The winners of this year’s Gala Awards were announced, celebrating the ‘Talent of Tomorrow’ with graduate stars such as award winners Brian McLysaght, Alexandra Fan and Rosie Baird from Edinburgh College of Art, Greg Brears from Birmingham City University and Hannah Stote from Bath Spa University. 

Recent reports state that 235 million pieces of clothing will be sent to landfill this year, representing 5.7% of all landfill waste.

Have you ever wondered who the top Fashion companies or brands are? New research from, How To Dress Like, has analysed global search data has reveal every country’s favourite fashion brand.

Lifestyle Revolution students will work with experienced fashion and textile designer Suki Bourne to design their own colourful collection. In the 2 hour workshop participants will create mood boards from a selection of images and use croquis to illustrate their final collection.

Consumers are increasingly turning towards second-hand clothing, studies are revealing – with conscientious buyers set to make pre-loved items a bigger market than so-called ‘fast fashion’ by 2029.

Photo by Caique Silva. Unsplash

Like most fashion trends, jewellery styles come and go based on season and occasion. For the past several years, as far as jewellery is concerned, dainty pieces have favoured over the rest.

This year, designers at London Fashion Week flooded the British capital with fearless fashion for the Spring 2019 season and we saw the return of jewellery that is loud, colourful, and makes a statement. Here are some of the most popular jewellery trends everyone will be wearing this Spring, inspired by the runway.

Huge Hoops

Circles are commonly used to symbolise eternity, and if there is one trend with eternal appeal, it’s the hoop. The hoop earring goes back as far as human's themselves. It goes beyond just being a fashion trend and has been a powerful symbol in numerous cultures throughout history.

This season, the timeless style is taking on a bulkier and heavier shape adding a focal point to any outfit, as well as framing the face and complimenting your hairstyle. It appears that we are being encouraged to think outside the circle this year and select hoops that are boasting colour, fabric and spikes, as well as differentiating in shape.

Bohemian

As far as trends go, boho chic has proliferated in recent years and is particularly popular during festival season. Combining organic, colourful and detailed pieces with pieces of simplicity and minimalism creates a bohemian style that is perfect for the glamorous, the fashion-forward and the summer-lovin’ individual.

The boho style is devoted to nature, earth and its elements to its no wonder that many styles of the boho necklace are animal and nature inspired. The elephant is often used on boho accessories because of its symbolism of strength and wisdom, whilst the bird can commonly be found to symbolise free spirit and individualism.

There are many different ways of incorporating bohemian jewellery into your style and the 2019 catwalks embraced the trend with a presentation of diamond encrusted pendants that reflected elements of earth, space and nature. One particularly noticeable element was the flowers of all shapes and sizes that covered the models on the runways. Whether you opt for a delicate pendant or fancy making a bold bohemian statement, this is one ground-breaking trend you can have some fun with this year and the best bit about it is you can never wear too much.

Stacking

The world is finally catching on to Gucci’s more-is-more approach to fashion and jewellery. This season, runway model’s fingers were laden with rings and bracelets that were stacked high. This newest trend in jewellery is getting some major praise from women everywhere. Why? Because it gives you the opportunity to wear all your favourite jewellery at once!

Models were sent down the catwalk with stacks of Alexander McQueen bejewelled bangles adorning their arms and wrists.

Stacking an assortment of stunning statement pieces as well as some plain is the perfect way to create a truly personalised statement whilst incorporating all of your favourite pieces in one go.

Layering

Similar to the stacking of bracelets and rings, layering necklaces is a trend that doesn’t seem to be budging any time soon. Whatever the occasion or outfit, layered necklaces are the best way to effortlessly transform your outfit into something of high-fashion chic. As the catwalks demonstrated, this trend is perfect for the upcoming spring and summer seasons.

The layering of necklaces is a great opportunity for personal expression and allows you to venture into the world of jewellery and to create fashion statements you may never have made before. The most popular and eye-catching way of layering your necklaces is by using chains of a varying length. Begin with a choker necklace and then add two longer necklaces that increase in length to create a timeless elegance with a contemporary twist.

