Tales Near the Runway

There is a good reason

2009-08-10T05:03:00.003-04:00

Things with this blog have fallen away I know - I have been sucked in by Twitter and also due to things outside of my control and my other commitments - I have felt it prudent to scale back my blogging. I will still try and blog from time to time but until then I suggest you follow and read (if you don't already the following blogs on the side bar of this blog).

A word of warning...

2009-03-30T18:16:00.002-04:00

This is more of a word of warning for photographers / stylists out there (and also their agents and production companies). This is worth a read so I have included all of it. For warned is for armed. If you know - make sure your agents are working on your behalf (as it is us ... the little fry in this chain of command who get hurt the most).

xxWW

Stephen Best / APA National CEO March 21, 2009

APA on Omnicom statement..."our policy has not changed"

The last week has seen ever-increasing concern and anger in the advertising community concerning a change in the way the Omnicom Group and its subsidiaries conduct business between Omnicom subsidiaries and suppliers. Advertising Photographers of America (APA) reached out for comment from the Omnicom Group about the crisis. With the Omnicom Group being the world's largest advertising holding company, a change in terms and conditions affects the advertising community on so many levels. The policy of concern is called Sequential Liability. Sequential Liability simply means that the agency only pays the suppliers after it has been paid.

Quoted from The Association of Independent Commercial Producers (AICP) published guidelines dealing with this trend:

"Certain agencies have inserted a Sequential Liability clause in their contracts. Others have added a side letter to be signed by the production company. Still other agency contracts do not overtly refer to Sequential Liability as being in effect, but do refer to the agency "acting as agent for" (the advertiser), which suggests the same thing.

If the agency is requesting the recognitions of a "principal-agent" relationship, then the client (principal) should not be released from the obligation of payment until total payment is made to the production company. It should be clarified that even if the client pays the agency, the client remains liable if the agent defaults in fulfilling the payment obligation.

Sequential Liability means that the agency as agent for its principal, the advertiser, is liable for payment to the production company only if the advertiser has paid the agency; otherwise the advertiser is directly responsible for the payment."

On Thursday, March 20, 2009, at 11:47 AM, APA spoke with Pat Sloan, Omnicom Director of Public Relations, to express the concerns of APA and others to the
opposition of this policy. APA members are not able to finance major advertising projects and these terms and conditions are not acceptable. Director Sloan's statement is that there has been no change to their policy on this matter.

Sequential Liability has been policy in the industry for many years. The reality is that advertising agencies, many are Omnicom's subsidiaries, have provided advances and credit to production companies and photographers to begin awarded projects with substantial expense. "Business as usual" must continue was stated to Director Sloan. APA members, independent photographers and small business owners, are not in a position to finance commercial projects of possibly hundreds of thousands of dollars.

APA business practices have long promoted the inclusion of "statements of intent" to receive 50% to 100% of expenses before the start of a job. It is imperative that this practice continues without removal of advances by clients. Photographers should also include that the photographer owns the copyright and any license agreement must be paid before the release of images.

As creators of intellectual property, photographers hold the copyright on their images. It is imperative that registration of images be immediately submitted to the U.S. Copyright Office. Copyright law and licensing agreements with your clients provide you strong legal protection. APA recommends legal action only as a last resort but registration is needed to recover statutory damages and legal fees.

We must stand together and confront these terms and conditions because they are not in the best interest of photographers and their community of support. If even one accepts them, it will cascade and the role of advertising photographer will change to one of being a financial institution or bank for clients. We must not go down that heavily liable road.

The Omnicom Director of PR did promise to recommend a meeting to discuss these matters. It is APA's hope that a meeting will be arranged and discussions will continue to a successful resolution.

As previously stated, BE CAUTIOUS and don't be afraid to walk away. We must stand together.

Stephen Best
APA National CEO

When I gaze into the Mirror

2009-03-30T04:05:00.002-04:00

A lovely thanks to Erica Crompton for her lovely mention of me in her piece in the Mirror! I am not (for those who know this blog well) the most prolific blogger out there but I try to keep things interesting.

Sorry for my absence ..it is a crazy mad press week this week. In the usual instance they are crammed somewhat into two weeks where everyone insists on holding theirs on a Tues - Thurs slot. Due to Easter ... it seems everything is crammed into 1! Is everyone nuts?

Our well heeled Fashion Editor shoes can not make it at the best of time to catch everything and I have a 1 shoot in heavy post production and 2 more in pre-production so when in goodness name I am supposed to pull this off and keep the advertisers happy .. only the heavens know.

Tweetie

2009-02-18T07:37:00.003-05:00

Yes well I have been twittering for a while but for some reason .. it never occurred to me to link them. You can find me on WardrobeSlave on Twitter. Look forward to seeing you there!

Tatler Editor

2009-02-10T06:45:00.002-05:00

So it seems that Catherine Ostler is Heading to Tatler. Not too much of a surprise there as she was always in the frame and obviously is going to continue with much of the same. The job swap - she is leaving the ES magazine while Geordie heads over to head up the whole newspaper - is the least likely to make waves. In this climate, no one can afford to rock the boat. Time will tell!

Ahhh...

2009-02-05T07:55:00.002-05:00

I am back. I got the job and all is very well with the world. No the photographer in question is not my new BFF but he was charming to the subject and wasn't too dismissive of me (which was a relief).

I can't wait for the pictures to come out. Although not useful for my book - for my CV, they should do wonders.

Closing my eyes and keeping my fingers crossed.

2009-02-03T07:18:00.002-05:00

The annoying thing in this line of work is often, the jobs that will never be. It is usual to be optioned for a job (along with several others) and we sit and wait; like the girl waiting at the prom to be asked to dance. This isn't to difficult to handle but every once in a while you have an option come in that is like having George Clooney / Brad Pitt (delete as appropriate) twirl you around the dance floor. One that you want so badly you can taste it.

Those options are career builders (when they come off) - if Brad for example is willing to dance with you .. you would be surprised how many others also suddenly think you are rather desirable (and also those who thought you were crap before suddenly want to be your new BFF). So I am optioned at the moment, with every finger crossed and anything else I can - that I will be the stylist chosen. The option in question has taken a look, approves and now the nail biting starts. Will I get it, won't I?

I am sure that by the end of the week I will be covering the grey.

Predicting the Future

2009-01-30T16:20:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I do wonder about things. For example the title of the last blog - a silly fun play on words. Or so you would think, until I find myself on my couture sitting today. Everyone has been very helpful but every shot taken, every shot covered but we all sit hear waiting, waiting and waiting some more. The Couture house that we are waiting for?

It isn't the PR's fault as I was promised my dress at 5pm, by 6 - nothing. The client before hasn't released it, and now it is 7:30 the dress is finally on its way. This is the way of Couture and to be honest I am bloody lucky not to be shooting through the night. Most of the girls are leaving today / tomorrow to get to NYC for the start of fashion week there mid month.

It has been a crazy few days. A shoot yesterday which went as well as I could have hoped. I am just waiting to hear the verdict. The present shoot is lovely and far, far better than I could have hoped given less than 12 hours ago, I didn't have a studio, clothes, hair + makeup or a girl with a model.com top 20 rating.

Sometimes, although I love this job at times - it can makes me tear my hair out. So here I sit - writing while wasting time (thank god no overtime rates), until the beautiful Gaultier gets here.

Right now however I really could do with a G+T.

*Update - it arrived. It was my first choice and all is forgiven as it is just stunning and worth ever minute of the 2.5 hours late that it was. Viva la Couture!

Gaultier, Gaultier - where out thou o Gaultier .....

2009-01-29T04:16:00.003-05:00

The final day was quite quiet. Due to the general strike in Paris tomorrow everyone I know is trying to jump ship from Paris before the chaos starts. Now I have to admit - other commitments prevented me from going to the Valentino show but Gaultier was his best by miles - all the signatures of Gaultier, corsets, visible boning .. Kyle in the front row (the scrum to get a picture of her was silly), I might add. Kanye was here again (that boy - Music artist or Fashion floozy?). Innes on the Catwalk - milking it for all it was worth and we were lapping up every moment of it. Elli Saab, was ok but given the strength of many of the other collections - it was all a little to soft and girlie for my tastes.

On the news that Take 2 was closing .. I am hearing rumours (and again Rumours only) that also 1 MNGT in NYC is also going the same way?

Thank you also the lovely Liberty London Girl for a heads up in her blog yesterday. She is one of my favourite bloggers out there and if for some ungodly reason you haven't seen her musings - Go NOW!!!!! Furthermore I let out a delighted squeal this morning, as Make Do Style kindly has given me an Award I didn't deserve (rightly so) … I am listed in her top 10 blogs - no bad as I am not a regular blogger, I am consistently un-consistent.

Well I am off to see if there are any Velib Bikes left and go biking across Paris in the Chaos.

