Vivienne Westwood: The Mix

It was the ideal combination: Eccentric British designer + Paris location. Patiently sitting across from Britain’s forever boy wonder, Boy George, I let myself loose from any expectations of what was to come on the catwalk; it is Vivienne Westwood after all. This runway show for Westwood’s Gold Label AW 2011/12 officially entitled “World Wide Woman” really is for the woman who feels on top of the world. From the androgynous work wear to the mix prints, each look depicts the female pioneer. My favourite piece from this collection has to be the eclectic and empowering headwear, ranging from 1950s headscarves à la Grace Kelly and traditional baker boy hats to Native Indian helmets and full face masks. A little OTT for the streets of Manchester? Yep I thought so too, so how about adopting the XL trend, whether its knee high socks, maxi skirts (or even over the knee skirts), and oversized outerwear. A touch of fur for those who often brrrrr and mix prints for those who wish to go to university Westwood style; whether you mix oriental and ethnic prints or even basic prints such as graphics and stripes, this winter it is all about the print block! Already covered with gold, the runway was also bedazzled with sparkle from Westwood’s shoes and one piece ensemble made of gold paillettes. Westwood always did know how to shine! And she did so again with her finale; the final look for this line being a sublime wedding dress with which she even gave the crowd a chance to be ‘next’ when the model bride threw the bouquet. My favourite moment from this catwalk had to be the presence of Vivienne Westwood herself with her diverse mix of looks and models. I hope Ms. Westwood does not mind my personal minor adjustment to the title of this collection from “World Wide Woman” to “World Wide WOMEN”.

Voilà, I present to you my ‘Coups de Coeur’ from this collection:

Post written by Miriam Kildare

Mollie & Loela - Affleck's Palace

Now I'm sure you're all aware of the treasures that Affleck's Palace holds. One in particular is a brand new womenswear boutique situated on the 1st floor called Mollie & Loela. A new project between local fashion labels Mollie Brown and Loela.

You'll find an eclectic collection of dresses, tops, skirts and accessories, all handmade and often handprinted making everything unique.

With prices ranging from £25 for a dress, and £15 for tops and skirts Mollie & Loela offer an affordable alternative to the high street.



Add them on facebook here and write 'uomfashion' as the personal message to be entered into a prize draw to win a £30 voucher to spend in the shop. The draw will be taken on Monday 14th March so get your entries in quick!!

http://www.afflecks.com/our-shops/mollie-loela/
http://loela.bigcartel.com/
http://www.molliebrown.co.uk

Finding Neverland

The Peter Pan collar has hit the high street again after celebrities such as Natalie Portman, Emma Watson, Nicole Richie and Agyness Deyn have worn the trend recently. The collar has rounded edges that meet or overlap and tend to be small.

Named after the Peter Pan story, this collar is proof that we never really want to grow up!



1. Black Daisy Print Peter Pan Collar Shell Top, £32.00 @ Topshop
2. Cream Peter Pan collar top, £29.50 @ Dorothy Perkins
3. Love Label Peter Pan collar lace dress, £38.00 @ Very
4. Peterpan Collar Jersey Dress, £25.00 @ ASOS
5. Spotty Dress, £28.99 @ New Look
6. Leopard Print Peter Pan collar top, £26.99 @ River Island

Post written by @lizdean1989, Liz Dean

Zahair Murad: Prince of Couture

From London to Paris: Sitting on the third row in the Salon Vendôme at the Hôtel Ritz, Paris, the lights go down and Zuhair Murad’s Couture Runway show for S/S 2011 commences. Unlike his minimalist and modern colour palette of white, cream, beige, nude, gold and red, and shorter length gowns seen in his previous couture collections “Romantic Intimacy” A/W 2010 and “Officer’s Muse” S/S 2010, Murad took couture back to the 70s (such as the S/S 2011 Prêt-à-porter lines did with the neon colour palette), with a multicoloured palette and XL floor length gowns. At the same time, Murad took us back much further than the 70s, several centuries in fact, with his elaborate incarnations of Athena, Hera and Theia: Greek Goddesses. I found this to be the theme for his S/S 2011 Couture line entitled “L’Hymne au désert’ which saw jewellery as armour for the body and the dresses themselves, including gold arm bracelets, XL gold wrist cuffs, and jewelled waist belts. Of course, the runway finished with Murad’s signature bridal couture…feel like getting married tomorrow? I do not blame you! If Haute Couture had a royal family, Zuhair Murad would certainly be a prince!

