Brett Heyman discusses how motherhood inspired her to launch her designs.

Known for its unique and whimsical designs in pearlescent materials and glittering confetti, luxury handbag brand Edie Parker has made it to the top of every must-have accessories lust list. When it comes to luxury bags, it’s almost always the stalwart design houses that dominate the landscape. This was until very recently, when Brett Heyman added Edie Parker to the accessories world, making formal clutches a lot more interesting and modern.

Brett is the brains behind the cult line of mid-century-inspired, acrylic creations that come in technicolour palettes and are made for fashion magpies. But would you expect anything less from the girl who trained alongside Nina Garcia and whose former life was overseeing the accessories department at Dolce & Gabbana together with being Gucci’s director of public relations. Named after her daughter, Edie Parker Heyman, the hand-made minaudières have a cool 50s and 60s inspiration, and are splashed with colourful marbleised swirls, emblazoned with motifs or personalised phrases and names. The bags may borrow from a vintage aesthetic but the witty slogans and bold use of colour makes them feel playfully modern, garnering an extensive fan base, ranging from the Hollywood elite to fashions glitterati.

Tell us how you conceived the idea of Edie Parker?

It was a combination of ideas. I had been working in fashion PR, covering accessories among other categories, for Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana. It was clear that evening bags were not a priority for anyone, simply miniature versions of best-selling bags. I had collected vintage acrylic clutches from the 1950s and 1960s since I was a teenager, and every time I wore one someone asked me about it. When I had my first child, I felt it was time to work for myself. So the combination of the hole in the market, my love for these old bags and timing led me to launch the brand.

You named your company after your daughter, did you have other names in mind or was it always clear that this would be the brands name?

It’s very hard to name a brand! My name is quite masculine so that never made sense. I thought of other names but nothing felt right. I had just thought for nine months about naming a child so I was really in love with the name Edie. But at the same time, I thought the name was evocative of stylish Edie’s throughout history including Bouvier Beale and Sedgwick.

How have you found the transition from being an employee at a company to being an entrepreneur at the helm of your own business?

Like everything, there are positives and negatives. I love having the flexibility of owning a company and I love creating a culture of which I am very proud. But, when you are in charge, you never shut off your work. I am constantly thinking about it, worried about it, wanting to do better. It’s more nerve wracking!

How has Edie Parker evolved since its launch?

I am very proud of how we have grown. We feel no pressure to do everything all at once. We wanted to make the best clutches, the best evening bags in the market before we expanded. As we now expand our breadth of handbags and launch other categories, I feel comfortable that we are doing so when the timing is right, when we can handle research and development, design and production. I think our customer is ready for a day bag, a set of coasters for a gift, jewellery, and eyewear.

What do you feel has been key to the growth and success of your brand?

We have been very lucky. We found a niche and we really stuck to it. We offered the customer something that she truly couldn’t find anywhere else.

What has been the most valuable business advice that you have received?

Be nice to everyone.

What made you gravitate towards acrylic materials and sparkling confetti?

Acrylic I love for its versatility and durability. It’s smooth and I think very sexy. And as for confetti, I am a person who believes if you put enough sparkle on the outside, some is bound to make you sparkle on the inside.

For a long time, acrylic materials were not considered luxurious. How have you made this perception change?

Not all acrylic is created equally. Some acrylic, like what you find in a make-up compact, is not as luxurious. It’s pumped through a mould and has limited colours and finishes. We use flat sheets of acrylic. We colour match them, make different textures, pearlescent, marbleised, confetti, and nothing ever gets pumped through a mould. It’s an expensive, unique material.

How do you decide on the theme of your collections?

There is usually a modern art reference to begin and it evolves from there. It’s never that esoteric, spring collections are very light and fall collections are the opposite.

You’re known for your fun and quirky personalised words on your clutches. What word sums you up and makes you smile?

Happy. It’s our best seller every season.

Do you remember the first bag you personalised?

Of course! It was Lizzie, a gift for my friend on her fortieth birthday. Then Giovanna, Anna and Eugenie, for Ms. Battaglia, Ms. Dello Russo and Ms. Niarchos.

Can we look forward to a line of clutches aimed towards the Middle East and the Arabic language?

Definitely! We have been making them to order since we launched the program, but I would love to do a collection of popular Arabic words.

Do you have a ‘go to’ everyday bag? After all, clutches can’t hold everything!

You are correct! Until we make the perfect day bag, I use the Hermes reversible tote. Two bags in one.

What essentials do you keep in your bag?

Nothing strange. Phone, keys, wallet, sunglasses, make-up, tissues, hand sanitiser and eye drops. For evening just a phone, an eyeliner, lip-gloss, credit card and a tissue.

What is the best fashion advice you have received?

Wear what makes you comfortable, not what is on trend.

What can we look forward to seeing next from the Edie Parker brand?

So much! In the short term, day bags, new material bags, an expanded home accessories collection, jewellery and hopefully eyewear soon!

By Eliza Scarborough

Amal Al Mulla, is a Ready-to-Wear label that focuses on bridging the gap between luxury clothing and contemporary fashion. Launched in 2013, the fashion label was created by designer Amal. The timeless yet innovative designs convey the designer’s aesthetic of consistency in contrast, leading the collections to definitive silhouettes that evolve within opposites that attract. Born and raised in Bahrain, Amal has become one of the most prominent emerging designers in the Middle East, overseeing every detail, cut and texture of her designs.

What inspired you to become a designer?