Regal Ice

2009-01-28T02:47:00.001-05:00

Some times I thank god I am a Stylist and not a writer by trade, because nothing that I can say or type will come close to the Chanel show today. One multi tiered gorgeous frothy regal icing confection of perfection would be the closest I could come and well - that description is a roaring pastiche if I ever said one. However, to say it was breath taking … would be selling it very short. The room, the tables (and yes people were trying to sneak out with the table cloths, the paper cut centre pieces (pathetic … but understandable) and that was before we even had a chance to look at the clothes.

When the time comes to leave fashion and on to pastures new, these are the shows, which I will take with me. From there it was on to Lacroix. Also a regal showing, the technicality was there, the collection wonderful - the catwalk …. Longer than the rue de Rivoli. For 39 looks, one end of the room was clapping while the other half still had 6 looks to see. It was a minor annoyance in a technically brilliant show.

Maison Martin Margella - was an interesting presentation. If only as the only two other people in the room with me were Suzy Menkies and Carine Roitfeld. Talk about being in the shadow of brilliance. I have to say it was a moment of pure Couture heaven. If only I could have dipped into either of their brains (aka Being John M) for a moment.

Givenchy was a bit of a let down but on top of a cracking day … who has room for critics?

Well I guess me…

More Gareth. So LVMH is looking to buy him … so reports Vogue.com. However he was at Chanel as well today so I would imagine he is courting buyers, seeing to be seen or at least trying to get someone to invest in him, as the poor love has no money. Investment isn't easy to come by especially right now. Can't see him taking over Dior Homme but stranger things have happened…..

I now pronounce you …

2009-01-27T03:38:00.000-05:00

You see, sometimes in tough times - the big boys look to the past and say: "What happened when the economy went belly up last time?" Besides our loyal clients, who else spends money on Couture? Brides of course! Not everyone can be a year in, year out Couture client but there are still many very rich elite women in this world, which will spend money (no matter how bad the economy) on that dress of a lifetime. No surprise then, that there was more than a spattering of off-white confections to grace the catwalk at Dior today.

This in no way detracted from the wonderful presentation, which I thought, was spot on. Great use of colour, hand painted silks and yummy embroidery and bead-work. The silhouettes were old school glamour, with the odd nod to the up-coming Oscars. Dior is always a house where Couture still reigns supreme and John, as ever is the master of ceremonies. However, one could not help noticing that the Master has been lax at the gym or eating one to many pies as he is looking a tad round at the moment.

Sergio Rossi Puma launch was interesting over at Collette if you are a fan of Satin trainers (both the flat and heeled varieties in a selection of strong bold colours). Fun, but given the London weather, perhaps not practical. I am not a fan of suede or satin as they tend to get trashed in one outing, however that won't stop me from shooting them as soon as I can.

As for Armani, well I would rather just skip that. What did come to my attention was a press release that went out that announced the closing of Take 2 models. Gabriella was to London modelling - well, like Sarah Dukas, or Carol White. So although I know things are tight …well I was not so much shocked but saddened by the news. I hope this isn't a sign of further closures to come.

Not the new world order

2009-01-26T04:01:00.002-05:00

I try not to be a cynic. Hard it must be said in this environment. However, Gareth's show was as predicted a bit of a scrum, full of the Pony step club kids, fashion stylists, editors and general hangers. Did I see anything new? Unfortunately not. It was his first menswear show, and predictably he sent out more of the same, Goth boy dressing. However, in a very hard financial climate one has to ponder how much of a market there is for very rich, anorexic skinny Goth boys/men to dress? Men are not usually the most adventurous with their attire so besides the piles of editorial that he will get .. I can't see much else. I don't believe Gareth is bankrolled to the point where he has a very commercial watered down commercial collection waiting in the wings (I could be very wrong, we shall see). So to concur with Make Do Style - Mad boy indeed, if there was a time to try and develop your ideas and move forward, the time would have been now.

The highlights of today - Dior and one could argue Armani Privee (the later being a bit of a stretch). I have already been asked by a few to judge the general mood. Is it as sombre as everywhere else or is there a fashion buzz on? I suspect it will not be a "grand" couture, a more paired back demure season to reflect the times. It is not the time to be flaunting excessive wealth (for those fleeting Couture clients - I suspect they have in many ways been hit more than most - as a percentage of overall income).

Anyway … more to follow.

Staring at boys

2009-01-25T06:00:00.002-05:00

A long absence I know but it seems that my professional life is difficult to blog about. Given the nature of shoots, one has to be very careful of what one says. Frequently, you can't discuss things - less a competitor knick and idea, shoot a model and pip you at the post - so a blog can be a bit of a pitfall. Furthermore, you don't want to land your publication in the merde (and yourself with it). So it seems, I leave you for months on end and only blog from the safe haven of the shows. Or perhaps - I just don't have anything that interesting to say…. take it as you will.

Now I find myself back in Paris, to attend the holiest of holy, the Haute Couture, which will commence on Monday. With the tough economic times however, drastic measures have to be taken and I was dispatched to Paris early…. Something about Saturday night stays and cheaper tickets (false economy given that an extra night in a hotel is required - however due to concern to my personal wellbeing… I opted not to point this fact out). Everyone seems so techy at the moment. So I arrived a full day and a half early to enjoy the sights, sounds (and Sales) of Paris.

I miss Editor X, as she was a ray of sunshine, which made this circus far more tolerable. She will be back no doubt and not a moment too soon. Unfortunately my colleague, USC has to get back to the office so I have been generously gifted a healthy allocation to the menswear shows. Something that in all of my years, I have never darkened the doorstep of. So I guess you could say I am popping my Menswear cherry, and with Hermes no less. Well if a girl is going to do it…..

The show was clean, classic (with twists of Yellow and Red) and rather tasty. However, if you want a review … go and read Suzy, she would put it far more eloquently than I. Over all however, loved the casting especially. Surprising as I usually find male models of the post millennium all to fey for my tastes. Bring back the muscle bound beef cake men of the early 90's.

I also have a coveted invitation to Gareth Pugh's debut menswear collection tomorrow night but Hermes wins over Gareth for line honours. Just call me an old fashioned. It will be a scene tomorrow. Coupling the fence between closing the Menswear shows and the opening of Couture the following morning, it is guaranteed to be a scrum of silly proportions. Everyone vying for the honour of the coveted " well I was there when Gareth showed his first ….." Is a star to be born? Some would argue he is already. A showman he might be, but a strong designer with longevity in his label has yet to be decided. Perhaps come back in 10 years and with can discuss it further.

A Grand Twitter

2008-10-01T13:28:00.001-04:00

Yes, Yes, Yes. Paris is a wash with the news that Katie Grand has resigned from Pop to set up a bi-annual for Conde Nast. Everyone is saying that Alex better just watch out and pull up her socks but to me people just want to gossip. Katie is / and has always been a bit of a Maverick. Giving her a new launch bi-annual with the feeling of a creative Visionaire format, is a strong move by CN's. However - it is far different to edit a Bi-Annual than it is a monthly. Also it will remain to be seen if she can operate within the CN framework. I just can’t see her wanting the helm of British Vogue anytime soon. It could be argued that Pop has had more cache in the UK than UK Vogue for a long time. The commercialism of Vogue is just not her style.

Yes, she has a strong background in great magazines - she is also fiercely independent and will only do what she wants to do. It works here, for both of there favours - she gets to put her stamp on something twice a year. Thus freeing her up to roll the money in with her consultancies and CN gains by bringing to the Stable the only Stylist / Editor whom they have never really gotten their mitts on.

It is always difficult - remember when she was Fashion Director of Harpers Bazaar US not all that long ago? As much as everyone lauds these new bedfellows - and I don't want to throw water on a very interesting flame but it will remain to see how well these two will make for business partners. I don't doubt the magazine will be a success but I do not see plain sailing ahead.

Show Time!

2008-09-30T13:07:00.000-04:00

Ok Ok - sorry sorry sorry. At the prompting of the Stiletto Effect, I am back - sometimes even us Anobloggers need a kick up the bottom. I was in NYC for the shows, then working my tail off during London and now I find myself in Paris, in fact off to the opening of the new Bulgari Shop on George V.

It has been a very strange set of shows so far this week. The heels are scraping the ceiling but the economy has clearly realised that they can't keep trying to foist the Emperors new Clothes on us. The shows are definitely, creatively shortchanged besides the noble few (Nina Ricci and Balenciaga this morning) but the rest are battening the hatches for the hurricane on the horizon, which will likely batter the Luxury sector. Even John (who it could be argued spotted the trend early) showed a very paired down Tribal inspired commercial collection at Dior.

However it seems the jewellery houses are doing well - people are buying gems as investment alternatives, to the usual way of hiding ones worth. With Gold still close to a record high - if you had to walk away with your wealth - high jewellery is one way to do it easily.