Voilà, I present to you my ‘Coups de Coeur’ from this collection:

Post written by Miriam Kildare

Student writers wanted for MFN

Manchester Fashion Network are looking for student writers to join their Editorial Team. The Manchester Fashion Network is the one-stop portal for the fashion business in the North West, a business-to-business network that spans the region and every corner of the industry. The Editorial Team are responsible for the promotion of the fashion industry within the North West and the interests of the valued MFN members and partner brands. As a member of the Editorial Team you will have exclusive access to some of the region’s top events, meet some of the industry’s most important business leaders and have invaluable experience writing for a respected online news portal.


If you’re interested in finding out more please email the Editor at:

jordan@manchesterfashion.com

MFN is a fantastic website for anyone interested in fashion and especially those who are looking to have a career in the fashion industry. So have a browse!!

http://www.manchesterfashion.com/

The Spring Fashion Show

Hi all! I recently received an email from a group of organisers about a fashion show which I thought would interest you! So here is the info they sent me!

It's an annual show for charity in Manchester with 2011's show on 11th Feb at Bar 38 on Deansgate. You can see the website here with a variety of photos and info about the show http://www.springfashionshow.co.uk

They have previously had a extremely successful Spring Fashion Show in Manchester in 2010 and it's sister show in Leeds, The End of Summer Fashion Show in 2009 & 2010 http://www.endofsummerfashionshow.co.uk

Their previous shows have been a great success gaining attention from a number of editorials and websites, as well as giving the designers and models etc involved in the show experience in the industry and a chance to make those valuable contacts. They have had some great success stories from people who've volunteered in the shows.

The charity they have chosen to support is Unicef, a recognised charity giving support to children all over the world.

The venue of the event will be at Bar 38 in Manchester and not only will there be a show, but there'll be a fashion market open from 5pm with a variety of goodies for sale, ranging from jewelery to clothing to cakes!

Have a look at the Facebook event if you are interested.

This is the video of last years Spring Fashion Show:

Spring Fashion Show - Manchester 2010 Part1 - The Video from victoria rosso on Vimeo.

Body Armour

If, like me, you’re obsessed with armour jewellery at the moment then you need to know about American-born Armor. New York-based designer, Sandee Shin, has created an inspiring range of jewellery that flits between simple minimalism and dramatic, cutting edge fashion. So whatever mood you’re in and whatever look you’re modelling, you are sure to find something for every occasion.



Each creation is handmade to order in New York and shipping is available to the UK. Prices range from around £80 to the slightly pricier, but many of the pieces are multi-functional and can be worn in multiple ways so if you’re strapped for cash, invest in one item and get creative!

Alternatively, Topshop and ASOS have produced some great, cheaper options so there’s no excuse not to don your armour and join the chain gang. Clad your hands in magnificent metal for the perfect way to toughen up your LBD, and add instant edge to your jeans-and-tee combo with detailed shoulder chains.


1. Topshop Armour Ring: £16.00
2. Topshop Armour Ring: £14.00
3. Silver Armour Ring: $65.00
4. ASOS Statement Articulated Metal Ring: £15.00
5. Vivienne Westwood Armour Ring: £150.00
6. Silver Pointy Ring: $50.00


Post written by Jacqui Kearney.

Knock knock, remember us?

It's been a hectic few weeks as I am sure you are all aware of! What with end of year deadlines, christmas shopping and starting the slog that is revision, uomfashion has had to take a backseat!

Just a small post for you today as I know you must get back to the books!

