Vodafone London Fashion Weekend

Not only was the idea to create a consumer fashion weekend genius, but the invention of a mulberry tote bag as ‘the show bag’ was just brilliant! Now I have my very own mulberry.

After spending a day of essentially feeling like a VIP, searching through the discounted designer labels and being made over for free by the Elizabeth Arden Staff – what more could a student want! – I have come away with three current trends I am determined to try out.

'Sergeant Indigo' is the first, with masculine boxy silhouettes and the jumper-shirt combo. I love this outfit to the left here because it teams a masculine coat in that gorgeous indigo colour with a tight fitted womanly dress. The coat actually had a large bow on the back of it too, which almost down plays the masculine side of this outfit. 

‘Lady Brocade’ is the second, highlighting embellishments, exuberant colours and luxurious fabrics. The lace effect on the pencil skirt is very eye catching, but I think what makes this outfit so different is the patterned tights in a gold filligree. It gives the tights an edge that is both unusual but super stylish.

And finally ‘Kitchen Chic’, which stylist Miss Molly is said to have described as “taking everything you wear and putting it on all at once!” This trend incorporates elements of the Sixties with print and colour palette, including acid bright colours and almost continuing the clash of colour trend we have seen in the latter season. The thin belt around the waist is flattering, and teamed with any blouse and high-waisted skirt would make any person look fabulous.

Whilst there were catwalks and shopping galore at the fashion weekend, there were also intimate talks with editors, bloggers and more. I attended a talk with the front cover stylist of Elle magazine and the chief editor to find out about how to front cover is put together. The cover girl is sent a mood board of outfits and ideas for her shoot which he/she is able to choose from - how nice! There was also some gossip on difficult celebrities, the disappearance of Lindsay Lohan during the shoot and the techniques celebrities use to 'get in the zone' - like Lady Gaga blaring her music in the studio! 

Now, we all know we should probably eat rather than spend our food money on the new fashion trends. But my advice would be if you are to spend on an essential from each style, buy an acid bright cardigan, embellished tights, and a military coat or jacket! That way, you can mix and match with other items in your wardrobe too!