Though my love for fashion began in my high school years, living between my grandmother and my mother who I’ve watched style themselves impeccably and effortlessly over the years, I grew up knowing I wanted to dive into the fashion industry. I come from a family of designers, as my grandparents were shoe designers, therefore I was exposed to the industry at a young age and design has always been embedded in me. Creativity grows inside me and designing is a method for me to mould my ideas into reality.

Tell us more about your brand identity?

Amal Al Mulla is a Ready-to-Wear label based in Bahrain with the idea of bridging that missing gap between luxury clothing and contemporary fashion, by creating timeless and innovative designs that have that exclusive luxury feel, yet are modernised in ways so that the wearer can pick up a piece and completely make it their own to suit the modern woman of today’s world. We focus on our primary aesthetic of experimental contrast, finding structure in fluidity, textures in transparencies, and details that exude flawless and refined creations, while conveying an imaginative inspiration and a story behind each piece. Inspirations behind our collections are drawn from two main elements, nature and the idea of escapism, walking a fine line between everyday reality and a dream.

Do you have a style muse who you would love to see in your designs?

I like to think of the type of woman I’m drawn towards designing for, rather than an actual person. My perfect muse would be described as a woman who embraces all that she is, perfect and imperfect, knowing that is exactly what makes her whole. She’s confident, she’s beautiful, she’s fragile, she’s strong, she’s sensitive, and those are the women who I keep in mind when designing, she’s not about an age, or what she does in life, she’s about feeling good, not being afraid to stand out by celebrating her own individuality and by being completely and truly herself.

What is your design process?

The design process is an extensive and intricate process. It’s a very organic process, starting off with a lot of research, inspiration of what I want the next collection to be, fabric selection, sketching the illustrations, creation of a moodboard in which I pinpoint what I discover I am drawn to the most, then the sampling process begins. The sampling stage is essential because I see my designs come to life and I can ensure my designs are executed to perfection. Once the sample stage is finished, the final piece is completed. I ensure to create a cohesive collection that includes dresses, tops, and skirts that can be easily mixed and matched.

Launching a small business has it pressures, especially because you must focus on all areas of business. Tell us about your day to day routine?

There’s never a routine to follow, and I think that’s the most exciting part working in a creative field. It changes everyday and you never really know what to expect. There are days where we are just at the office focused on upcoming collections, brainstorming, working on the design process. Other days are dedicated to production, and some days we spend in meetings, focusing on marketing and the logistics of it all, or are on set for photo-shoots. I think creativity and inspiration needs constant movement and shifts, and routine for me is what limits that. Our days are constantly changing, and that’s the beauty of it.

What is your inspiration behind your designs?

Inspiration is derived from a point of escaping from a particular storyline or scenario in my head. Inspiration also comes from the research process, from trend forecasting to colour forecasting, as well as traveling, reading quotes and listening to songs with meaningful lyrics. I’m constantly inspired by my surroundings as well as the women I grew up with such as my grandmother and mother.

What types of fabrics and colour palettes do you like to work with?

I love working with contrasting fabrics and I incorporate them in each piece. From layering organza to matching see-through fabrics with stiff fabrics, I always search for these elements in the fabrics I work with. In terms of colour palette, I like to stick to neutral shades with a soft pop of colour to maintain the cohesiveness of the brand.

If you could collaborate with any designer, who would it be?

I’ve always loved and respected the work of Joseph Delpozo. He has a mind that surprises you with every story and collection he showcases each season, and that’s what intrigues me so much working in this field. The ideas and emotions and feelings that are interpreted from a thought into a whole collection is beautiful, and Joseph is definitely a designer I’d love to learn from and work with in that perspective.

How would you describe your own personal style?

Simple, monochromatic and minimal.

What is your everyday uniform?

Comfort. I love the idea of casual sophistication. Having to always run around and be at so many different places in a day for work, doing so many different things makes comfort key. I’ll always be seen in oversized crisp white shirts and jeans, less to me is always more.

What would you suggest are the key pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe?

A modern black dress that you can dress up or down for any occasion, a classic white shirt, a pair of skinny denims, nude flats and an everyday pair of sunglasses.

What is on your wish list for the new season?

A velvet filled wardrobe, flared pants and mules, I’ve been eyeing the Mari Giudicelli ‘Leblon’ mules, as well as the Mansur Gavriel bucket bag for fall.

What sets Amal Al Mulla apart from other designers?

I strive to select the most exclusive and unusual fabrics, and experiment with these fabrics. I create juxtaposition between softness and stiffness, or even between masculinity and femininity. Most importantly, I design wearable clothing with high-end quality and a hint of contemporary and luxury fabrics. An exceptional aspect of the brand is that there is a storyline behind each collection. Each piece evokes an emotion and could have a positive effect on the customer wearing it.

Typography and the Arabic font are at the forefront of Nadine Kanso’s creative outlook. After gaining two degrees from the Lebanese American University, Communication Arts and Advertising Design, the foundation was laid for her work in design and photography today. It all started in 2006 when Nadine exhibited some photographs at the V&A museum in London for a group show, Arabize Me, and her perspective was soon coveted for its contemporary view on Arab life and culture.

Her jewellery line, Bil Arabi formed just as organically, starting with one ring, which was promptly ordered to be sold at boutique store S*uce by her friend Zayan Ghandour. Nadine’s personal style can be best summed up as a collage, similar to her photography and jewellery design. Simple components are layered together with a few contrasting pieces. All interlinking for a cohesive story, but with a standout element, such as a statement bag when it comes to her wardrobe.

This cow ornament was gifted to me by a friend of mine, it is called the ‘Super Cow’. She gave it to me at the time that I was setting up my business as she realised that I was juggling a lot at the same time!