I hope you all had a great christmas and that new years wasn't a big letdown like it usually is! For those of you who also attended Warehouse Project on nye I think it's safe to say it'll be difficult for future new years to match. If you didn't manage to make it to a Warehouse Project this year you may be happy to hear that Ape are throwing a big night at the Apollo and it just happens to coincide with the end of exams. Check out the facebook event if you are interested!

I recently wrote my new years resolutions and decided I was spending too much money on high street clothing. In order to correct this, I've decided that vintage and second hand shops are now the only place I am allowed to shop in for the entirety of 2011. This will inevitably be difficult but I intend to rework some of these clothes a la New Dress A Day. I plan to write up some of these sewing adventures in blog format and I hope that they will inspire you to be creative and make one-off pieces with shapeless things you find in charity shops.

If one of your new year's resolutions is to further your fashion career or do something creative then why not write for our blog? It will look great on your CV (confirmed by Rachel Studd) and it may be an outlet for some ideas you already have but aren't sure what to do with them. Get in touch with us at uomfashion@gmail.com!

Good luck in your exams!

Now wearing: Pretty boring revision outfit livened up with a chunky knit red scarf (bought for mum at christmas but have used more than she has!).

Now listening to: Twin Atlantic - Audience and Audio (current favourite band)

Now coveting: Topshop's SS11 collection after seeing the preview!

Can’t shop? Then swap!

One woman’s trash is another woman’s treasure – there is no greater proof of this than the clothes swap, which in recent years has been sending fashion lovers into a frenzy. On Wednesday, 15th December, Chernobyl Children’s Project are hosting a clothes swap party upstairs in Revolution, Fallowfield in what looks set to be a fantastic afternoon filled with as much fashion, fun and festive frivolity as you can manage.

For the clothes swap virgins, the concept is very simple: turn up to one of our afternoons with garments, shoes, accessories and any other items you no longer wear and you will be given points in exchange, and make a suggested donation of £3.50 for your ticket. The greater the number and quality of the items, the more points you receive. Then come along to the party on the 15th and start rummaging!

If you need a new Christmas outfit, but the loan disappeared long ago, why not swap last year’s sequinned ensemble for a new on-trend lace one? Swap as many items as you can and bag yourself a whole new wardrobe even. There will also be a complimentary nail bar to finish off your new look. And the best bit? Clothes swapping is environmentally friendly, and it’s for a good cause. All proceeds go towards helping to care for children suffering with cancer and other illnesses in Belarus as a result of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Snaps all round.

Exchange items for points upstairs in Revolution, Fallowfield on the following dates: Mon 13th Dec 4.30 – 6.30pm and Tues 14th Dec 5.30- 7.30pm.

Clothes swap party Weds 15th Dec, 3-6pm.

Join the event on Facebook.

Hello Kitty.

The saying ‘what goes around comes around’ could not be more accurate in the world of fashion as the kitten heel claws its way back to the forefront of our shelves. Yes, love them or loathe them the controversial heel is back in time for the festive season... but will they be top of your Christmas wish-list, or would you frankly be happier with a lump of coal?

I have never been a fan of the kitten heel and have long considered them the ugly step-sister of the heel family. Despite being a tall 5’9”, nothing makes me feel instantly more confident and ready for a night out than my highest pair of Kurt Geiger’s. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the stunted kitten heel. On a recent shopping trip to the haven I know I can always rely on, Topshop, my heart sank when I spotted several pairs of the unsightly shoe. I felt so let down and wondered if I’d walked in to Bon Marché by mistake. Even Topshop failed to make them appealing; they just scream ‘middle-aged’ rather than ‘million dollars.’

Considering I have a long list of heel-related injuries (killer heels did not get their name for nothing), the kitten heel would seem a sensible option for me to adopt. Yet the very purpose of a heel is to lengthen legs and define calves and the kitten heel fails on both counts; far from purrfect. Ok, they may be easier to walk in, may halve your number of drunken falls, will more than likely spare you a trip to A&E and may even leave you with a shred of dignity, but where’s the fun in that?!

