and London. Brands such as Dior, OFF-WHITE, Jacquemus, FENDI, VERSACE and Burberry reigned supreme. Seasonless and super convenient, it is practically essential. With the luxury market flooded with an influx of cross-body bags, choosing one could take forever. So, we have hand-selected the most stylish, highly coveted, top three picks!
1) VERSACE Safety Pin Cross-Body Bag, Price: £1,670, Available exclusively on VERSACE.COM.
Link: https://www.versace.com/gb/en-gb/men/bags/safety-pin-cross-body-bag-k41ot/DFB7941-DVT02_K41OT.html?cgid=242000#start=1
The iconic bag was spotted on the Spring-Summer 2020 runway. Embellished with a gold safety pin and the house’s iconic Medusa heads on either side, from the design to quality. It is a true piece of craftsmanship.
The second is the 2) 30 Montaigne Flap Chain bag from DIOR’s 30 Montaigne Collection. Showcasing iconic codes of the Maison, featuring the emblematic DIOR oblique print. Finished with a gold CD clasp which was inspired by the house’s iconic fragrance. A must-have. Price: 2,550, Available in-store and online.
Link: https://www.dior.com/en_gb/products/couture-M9208UTZQ_M928-30-montaigne-flap-chain-bag-blue-dior-oblique-jacquard
Last, but definitely not least, is the highly sought-after, 3) Louis Vuitton Soft Trunk Taurillon Monogram Bag. Sold out since its release, it is no wonder this it bag, made our top-three list. Unisex, designed by Virgil Abloh for the legendary Superbrand Louis Vuitton. When became Artistic Director of t Price: £3,100. Available exclusively on Louis Vuitton.com. Sadly, this bag is currently sold out.
Link: https://uk.louisvuitton.com/eng-gb/products/soft-trunk-h25-nvprod1970158v
4. Fashion is all about captivating the five senses and one of them, in particular, is the smell. Scents are definitely having a major moment within the fragrance industry. A staple in any stylish women or man’s wardrobe. It is another way to express yourself. One of the most popular of these fragrances is centred around a heavy note. Easily recognisable scent; is the infamous Oudh. Originated from resin-soaked Agarwood, the expensive extract is rare to cultivate. Variations from Indonesian to Indian Oudh are available.
A popular note used within the perfumery business. Whilst, it may not be for all, Oudh is sensual, glamourous scent. Often associated with wealth and the Middle East region. Nevertheless, a unisex scent that can complement many does not always have to be strong and overpowering. Maison Francis Kurkdijan produces the finest. Inspired from Oudh originated from Laos, Oud Extrait de parfum is a scent wrapped in musk and vanilla accord that is scintillating and sublime. Extremely long-lasting. One spritz of this perfume will have you feeling like an Arabian royal. Available in-store at Harrods, Harvey Nichols and worldwide exclusively on their website. Price: £280,
Link: https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/shopping/oud-extrait-de-parfum-15107910?utm_source=google_uk&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=beauty&utm_content=maison_francis_kurkdjian_15107910-5548&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2JOX-Pj06QIVKYBQBh2vEwI1EAQYASABEgJx_vD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
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5. Trainers galore! If you are a shoe fanatic, like me then this is by far a stylish staple to add to your wardrobe. Seasonless and always in fashion, trainers have become an easy way to make a statement without evening speaking. Comfortable and durable. As seen on the Fall/Winter 2020 runways of Dior, Moncler and Valentino why not opt for a designer pair. Perfect for day to night trips, late summer evenings, to even date nights. Moreover, they can transcend any trend. Only, if you manage to bag the perfect pair. Our top tips include choosing a neutral tone, either white, black, dark brown or navy. The devil is in the details. Textures such as leather or suede work together beautifully depending on your environment. Brands such as TOD’s, Dunhill and CHANEL produce models which are smarter. Whereas, for those statement starlets Balenciaga, Neil Barret and Alexander McQueen produce a range of trendy trainers. Our Haute-worthy accolade goes to CHANEL for the classic take on an all-white pair of trainers. You’d be jumping for joy in these, for a very long time. Available exclusively in CHANEL boutiques worldwide and online at CHANEL.com. Price: £690
Link: https://www.chanel.com/en_GB/fashion/p/sho/g35934x51649/g35934x5164910601/trainers-calfskin-white.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIiMPDl7fy6QIVm-vtCh37PAt1EAAYASAAEgItV_D_BwE
Donatella makes a come back at Milan Fashion week with Versace ss22
By Tina Kumar
After a long awaited return to in-person fashion shows and the return to the buzz of fashion weeks around the world. One of the most eagerly anticipated shows had to be Versace’s fashion show at Milan Fashion Week. Donatella made her come back one of the best shows she’s held to date. With pop sensation Dua Lipa opening and closing the Spring/Summer 22 collection, Donatella made sure all eyes were on her latest designs.