These radios were bought as part of a display that I was doing in Abu Dhabi for Formula 1, and my jewellery was presented on them in boxes. Because of the nature of the event, the people that would visit the display in the VIP lounge were rock stars and singers, including Kylie Minogue and Eve, so I felt that it related to them and was a curated way of showing the jewellery collection.

I bought this Valentino feather bag back in Milan a few years ago. It is a piece that I use for special occasions as it is quite sensitive, so doesn’t come out of the closet much.

These are pieces from my Bil Arabi collection. I don’t often design brooches, however I thought that this stone would look cool in a brooch so I wanted to experiment. It says love on it, which is a word I use a lot in both my jewellery and photography work. The earrings have the initials of my two boys and the two top stones are actually extra stones from a bracelet I own that was too large. The ring is made up of my initial N, repeated 4 times to create a pattern. Finally, the necklace is made of a hand carved turquoise, which was one of the first stones I bought ten years ago and kept for myself.

I recently got this Prada bag, which is from their current AW collection. It has a geometric shape which I relate to, and I am currently using it regularly as a day bag. The Hermes clutch is an evening bag which I have had for a long time and matches with most items in my wardrobe, making it a staple in my wardrobe.

When it comes to footwear I love a statement shoe. Starting with the Fendi monster boots, I first fell for these when I saw them on Instagram and instantly knew I needed them for the winter. The Sophia Webster sandals were love at first sight back in Milan, as I am a huge fan of neon, and the Prada shoes were actually a runway style that I always had my eye on, but couldn’t track down. Then when they opened their store in Dubai, it wasn’t until my second visit that I spotted them on a top shelf and instantly bought them. These are a pair of shoes that I will keep forever, even as piece of art.

I love Valentino and it is a label that I regularly wear. These pieces are both items that I wear on a day to day basis. The jacket, with its intricate beading, is actually a favourite for travelling.

This Sarah’s Bag clutch is really cool and I love the fact that it is a chill pill. It is a bag that I will eventually keep somewhere in the house because of its acrylic design.

When it comes to fragrances I tend to choose scents which can’t be found everywhere. I prefer combinations which aren’t as typical to the region. The Acqua di Parma is like water, I always have it around and spray it at night as it is very refreshing.

The fashion community has a clear split into tribes of fashionistas, and illustrator Julie Houts together with Stylebop have helped identify them. From the the Peacock who has invitations to every show and dresses accordingly, causing more interest than the actual fashion shows she is in attendance of, to the impeccably dressed and incredibly stylish Luxurious Spartan, we get familiar with the front row regulars.

The Peacock

The main focus of this stylish fashionista is to get photographed by the banks of street style photographers. For her, the action is not watching the new collections getting presented on the catwalk, it is her own catwalk outside the showspace.

The Designer

This is the real star of fashion week, creating masterpieces which will influence yet another season of trends. However, they tend to be more shy and retiring, pouring all of their creative energy into the task in hand, then again this is the busiest and most intense time of the season for them.

The Luxurious Spartan

With a modern, elegant style and a carefully curated wardrobe, she is always immaculately put together in a more relaxed sense. Her wardrobe may be full of 75 variations of the white shirt, however this is part of her style uniform and they will always be from brands as equally cool and stylish as herself.

The Journalist

Fashion week is the most hectic time of year, making this a key period of time with deadlines stacking up and a packed diary of shows, events and interviews. Being more behind the scenes her wardrobe consists of practical pieces that will carry her from dawn right through, there is no time for constant changing between shows.

Prada’s latest pretty pieces includes accessorising your accessories.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: White and black shoulder strap, Bibliothèque bag, white and black trick on bag, black lace-up.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Stone grey, cloudy grey and black Arcade bag, white and black earrings, black Arcade bag, Chrome sandal.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Platinum and pink lace up, embellished bag with key and moon tricks, Begonia pink and black trick.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Red and white shoulder bag, black brooch, cherry sandal, black, red and white shoulder bag.

Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

Photographer : Henry Pascual

Alessandro Michele gives a traditional British aesthetic an eccentric quirky charm.

Wool tartan dress with leopard patch, Red croco clutch with snake, Black Dionynsus handbag with studs, White Queercore heels

LEFT IMAGE: New Flora printed jacket and skirt, Blue bag with patches, Blue Queercore heels

RIGHT IMAGE: Flora Snake printed dress, Wangy heels with a hand

Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

Photographer : Henry Pascual

Model : Amy Williams

Location : Tribeca, Dubai

Riccardo Tisci’s love of the contrast between masculine and feminine

Horizon Mini in Beige Pink and Mustard

Horizon Small in Night Blue and Horizon Medium in Caramel Brown

Rider Backpack in Multicolour

Obsedia Backpack and Skate Shoes

Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

Photographer : Henry Pascual

LEFT TO RIGHT: Small Trapeze Shoulder bag in Beige Muticolour Shiny Smooth Calfskin, Medium Classic Shoulder bag in Amber Natural Lizard, Soft Ballerina Pump with Pebble in Nappa Lux Lampskin in Corn

LEFT IMAGE: Left to right: Medium Trotteur bag in Deep Sea Grained Calfskin, Pocket Evening Clutch Cobra in Beige

RIGHT IMAGE: Top to bottom: Mini Belt bag inn White Grained Calfskin, Small Trotteur Shoulder bag in Chestnut Bicolour Glazed Calfskin