In spite of my aversion, the 5cm heel has always had its fans since its first appearance in the 1950s. Audrey Hepburn can be noted as the heels greatest ambassador and Michelle Obama has made the kitten heel a staple feature of her look today. With designers Marni, Betty Jackson, and Missoni welcoming the heel back to the catwalk this season, and high street stores following (suitably) in foot; it seems that like it or not, we will be seeing more of the smaller heel around. Even style queen Alexa Chung has been spotted fashioning a pair and if they’re good enough for Alexa...

So, the question is: will you be reviving the heel of the 50’s this winter, or staying loyal to your 5 inch favourites? I know what I’ll be doing.



1. Christian Louboutin Souris Strass 70 Crystal-Embellished Pumps: £1,325
2. ASOS Scarlet Slingback Patent Point Kitten Heels: £30.00
3. Topshop Prim Premium Chain Point Court Shoes: £85.00
4. Zara Leopard Court Shoe: £59.99

Post written by Jacqui Kearney.

Girls With Attitude

Party Season is upon us and what better way to start the celebrations than with exclusive offers to put you in the mood.

Girls with Attitude are offering 25% off your purchases when you spend more than £10 on an order.*



Whether you're looking for some false lashes to glam up your eyes, maybe some pre-decorated fabulous false nails to the finish the look or if you want to do it yourself some stunning nail art, Girls with Attitude have an extensive range of fashion and beauty accessories that are up-to-date, on trend and an everyday essential!



Get ready for all those parties now and get your beauty accessories ready so then you can worry about the outfit later.

Girls with Attitude also offer free UK delivery, so you can’t say fairer than that.


www.girlswithattitude.com @girls_attitude


*For a limited time only.

Get Shirty...

If you’re finding blouses a bit blasé then don’t despair, the retro shirt is making a comeback. Military details and whimsical, vintage prints such as paisley should be at the top of your checklist. For shape it seems there are two routes to take: oversized to bring out your androgynous side or fitted prim and proper for true boardroom chic. OTT sheer fabrics can be tricky to style so for a luxurious edge opt for opaque silks and satins.

On my never ending wish list is this pink silk shirt complete with miniature lightning bolts from Whistles Autumn Winter Collection!



For a slightly more loan-friendly option, Topshop’s cream shirt with gold button detailing (1) would be great teamed with camel skinnies or a high waisted leather A-line. Plus Miu Miu can easily be channelled in French Connection’s stork print number (6).



1. Topshop Gold Button Military Shirt: £32.00
2. ASOS Soft Military Shirt: £26.00
3. Zara Silk Chain Print Shirt: £39.99
4. Reiss Garland Leopard Print Shirt: £110.00
5. ASOS Premium Oversized Placement Shirt: £38.00
6. French Connection Midnight Storks Shirt: £50.00

In true Viktor and Rolf style this exaggerated, oversized Spring Summer 2011 shirt is juuust a step too far for everyday wear but at least we’re reassured that the trend will translate through to next season! So don’t skirt around the issue, get shirty.



Currently wearing: Holey burgundy jumper, tights and chunky socks (cosy)


Currently listening to: The Teenagers – Love No


Currently coveting: Moschino Cheap and Chic fringed leather jacket (if only I had a spare £1,005 lying around)


Want to get involved? Email us at uomfashion@gmail.com

When in doubt...

Now everyone gets a bit of 'block' occasionally; I'm currently suffering from writer's block in the middle of my essay (due in on thursday!). So I sent a message round to the contributors of this blog for their top tips when suffering from fashion block! Hopefully these will give you some ideas for the next time you are struggling to decide what to wear!

• When in doubt, stick to neutrals and layer, layer, layer!

• When in doubt, throw a leather jacket over everything and anything. I feel it gives my outfit the added grungy edge I'm looking for and I would like to think it's my signature style.

• When in doubt, keep it simple. If Céline has shown us anything, it's that fashion doesn't need to be over the top, sometimes understated can be just as powerful.

• When in doubt, never look too immaculate. Make like Kate Moss and pair underdone hair and make-up with a done up dress, or vice versa.

• When in doubt, stick on the highest heels possible to add confidence to every outfit!