Shooting Stars

2008-06-19T04:28:00.003-04:00

Ok - sorry about the delay but work does come first! As I said in the previous post I was knee deep in Graduate Fashion Week, and I promised to give you a few names to keep and eye on. Now for once me and the Judging panel were in similar agreement with the overall winners from the colleges but some didn't make it to the final gala that I felt should have.

First and Foremost Ria Thomas, she won the Pringle of Scotland Knitwear award. I saw her Nottingham Trent show earlier and the week and thought she was something special - I expect we will see her on the LFW sched very soon. She definitely impressed me the most. The overall womenaswear award went to Nabil El Nayal who presented a very grown up, geometrical collection and the award was well deserved. The overall winner went to the menswear designer Jessica Au, with her Kenzo floral print menswear. Personally it didn't really rock my style boat but you can see she is a very strong talent. However what was a surprise to me was that the delightful Paul Smith/Techno/Public School boys collection by Krishna Chavda didn't make the judges cut. Personally I really enjoyed the presentation and I though it was fun without being showy, however its classic lines with a twist I guess didn't impress others in the same way.

Good luck class of 08 - in the changing market you are going to need all the help and support you can get.

xx
WS

Will the Graduating Class please stand for Commencement!

2008-06-11T19:27:00.001-04:00

Yes I have been having one of those weeks - it was all rather 'Too" Fashion. I am prepping for a shoot, which is making things crazy - but to top that all off, it was the much publicized launch of Chanel at Dover Street Market last night (for those rubber neckers: Spotted, Agnes, Henry Holland, Katie Grand, Sarah Bailey, Bronwyn Cosgrave, well lets face it the fucking who's who of London fashion). I stayed for only a fashion moment before heading off to the Matches Circus evening and even covered an Art Exhibition (Grayson Perry, Peter Blake etc) - so I was plum tuckered to say the least.

No let up today, as the Gala Evening for Graduate Fashion week was on. I will say a big kudos to River Island as sponsor of the event. It is covered brilliantly and they have big plans to take it forward. It is also helpful to see everyone in the same place - it is rather like the Fashion week tents but all new, raw talent. Yes, there are some weaker students and you have to sit through things that might be your cup of tea (or are genuinely crap) however that is what a good editor does - EDIT.

There is a good deal of support for the event, the usual suspects BFC, but also it is sponsored by NatMags (the UK outfit of the Heart Corp). Sadly several of the Journo's who would usually turn out stayed away to go to the Royal College Gala tomorrow night but Extra Kudos to the Evening Standard crew, who were being well on top of it (which can't be said for certain other publications).

Anyway - if I weren't propping my eyes open I would give you the Grads to keep and eye on but I will save that for the next blog as Cinderella needs her sleep.

Girls, that is just a no no!

2008-06-10T16:17:00.002-04:00

So I had some time to kill between appointments and tottered on down to the lovely Notting Hill exchange. Bagged myself an out of season Mulberry boating blazer for a £5 which is a bargain in anyone's book. It will go great with a wife beater and jeans and perfect at that price.

However, while slipping into the changing room the interns/fashion assistants saunter in from Wonderland flogging the castoffs from the fashion closet and desperately trying to put food on the table. Now we were all there once, I remember returning the M&S press gifts (back in the day they were worth £50) and could feed you from M&S food for a whole month if you were careful. However, words to the wise to the younger generation. Yes we all know you get paid pittance. We were there once too. Do not however show up at the local vintage/pawnshop with samples in a designer carrier bag that is clearly marked to the attention of the Fashion director of the MAGAZINE!!!!! It is so so not form - and if you aren't careful, people have been fired for less as you never know who is watching!

R.I.P. Y.S.L.

2008-06-01T18:52:00.003-04:00

I can't quite believe it. I am actually reeling from the news. I guess it doesn't help when I am right in the middle of the The Beautiful Fall by Alicia Drake. He was only 71. A mere 5 years older than my parents. I know he had retired, I know - he must have known that it was coming. It doesn't make it any easier.

Here is the news on the AFP - For me I will remember him for all of my mother's lovely handmedowns, my silk black peasant top, my red autumn pie crust blouse, and last but not least my favourite black croc slingbacks.

R.I.P. Y.S.L.

Kiss my Double C's

2008-05-23T08:17:00.003-04:00

Every year it starts earlier and earlier. Today the first in line at the coveted invitation only, Chanel Sample Sale were in line at 6am apparently. Usually there are not too many bags on offer so you have to be at the front if you want pick of the litter.

I luckily, am not the biggest Chanel bag fan (gasp, horror) but I do go for the clothes in a big way (long with the rest of us). I passed over the Relative PR sale last night (I am never going to be a true sample size and thought, "Do I really want any more shoes?") and my saved my bank account for the workout this morning.

The great and the good were all there in spades, from Editors down to fashion assistants (no interns). I came away with a great cocktail dress, a day dress to die for, a cute knit piece and a skirt. All items that are good additions to my already packed wardrobe. I have in the past suffered buyers frenzy at this sale, and come away with items that, to be honest even I wonder what I was thinking at the time.

Furthermore this sample sale, opposed to others has past sale merchandise so women other than the wafer thin, get a look in. I am pleased as punch with my purchases, but with that and the McQueen dress last month - I have over splurged. It is a fashion diet from here on in this season.

xoxoWS

The Earliest Morning in Fashion

2008-05-22T05:59:00.002-04:00

Roll up, Roll Up. Starbucks in hand. Are you ready? Tomorrow is the earliest day in Fashion. The only day you will see from the Top of the Masthead on down standing in line. I will report back on my loot in due Course!

See you there ladies.

xoxo WS

RIP LLG

2008-05-08T12:35:00.003-04:00

Well as many I know are readers of the lovely Liberty London Girl it is with sadness that she leaves (not forever I hope) the blogging family. It is understandable as she has taken the medium by storm and run with it. Understandably she will be sorely missed by those who know her and by those that don't.

I wish I had her writing talents as well as her zest for life. Her new publication is bloomin' lucky to have her. RIP LLG - but knock them dead!

It seems that many of the fashion insiders are taking a break - Mrs. Fashion has also 'retired' this month. Perhaps the medium is getting old or actually it is far more likely that the industry is getting a little to close to the bone for us to have an annoy blog.

I have been lucky, dipping in and out over time. I have seen the Fashion Blogs develop and some have fully bloomed. I just want to take my hat off to the small league of fashion insiders who trundle on.

Good Luck LLG and Mrs. F in all that you do, but your blogs will be missed.

xxWS

I finally found a stink I like

2008-04-28T10:47:00.005-04:00

I have a general problem with perfume. In fact, as a child I was known to faint in the perfume departments of several major department stores; due to the overwhelming smell. So for years I stayed far away from perfume and perfume departments especially. I would hold my breath as I undertook the urban assault course to the elevators, and up to the clothing departments.

However, I can now announce I have finally found a perfume that I actually like and want to wear and more importantly doesn't give me migraine! It has taken years and I can't actually believe it. It isn't a scent for everyone but it is mine all mine.

Ahh - Poor but oh so happy

2008-04-21T19:11:00.003-04:00

As I mentioned back in this post. I ordered this lovely dress at the trunk show at McQueen. For reasons or another - the ^)(*(*& messed up my order. Now, I am poor at the moment - and as much as the lovely sales assistant tried to convince me the the size smaller fit wonderfully (she was on crack at the time, desperate for a commission) it was not to be. They had sold out of the 1 dress the shop had ordered in my size.

I figured karma was telling me it was not to be. It is one of the rare dresses that, in my 10+ years of styling - I have had that feeling in the pit of my stomach - I must just HAVE that dress motivations about but I figured c'est la vie. It wasn't for lack of trying. After McQueen guys realized their error they called all the stores worldwide to find it in my size with no luck.

So here I am prepping a shoot, doing appointments like a banchee and I walk into a well known independent label boutique of fame and hanging on the front of the first rail - one lone dress. As you would guess it - they bought 2, and the only one left? In my size. That was Karma telling me yes, it would be mine and I deserve it. Furthermore, the store discount made the horrific price just that little bit easier to justify.

Do I have an event to wear it to? No. I always fancied running off to somewhere, Niagara Falls perhaps, and getting hitched in it. I will feel much better knowing it is there in my closet waiting to make a grand entrance.

Unimportant is always the Most Important

2008-04-21T18:53:00.003-04:00

Oh oh OH! I have been tagged by the lovely LLG
to say six unimportant things about myself. Given that I am vastly unimportant you would think I should be able to come up with a Bosch full of witty retorts but I am stuck. However, here we go:

I am addicted to Red Vines
Believe it or not - I am fairly certain I never wore a pair of high heels for more than 3 hours at a time (school dances) until I started working at CN - amazing as I am addicted to them all day now.
At age 13 I was sure I would be a midwife when I grew up.
My mother has always named her dogs on the breeds' country of origin.
Sleep just isn't the same with out a White Company Mattress Topper
I don't mind spiders but I really dislike spider webs - go figure.
and one for good luck -
I still just love Harold and Maude

I would love to tag Mrs. Fashion, My Fashion Life and last but not least UberChic

Roll Up Roll up - Fondle the new and tear apart the old

2008-04-08T04:31:00.003-04:00

Yes it is that time again. Where the wear editors and stylists hit the streets and pound the pavements from one press day to the next. Last week was peanuts compared to the Tuesday - Thursday grouping this week.

