The TREND Report: #NYFW AW16: THE Latest Hair TRENDS Straight From the Catwalk!

Aveda #NYFW 2016 Catwalk Hair Trend Report

image

With the dizzying displays and fabulous onslaught of London Fashion Week kicking off I thought I’d bring you the latest hair trends for AW16 straight from Jenny Packham, Public School, Leanne Marshall and Charles Youssef as seen recently on the runways of New York Fashion Week.

Continue reading “The TREND Report: #NYFW AW16: THE Latest Hair TRENDS Straight From the Catwalk!”

Fashion Flash! Topshop & Lavish Alice: The Designer Label Joins Topshop’s High-Street Label!

Lavish Alice and Topshop

LAVISH ALICE COMES TO TOPSHOP!

image

Coming to a Store Near You!

High street giant Topshop welcomes designer label Lavish Alice with open arms.

If you haven’t heard of Lavish Alice before now:

1) you’re going to kick yourself and

2) don’t worry, I’ve got you covered…I’m here with a little FYI on what you’ve been missing out on!

image

Behind the Brand:

Lavish Alice

the best un-kept secret in showbiz!

The label has a diverse mix of pretty, chic and minimal separates combined with some amazing stand-out, edgier, statement pieces.

From accessories to shoes and the classic white shirt done the Lavish Alice way – this label is a one stop shop for every fashionista!

image

Loved by stars like Millie Mackintosh, Michelle Keegan and Fearne Cotton, the Lavish Alice label is expanding its brand leading to concession status within high street stores such as Topshop, and within some big department stores.

The LA label is also in demand with independent retailers such as ASOS and Very to mention but a few!

Feast Your Eyes on This!

Some examples of why I love Lavish Alice below! Classics get a modern twist, à la long, sleeveless blazers, caped blazers and lightly embellished white shirts. Reason enough for me to “lavish” praise upon the brand! (See what I did there?!) Am I right?

image

image

imageimage

Recently the brand has announced that they are now conveniently available on the high street in selected Topshop stores! Get ready to swoon guys…

image

The Lavish Alice collaboration with Lyndsey Lohancatwalk showcase in London:

image

The famed statement piece that is the Caped Blazer (a fave of mine!), gets the Lohan treatment and is emblazoned with stripes and colour. Gorgeous. Just one of the key pieces from this fresh and hip collaboration.

The List:

IRELAND:

Topshop DublinSt. Stephens Green store.

Topshop UK:

London: Oxford Circus.
Manchester: Arndale.
Liverpool: One.
Newcastle: Eldon Square.
York: Coppergate.
Cardiff: Queens Square
Lakeside
Glasgow: Argyle

image

Oh and P.S. A recently released preview from the label has hinted at new “intimates” launching soon.

Have you heard of Lavish Alice before or have I awakened a curiosity that needs to be scratched?!

Any favourite pieces from the collection? I’d love to know! 

Lavish Alice is also available in Ireland at Belle Boutique on-line or in-store, in Sutton, Dublin 13.
And online at:
Memories Boutique &
LavishAlice.com – see website for other retailer/stockists.

Thanks for stopping by everyone. I hope you found this “Fashion Flash” post useful! #fashflash

Gail. Xx

Photo credit: Lavish Alice & Topshop.

The “EMERGENCE” Exhibition Launch & Fashion Show! Irish Designers in: Clothing, Jewellery & Millinery Design!

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Irish Design The Gaslamp Gallery Gorey Co. Wexford

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Invitation

A Celebration of Irish Designers!

A few weeks ago I received a delightful invitation to an exclusive fashion event. An exhibition launch dubbed “Emergence” built around the idea to showcase emerging talent in Irish Design within Gorey’s fashion hub.

A chance for four designers of clothing, jewellery and millinery, to showcase their creative talent and latest collections for Fall/Winter 2015. I had been looking forward to this event for a while now, so I packed my bags and went along to the event last Thursday!

The Location:

The Gaslamp Gallery, Esmonde Street Gorey, Co. Wexford

Esmonde Street is known to be part of Gorey’s fashion district. The Gaslamp Gallery made for a modern, personalised, bright and airy space perfect for a showcase event, fashion show and to house the “Emergence” Exhibition.

image

image
Gallery owner Claire was a warm, welcoming presence upon my arrival at the gallery on the rain soaked afternoon and was an amazing host for the evening.