Fashion Director: Eliza Scarborough

Photographer: Henry Pascual

Location : The Artisan Dubai

A new standard of luxury since 1966

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

Roma Bag in Intrecciato Karung and Elaphe, Nappa leather details

Medium Tote Bag in Camel Intrecciato Calf, embroidered details

Knot Clutch in New Light Grey Ardoise Nero Intrecciato Ayers Club

All Bottega Veneta

LEFT IMAGE:

Medium Olimpia Soft Crocodile Peacock Intrecciato details

Necklace in Fluorite, Jade, Labradorite, Malachite Paste and Sterling Silver, Yellow Gold Accents

Bracelet in Naturale Multigreen Fluorite, Labradorite, Malachite Paste and Enamel, Sterling Silver, Yellow Gold Accents

RIGHT IMAGE:

Orange Fume Crocodile Piano Bag

All Bottega Veneta

Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

Photographer : Henry Pascual

Location : The Artisan Dubai

Supreme craftsmanship meets style innovation with the sleek City Steamer. The handbag pays homage to House heritage while offering a host of new signature twists, including the engraved padlock and hot-stamped LV Circle. Pair with the Bandoulière strap to instantly customise and add colour to your tote.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Python City Steamer, Red City Steamer with Bandouliere

All Louis Vuitton

LEFT:  City Steamer with Bandeau

RIGHT:  Top to bottom: City Steamer, City Steamer with Bandouliere

All Louis Vuitton

LEFT TO RIGHT: City Steamer, City Steamer Clutch

All Louis Vuitton

LEFT:  City Steamer Mini with Monogram Bandouliere

RIGHT:  City Steamer with Epi Bandouliere

All Louis Vuitton

Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

Photographer : Henry Pascual

Location : Ting Irie, Dubai

The warmth of yellow gold and the arid beauty of flowers made of emeralds, chrysoprase, carnelians or lapis create plant du jour, the cactus. A beautiful yet untouchable blossom.

Cactus de Cartier ring, 18K yellow gold, lapis lazuli, set with diamonds

LEFT: Cactus de Cartier earrings, 18K yellow gold, set with diamonds

RIGHT: Cactus de Cartier necklace, 18K yellow gold, lapis lazuli, set with diamonds

Cactus de Cartier necklace, 18K yellow gold, set with diamonds

LEFT: Cactus de Cartier ring, 18-carat yellow gold, set with 6 brilliant-cut diamonds

RIGHT: Cactus de Cartier ring, 18K yellow gold, set with diamonds

Cactus de Cartier bracelet, 18K yellow gold, lapis lazuli, set with diamonds

Photographer : Lezli and Rose

Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

Hair and Make-up : Julie Read at Carol Hayes

Model : Marizanne at Marilyn Agency

Location : Peninsula Hotel Paris

All Clothing, Basil Soda Autumn Winter RTW

These timepieces wind Bulgari’s hallmarks together, a love of colour, the juxtaposition of materials, innovative artisanal techniques, and a subtle wearability.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Bulgari Watch, 33 mm. Case & Bracelet Steel-gold, Purple dial with Diamonds, Tubogas Watch, 19 mm. Case & Bracelet Steel-gold, Black dial with Diamonds, Diva’s Dream Watch, 37mm. Brass gilt case, Satin Technologic Bracelet, with gold and diamond buckle.

All Bulgari

LEFT IMAGE:  From left to right: LVCEA Watch, 33 mm. Case Gold, Mother of pearl dial with diamonds, Purple Alligator Bracelet LVCEA Watch, 33 mm. Case Steel, Purple dial, Purple Alligator Bracelet

RIGHT IMAGE: From left to right:Diagono Magnesium Watch, 42 mm. Chronograph Blue dial, Rubber Bracelet, Diagono Magnesium Watch, 42 mm. Chronograph Red dial, Rubber Bracelet, Special Edition.

All Bulgari

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Octo Watch, 41 mm. Black dial with Diamond Like Coating, Rubber Bracelet, Octo Chronograph Watch, 41 mm. Case Steel-gold, Black dial, Rubber Bracelet, Octo Watch, 40 mm. Case Steel-platinum.

All Bulgari

LEFT IMAGE: From left to right: Octo Middle East Exclusive Watch, 41.5 mm. Stainless Steel Case with transparent Sapphire back, Bulgari Carbon Gold Watch, 40 mm. Case Carbon-Gold, Brown Dial, Calf Leather bracelet

RIGHT IMAGE: From left to right:Serpenti Incantati Watch, 30 mm. Case Gold, Satin Technologic bracelet, with Diamonds and Rubellites , Serpenti Head Over Tail Watch, 26 mm. Case Gold, Black dial, Gold Bracelet with Coral and Onyx.

All Bulgari

Fashion Director: Eliza Scarborough

Photographer: Henry Pascual

The Château de Versailles, the icon of luxury and the French art of living, is a Dior destination par excellence, and also the starting point for the high jewellery collection by Victoire de Castellane. Earrings evoke curtain tiebacks in the royal apartments, while a diamond drop is reminiscent of a crystal tassel from a chandelier.

Boiserie bracelet and ring

All by Dior à Versailles High Jewellery

LEFT:  Cour De Marbre necklace and bracelet

RIGHT: Salon De Diane bracelet, Salon De Mars earrings

All by Dior à Versailles High Jewellery

LEFT: Salon De Venus ring

RIGHT: Boiserie Diamant earrings

All by Dior à Versailles High Jewellery

LEFT: Boiserie Saphir ring

RIGHT: Galerie Des Glaces necklace

All by Dior à Versailles High Jewellery

Boiserie Saphir bracelet and earrings

All by Dior à Versailles High Jewellery

Photographer : Jeremy Zaessinger

Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

Hair Stylist : Muriel Vancauwen at B Agency

Make-up Artist : Corinne Gues at B Agency

Model : Ines Garcia at Marilyn

Location : Dior Salon, Paris

Dolce & Gabbana’s world of fantasy

Dolce box bag in astrakhan and leather with military details.