Luckily, I might be given a respite as I am due to be shooting. Anyway some of my PR spin favourites right now ( Please do add your own ):

"Its an Instant Classic"
"Can't you see it's clear modern lines" - when discribing a loud ruffled number.
"It is such a modern colour"
"It is Blade Runner meets Coco Chanel"
"No one has ever done anything like this" (ya right) - a customized t-shirt

Please note that if you can work the word modern into your description you get bonus points (Yawn).

Now, I know how hard it is to spin good PR on a product that isn't forward (or that you quietly don't believe in). I couldn't do it, I am very lucky to stand on side of the fence that I do as I couldn't sell a basket of cute kittens.

Anyway - off to a further 12 apts today - joy! No honestly I actually enjoy the press days but to say they aren't exhausting would be a little white lie.

A woman just wants to go to the right University.

2008-02-29T04:02:00.004-05:00

I don't usually just go and plug someones fashion blog but I wanted to raise my hat to

The View from Here

and her blog from the talk that Anna Wintour gave at the Oxford Uni.

I had listened to Anna give a great eulogy at Issie Blow's memomorial service, and was surprised at her eloquence. She does suffer from nerves but it is nice to see a different side to how she is portrayed in the media.

Rest In Peace Polaroid - New York Times Link Here

2008-02-09T13:57:00.000-05:00

There are some things that it will be strange to be in the fashion world without. For anyone who started in fashion before 2000 or so will remember with Fondness, Rage, Pain and joy that a Polaroid would bring.

It has just been announced that they will cease to produce polaroid film after 2009. I know we all shoot on Digital these days but there was a time before. Clients had to trust a photographer and stylist to get the images; all usually on 5-6 rolls of film. The only clue you had to go by on what the final composition usually would be - was that Polaroid.

Stylist compiled their credits by Polaroid, and I still have small swatch books for shots that were taken. A mini portfolio if you will. I through the years have taken my fair share of celebrities so that we could figure out if "that" dress would be come see through under flash bulbs. Our only friend - the flash on the 600 series.

I will miss life with out Polaroid as there is something about it, that when its gone, a part of the fashion world will have gone with it.

Not your usual songstress

2008-02-07T04:40:00.000-05:00

I am not one to usually plug people but for once I will make an exception.

I had the pleasure of seeing this young welsh lass sing last night, and believe me you won't be able to miss her in the coming weeks. Her live set was unusually even better than the upcoming album.

It is a slow start but worth it.

Tag with a twist

2008-02-04T13:02:00.000-05:00

A wee bit ago the lovely Liberty London Girl tagged me, to show what I have in my handbag. I agree with Mrs. Fashion, it might be a bit close to the bone given that I might just get found out. So I thought on this for a while, and have opted for the image below.

As with most stylists - we spend a good deal of time on the road. So TADA! My SOS Travel bag. I did omit my pair of cashmere trackpants that make long haul flights just that little easier but I hope you will forgive me.

So as you can see - this is from my recent trip to the Couture shows. It is a lovely bag from Sergio Rossi and is a tardis. This was very good when the BAA decided that you could only have one carry on bag if you were travelling in and out of London (thank god they have lifted this silly rule).

Things I can't live without. My Laptop, My plan of Paris, the little notebook!, a pair of good gloves (I have them in Brown as well and a great investment from Jaeger, My Euro purse and of course my passport and plug charger. The more unusual items - a seam ripper (something I always have on me) and some breath strips (there is nothing worse I have found then having to be in very close proximity to a celeb or model with bad breath), which I bought in NYC in bulk as I love them.

Now on to tagging others hmmmmm.....

Bugger Bergdorf!

2008-01-09T18:13:00.000-05:00

They should put a large fence around that darn place. Especially around the time of the shoe clearance.

Items I didn't strictly need but bought over the Christmas period:

A reversible Hermes H Belt.
A pair of Manolo Black leather ankle boots (these replace my very old dilapidated, first pair I ever bought) - so I am trying to justify it. Bugger you Bergdorf, I will get you for that.
Too Many pairs of shoes at the Louboutin Sale (add a bag or two as well).
A handful of good winter coats at Burberry.

All good investment pieces - but I will definitely be hibernating for a while paying off my Christmas splurge. Missed out on a couple of good shoots but on the styling front - it looks like it will be even busier than 2007!!!

A bit of a manicure.

2007-12-23T15:13:00.000-05:00

I am trying out a new layout as the old one - well lets be frank, after several years was boring me. Do bare with me as I tweak together a new one.

xWS

Tales from Times Square

2007-12-23T15:02:00.000-05:00

An interesting time in the Big Apple - my summons to the 12th Floor of 4 Times Square went well (I was oddly calm throughout) and now only time will tell. Did however get a chance to gossip with a friend at ELLE to get the inside skinny on what is happening and also to catch up.

Furthermore - for anyone who is off to Brazilian Fashion week as soon as we get back to our desks - do check out Anunciacao who I rate. Sod the Havanias and run straight to Melissa. They are doing some fab shoes and also have the talented Alexandre Herchcovitch designing a capsule collection.

Anyway all have a great Holiday and see you in 2008!

Its Almost Christmas and the world Stinks

2007-12-16T09:14:00.000-05:00

Well I off to Mecca on Thursday so wish me luck. I will report back if it all goes well. However, until then ponder this. It is almost Christmas, and I know this how? No - not by the fairly lights, the wonderful Christmas songs, the BBC Christmas fair?

I know this, only due to the fact that ever other bloody commercial on TV at the moment is for Perfume. What is it - do we get to Christmas and we all stink? From Deisel, Lacoste, Chanel, Dolce, Emporio or worse still SJP, Christina, and Kylie! Luckily no JoLo, Britney this year so far, but we do still have to face Family Beckham - would you really want to be sweaty spice?

2007-11-09T11:16:00.001-05:00

Finally a day to catch up and back in the office! It has been a marathon of Press days both this week and last. There are still more next week but at least there is a short break to get some actual work done.

However - I have to share a story with you. I don't usually hold myself as throwing stones (as I live in a glass house) however I was having a lovely tea in the Wolsey yesterday - in between the huge downpour. As it was I had been seated 2 tables away from a very grand stylist. Now this, in itself is of little consequence, we did our best to politely ignore each other which often happens in Fashion. I carried on my conversation while hoping I wasn't being too indiscreet with my companion.

The thing that made it priceless for me was when she got up and left. As she waltzed out the door and put her suit jacket on you could clearly see the long sample swing ticket hanging from the centre label. Now the Editrix in question is not exactly what we would call sample size (the cut on the jacket would be described as generous) but so obviously borrowing from the closet is a no no in my book. Or if you are going to be that bold - be a little more discreet darling!

Enjoy your weekend lovelies!

2007-11-08T15:51:00.000-05:00

We all do things we shouldn't - it just seems that Stylists ones are more expensive than others.

Admittedly at a discount my "Shouldn't" last season was an Alaia Black leather Trench coat. I shouldn't but I did, and gosh do I feel like a dominatrix when I wear it.

This / next season's "Shouldn't" but did - happened today at McQueen. I pre-ordered a version of this. I always had the fantasy of wearing the Birds of Paradise for my wedding and this is as close as I will ever get. I will be poor but oh so happy.

2007-11-05T04:50:00.000-05:00

ONLY 49 DAYS TILL CHRISTMAS - Have you done your shopping yet?

We haven't even had Bonfire night and the Christmas lights are going up, and Harrods has had their Christmas Parade. I sometimes wish we didn't lurch from one Marketing exercise moment to the next.

However at times it is worse - only 60 days until you will be told to by your summer bikini!

2007-10-31T04:41:00.000-04:00

AGGG!! I have found the biggest threat in a stylists life - a hole in her wardrobe! I have no "date" tops! Bugger - what is a girl to do. So far I haven't even spied any thing that I can pre-order.

It is Halloween and all so I will try not to frighten the children. I suspose I will take myself off to a party tonight but the though of seeing a whole bunch of club kids in bin bags is enough to put anyone off. My partner in crime this evening however is no doubt going to keep me smiling and keeping the spooks at bay.

2007-10-29T13:13:00.000-04:00

Enough Already!

For those not in the loop the Press Days are on us in force this week and for the next two. This is a vital part of the wheel yet I still have quite a gripe. Is there any particular reason why there need to be 38 individual press events tomorrow alone? Do they think we are super human?