• When in doubt, wear something else! Fashion and confidence go hand in hand, if you're not comfortable wearing something it will show.

• When in doubt, wear something fun! Don't take your outfits too seriously.

• When in doubt, have a 'when in doubt' section in your wardrobe.


Or if all else fails, head on over to lookbook for a bit of inspiration!





Oh and look what shoes I just found while scrolling through lookbook...


(See previous post)

Now wearing: Paperbag, tapered black trousers, striped t-shirt and a black scarf wrapped around my neck 3 times...brrrr.

Now listening to: Belle and Sebastian - Piazza, New York Catcher and the rest of the Juno soundtrack. For the second time in 24 hours.

Now coveting: This sweatshirt. Not quite sure why...

Want to get involved? Email us at uomfashion@gmail.com

Toto, I don't think we're in Kansas anymore...

With the Christmas lights being switched on tonight, it’s that time of year again! Time to think about Christmas parties and glitzing up for the season! Now everyone knows that I have a little bit of a thing for shoes and jewellery as they always look good, fit well and complete the outfit, even when I can’t pull off the latest trends in clothing.

So when I saw some glitter shoes in Office the other day, I literally fell in love! They come in three different colours and are on sale for £59 (left). They are completely coated in glitter for extra dazzle and the wedge stiletto heel is ideal for a bit of support to dance the night away.

For a bit more of a skyscraper, try Topshop’s version (middle) from their Christmas Snow Queen collection. The platform is great for adding a bit of height for the vertically challenged of us! At £55.80 with your student card, these are what Topshop would call a ‘cheap’ pair of shoes!

Kurt Geiger (right) do a similar glitter styling in Gold, Red and Black with a cute bow for a more feminine look but with a higher price tag!




Move out the way Dorothy!

P.S If you have 500 quid lying around and fancy looking like Noel Fielding for a bit, check out these badboys from Guiseppe Zanotti!



Now Wearing: Floral and lace top, fur trimmed walking style boots, black denim shirt and black leggings.

Now Playing : Fenech-Solar -Lies

Now Coveting : These Office shoes! And anything Apple. (All added to the Christmas/Birthday List)

Post written by Liz Dean @lizdean1989

Vintage Fashion Show for Children Today

A group of students are organising a vintage fashion show which is to be held on 30th November at Bar 38 in Deansgate. All proceeds from the event will be going to Children Today which is an organisation that provides specialised equipment for children and young people with disabilities.

All the clothes seen in the catwalk will be available for purchase from stalls after the show. There is a raffle with some great prizes which I know most of you will be interested in. Did someone say a free hair cut or a free makeover at Benefit?

The tickets for this event are £5 but discounts will be given for large groups.

Now here's where you can get involved:

They are looking for male and female models to participate in the show. Whether you want to gain some modelling experience or just help out this fantastic cause, they want to hear from you!

If you have products that you wish to display in the fashion show and then sell at the stalls afterwards, get in contact with the organisers.

For more information, check the facebook page or alternatively get in contact with Hannah ASAP @ 07854696490

TRingkets...

I received an email from a group of UoM Textile Design graduates regarding their new company, TRingkets. Their aim is to provide fashionable products to wallet conscious students who want something a bit different without the guilt of spending large amounts of cash. So I knew I had to show you all!

They believe in recycling and sourcing jewels and trinkets from car boot sales, second hand shops, vintage shops etc. and transforming them into unique and individual one off rings.

They are holding a launch party in Font, Fallowfield from 8pm on 11th November so make sure you go along to pick up some treasures and support our graduates!

Check out their blog and their facebook.





There are some fantastic designs in their collection but I don't have enough space for them all in this post so go check out the Lookbook for Autumn/Winter 2010

Winter Blues...

Manchester University is a fashion battleground and hopefully I'm winning.
I'm writing this looking out the window of the library.... I've been here since the sun was high in the sky but now it looks too dark and too cold to leave the cosy warmth of John Rylands’ gentle touch. Third year has been an absolute wake up call. Ridiculous amount of work piled on top of ridiculous amount of work... And whilst my soul starts to fall to pieces I'm determined not to let my fashion sense.