The Year Of Aquamarine

Coloured gemstones are a huge trend for spring 2019, but a particular favourite is the glistening pale blue hues of aquamarine. From pendants to earrings, this pretty gemstone adorns all styles of jewellery elegantly and beautifully.

There is no better way to add some texture and point of interest to you outfit than by adding a beautifully curated stack of pendant necklaces. Artful details can add definition and vibrancy to a plain knit or roll neck. By styling different pendant heights you can create a fashion-forward aesthetic. Don’t be afraid to go OTT with you pendants by pairing a chunky pendant necklace with some contrasting pendant earrings.

Statement Pendant Earrings

Just like hoops, statement earrings are a great form of expression as well as holding the power to transform an outfit. The pendant earring remains a jewellery box staple, but this year it’s been maximised and extended to graze your shoulders.

With London Fashion Week 2019 fast approaching (15 – 19 Feb), it’s time to make our predictions of what we can expect to see on the catwalk.

1. Avoiding Wearing More Than One Bold Colour


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It is a common misconception that you can only wear one bold colour at a time at the risk of visual offence. However, a phenomenon has hit the 2018 runways known as colour blocking, a technique that allows you to go daring with your bold colours and yes, wear them at the same time. Colour blocking is when a garment or outfit is composed of finite blocks of colour. Leading designers have revisited this trend which was hugely popular in the 1960’s and 80’s by adding a modern twist to create unique and exciting styles that have been adopted by high-street retail. It may seem as though it is not the easiest trend to pull off however with a little guidance, you can ditch the old habits of wearing one colour at a time and start colour-blocking.

A top tip when it comes to colour blocking is to wear a belt. The general rule for ladies designer belts this season is the bigger the better. This is perfect when it comes to colour blocking as a thick black or brown belt will neutralise and break up the bold colours, as well as accentuate the waistline.

2. Same Sizing It for Everything


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Sizing can vary dramatically according to the store, brand and item of clothing so it is important that you don’t always go for a set size as this can lead to ill-fitting clothes which is a definite fashion mistake. Cheaper clothing typically fits way bigger so instead of worrying about numbers, it is better to pay attention to how things look on your body. Purchasing clothes that fit a desired weight is also a big mistake when it comes to fashion as aspirational shopping is not only a waste of money, but a waste of space in the wardrobe as the clothes you buy sit unused until you reach your fitness goals. It is much smarter to invest in your new wardrobe once you have reached your fitness goals.

In order to choose the right size, it is always best to try the clothes on when you are in the shop to avoid disappointment when you get home and another trip to return the ill fitted items. Make use of the sizing charts and ignore the tags as this will give you a more accurate size guiding designed to be more personalized to your body shape and size.

3. Believing that Menswear Should be Worn by Just Men


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A trend that has dominated the winter fashion season is the oversized look, whether this be sweatshirts, t-shirts or coats. When looking for oversized items, it is always a good idea to have a look in the mens section as this can often give you the perfect oversized fit that you are looking for.
A classic way to transform menswear into womenswear is by ditching the dress and wearing a men’s shirt as an alternative. This looks super cute with bare legs and some heels to add some femininity to the shirt, whilst still innkeeping with the shirts formal masculinity. Shapeless blazers with large shoulder pads can also very easily transform a boring outfit into something cute and chic perfect for a smart-casual vibe.

4. Low Waist Jeans with Crop Top

A trend from the 90s and 2000s that should most certainly be left there. Crop tops can still be part of the necessity section in the wardrobe, along with low rise jeans however the two should no-longer be paired no matter how much you like your stomach. Pair your crop-top with a high-waisted pair of jeans as this is super flattering for the figure and accentuates your waistline. High-waisted trousers also give the illusion of an elongated lower body tricking the eye into thinking you are taller and slimmer.