Those in the PR agencies and PR offices stay away from hosting their events on Monday and Friday (a mistake in my book) and try to wedge everything over the course of the mid week! There is no way anyone can even attempt to see it all - and some things get missed even if you hope it not to be the case. I don't think it does a client / label any justice; as you are having to hot foot it around rather than taking your time (and notes) with care.

It does become a bit like clothing blinkers - looking directly at only the items that fall in to the categories of the editorial you plan to shoot that season. However - as we all know - stories change like quicksand and you editor suddenly waltz's in to the office one day and says " I am feeling a goth moment " (usually when there is no goth influence that season - admittedly this could be because she is so on the pulse and ahead of the curve from having lunch with Designer so and so, or equally as she has her eye on a black leather Alaia coat).

I send my regards to all of those doing the press day shuffle - I am sure I will see you out there working away and you have my sympathies!

2007-10-28T17:29:00.000-04:00

A tale in two pairs

I am not good (as most stylists aren't) at getting rid of things. Knowing full well that what is out of fashion today will in time come back around tomorrow. However, needs must and I have had to cull some of my 70 pairs of shoes. This as you can imagine is tragedy in and of itself but alas the fact that I can't close my closet I have had to be brutal.

One of the tragic habits I have is that I place my memories in my shoes. The hardest thing has been to part with two pairs of shoes that should have gone to the cobbler in the sky years ago. The first - my first hippy dippy pair of black suede Arizona Birkenstocks. I bought them when I was 17, young, bright and full of promises. They have seen me walking through my first festivals, first boyfriends, several houses and much misadventure. They are sadly now stained, damp, well worn but oh so loved. For sentimentality I should keep alone but tough decisions have had to be made.

The other - my first pair of Manolo's. The heels are shot, the toes worn through, yet the leather is still as soft as a baby's bottom. Mr. M does take good care when he designs shoes and if Evangelina saw me running around in them now (give the state they are in). I would surely be banished. The loving boots - walked me through my first seasons as an assistant, survived the brutal regime of Paris streets (and all that gravel in the Tulieries) and have come through like a retired general in the battle field. They were re-soled more time then I care to think, the heels rebuilt more than once, and yet they still soldiered on.

I will miss you both but after many years of duty and services rendered and hand you over to the pedicured feet in the sky my friends. You are gone but never forgotten.

Slipping up on a ....

2007-10-26T03:26:00.002-04:00

Slipping up on a Banana.

Things are moving at a pace and back in January it was reported that Banana Republic would be hitting the UK - so come March BR will open is doors in the old Dickens and Jones building. (The other tenants will be a HUGE H&M, as well as an Armani Exchange and Nokia). Gap UK have just put final touches to the PR team (sterling choices) and starting to gear up for the media onslaught. It will be interesting to see marketing strategy.

I remember vividly when the Gap opened its first store (just a few doors down on Regent Street) in the 1980's - the prices were laughably overpriced as they were pure imports from the US. It took them a while to sort that out and now, as we all know they have a dedicated European design team - as they learned that the European woman is very different consumer to her American counterpart (far more Chic lets just call a spade a spade).

On the other side - I think the timing is right for BR as Joseph (since the great man sold it) isn't what it once was. Reiss is also has a bit of an inflated ego - I suspect they will be going head to head against them. If they get the price points right - it will be game on.

Thursday, October 25th 2007

2007-10-25T16:18:00.000-04:00

Lots have things have happened since I have been away (several years). Myself imposed retirement was for my sanity but several new blogs have tempted me back again ... we will see how long until my blogging ADD kicks in.

We will take each week - well week by week. Until then I would suggest you take a look at the following other fashion bloggers.

Liberty London Girl

Mrs. Fashion

and

Disney Roller Girl

Enjoy! More from me soon.

Friday, August 11th 2006 - Moss Off already, why don't you

2006-08-11T12:28:00.000-04:00

I am sick of to the teeth of the Moss. Ok we know she is normal, we know she is beautiful. Yes, she has done way too much Coke and booze in her time but find me someone in fashion that is cleaner than clean (ya right). I even have the utmost respect that during the height of the Kate witch-hunt, she didn't go crying to the press with some sob story or another. But ENOUGH ALREADY.

I am sick to the teeth of her at the moment - she has been over exposed. 1. PUT YOUR TOP ON GIRL! She seems to be incapable of keeping her clothes on. I am all for self expression and being uninhibited but I have seen more of Kate Moss's nipples than Jordan's! She has a great pair no doubt - so do I (so it isn't a case of boob envy), but it has become tedious that every shot of her seems to be topless - even when she is supposed to be flogging merchandise.

2. I like the cover of Vanity Fair - the Mert and Marcus pictures are great but then compared to the English Vogue Cover ... oh dear what was the Conde Nast UK camp thinking (and it maybe me but isn't it out of focus????). Again everywhere you turn there she is.

3. Finally - open any Fashion magazine (which I am likely to have to do almost everyday for work purposes) and she has landed every bloody campaign. It is like either every ad director worldwide was devoid of an idea!
"Oh I know ... lets get Kate Moss! ... that will be original and different!"
From Burberry (the one she was doing "before"), to Dior, Versace, Longchamp and Vuitton you see Kate on the pages of the first 25 pages of ads. I dread to imagine how much each of these companies paid for the privilege - when they could have gotten someone else just as worthy (Maria Carla, Daria, Hana etc).

Yes do support her, yes she is a role model (although she has never asked to be), but I am so sick of seeing her everywhere. I think the true public backlash might now begin. She will have survived the Cocaine scandal, and the addictive rocker but will she survive her own over exposure? If I were her agency (Sarah??? Rein it in a bit will you), I would be very wary about now.

Wednesday, July 26, 2006 - My domestic bliss.. and the thorn in my side

2006-07-26T06:43:00.000-04:00

Time is tight at the moment. I have spent the past few days working on a national campaign and their shop images. Although we are sweltering in the heat it has been fun. (I just love dry heat but give me the humidity and I am miserable) Now it is getting a bit much so bring on those thunderstorms!.
The job so far has been a giggle! The team and the client are a delight to work with. I know I shouldn't be surprised but with these things everything goes well, or it becomes your worst living nightmare.

I have been put forward for the big one again! Lets see if they give me a shot this time. They have been asking for my show reel now. My portfolio has made the first cut so I am still in the running. The last stylist to do it was pulling a decent living off it alone and did so for almost 2 years! Goodbye debts (keep your fingers crossed for me).

Life has been crazy of late. Just put my parents back on a plane home (more about that later) and then opened my doors to my 4-legged friends. The gremlins, aka the terrorists, aka Itchy and Scratchy are owned by my friend the Photographer and his boyfriend. The boys were off to a week by the lake and I took the Jack Russells. I always have fun when I have them to stay. They don't always listen (but do you know a dog that does?) but it makes my flat seem more of a home. I am a dog person, and with my life, it would be cruel to have my own; so I do enjoy having them about the place. There is nothing more amusing than strapping on my rollerblades putting the dogs on their leads and heading out for walkies. It is rather like having a dog team pulling you along. They love it, I end up exercising my fat arse and there are smiles all round. It was pity when they went home this evening.

Karma is a funny animal. It is strange how things seem to pop up. As I mentioned I put my parents back on a flight home 10 days ago. They were not home more than 48 hours - before they randomly bumped into Rockbottom at dinner in the city. In a city of 6.7 million people I tell you! Lady Chance is laughing at me - in fact, I suspect she is having a right ol giggle. Now my mother would never admit to meddling. Heaven forbid! However, having bumped into him - I was dispatched an email to say that he was out with a woman who was married, that he used to work with. Furthermore, her husband and Rockbottom are doing some business together. I have heard him talk about the couple but have never met them. What I can't believe is, how fast my mother can extract information! I was then told how lovely it was to 'bump' into him and that he is on great form.

What actually galls me is, that I really dont want to know. I am doing my best to divorce him out of my head (with varying degrees of success) so the fact that he just won't go away pisses me off no end. I also know my mother; having stayed with me for the past three weeks, will have been delighted in volunteering all sorts of info (as only Mothers tend to do) Personally, I would rather he was information lockdown. At least she didn't know anything about Benefits Boy who breezed into town.

Monday, May 8th 2006 - Pacaderm Punch

2006-05-08T06:54:00.000-04:00

"Gianpaolo Tarabini, CEO of Blufin SpA, the 1bn company behind the luxury Blumarine label, was killed on Friday in a tragic accident during a safari in Zimbabwe.

The 67-year-old, an experienced trekker, was with a professional hunter and a photographer when two elephants suddenly charged and he was trampled. His two companions escaped unharmed."