Suede Mary Janes with military details.

LEFT: Medium Sicily bag in Dauphine leather with appliques.

RIGHT:  Glitter Mary Janes with fur and appliques.

Fashion Director: Eliza Scarborough

Photographer: Lezli and Rose

For more than 230 years Chaumet’s excellence in High Jewellery has been bequeathed from one master jeweller to another. Diamonds and precious stones are carefully selected for their exceptional purity and sparkle.

Pastel de Fleurs necklace in white gold set with diamonds and coloured sapphires

LEFT: Lumières d’Eau tiara in platinum set with brilliant-cut diamonds

RIGHT:  La Nature de Chaumet, Etoiles Boréales transformable necklace in white and yellow gold set with black opals, Paraiba tourmalines and coloured sapphires

LEFT: Hortensia Voie Lactée brooch and ring in white gold set with diamonds, white chalcedony, round and marquise-cut sapphires

RIGHT:  Pastel de Fleurs earrings and ring in white gold set with diamonds and coloured sapphires

Hortensia Voie Lactée earrings in white gold set with diamonds, white chalcedony, round and marquise-cut sapphires and Voie Lactée necklace in platinum with diamonds and sapphires

LEFT: Lumières d’Eau necklace and bracelet in white gold set with diamonds, violet sapphires and cabochon-cut white opals

RIGHT: Lumières d’Eau ring and earrings in white gold set with diamonds, violet sapphires and cabochon-cut white opals

Photographer : Jeremy Zaessinger

Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

Makeup Artist : Meyloo at B-Agency

Hair Stylist : Audrey Lambert at B-Agency

Manicurist : Charlène Coquard

Model : Johanna Szikszai

Location : La Reserve, Paris

Clothing : By Symphony

  Paper Calfskin Dress, Twist MM, Corcovado Flat Derby.

  All Louis Vuitton

  LEFT:  Dress, Rings, Petite Malle Sequins Python Clutch.

  RIGHT:  Jumpsuit and Bandeau Top, City Steamer MM.

  All Louis Vuitton

  Dress, Rings, Deep Sea Ankle Boots. All Louis Vuitton

  LEFT:  Jumpsuit, Print top, Rings, Bahia Brazil Flat Sandals.

  RIGHT:  Suede Lambskin Dress, Rings.

  All Louis Vuitton

  LEFT:  Oversized Cashmere, Interlock Cotton Jersey Dress,Rings.

  RIGHT:  Dress, One Handle Bag, Bahia Brazil Flat Sandal.

  All Louis Vuitton

  Photographer : Lezli and Rose

  Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

  Hair and Make-up : Julie Read at Carol Hayes Management

  Model : Semka Semenchenko at Select

  Location : Repton Boys Club, London

  A refined and luxury spin on sports casual

  Lacoste LIVE Dress

  LEFT: LIVE T-shirt, LIVE Trousers, LIVE Box Bag

  RIGHT: Paulina: Dress, Satchel Bag / Camel: Shirt

  All Lacoste

  Camel: LIVE Jacket, LIVE Sweatshirt / Paulina: LIVE Dress

  All Lacoste

  LEFT:  Paulina: Jacket,Poloshirt,Trousers,Bucket Bag,Carnaby shoes,/ Camel: Shirt, Trousers, Straightset Chukka shoes

  RIGHT:  Sweater, LIVE Trousers, Deston shoes

  All Lacoste

  LEFT:  Tracksuit, LIVE Trousers

  RIGHT:  Poloshirt, Skirt, Lancelle Slip on shoes

  All Lacoste

  Photographer : Vivienne Balla

  Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

  Hair and Make-up : Annesofie Begtrup

  Model s: Paulina at MMG and Camel at Wilhelmina

  Location : Firebird, Dubai

  Top with orange peplum and trousers, ‘Wild in Dior’ bracelet and necklace. All Dior

  LEFT: Embroidered dress, Sandals

  RIGHT:  Wool coat, Python Diorama

  All Dior

  Embroidered printed dress, Diorever Squad bag. ‘Wild in Dior’ Bracelet. All Dior

  LEFT:  Embroidered top with skirt

  RIGHT:  Top with shirt underneath, Printed trousers, Boots, Wild in Dior’ Bracelet

  All Dior

  LEFT:  Coat dress, Diorever bag

  RIGHT:  Silk dress, Lace up sandals,

  All Dior

  Photographer : Lezli and Rose

  Fashion Director : Eliza Scarborough

  Hair and Make-up : Julie Read at Carol Hayes Management

  Model : Sarah Louise at Models 1

  Location : Brighton Pier

It’s all in the details for the new season fashion trends

FROM LEFT: Saint Laurent Love bag, Gucci GG Marmont bag, Alexander McQueen clock clutch, Chanel plexiglass and golden threads bag

Among the mainstays and cult favourites that we are all familiar with are a crop of young designers making an impact on the fashion industry. Here we have compiled the ten top on-the-rise brands set to be tomorrow’s leaders.

LRS Studio

Designer: Raul Solis

ABOUT: Raul, a designer, artist, and stylist from Mexico, may be an alum of Proenza Schouler’s design team, but his clothes strike a chord all on their own. The pieces articulate the wearable and the conceptual, in a blend of organic and synthetic fabrics. Making refined clothes, with unexpected, dramatic touches, like an extra-long sleeve or ultra-high split.