5. Different Belt and Shoe Colour

This rule should be taken loosely as it doesn’t always apply. If your belt is neutral coloured such as black or brown, then wear whatever coloured shoe you wish. A black belt with some leopard print boots would work really well together as long as the rest of the outfit remains neutral and black. A bold belt and bold coloured shoes should be avoided as these will clash. When it comes to bold prints it is best to have one piece that is centre of attention, instead of two pieces fighting for attention.

After what felt like an endless summer, the autumn and winter fashion season is well underway. Velvet comes in and out of fashion each winter, but this year it is getting serious.

There are many reasons why you should be loving this classic winter fabric - it can be dressed up, styled down, looks great on accessories and is also perfect for the festive season.

Adding a splash of velvet to your look can instantly transform it and make it feel so much more romantic and glamorous without being too over the top.

For a more casual look, pair the velvet element with trainers, chunky, glamorous jewellery and statement bags.

The material is super cosy and warm, which is perfect for winter.

There are so many ways to style and shop velvet this season, from chic velvet sets to long robes.

Here are some simple ways you can wear the velvet trend this winter.

Rich Colours


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Velvet fashion is perhaps the most elegant and sophisticated when in rich jewel tones, but that isn’t to say that you shouldn’t find some lighter tones which are chic as well!

If you are ever in doubt when it comes to wearing velvet, stick to the deeper and darker shades. They are going to be your safest option if you don’t want to get it wrong.

Black velvet is a classic go-to, but don’t be afraid to play with the jewel tone department - think emerald greens, deep blues and bold reds.

Seek The Smooth Velvet


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It’s very easy to find pieces made from crushed velvet, but you should always be wary. It is easy for even the most expensive designs to look cheap if the velvet is crinkled and ruffled, so look for smooth velvet which speaks to you and your styles.

It is easy to differentiate when you are looking at different velvet designs as the right fabric will feel and look great. By pairing together the right jewel shades with smooth velvet pieces, you will create the perfect basis to start your search.

If you don’t want to add a velvet piece to the main bulk of your wardrobe, take a look at investing in some velvet shoes. They’re sure to add a splash of style to whatever you are wearing.

Add It To Your Professional Wardrobe

Suits or blazers made from plush fabric may sound a little strange, but it can make for a great look. If you opt for a velvet blazer paired with a silk top, then you’ll have two extremely luscious fabrics next to one another, giving a rich and luxurious style.

Velvet fashion is also wearable as other pieces of outerwear. Coats are a great piece to invest in if you don’t want to wear velvet throughout the day and it is one of the most luxurious and striking iterations of velvet you can add to your wardrobe. It’s easy to style, as you can wear it over pretty much any style of outfit without having to worry about it overpowering anything.

Wearing A Velvet Dress

You may find that a velvet dress is one thing you are missing from your wardrobe, especially during the winter.

Velvet dresses are seen at their most feminine when styled on the runway, as they can show just how versatile the fabric can be.

You can go playful and short with dresses which contain velvet ruffles or you can even go more luxurious with velvet making up the body of the dress. Either way, velvet adds so much to even the most standard of dresses which come in similar styles or designs.

If you do wear a velvet dress, let that be the main star of your look. You don’t need to worry too much about accessorising a velvet dress as the fabric speaks for itself. Simply add a pair of complementary shoes, a simple bag and maybe a piece of jewellery and you’re ready to go no matter the time of year.

Accessorise


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Whilst velvet chokers have been in style for a while now, this winter is the perfect time to add to your velvet accessory collection. Velvet scarfs look amazing with even the simplest of outfits, especially if you are looking for ways to stay warm and stylish this winter.

One of the best velvet accessories you will be able to find is a handbag. A lot of the top designers and fashion houses have recently focused a lot of work on velvet handbag designs and styles, so you’re sure to find your dream bag in no time if you have a browse around.

If you don’t want to go that bold, why not start off your velvet collection in the comfort of your own home? There are plenty of women's sleepwear sets that come with velvet styles, so you can see if you like the style and feel of the material before you invest in something a little more daring.