I worked with this guy - rather mad and dashing - had a great Ferarri collection and he and his wife (Anna Molinari) were lovely hosts. I know he will be missed. I on the other hand find something sadly comical about it all - life is short ... just make sure you don't get trampled by an Elephant.

Tuesday, April 25, 2006 - Channelling Donatella

2006-04-25T07:01:00.000-04:00

One of the more interesting aspects of the job I find myself on at the moment is that the team works with a different international hairdresser each day. This is unusual as the team is usually fixed for the duration of the shoot. To be a (photo) session hairdresser takes a huge amount of skill (over that of your average High Street Crimper) but also dynamic results need to be achieved fairly quickly. Now we all have tricks of the trade - for the session hairdresser life would not be the same without the humble doughnut (a mesh nylon ball) that you wrap hair around to give the illusion of greater volume or shape. Working with hairdressers who are top of the game in their own salons, often find the transition to a session shoot quite difficult. Generally their standard is far lower and it is our job to push them to make looks that are worthy of editorial coverage. For this job, enough fake hair has been dyed, cut and generally manipulated to keep Cousin It happy for years.

Today the guest Spanish hairdresser is on the set. She is a delightful happy woman but just one minor flaw, she is channelling Donatella Versace as her style icon. There is so much collagen pumped into her upper lip that I keep thinking she is going to trip over it. Now there are also badly done cheek implants and a buy 10 get the 11th free course of Botox that she has willingly under gone. She didnt hold back when striving to achieve her look of hero worship. The flowing Latino brunette has been replace by what can only be described as Polenta yellow hair and the orange tinge of liberal slashing of St. Tropez.

To compliment her hard work she has dressed herself in turned hem Capri jeans with Candies (high heel open toed mules with Diamante buckles) and a white knock off Chanel box jacket. As I mentioned at the beginning of this description she is lovely but you can understand my difficulty in trying to keep a straight face when discussing the intricacies of style to her.

I try (although not always successfully) not to be the Fashion Police however all of this, on a 50+ woman, it was too much for me not to share it with you.

Monday, April 24th 2006 - Museum of the Politically Incorrect

2006-04-24T07:11:00.000-04:00

The past 10 days have been taken up on the job that started out as hell in hair dye, but I have to admit it has vastly improved; given that the client finally settled on the clothing direction they desired. The most astounding aspect of this job however has been the location. The Museum of Hunting and Nature.

At present, I am typing in the Petit Salon - which in the normal universe is actually the size of a single bedroom flat in London. Looking down on me is a 2m x 1m portrait of Marie Antoinette in her Hunting attire. Everywhere you look it is books on hunting with titles such as Hunting Game with Gun and Camera, Hunting Boar and my favourite Large Game, Small Gun

Now regardless of your position on hunting (which I refuse to go into here) this is a stunning location and a memorial to a bygone era. Every nook and cranny is crammed with all kinds of hunting items. From stuffed Polorbears to Rhino, Monkeys to Cheeta. There are stuffed animal heads hanging from the walls, bronze statues of Deer, Boar, Lions and Tigers. Solid Silver Candelabras of Hunting scenes, which are so elaborate it makes you believe they will race across the tabletop at any moment. The wall tapestries with delicately woven Elephants, pheasants, unicorns and stags. In the hall is a large gothic stone staircase which I am sure they based the set design for Phantom of the Opera. It is absolutely magical. The cellar resembles a mad dungeon, its now converted to a private dining room where we have been served an amazing lunch every day. The room still has large hooks for hanging meat for the kitchens. If you were that way inclined, it would make a superb venue for any Mistress with room for a rack in the corner.

With a venue like this, it is almost understandable that when the Nazi Army came marching into Paris, the city fathers allowed them in with out a fight, thus protecting their heritage. Places such as this would have been bombed to smithereens. I dont profess to question how the French handled themselves but on the flip side they dont have the same affliction that London shares for Concrete post war painful architecture as a result.

Imagining this venue as my own private residence (it is now the Museum and a fancy expensive gentlemans club) is far far too easy. Perhaps I l suffer from my own illusions of grandeur. I know I spend a good deal of my life own little fantasy cocoon but a girl could get used to this!

Friday, 29th July

2005-07-29T22:24:00.000-04:00

Ok I know it has been a while peeps - I can not begin to explain the rollercoaster of a ride it has been. I am sure I will divulge that with time. As the wise sage Murphy, I am sure once said - if you book a holiday - it is guaranteed that a juicy job comes in! As is the case today - I cut into my holiday to shoot Mr. Sean Combs, P. Diddy or Puff Daddy (so many names I can not keep up). I was a plum assignment as I was very interested in meeting the man behind the hype. Furthermore (and more importantly) I got to work with a photographer and team that I had wished to work with for a while. The gentleman in question was a delight (both on they eyes and the soul). He was great to work with and if the gods smile on me it will be one of many. If only everyone was so easy to work with!

Sean (as I was permitted to call him) was what I expected him to be. He is a smart cookie - no doubt about that. A rough diamond - there was the bling and the street but he looked you in the eye, said hello, please, and thank you - which goes a long, long way in my book. Now don't think he didn't know his mind - boy did he (and hell if you built up more than one successful company if you didn't I would wonder how you managed it). Strange requests for Hypnosis (sp) - some bright blue vodka/connac (sp) drink, which I have to say looked god awful. But the Champers was flowing and we managed to get everything that the brief asked us to do. Now.. we wait for HQ verdict. I will keep you posted dolls. Enjoy your weekend.

Tuesday, 21st September

2004-09-21T16:43:00.000-04:00

I don't know why Fashion people can't seem to get along - is it all that hard? They seem to prefer to act like a pack of wild dogs but instead of turning on the weakest member of the pack - they turn on each other indiscriminately. From where I sit - I question frequently why we submit ourselves to this masochistic torture. It is almost as if the fashion shows seem to take second place to the political maneuvering found during fashion week. Of the shows today - Eley Kish had a few lovely moments, Betty Jackson - the grand maven of English fashion put a secure collection together - and I was sitting directly opposite Jennifer Saunders and her daughter - they seemed to enjoy it!

Julien MacDonald seems to have lost his way. I will always like what he does - but this season - it was a little bit too Miss Valentino, with a bit of Pucci and a 80's US prom on Acid. It was also muted on his celeb front - Rachel Stevens, Padma Rushdie and a few others but it seems (at least for this season) the crown of the King of London has passed to Giles.

Rafael Lopez wasn't as good as I had hoped - it was shown in Peter Jones in the atrium where the fabrics usually are. I would have preferred had they spent less on speakers and more on better lighting as then we might have had a chance to see it better - even from the position in the 3rd row where I was I was straining my eyes in bad light. It didn't help matters when it started so late because they were waiting for everyone - when it was clear that no on else was going to show. I rapped up the evening at the Donna Karen party, which actually wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be.

Today I would also like to address DM - part of the reason I don't want to add comments (except for private ones) is it is almost sacrilegious for me to even be writing this uncensored view of the fashion pack - should they ever find out - I am sure I will be excommunicated. Any one of them - if they put their mind to it, could find out my identity (as we are a small bunch) but I prefer it if they didn't. I am hoping they can't be bothered to read the likes of a blog. The beauty of a blog such as this as I can be honest in my interpretation of events. However, I still love to hear your comments and if you care to pass my blog on to your friends - I am honored but I have no intention of putting it out there anymore than I have.

Finally - I would like to send my regards to fellow bloggers,
Belle de Jour and Pete's Posts who both after very successful runs have hung up their blogger badges for the time being - each for there own reasons. They will be sorely missed and it was because of them - I chose to take up sharing my thoughts with you.

" I only go to work to wear my outfits "

Monday, 20th September

2004-09-21T01:04:00.000-04:00

Well an odd day on the fashion front. Jonathan Saunders was rather good - softer, more accessible. Paul Smith - well it was lovely but there were no new ideas - just Paul Smith tried and tested - stripes, floral prints and union jack emblems. It was a good collection - it will sell well but exciting it wasn't. Bora Aksu - stuck in a 70's folk chic loop and not my scene. Clements I loved - it got a bit dull in the middle but the end was very strong.

Now on to The ES Mag effort - I can't explain how much better it ended up over Style, I know I am harping on about it but I just can't believe that Style has been usurped. It is glossy, professional, interesting, engaging and the contributors each bring something to the table. Congratulations to Gianluca as his shoots are lovely. However with a magazine that has contributions by Sarah Mower, Lee Jenkins, Bay, Plum and Natalie - what do you expect. They obviously threw money at it and it shows in spade and in very good way.

Anyway - I am knackered and I am off to grab some winks.

" I only go to work to wear my outfits "

Sunday, 19th September

2004-09-19T17:30:00.001-04:00

Well on us again - London Fashion Week. The highlight / lowlight of the day seemed to be Frost French. Now I don't care what the reports say tomorrow and I know the papers will have the requisite shots of the show and its high celeb factor, but for me - if this label didn't have that celeb quotient - it would be universally panned. It was a badly cut collection, with 50's lingerie references, stepford wives and a time warp of the worst of Laura Ashley. When thrown together it makes for nothing more than what you can buy down at Top Shop at at 5 times the price. As you can gather it didn't do much for me.