FOLLOW: @_l_r_s_

Koché

Designer: Christelle Kocher

ABOUT: Couture quality meets normcore at Koché, where Christelle applies the haute techniques she practices at her day job at Maison Lemarié bringing amazing craft to everyday items like hoodies and tee-shirts. Kocher is a second-time LVMH finalist this year.

FOLLOW: @koche_official

Alyx

Designer: Matthew Williams

ABOUT: As a creative director, founder Matthew has played a large part in shaping the visual identities of Kanye West and Lady Gaga, and is now in his third season with luxury basics label Alyx. Named after his young daughter the brand offers graphic tees, biker jackets and flares.

FOLLOW: @alyxstudio

AV Robertson

Designer: Amie Robertson

ABOUT: As a former assistant at Marc Jacobs, Amie scored Katie Grand to style her Fall 2016 collection and had Jacobs seated in her front row. Endorsements aside, her updates to traditional evening staples like suiting stripes and beaded embellishments are noteworthy for their real-world appeal.

FOLLOW: @av_robertson

R13

Designer: Chris Leba

ABOUT: In 2009, Chris launched R13, a cool-girl denim brand, only, not a lot of people knew he was behind it, because until December, he had a full time job as a VP at Ralph Lauren. The debut runway show made an impression with vintage-looking T-shirts, deconstructed jeans and floral maxi dresses with choker necklaces.

FOLLOW: @r13denim

Ground Zero

Designer: Eri and Philip Chu

ABOUT: Founded by brothers Eri and Philip, the brand hails from Hong Kong. With 13 collections currently in its fashion archive, the duo’s signature is a combination of bold street style and more subdued ready to wear, accented by unique graphic prints.

FOLLOW: @ground_zero_official

This is the Uniform

Designer: Jenna Young

ABOUT: UK based Jenna merges youth culture with urban sportswear for a very British collection with a quirky vibe. Sportswear silhouettes are combined with feminine fabrics and lots of handwork. The brand is all about using fabric in a precious way that might not have actually been seen as precious in the first place.

FOLLOW: @thisisnttheuniform

Anna K

Designer: Anna Karenina

ABOUT: Ukrainian designer Anna started in the industry as a fashion model and launched her clothing line when she was just 16. She gained international acclaim with her cheeky slogan t-shirts and her first collection was praised by the editor of Italian Vogue.

FOLLOW: @annakfashion

Area

Designer: Beckett Fogg and Piotrek Panszczyk

ABOUT: Maybe you know their signature, braille-like embossing techniques and Lurex-laced flares. Now it’s time to get on board with the increasingly disco-glam style of dressing proposed by this power pairing, who respectively have runs at Chloé and Calvin Klein on their CVs.

FOLLOW: @areanyc

Aalto

Designer: Tuomas Merikoski

ABOUT: Start with a stark, Scandanavian sensibility and add in street culture and you have Aalto’s graphic creations. An LVMH Prize finalist, Tuomas has been quietly expanding his fashion footprint throughout the past two years.

FOLLOW: @aaltointernational

By Eliza Scarborough

As demands on fashion houses increase, designers are forced into an elaborate dance, as creative directors swap places at an accelerated pace, at the whim of an increasingly discerning market.

There’s more pressure than ever on designers, and the pace at which trends and styles change is faster than ever. There’s certainly an internet component to that, for which we can thank social media. Now a label has to create buzz, season after season, line after line, and that can’t possibly be sustainable for more than just a few years. It is surely a result of this that makes these moves par for the course in the industry, where the standard three-year contracts have allowed designers to move more freely between roles. While Marc Jacobs spent 16 years at Louis Vuitton, and John Galliano spent 15 years at Dior, the tenures have now shortened as designers and executives alike have begun to question the practicality, and sustainability, of the current fashion system.

Alexander Wang is said to have started the game when he did not renew his contract with Balenciaga last July. He is now focusing on his own brand after 3 years at the French fashion house. Demna Gvasalia, the designer of new cult label Vetements with previous experience at Maison Martin Margiela, has taken over at Balenciaga following Wang’s departure. This was followed by shock departures at Christian Dior and Lanvin. Six days after it was announced that the designer Raf Simons was leaving Christian Dior, and weeks after Alexander Wang’s last show for the house of Balenciaga, Lanvin, the oldest surviving French fashion house, announced the somewhat sudden removal of its creative director, Alber Elbaz. The swift departure, just a few months before the Fall Winter collection season was to start, was followed with the appointment of Bouchra Jarrar as creative director. Jarrar is a less known designer, save for that she is a couture designer based in Paris, and of Moroccan descent. Unlike Wang and Simons, both of whom lasted approximately three years at Balenciaga and Dior respectively, Elbaz had been at Lanvin since 2001. He single-handedly revived the brand, making it a fashion favourite, both on and off the red carpet.