While I have been guilty of donning the pyjamas and ugg boots look to sainsbury's in first year, now I am 22; I feel it my duty, NAY, my RESPONSIBILITY, to dress like my degree depended on it. (Luckily for me and for my off days it doesn't and by the looks of my latest politics lecture lucky for the others as well... I jest! honest!)

But as the winter chill really sets into Manchester you might be finding it tough to look as pretty as you did in the summer months just gone. It seems like just yesterday I was prancing about in an array of maxi dresses and wedge sandals.
So here's my insider tip... Layering... Ok, so that wasn’t that much of an insider tip... So more specifically, Uni Qlo layering. Uni Qlo is possibly my favourite store and my big insider secret for staying warm. Unfortunately there are no stores north of Watford Junction but they do have an online store. Everytime I head down south I make sure I pick up a new treasure from their stores. For me Uni Qlo represents what I truly love about fashion... Just one look at the mannequins in the store and you’ll realise that sometimes basics are all you need... And for their price they are bloody good value and bloody good quality!
They stock this amazing range of products called "Heat-Tech"... From vests to t-shirts, even boxers for boys, these cheeky pieces of fabric keep you warm by retaining body heat... Forget unsightly long johns, these bad boys are pretty fashionable too and I SWEAR by them...

Today I'm wearing a cream scoop neck long sleeved t-shirt with a grey ¾ length sleeve long top over it... Sounds basic but throw on a big chunky necklace and it’s transformed!... Along with that I’m wearing two pairs of leggings, one from Uni Qlo, a snatch at £6.99! And a cable knit pair on top from John Lewis. If you’re thinking grey and dreary, a bright coat sets off the whole outfit... I grabbed a yellow military style jacket in the Karen Millen sale for £100 off. Top it all off, biker boots from Allders.

But I can’t talk about Uni Qlo without mentioning their new range of trouser-leggings. They’re more jeans than jeggings... but more leggings than jeans... That medium I have been craving ever since jeggings were released. My non-existent bum looks plump and they cling in all the right places just like a good pair of jeans should. And the best bit? They are only £19.99!



It’s easy to resort to Ugg boots and pyjama bottoms but resist the urge and stay fabulous! Clever layering can ensure you stay fashionable through the Manchester winter but most importantly warm... I have even brought along my amazing silver mac from Tommy Hilfiger for when the inevitable rain starts to pour... bring on winter Manchester! I’m ready!

Now wearing: Uni Qlo grey long t shirt, thick grey woollen cable knit tights, biker boots, yellow Karen Millen military coat.

Now playing: Florence + the Machine – You’ve got the love

Now coveting: ASOS leopard print boots – just out of stock!

Post written by Melanie Astbury londongirlupnorth

Want to get involved? Email us at uomfashion@gmail.com

If it’s good enough for Wonder Woman...

The most impractical of all this season’s hot coats is the cape. However, when has that ever put us off a trend? Seen on the catwalks of Erdem, Celine and Givenchy, these theatrical statement pieces are without a doubt here to stay to get us through the cold winter.

Not only do these cover-ups make the wearer feel glamorous and flamboyant (with a nod to ever-so-cool style inspiration Sherlock Holmes) they also have a ladylike appeal, adding sophistication to the most simple of outfits. Colour wise, they must be this season’s most overused shade, Camel, or alternatively earthy tones (greys, khakis or the darkest blues).

Textures and fabric choices are vast, with wool or wool mix being the warmest option as the colder autumn sets in. Consider the detailing on both the front and back – subtle pleats and tucks behind the shoulders can develops a more flattering shape to the traditional cape, preventing the unattractive balloon silhouette. Epaulettes and storm flap detailing also add a military injection. Toggles, perhaps the cutest and most nostalgic fastening or oversized buttons should attract even the staunchest doubters to this style.