I quickly popped into the tents - mainly to get a hold of this seasons Omega Time Line number - this is what caused me to miss Elspeth Gibson. I did however manage to get a sneak preview of the ES Fashion edition which is out tomorrow. Congratulations all round - it looks good - forward thinking, a bit safe but for a first issue - not a bad effort. When you compare it to the Sunday Times - Style Fashion Special out today - Style has clearly been out classed.

The printing on the Style edition I have - makes Linda look like she has been mugged by a bottle of fake tan! Also really Linda and her comeback is old news - her comeback was 2 years ago now. This is where ES did the business and has Lily Cole as the covergirl. The front row censorship is a page devoted to Colin's winging - yes designers do but shhhurrly it is just to quote Colin - his own "Babyish Tantrums" by devoting a page to it (especially as we know that he was banned from Chanel for the longest time). Also an article about Stylists - come on ... Stylists are not celebrities - there work should be seen and they should not be heard! First and foremost - do we really care? Second is the celebrity stylist any more worthy of an article than say the celebrity makeup artist, hairdresser or pet psychologist? There is already a celebrity backlash but then glorifying there entourage as well - Please save us!

Claudia Croft puts in a good article on good classics - all of which I would agree with - and it reiterates the 50's mantra of buying something that will last and always look chic! But then we have Mels piece on "who is the High Street woman". Again - an article that would have been better in a marketing meeting. The companies know who there core customer is. A woman knows what suits her so why are we forced to read about it?

The best image of the whole book goes to Helen Kenny with her green accessories page - an image better suited to the glossy pages of Vogue (they should take note)! The Paulo Sutch trends piece is not his finest hour but lets face it - this is where they saved money. I am sure the Linda piece cost a bomb to produce (pity it didn't turn out better). The best main fashion goes to Sophia and Satoshi's story, and Jane Cattani's story is also strong. I await the Men's special which is a good twist due out during Paris on 3rd October.

Tomorrow is LFW full throttle so I will keep you posted and also I will give the lowdown on the full ES Fashion critique.

- "I only go to work to wear my outfits"

Tuesday, September 7th

2004-09-07T17:44:00.000-04:00

Well I had to go and enjoy the sunshine this weekend while it lasted. After one day lounging by the pool with a few friends down in the country, I am now sporting the lobster glow I seem to acquire with no discernible effort. It was a last minute escape - I never usually decamp out of town on the eve of a big job but the sun was to much to refuse (and a convenient excuse as the house started to flood and I just didn't have the patience to deal with it). In hindsight, it was a good thing I did grab the R & R - as the job yesterday was far from easy.

As often with celebrities - they are usually delightful, and yet at the same time, bloody difficult! In the sliderule of this sort of thing however, this was mild. I emerged unscathed and no egos were destroyed in the process. All faux pas were averted and everyone is generally pleased.

I was brought back down to earth today from my fashion cloud - having to endure dealing with the insurance system. I could bury my head in the sand no longer - and had to deal with the flood. Now it is plumbers and claim adjusters for the next day or two!

Finally, I am at a loss on a great sign off for the end of my posts - email me if you have any good fashion related pithy sign off suggestions as I seem to have hit a brick wall.

Thursday, September 2nd

2004-09-02T16:50:00.000-04:00

Ok I have had a bit more time than usual today as I am in the calm before the storm. This has lead me to check out other fashion bloggers. The winner by far for my "fab o meter" was this site Liisa's" Paperdolls - Celebrity Dress Up Games it is just a scream! Go - enjoy I dare you.

I also was interested in My Fashion Life which is a good general fashion site with very good links if you are into that sort of thing. I have to admit I haven't really looked at other fashion blogs and figure if I just do my own thing (which I have usually done in most aspects of my life) then I am happy. Generally, I find other peoples blogs far outside my own realm of experience are the most interesting. A blog is the one place where you can externalise your inner monologue and that also satisfies one's own voyeuristic tendencies in the way that a regular diary can not.

As for my inner monologue I had a "quiet day" - I spent most of it on the phone. I had a bit of Sample Sale therapy first thing. Then I interviewed a work experience girl as my assistant is away on holiday and had lunch with a PR agency owner for a catch up - which was lovely. I finally had a gander at the new Vuitton campaign and it is really a corker and going to be hard to top that ... I don't usually advocate the use of celebrities but in this case it actually worked. Now what about Kiddman and Chanel.......

Wednesday, September 1st

2004-09-01T18:28:00.000-04:00

Well, another job falls through the fingers. I was up for presenting a television programme. Now I was excited about this potential project as it required a good deal of travel (something which I adore - especially on someone else's expense account) - however the Network decided they needed a name. Admittedly I am not a "name" nor do I ever have any intention of being one - so the job has gone to Jodie Kidd. Furthermore, I was then asked to co-present one of the shows but alas they are shooting next week - the same day I have a the Harpers Bazaar job - so I had to turn it down as I had a prior commitment.... I never like having to turn a job down and it would have been a great opportunity.

Apparently the Fashion gossip on the street is that Anne Marie Curtis (former Fashion Director of Wallpaper*) has landed the job as the Fashion director of ELLE. This - if you listen to gossip, is because they couldn't afford Kate Phelan of British Vogue. On the same front Ian R. Webb ( former Fashion director of ELLE ) is apparently working on his book... and I good one I suspect it will be too. I will let you know more when I do. It will be interesting to see what ELLE does as a new team with Anne Marie will be a leopard with a different set of spots than had Kate been at the Fashion helm. Perhaps she is holding out that there will be a coup at Vogue - lets face it Vogue has sorely gone down hill and I hear the ABC's are also slowly beginning to erode. Lets face it - have you seen Vogue's September issue? You have a picture of Kate Moss on the front - who is no where to be seen inside the magazine. And the post production job they have done on her is scandalous. I could go on but it speaks for itself.

Monday, August 30th

2004-08-30T09:13:00.000-04:00

Surprising for a bank holiday - work! An unexpected email for another Harpers Bazaar job... well that will keep the week interesting! I had had a lovely email about the last job so I thought there might be more in the pipeline but not as quickly as this! As I have mentioned before the fashion world stops for no one! Glad however, that I chose to escape the carnival and have entrenched myself at a friends place. This however is being written from a Wi-Fi starbucks... isn't technology grand!

Friday, August 27th

2004-08-27T17:21:00.000-04:00

All has been quiet on the fashion front. August is usually exceptionally quiet. The international press offices are closed and for a workaholic profession this enforced slowdown is usually a welcome relief for everybody. For some reason, compared to previous years I have had a fairly busy August. I had a lovely job working with the present #1 pop princess, who was delightful I might add. A smashing job working for Harpers Bazaar and a consultation to a young up and coming fashion company. However, now we have September on the horizon and I have to step up a gear.

I think I am going to skip New York this season for a couple of reasons, if I see another show of American sportswear/classics, I might be tipped over the edge and need catwalk prozac for the foreseeable future. Additionally, by the time I get to the end of Paris I no longer care about the beauty I see before me. There is nothing worse than fashion burnout and the shows test everyone to the limits. The London Fashion Week schedule arrived in my inbox today - nothing I am gagging to see. However I am still waiting for the off schedule show list, as Kit Willow seems to hold some promise... fingers crossed it isn't just a bunch of London hype (which is often the case).

The more interesting aspect of London Fashion week will be the contest between the Sunday Times Style and ES Magazine - both of which are heavily into sponsorship of LFW. Both are planning large extravaganzas for the public ... However the Evening Standard are taking lead in the sponsorship - have an amazing fashion issue (if my sources are to be believed) and are making a bid for the London Fashion Newspaper crown. The old battle axe that is Style has an uphill battle ahead of them. It has been looking rather Essex over the past six months to a year. They had a strong relaunch but it has been going downhill since. It is no longer the Vogue of the newspapers that it once was.

Well I am off to enjoy the Carnival... the buzz around here has started already... I better decamp to a friends house if I plan to get any rest at all!

Tuesday, August 17th

2004-08-17T18:37:00.000-04:00

Now that the stress has subsided and I have adjusted to my new status I can tell you that I have done the impossible and joined the property owners in London, hence my absence for the past little while. I also have the liberty of being somewhat smug having paid £70,000 or so under the market value for the flat. So now I have been knee deep in rubble, tweaking here and tweaking there. I spent the last few days making an acquaintance with a breaker. I am still in a layer of dust. Rather like the Galliano show a 2 or 3 seasons back with all the powder paints! Life did take a small civilized turn when I was invited up to the widow Getty's place in Berkshire this weekend to watch the Sir Paul Getty's XI vs. I. Zingari annual cricket match. Admittedly, I am not the biggest cricket fan by any stretch of the imagination; however I couldn't turn down the opportunity to see one of the best private library's in the world. It was breathtaking - 1st editions of everything, jewel encrusted copies of Keats, the Canterbury Tales just to name a few.