In the wake of these movements, it was Hedi Slimane next, who in March parted ways with Saint Laurent after a four-year stint. Days later, Anthony Vaccarello, who had been under Donatella Versace’s wing for her Versus line, was appointed to take Slimane’s place as creative director. Then fast forward four months and it was over to Oscar de La Renta, where Creative Director Peter Copping resigned, less than two years after he was officially installed at the family-owned company, whose namesake passed away in October 2014. This came as a huge surprise because the designer was appointed successor by Oscar de la Renta himself to take over after his death. A new creative director has not been named yet, but the house did say that the Spring Summer 17 show will be designed by an in-house team. Also in July Maria Grazia Chiuri was named creative director of the women’s collections at the house of Christian Dior. The former Valentino co-creative director, who spent 17 years with the brand, will be leaving her artistic partner of eight years, Pierpaolo Piccioli, who has now taken the role of sole Creative Director, and will be the first-ever female to be appointed the role at Dior. Her predecessor, Raf Simons, finally put rumours to rest and joined Calvin Klein as Chief Creative Officer of the brand, Francisco Costa and Italo Zucchelli announced their departure  from the helm not too long ago, which means he will oversee all aspects of the brand globally.

By Eliza Scarborough

Vitamin C is a super vitamin that can work wonders on everything from signs of anti-aging to nail growth. Think of it as your skin’s under armour, protecting against sun, stress, pollution and free radicals. Not only does it boost collagen production and reduce inflammation, but it can also help increase the effectiveness of SPF and your skin’s natural UV defences. However, Vitamin C is water-soluble, so your body doesn’t store or accumulate it, meaning a daily intake is important. Vitamin C loses 85% of its potency within an hour of being in contact with air, so if you want to reap the reward of antioxidant-rich products, look for ones that contain ascorbyl palmitate, ferulic acid and Vitamin E, which helps the body better absorb the Vitamin C.

Stronger, longer nails

Vitamin C is an essential part in the body’s ability to produce collagen, a protein that helps support tendons, ligaments, blood vessels and skin, so will strengthen your nails from the inside out.

Lighten up Dark Spots

Dark spots are caused by an increase in melanin that produces pigment in the skin and can be caused by hormones, the sun, or skin rashes. Topical Vitamin C is an effective way to treat hyperpigmentation.

Fight signs of aging

Incorporating a Vitamin C packed product into your skincare line-up can reverse the suns unwanted effects to your complexion. The wonder vitamin is a potent antioxidant and slows the rate of free radical damage that contributes to fine lines and wrinkles as a result of overexposure to the sun.

Lengthen your locks

Vitamin C plays an important part in stimulating hair follicles, which promotes growth. The super vitamin is also necessary for absorbing iron to keep hair strong and healthy and eliminate split ends.

Look and Feel Energised

Lack of iron can lead to fatigue and weakness, and since Vitamin C is linked to how our bodies absorb iron, getting enough of the nutrient will help improve your energy levels.

Erno Laszlo

Luminous Dual Phase Vitamin C Peel

This two-phase regime works to gently polish the surface of your face, evening out tone and boosting collagen renewal to reveal a brighter, glowing complexion.

Natura Bissé 

C+C Vitamin Cream

Natura Bissé’s facial cream benefits both superficially and severely dry skin, thanks to the high concentration of Vitamin C. The elasticity, firmness and overall tone of your skin will be visibly improved.

Youth Corridor   

Ultimate Antioxidant C Boost Serum

Designed by top-ranking plastic surgeon Dr Gerald Imber, Youth Corridor’s lightweight serum is formulated to revamp your skin’s natural rejuvenation process.

Dr Sebagh    

Pure Vitamin C Powder Cream

A shot of energy for your skin, Dr Sebagh’s nourishing set includes five vials of the purest and highest concentration of Vitamin C. The powder cream formula smooths imperfections and dramatically brightens and rejuvenates your skin.

Zelens     

Power C Treatment Drops

Zelens’ potent ‘Power C’ treatment uses Vitamin C blended with antioxidants and plant extracts, to nourish and improve skin’s elasticity, brightening your complexion.

A country house shoe for the landed gentry, or a Norwegian farmer’s favoured style of footwear? Whatever you consider to be the true origins of the contemporary loafer, what’s indisputable is this timeless silhouette’s skilful blend of comfort and flair.

Penny Loafer

The penny loafer is one of the all-time greatest casual classics, almost a century on from its invention. This preppy footwear classic was originally conceived in Norway when a strip of leather was added across the saddle of the shoe with a diamond cut-out detail, which, incidentally, doubled up as the ideal compartment for stashing a dime.

Horsebit

With bluer blood than its brother styles, the horsebit loafer is the definitive dress loafer, and no brand does them better than luxury Italian label Gucci. In 1953 refined style was combined with the company’s saddle-making history, fashioning the first horsebit loafer, an iconic shoe that would soon after skyrocket the brand to stardom. Gucci creative director Alessandro Michele has now given the famous loafer his own spin with fur and prints.

Tassel

The tassel loafer style first came about by an American actor called Paul Lukas, who was well known for his debonair style, and at some point during the 1940s approached several shoemakers, instructing them to design a shoe based on a tasselled Oxford style he’d picked up in Europe. Subtly decorated in comparison to the fairly sober and traditional penny, tassel loafers satisfied mid-century America’s demand for an elegant, dressy shoe design that didn’t sacrifice practicality.

Driving

Though they were originally designed for driving, the driving loafer has evolved to be worn daily as well. Characterised by a flat bottom and grippy rubber studs on the sole, they’re quite possibly the ultimate casual everyday loafer. And the iconic Tod’s Gommino is the archetype.

Slipper

These are a fun shoe, a little dressy and a little dandy. They’re a pair of loafers for the guy who is confident in his style. Despite their quirkiness, this loafer is surprisingly versatile. In prints and finishes which are a little fancier than the average loafer, sartorial caution is thrown to the wind.