Importantly, capes should be styled over tailored or fitted outfits. Think peg leg trousers, loafers and a chiffon blouse, or in typical student style, leggings and a long fluid top, pulled in with a skinny belt. It may be worth considering just how to hold your bag in your new favourite jacket however; depending on the chosen style this could become a bit of a challenge. For the best high street options head to Topshop and Oasis, affordable yet good quality coats.

Just avoid wearing with hot pants or bodies – let’s leave that to the professional superheroes yeah.


From top left:
1. River Island grey wool piped swing cape coat, £59.99
2. Topshop Camel Ultimate Military coat, £95
3. Asos Hooded Military Cape, £70 (in Khaki – pictured, or camel)
4. Oasis Black Duffle Cape, £75
5. Cooper & Stollbrand for ASOS Checked Cape, £200 (the contrast leather detailing and bold use of print make this a definite wardrobe favourite!)
6. Miss Selfridge Khaki Cape Parka, was £42, now £25 (covering both the parka and cape trend, get this jacket before it’s gone)

Now wearing: Woollen jumper dress and grey ribbed tights

Now playing: In the Morning - The Coral

Now coveting: Chloe Voodoo riding boots

Want to get involved? Email us at uomfashion@gmail.com

Sock it to me!

We all wore them peeping over our wellies at the festivals this summer, but now it’s time to embrace socks as a winter wardrobe staple. From thigh high to simple ankle socks and everything in between, there really is something to suit everyone in this Prada-inspired trend. Luckily if your purse strings don’t quite stretch that far, there are plenty of socks available on the high street that will set you back less than a tenner.

Everyone from Sarah Jessica Parker to Victoria Beckham has been snapped in thigh high socks recently, but if like me you’re a little curvier on the thighs, socks that fall just below the knee are much more forgiving. Colour is a key thing to consider too, and while bold colours and patterns can work, sticking to neutral colours similar to your outfit is definitely the safest option.

Choosing a pair of shoes to match is the easy part as socks go well with anything from lace up heels to utility boots, and they’ll look great layered over a pair of tights during the day if you don’t fancy baring skin in the cold weather. So forget about being afraid of looking like a school girl and discover your own way of wearing them.


1. Pointelle Over The Knee Ruffle Sock, £8, Urban Outfitters
2. Vigo Chunky Yarn Ankle Sock, £9.90, Mango
3. Over The Knee Socks, £4, ASOS
4. Rib Knee High Socks, £5, Topshop
5. Knee High Lace Socks, £2.99, New Look
6. Jersey Rib Velvet Bow Oatmeal Knee High Socks, £6, Accessorize

1.2.3.

4.5.6.


Now wearing: Knitted jumper dress and tights

Now playing: Hurts – Wonderful Life

Now coveting: A camel coat. Any will do!

Post written by Claire Byrne @claire_byrne

Topshop Student Shop!

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Topshop is hosting its infamous Student Shop. Some of you might remember the flurry and excitement of last year’s event, I know my fleeting memories include lots of elbowing, being weighed down with armfuls of jumpers and my poor boyfriend moaning at the lack of a ‘husband chair’. But it was all worth it for the 20% discount, DJ set and cute freebies a-go-go. So get your student IDs at the ready, dress to impress (I hear some lucky gals are getting snapped for the website) and head down to the Arndale Centre for 7pm with plenty of stamina.

In the meantime, I’ve picked out some of my favourite pieces to make the inevitable choosing process a little easier…


Click for a bigger picture.

1. Laurel patent buckle clogs, £68.
2. Sleeveless sequin dress, £65.
3. Knitted fairisle cardigan, £55.
4. Silk cowl back dress, £65.
5. Pleated wide leg trousers, £48.
6. Camel pleat long line shorts, £32.
7. Cropped aviator faux fur coat, £75.
8. Leather bound a-line skirt, £35.

Now wearing: A stripy shirt dress and cable knit tights.

Now playing: Bang Bang Bang - Mark Ronson & The Business Intl

Now coveting: Any and all of D&G's S/S '11 collection.

Post written by Rozi Jones @rozijones

Want to get involved? Send us an email at uomfashion@gmail.com