The cricket wasn't half bad either... Quintessentially English. We were all set out on deck chairs over looking the best private cricket pitch in the world (Getty was cricket mad for an American). Pimm's and Champagne were brought over to you, and your glass never emptied. A scrumptious Salmon lunch, a proper English tea.. and also an ice cream trolley to top it off. It was just delightful! It will definitely go down as one of the more memorable occasions, second only to my stay on the Christina O, (the Onassis Yacht) and its whale foreskin barstools. Christina O, Onassis Yacht . Anyway it was lovely to get out of London for a day. Lots of things are happening but I don't want to jinx anything by tell you now... just call me superstitious! Speak soon.....

my london life

2004-08-12T04:34:00.000-04:00

Also check out - my london life

LONDON CALLING...

2004-08-03T04:56:00.000-04:00

So loving this ..... LONDON CALLING...

Wednesday, July 28th

2004-07-28T10:05:00.000-04:00

Life on the outside of a blog sometimes infringes with life inside it. I have been playing councilor recently to several friends who seem to have split with their respective g/f or b/f. Furthermore, many of the joined at the hip couples I know have all seemed to be questioning the validity of their relationships. I am beginning to believe it is a virus.

One such couple, the gentleman concerned broken off his engagement (much to the relief of his friends) - not a decision taken lightly. Is it a summer malaise? People are outside - chatting, flirting and then become dissatisfied with their partners' as the grass in London always seems far greener in the summer?

I have been hermited away from the fashion fray for a few weeks because of other commitments but things are in the pipeline so I will keep you posted....

Wednesday, June 30th

2004-06-30T13:02:00.000-04:00

Well thank goodness some things are reliable in this life. Henman lost the game the moment he was no longer cast in the roll of underdog! The country needs another sports loser... the English summer wouldn't be the same without it.

The changing of the guard has started over at Elle. Ian handed his notice on Monday. I had the ragging whispers phonecall yesterday by early afternoon and it has hit WGSN today. It looks like Lorraine is making her first new appointments... time will tell how the crumbs will fall....

Tuesday, June 29th

2004-06-29T18:58:00.000-04:00

I am just back from Wimbledon. I haven't had a chance to go in several years so it was nice to be offered a Players Companion ticket. I have to admit I spent most of my time wondering around the crowds - as the players area was full of Tennis wives and their offspring. I didn't pull up until around 3:30 so I managed to miss the best matches of the day however it was nice to go and sit on Henman Hill. It was a good deal smaller than on telly.

I also came across a bit of American Satire (an oxymoron if there ever was one). I leave you with it today:

"We, the relatively unbothered and well off, hold these truths to be self-evident: That big government, Big Deficits and Big Tobacco are bad, but that big bathrooms and SUV's are not; that American overseas involvement should be restricted to trade agreements, mutual funds and the visiting of certain beachfront resorts; that markets can take care of themselves as long as they take care of us; that an individual's sex life is nobody's business, although highly entertaining; and that the only rights that really matter are those which indulge the Self". (Nicholas Lemann)

Monday, June 28th

2004-06-28T13:46:00.000-04:00

A big thank you first of all to worldwide for being my GMail Fairy. I am just testing the account now before I give up my hated Hotmail account forever. Please visit and find out all sorts of goodies that he/she has compiled. It has been a crazy day today... I should have known it was going to go down hill when I find the old porn shop near my University in London is now a Starbucks! The shoot I was organizing last week now seems to have imploded - not by anything I or the photographer have done but it looks like the Magazine might close. Everything as been put on hold. Murphy's law

So what to do? Shop! Oh and torture myself in watching the Henman match. So far it isn't as much of a cliffhanger as it usually is. However I might have spoken too soon. Finally, please send good wishes to Gavin B at Storm Models, who is recuperating having been hit by a car last week. Thank goodness it wasn't worse!

Thursday, June 24th

2004-06-24T15:54:00.000-04:00

Organizing anything in Fashion seems to be a nightmare. I have spent the last two weeks negotiating a shoot with a hot photographer. The photographer who has been in the industry ages, travels with their family between New York and Europe. Just trying to tie them down to a phone call is hard enough. However, once I did - they were sweetness and light. I have to say I am looking forward to getting it finished but I know it is going to be an organizational nightmare. To add more tension my editor is now being elusive.

I am sorry to hear that England lost the football but it was a good game. I have to admit however I was more interested in the Tennis. I spent my evening on the phone with an fashion editor of a large newspaper. She is having a rough time of it - when the pack turns on you it is like hyeanas on a carcass. I am sure she will make it through as she is a survivor as well as a decent character (a rare thing in fashion).

It looks like an Editor in Chief also seems to be buttering up a new Sugardaddy as they were spotted in dining in Chelsea last night.

Wednesday, June 23rd

2004-06-23T22:25:00.000-04:00

I have just returned from seeing Mean Girls, Tina Fey's adaptation of Queen Bees and Wannabes. Its seems that my life in the Fashion world is a Post Doctorate course in catty A type female behavior.

In Runway world Anna Wintour is referred to at the top of the tree with Franca Sozzani (editor of Italian Vogue) being a close second. The interesting point comes at the shows - where magazines fashion department get pitted head to head (against each other and against other magazines)....

Now the movie was just the ticket. I took a friend S, who is also just split up with her b/f. That is two in one week. I have been known from time to time to lament my single status however the two couples I always held up for scrutiny as living the "Happy Ever After" both now have imploded. I would love to blame Hollywood ... however I am the tragic lemming that buys into the Prince Charming myth.

Tuesday, June 22nd

2004-06-22T17:04:00.000-04:00

Why do most blogs I have come across seem to be about sex? Is this a headache left over from Carrie Bradshaw et al?

I have spent the last couple of days with my limited knowledge of computers - tweaking the template of my blog so that its sight didn't offend me. Furthermore, I also researched into other blogs I visit. I was trying to see stylistically what I wanted to see from a blog.

Now I have a healthy appreciation for sex but why does it seem that at least 60% of blogs are sex based? Is that all anyone else wants to read? Now it seems there is a trend that sex blogs writers only link to other sex blog writers. I have included a few of them in my links. I must say some are wonderful - as the feted Belle de Jour or Diablo Cody but most seem to be a case of show and tell, tell and tell.

Back to the fashion fluff - my reading for the plane was Bergdorf Blonds by Plum Sykes
Now several people in the industry have trashed this book however, I loved it for what it was. No, it is never going to be a heavy weight contender but it is the perfect fodder for planes, beach loungers and while sitting under the dryer while having your roots done (heck it beats a tatty copy of US or Hello). People write about what they know and it is evident here in spades. These characters do exist and she knows them very well indeed. Plum, being as the English call it an "it" girl herself along with her sister Lucy; she has lots of material to draw on. Ok, we knew who the heroine was going to end up during in the first 10 pages and it lacked a plot, but everything else was delightful.

Now my weekend - while suffering through my jet lag consisted of escorting a friend to a ball at Blenheim Place. R has recently split up with her boyfriend of several years due to a large drug habit. She suffered through lots of rehab counseling with him but it was one relapse to many, as they say. Being the supportive friend that I am, went along to keep her company (I was glad to share some quality time with her myself!). It was an interesting night to say the least. We had a line up of Madness, Sheryl Crow, Blue and Sir Elton John. A fairly impressive lineup. It was good to see the musicians up close and personal. However, who the hell are Blue? I am sure they are lovely boys but really they are a product of a good choreographer, a good stylist (with a large budget to spend at Dolce) and some bought in songs. I have never been one for boy bands, but to put them up against three other acts that are actually musicians it was tragic. Finally, what compels sane intelligent women to scream out band members names and cry hysterically ....

2004-06-18T19:20:00.000-04:00

I am suffering from Jet Lag so bare with me on this one - I am also stretching my blogging fingers. All I can promise is a neurotic account of the fashion life that I see around me. It ranges from the deathly dull to catty runway moments from around the world. It is a small sorority, so as I am sure will forgive me, I will tend to leave a few of the more traceable details out. Suffice to say - I travel in the rarefied world of Supermodels, Designers, Stylists, Model bookers, agents and the like.

Is it what I thought when I started it was cracked up to be? Certainly not - however like crack - it is potently addictive and has kept me hooked for almost 10 years. You meet amazing people – some that you read about on a daily basis and some that you think have jumped out of a turn of the century novel. You validate their neurosis and they yours. It is a world that likes to think it is grounded in reality – but is so far removed from it, I wonder why it pretends. There was a time that I was just a simple sunshine girl …… more of that later.