London Fashion Week #4 - Highlights of day 3, 4 & 5

I've spent the last couple of days massively procrastinating and watching the shows, flicking through the highlights and reading blogs and now I can't believe its all over already! #LFW 2013 went by in a flash!

 

There's no point in me documenting everything. This isn't a fashion blog after all. And the LFW website is fab at doing that. I did want to pull out a couple of my favourite designers from the last few days though. For me Christopher Kane, Topshop, Mulberry and Temperly are the ones really worth talking about.

I adored the oversized fur at Christopher Kane - easy to throw on and instantly glamorous. Temperley's collection was as classic as ever and I love the wearability of all of the pieces. Some of my faves are below:

Temperley London A/W 2013



Temperley London A/W 2013
 

Temperley London A/W 2013

Temperley London A/W 2013

Temperley London A/W 2013



Temperley London A/W 2013

 

And how could I forget Topshop? Everyone's favourite British high street brand put on a stunner of a show with the as its backdrop Tanks, adjacent to the Tate gallery and a brand new exhibition space. The front row was filled with fixtures such as Olivia Palermo, Kate Bosworth and Demi Lovato and the collection matched the audience. Topshop proves that highstreet can very much do high end.

With a show opened by Cara Delevingne and closed by Jordan Dunn how could it not really? The collection focused on texture; a mix up of different materials and dashes of notable prints. Most notable, though, was the integration (and application) of sequin and sparkle as an embellishment altogether ungirlie. High shine was key, but the assumed glitziness was subdued by way of sharp tailoring, luxe fur add-ons, and masculine outerwear counterparts.

This is a collection that is going to do extremely well!


Topshop Unique A/W 2013

Topshop Unique A/W 2013



Topshop Unique A/W 2013
 

I loved the whole essence of the Mulberry show, from set design to music, clothes to bags to oversized poodle!! The fabrics were stunning and the collection is perfect for the new season. The new Suffolk bag (my home) - reminiscent of a traditional doctors bag and available in white, midnight blue and pheasant green - is stunning and is definitely top of my wish list from the whole of the runway so far. The collection was grown up and luxurious, (although skirts over trousers was a little strange; the season really is returning to the 90s!) epitomising the brand - Emma Hill seems to be going from strength to strength. 

Topshop Unique A/W 2013









Emma Hill takes a snapshot of the Mulberry catwalk

 

 

I'm ready and waiting patiently to see what makes it down to the high street - for me, the true essence of fashion week (at least until I can afford couture anyway!!). 

I lost my heart to Union

While my wrists are normally adorned with festival bands, bracelets and ribbons, I'm not a big jewellery wearer. I struggle to find classic, statement pieces that are timeless yet wearable. Both my 18th and 21st birthdays were spent wandering from Harrods to Harvey Nics to Selfridges trying to find something that jumped out and was special; and that moreover, wasn't Links.
 

These days it is just as much about statement accessories as it is about a killer dress or suit. With seasonal changing trends a piece of jewellery or a statement accessory, that is timeless enough to work across seasons and be simultaneously wearable is a rare find. A few weeks ago, I came across Union. Situated in the Brighton South Lanes, the store is not only filled with incredible pieces, gorgeous accessories and lovely staff but the collection is indeed wearable. And most certainly statement. These are the kind of pieces that would make a Little Black Dress.
 

The shop has been renovated with vintage display cabinets and props and product images are dotted about on the walls. Minimalistic and yet inviting its difficult to know where to look first!

Kansas Short Necklace
Union says: A real statement piece, it combines Miquella's signature silk-wrapped crystal chain and chunky knot design. We love this necklace worn with a T-shirt, skinny jeans and your best leather jacket.

Navajo Violet and Emerald choker
Union says: Hand woven violet, emerald and gold plated galvanised glass bead choker. This colour-popping creation is guaranteed to add glamour to any autumn/winter outfit.

Gina Twist Blue Bracelet
Union says: The Gina Twist Blue cuff screams extravagance and style whether worn on it's own or stacked up with other cuffs. Featuring blue satin cord, 24 carat rose gold plated chain and Bex Rox engraved magnetic clasp.



Pretty Tough Tose Gold Honeycomb cuff
Union says: Pretty Tough honeycomb brass and gold plated cuff. This stunning rose gold plated bracelet is wearable, and effortlessly chic. Whether you are wearing this for a night out, a special occasion or with daywear, you won't need any other accessories! Cuff width is 4 cm and length is 19cm when laid out flat.




Union and their incredible pieces - I really do want them all - were one of the designers  at the Sussex Fashion Soc Charity Fashion Show in November of last year and I could't resist sharing these gorgeous shots with you.

 

 

 

The brand was only established in 2011 and I think it's definitely one to watch! Especially when I finally manage to get away from student budgets and into the 'real' world...

You can see more of the pieces on the Union website - www.unionjewellery.co.uk - or alternatively visit the store on Union Street in the South Lanes, Brighton.