Velvet 

The velvet loafer is historically associated with the sitting room and fireplace, but it has become an increasingly common site at black tie events. The velvet finish and embroidery is associated with extravagance, especially since they aren’t ideal for wearing outdoors due to their construction which requires less material than more traditional oxfords, and their fastening, which is non-existent and makes them looser on the foot.

As times change and it becomes socially acceptable to hang out in your gym gear all weekend, whether you are frequenting the gym or not, it is time to rethink your sweats. Here we have edited down the best of workout apparel and accessories guaranteed to keep you looking on trend on relaxed days too.

Best for… Fitness Classes

Intelligent fabrics and dynamic construction are what is paramount for these high intensity work outs. Think co-ordinating bright colours with flyknit trainers, and stand out of the class.

Best for… Free weights

These strongmen generally favour a loose-fitting top and old-school drawstring shorts. Afterwards they’ll throw on a hoodie and sweatpants from reassuringly athletic brands such as Under Armour and Todd Snyder + Champion.

Best for… Cycling

It is all about innovative technology to create performance-enhancing gear in this sport. This sportsman chooses brands such as POC, who collaborate with the world’s foremost sports experts.

Best for… Boxing

It’s all about image and before warming up you will be sporting designer sweats and zoning out with oversized headphones. This Thom Browne tracksuit is just the right mix of retro and sporty.

Best for… Swimming

Swimwear for men is limited, which means that only the best quality will do. Shorts made from featherlight quick-drying stretch-shell and mirrored goggles will elevate your performance and style.

Best for… Running

Steer clear of basic cottons, instead choosing ‘pro’ layers which have sweat wicking properties. Step up your training without compromising on style with athletic wear and sneakers from the world’s best running brands.

By Eliza Scarborough

Pastel caplet dresses blossomed like lavender fields unveiling romantic draping and floral embroidery at Georges Hobeika. The Lebanese couturier playfully paired his Impressionist painted gowns and diaphanous soft-hued harem pants, with striking pumps and magenta lace-up tennis shoes. The palette was a range of hues in emerald green, wine red, azure and purple, crowned with bracelets, earrings and headpieces in intricate designs.

For Bertrand Guyon’s third couture outing, he explored Schiaparelli’s summer 1938 circus show, a collection so iconic he expressed anxiety at the thought of reprising it. The risk paid off, with a collection that was faithful in spirit and silhouette to Schiaparelli’s work. To begin with, the collection was more subdued, with elegant, streamlined, black and midnight blue tailoring and dresses, but still with a nod to Schiaparelli with extreme, built-up shoulder constructions. As the show continued, it was clear that asymmetrical dresses were key to the collection, and circus animals made an appearance through beading and bold hues.

Under the opulent ceilings of the Pavillon Cambon in Paris, New York was the theme for Elie Saab’s new couture collection. Sirens and horns blared on the sound system, and Saab printed a press book with quotes about the city from famous locals and visitors. Gold threads were embroidered, illustrating lit skyscraper windows, and rich burnout velvets framed the curves of the iconic Chrysler building on the skirt of an evening gown. There was a clear influence of 1940s Hollywood glamour, shown in strong shoulder details, nipped-in waists, sweetheart necklines and an occasional peplum. Especially memorable in this collection was the introduction of miniature versions of the Haute Couture gowns, created for the little girls who walked the runway alongside matching looks on the grown-up models.

On the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death, Valentino decided to send out regal looking princesses for an Elizabethan themed show. There were high white ruffs, bodices, frilly necklines, billowing sleeves and old English-style hair and makeup. Historical detailing even ran to the accessories, with ornate jewels and brooches. More centre-stage however was the issue of how the curtain will be brought down on this long and successful design partnership between Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri, following Maria’s 17 years with the brand and 8 in her role as Co-Creative Director.

‘After 25 years of creative partnership and of professional satisfactions we gave ourselves the opportunity of continuing our artistic paths in an individual way with the reciprocal desire of further great achievements.’

Maria Grazia Chiuri & Pierpaolo Piccioli

‘I have shared with Pierpaolo a great part of my professional life and it has been an experience made of many successful creative achievements together. I am ready to embark on a new professional challenge.’

Maria Grazia Chiuri

Big Bang Broderie

The much praised inimitable character and technological excellence of Big Bang have made it the ultimate symbol of fusion. The brand has become the showcase for the run-away creativity that is the essence of Swiss manufacturer Hublot. The two new limited-series Big Bang 41 MM Broderie Sugar Skull and Big Bang 41 MM Broderie, bear witness to this ideology. They blend confident femininity with innovation at its peak.

Classic Fusion Racing Grey

Hublot is releasing its Classic Fusion collection in on-trend yet timeless grey. Less harsh than black, more timeless even than blue, this grey, inherently neutral and universal, reinforces the model’s versatile elegance. The case is available in a choice of 4 dimensions and with three movements, to suit any wrist. This piece suits any style and is as masculine as it is feminine.

LaFerrari Sapphire

While the original design of the MP-05 ‘LaFerrari’ was created to show off the beauty of its movement, its alter ego, with its case carved out of sapphire, is a movement which appears to be literally suspended in mid-air. The three-dimensional construction of the case middle, in sapphire, provides an exceptional setting for the movement. The movement can now be admired from every angle.

Enter the magical world of Dior watches and fine jewellery and discover the diamonds.

Necklaces & rings

By Dior Fine Jewellery

Watches

By Dior Timepieces

Backgammon board, Aspinal of London

Necklaces, bracelets & rings

By Dior Fine Jewellery

Watch

By Dior Timepieces

Necklaces, bracelets & rings

By Dior Fine Jewellery

Backgammon board,

Aspinal of London