Plus, they’re warm to get cosy in over the winter!

It’s extremely easy to add velvet into your everyday looks, and you’ll find just how well even just a splash of velvet can completely transform your outfit from day to night.

Velvet is a winter trend which everyone should get behind.

Written by Natalie Wilson

Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash

When talking about winter fashion, most of us gravitate to oversized sweaters, thick coats and bulky scarves.

It’s important to have stylish pieces that not only keep you warm, but also express your personality.

With these women’s winter fashion essentials, you can easily go from running errands during the day, to a night on the town without having to stop at home.

The Classic “Little Black Dress”


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Most women have the classic little black dress tucked away in their closet. In the past, this timeless piece was saved for only the most important events. However, in recent years, the 'LBD' has become a more transitional wardrobe staple.

A unique little black dress can take you from the office to an evening soiree effortlessly. While at the office, try wearing a white button down blouse underneath or a bolero jacket over it. Remove the blouse and add jewellery to dress it up for after hours.

Pencil Skirts

Pencil skirts are the perfect way to look polished and put together at the office, but sleek and sexy when out with friends.

I recommend wearing a slim turtleneck with your skirt during the day and adding chic bomber jacket at night. Look for pencil skirts with lace cut-outs or classy embellishments – these additional details will add interest to your garment and make your overall outfit 'pop'.

A Silk Blouse

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Silk blouses work at the office, on a date, at happy hour, and even at a Christmas party.

Just like the pencil skirt, a silk blouse masters the ability to make polished look sexy.

Keep it professional by wearing a tailored blazer to the office. At night, throw on a leather jacket to take the blouse from professional to flirty. Top it off with a pair of studded heels for the perfect combination of chic and edgy.

The Jacket

 
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Everyone has their winter coat, but the key to women’s winter fashion looks going from day to night is the right jacket.

From bombers to blazers and everything in between, the right jacket can add the perfect amount of flare. Some jackets everyone loves are navy blazers, camo jackets, and moto jackets.

So which jacket style do I recommend? It’s always going to be the jacket you feel most confident in because that’s the jacket that’s going to look best on you.

The Right Accessories

Even the chicest outfit needs a little bit of accessorising. Sometimes, simply adding a necklace or a different handbag is all it takes to go from daytime chic to night-time edge.

Accessorising can be hard. Over accessorise and you could look a little costume-ish, but under accessorise and you’ll look a little bare. Here’s a roundup of the perfect pieces to add, so that you look stylish, classy, and perfectly fashionable.

The Perfect Clutch


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The main difference between daytime and night-time looks is the bag you’re carrying.

During the day you want to keep all your essentials with you: your planner, lipsticks, laptop, tablet, and everything else but the kitchen sink, right? However, at night, you probably only need some lipstick, powder, a mirror, credit cards, and cash. Carrying less means you don’t need a large purse.

A clutch is the perfect size to hold all your night-time essentials while keeping the focus on your outfit. Swap out your daytime work tote for a smaller bag like this classic clutch.

Statement Jewellery

 
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During the day, you want to keep your look focused on the business. This means you don’t want people distracted by your outfit. So, when the sun goes down, that means it’s time to play.

Swap out your simple pearls or studs for some eye-catching statement earrings. These look great with your unique 'LBD' or your silk blouse.

Jewellery is a quick, time saver when you’re trying to go from the office to happy hour.

Scarves And Wraps

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It’s cold outside and you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. In fact, scarves and wraps encourage style. You’ll love the way your jacket pairs with a cashmere or infinity scarf. Wrap yourself in soft cashmere for warmth, style, and comfort.

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to choose dark colours. Don’t let the world forget about colour with winter styling.

Printed silk scarfs can add both colour and intrigue to an otherwise plain outfit. Don’t be afraid to switch out your daytime scarf for a fun night-time scarf.

Women’s winter fashion looks are loaded with ways to keep your spirits high even when the temperatures are low. Stay warm and happy shopping!

Written by Tess DiNapoli