The Designers:

image(L-R) Naoimh Prim, Kabira Allain, Amanda Byrne and Áine Breen.

Naoimh PrimNaoimh Prim: Hand Printed Textiles.

Kabira Allain – Fashion Designer and owner of the label KYMAÏA.

Amanda Byrne – milliner and owner Highbury Designs.

Áine Breen- Limu Jewellery.

Each designer is registered with and members of, The Design and Crafts Council of Ireland and their passion and dedication to their craft is apparent in the detail of every piece they create.

image

The Behind the Scenes Access:

The “sunny south east” of Ireland obviously didn’t get the memo that I would be in town and I arrived in the afternoon off the train from Dublin to a rainy, cool and breezy “summer’s” day.

The Gaslamp Gallery was a hub of activity upon my arrival. I met with the designers, chatted a little, snapped some sneak peek shots of the collections, updated social media and then rolled up my sleeves to freshen up the hats from Highbury Designs to give a helping hand.

Highbury Designs Millinery Irish Design - Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015

I have a real appreciation in seeing “the behind the scenes” at an event, it’s always so interesting to see the last minute details come together. From steaming garments to making sure hair and makeup is running on time and the photographer is getting the shots he wants, seeing everything fall into place before any event, especially a fashion event – is very satisfying to witness as a Fashion Blogger.

image

image

image

I couldn’t resist snapping this hat/jumpsuit combo. Hat – Highbury Designs.

This look stole my heart! The handmade, handstiched hat, adds a showstopping element to the exquisite jumpsuit and the simple, complimentary colour scheme makes this a versatile look – a modern, sophisticated take on separates resulting in a winning combination. A stand out look for me and one I would totally sport to a myriad of events and occasions!

image

image

image

imageAmanda Byrne of Highbury Designs.

Up Close and Personal with Liwu Jewellery:

Liwu Jewellery 2015 Collection Irish Designer - Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Liwu Jewellery 2015 Collection Irish Designer - Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Liwu Jewellery 2015 Collection Irish Designer - Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Liwu Jewellery 2015 Collection Irish Designer - Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

A stunningly crafted collection with different meanings behind each of the designs, such as; “Love – life to the heart, grace to the body.”

Inspired by a trip to Beijing and influenced by Chinese calligraphy and the ancient meaning of the beautiful characters, Áine set about designing a jewellery collection, even the company name Liwu has a meaning – “gift”. I certainly wouldn’t mind receiving anything from this collection as a gift would you?!

The Liwu Jewellery collection is a superb array of super stylish, delicate, yet eye-catching pieces to adorn ourselves with ladies!
#newfave in the jewellery world for me!

Liwu Jewellery 2015 Collection Irish Designer - Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Naoimh Prim: Hand Printed Textiles:

Naoimh Prim: Hand Printed Textiles Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Naoimh Prim: Irish Designer of Hand Printed Textiles Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

An earthy, classic, yet sophisticated collection including snoods, scarves and wraps – here is a closer glimpse at some of these pieces actually being showcased and some possible ways to style them.

I adore the print on these pieces and the colour selection!

Naoimh Prim: Irish Designer of Hand Printed Textiles Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Naoimh Prim: Irish Designer of Hand Printed Textiles Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Naoimh Prim: Irish Designer of Hand Printed Textiles Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Organic jersey cotton, hand printed designs in a myriad of colours and styles.

Naoimh Prim: Hand Printed Textiles Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

KYMAÏA: by Kabira Allain.

KYMAIA fashion label by Kabira Allain - AW2015 Collection Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

KYMAIA fashion label by Kabira Allain - AW2015 Collection Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

This coat is a must have this A/W 2015! Effortlessly stylish, yet will keep you cosy in the depths of the Irish winter.

KYMAIA fashion label by Kabira Allain - AW2015 Collection Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

This dress is another favourite of mine, I adore the modern, egdy addition of leather and the combination of different textures in the piece.

KYMAIA fashion label by Kabira Allain - AW2015 Collection Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

KYMAIA fashion label by Kabira Allain - AW2015 Collection Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

This cape and leather monochrome skirt ensemblé was a favourite amongst the crowd with a number of folks “coo-ing” over it!

What I love about all of the collections from the designers, is that their pieces suit a wide variety of age groups and styles.

Pretty as a Picture!

A journey of inspiration and preparation by the designers, captured and displayed in a unique fashion (pun totally intended!) at the Emergence Exhibition:

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 - Mannequin inspiration and preparation for the designers

Hours of work went into creating this photographic piece by the designers themselves.