She pulled out all the stops with other famous faces such as Naomi Campbell, Irina Shayk and Gigi Hadid all storming the runway in colourful outfits with a distinctive edge; whether it be a slit or garments around the abs, to PVC fitted dress and bright coloured suits to lighten the mood.
Donatella not only delivered the ss22 fashion show with success but she also showcased her work for Fendace in a separate show that closed Milan Fashion Week. The coming together of two fashion houses Versace x Fendi left for an incredible star-studded show just two days after the ss22 show; which evidently became the finale of Milan Fashion Week.
Kate Moss, Amber Valletta and Vittoria Ceretti all stormed the runway in magnificent pieces showcasing the work of the amalgamation of designers to leave everyone in attendance amazed by the dazzling event. Check out the looks for yourself.
La Manso Y2K returns
By Tina Kumar
With another Y2K trend, discover the trendiest, colourful, chunky rings. The newly popular designs are the latest edition to the return of Y2K fashion. For girls and boys who wish to add a pop of colour to your outfits.
The La Manso rings have become so popular with the Gen Z crowd that influencers are promoting them left/right on Instagram. The brand has seen great success via its Instagram and social media marketing with the products, mainly rings, even being worn by celebrities. These rings are created by a Spanish girl who discovered the shapes in a rustic shop in her town. She chose to take those shapes to create her own mould encompassing these chunky rings.
The rings aren’t cheap and sell for anywhere around the £50-£70 mark but it’s not enough to just buy 1. You must get more than 1 or a few of these amazing new rings to make your look seem swoon worthy! Apparently that’s the La Manso trend on insta atm. The La Manso rings are worn on various fingers mixing and matching the colours. The brand has become popular by word of mouth and through it's Instagram page with page currently having 176k followers to date.
Check the jewellery out yourself on Instagram @la_manso.
You can purchase their products via their website and the products are shipped from Europe. The link is below.
https://lamanso.shop/collections/new-in-2023?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI78nR9prJgAMVXYFQBh245wb3EAAYASAAEgJQFfD_BwE
House of Sunny
By Tina Kumar
Looking for new fashion trends? Here’s a brand you won't want to miss this summer! Known for its print, fun and comfortable styles, introducing the House of Sunny.
This fashion house takes Y2K fashion to a whole new level. The pastel colours and quirky prints make any House of Sunny garment stand out. The prices vary and I would say it’s on the end of a bit more pricey with even sale items costing nearly £70. But all in all, it’s probably something we’d be up for breaking the bank balance for.
Girlfriend of Romeo Beckham, Mia Regan, has often been seen in various House of Sunny outfits and is one of many celebrities/ influencers to don the trendy styles. Others such as Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa and Kendall Jenner have also been spotted in various House of Sunny pieces. A favourite and record sell out product has to be the Hockney dress from the East London based brand.
Insta page @houseofsunny
For more on similar trendy pieces head over to the website www.houseofsunny.co.uk