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Mannequin - inspiration and preparation for the designers

Behind the scenes the atmosphere was charged and the energy was electrifying, the pace high octane and there was a buzz of excitement that intensified with every tick of the clock

After all of that, I freshened up and got myself ready for the event.

Gaslamp Gallery Gorey Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015

The Event:

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Irish Design Gaslamp Gallery Gorey - Prosecco Reception

Guests were greeted with Prosecco on arrival accompanied by an Artisan cheese reception. Mint and blueberry water was also available and after a well deserved glass of Prosecco it was the infused water that became my drink of choice. Delicious!

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey - Irish Design

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey Irish Design

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey Irish Design

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey Irish Design

The gallery was soon packed to capacity with a guest list that boasted some of Ireland’s most influential faces in fashion, art, craft, business and entrepreneurship, with local support in abundance.

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey - Influential attendees including Eddie Shanahan

The footfall was astounding for a first time “collective” showcase by the “emerging” Irish Designers and even on a soggy evening, the queue to get in was out the door!

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

The Showcase:

The fashion show went down a storm and many pieces were met with appreciative nods from the attendees.

Here are some of my favourite looks from the fashion show!

Liwu Jewellery kicked off the show.

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Liwu Jewellery

The “Three Lucky Stars” long chain necklace (pictured above) – worn with outfit from fellow “emerging” designer Kabira Allain of KYMAÏA designs. All other jewellery: Liwu Jewellery.

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show KYMAIA fashion label - Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Caped monochrome ensemble from KYMAÏA.

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Hat by Highbury Designs.

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

The pops of mustard are the perfect “pick me up” for winter in the KYMAÏA A/W 2015 collection.

image

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

The blue scarf and creamy coloured cape are a must have for me…yep, I’m currently lusting after them!

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Fashion Show Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

In the Frame! The designers and I “framing” our memories of the night.

The Outfit:

I opted for a chic, monochrome ensemblé, featuring a romantic touch with a white broderie anglaise top and added a lightweight leather jacket to give my outfit a little edge. A long, delicate pearl necklace, statement pearl bracelet, black skinny jeans, nude and black strappy wedge heels, red nail polish and a flash of silver to my bag completed the look.

Gail O'Connor Writer and Fashion Blogger at GlamForce blog - What I Wore Emergence Exhibition Launch 2015 Gaslamp Gallery Gorey

I was “Live Tweeting” the event and Xposé Magazine showed their support for the designers and the event on the Twitter machine by re-tweeting my coverage of the event!
Totally unexpected but sincerely appreciated.
Absolute dolls the lot of you!

The powers that be at Xposé HQ have even given the Emergence Exhibition some coverage in the A-Listings Section of this month’s edition which is on shelves now!
image

The event eventually wound down and the attendees dwindled until it was time to celebrate the evening in a local pub, a chance for the designers, to actually comprehend the success of the event and the fact that they have successfully “Emerged” into the psyche and onto the radar of fashion lovers everywhere in the world of Irish Design and beyond.

Admittedly, I did do a little PR for the event but it was the designers themselves and Claire, owner of The Gaslamp Gallery who worked non-stop to pull off such an amazing event. Hard workers and talented…hats off to you ladies! (I’m full of the fashion puns today!)

This was my first “out of county” event invitation and here’s to more events like this. I’d so much fun covering this fashion event!

Emergence Exhibition at The Gaslamp Gallery:

The exhibition has been extended by special request and is now running from July 17-29th 2015 at the Gaslamp Gallery, Gorey, Co. Wexford.

image

A huge thank you to the designers Kabira, Amanda, Áine and Naoimh for inviting me to attend the event and to Claire from The Gaslamp Gallery for her hospitality.

If you do attend I’d love to know what you think of the Exhibit so you can:
Leave a comment below or:

Tweet me: @DublinGail 

Tag me on Instagram: @littlegforce or:

Leave a comment on the GlamForce Blog by Gail O’Connor Facebook Page!

As usual thank you so much for stopping by guys!

Gail. Xx

All Photography: © Gail O’Connor.
*Please do not use without permission.

SHOP the Looks:

Liwu Jewellery

Highbury Designs

KYMAÏA by Kabira Allain

Naoimh Prim Hand Printed Textiles

The Gaslamp Gallery Facebook Page