Music Stalking: Body to Body

Beware explicit lyrical content!

Body to Body 

Acehood featuring Chris Brown 

This is officially the song of my summer, holiday time soon. I'm so addicted!
What are your songs of the summer?

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The Monster Designer, Liz Black

by The Dream Stalker

It wasn't long ago that Liz Black was introduced to me, in fact this 'baby designer' only started her label in 2010, after gaining experience from the likes of Diane Von Furstenburg & Elisa Palomino amongst others. I first noticed Liz Black while attending H.PR's press day back in April (I think), on sighting her début collection, 'Concentric Thoughts' my first thought was 'Only GaGa would ever wear this' and I moved on uninterested. 

I wasn't wrong-actually I was right- Lady GaGa was spotted in a statement ensemble by Liz Black [I predicted a GaGa outfit!!] only a few months after, but her choice of designer clothing isn't my bother this minute.

That's Lady G in Liz Black!!

On Wednesday, I went over to H.PR's head quarters for their preview {Honestly, one of my favourite PR companies, they were so helpful and lovely} and I saw Liz Black (sat right next to Eugene Lin; my designer crush) so I went over and had another look at her debut collection.

In the mesh of oddly structured dresses and leggings (I do love my bottoms crazy), I spotted a little black dress with a very unique structure (much like the whole collection) and a lovely print on the back. At that moment, I saw what LG did; a very talented young designer!

Close up of the print on the back.

The Dream Stalker can officially say that Liz Black is lostintalent's 'one to watch', because I am interested to see how far this baby designer can push the boundaries and what she has in store for her next collection!

Click here to see Liz Black's debut collection in full and let me know what your thoughts are? 

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Through their lens: Ashley Jahncke

by The Dream Stalker

My through their lens feature this month is a young Londoner turned New Yorker photographer; Ashley Jahncke. The pictures featured in this posts are some of her favourites. 

My personal favourite!! 

One busy Wednesday

by The Dream Stalker

The order of Wednesday the 27th:

H PR Christmas Press Preview

Ryder&Rowe Preview

Bengt Fashion Show 

The Industry' Interview

Event Stalking: Fashion for Freedom

by The Dream Stalker

The Designers

Naturally you feel uncomfortable walking into a nightclub which is empty!! That is unless you are press showing up early to catch all the behind the scenes action before the perfect event starts. You want to see everything from the panic & disorganisation to the bad sound check & run through (and if you are lucky you may just see a breakdown)

It was no different at Studio Valbonne on Friday night, I for the first time in my life went into a club which had so few people, they could be counted on my two hands (that is excluding the models, hosts and barmen), to see the last few minutes before show time; the catwalk practice, final fittings, sound checks and the lot.

All by Cina Ayle

An hour and a half later, the audience which had assembled to see the show, which was named Fashion for Freedom, hosted in order to raise money for the charity, 'Save The Children' (organised by Syafiqua) had begun with a little belly dancing then it was some very cheeky Burlesque (Gosh, that was a different experience) 

Beware if easily offended!!

Stalking Models: Jordan Lillian

by The Dream Stalker

Model Stalking is back! and this time, I want to introduce to everyone, a Detroit born, mixed Irish African American young lady by the name Jordan, who I first spotted in this advert for House of Versatile Style. The photo is my favourite of the whole campaign, it was just so simple and cool (pretty hard not to fall in lust with that) plus Jordan's washboard abs and the lovely 'ankara' inspired top may have helped fuel my like.

Without any more rambling I lay in front of you, the hu-woman behind that photo, who describes herself as Ambitious, Open-minded and Bohemian; c'est Jordan Lillian.

Her Story

I was 11 years old and a friend of the family called complaining of needing a model last minute for a shoot in New York. My uncle suggested that I do it and the next thing I knew, I was being flown to New York for a shoot! I had never modeled before and had no idea what I was doing but I was a natural and the images came out great. I had so much fun and knew from that day forward, I wanted to be a model for the rest of my life.

What are the best and worst bits about being a model?

Ehm.. the best bits [I love that word "bits"]- the best bits about being a model, for ME, would have to be the transformation. I love hair and makeup and wardrobe and taking on a new personality. When I am in front of the camera though, I never forget to bring out the purest and most beautiful parts of my inner-self. I like being approachable.

The worst bits would be the pressure to be thin. It's something that many of us don't speak on but I've had my own personal battles with this and that's the part that I hate the most. You have to be a very strong person to make it in this industry because as much as we'd like it NOT to be, it's ALL about image.

How do you deal with all the trials: tough times?

I listen to music as cliche as it sounds... and I find solace in that. Music can get me through anything because there's a song for every mood. Knowing that someone else is going through things similar, reminds me that I'm not alone.

Picture Perfect: The best picture Style Page has ever seen!

by The Dream Stalker

If you follow me on Stylepage or twitter, you have probably seen this before, so I apologize for bringing you old news but I'm so fascinated by this picture that it's a bit scary!!
There is just something amazing about the way her body sits perfectly in the cone.

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Music Stalking: Rest in Peace, Amy Winehouse

by The Dream Stalker

Will be remembered for her amazing vocal talent. 

1983-2011: So young, gone too soon.

R.I.P Amy Winehouse

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StyleBop: Boys on the Hunt

by The Dream Stalker

Photo courtesy: StyleBop (from my inbox)

Boys right now its all about the formal casual look! 

Chinos, Man-bags (Satchels), Cardigans and Blazers. 

Why not be inspired by the hunters, this season

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Press Day: Selfridges in Pictures

by The Dream Stalker

I love my ORLA Kiely.

PINKBERRY finally arrives in the UK!!!

by The Dream Stalker

Pinkberry, the frozen yoghurt with a cult following and celebrity fans, is opening its first western European outpost in Selfridges this August. 
This words will make some happier than others; the members of the facebook group 'Bring Pinkberry to the UK' will possibly be the happiest of the lot.

 As a simpleton you may think it odd that a facebook group is dedicated to frozen yoghurt (or maybe not, seen as everything now has a group on facebook, take Pippa Middleton's bottom for example!)

Maybe a few hours ago, I would have been one of you! 

My affair with Pinkberry started barely 18 hours ago, at Selfridges' 'Christmas' press preview [an all white event to showcase the purchases for the winter holidays, with christmas carols, fake snow and many Scrooges (the rudeness did put a downer on my spirits but I'll stay positive about Selfirdges)]

Pinkberry's rep came over and offered me what looked like heaven in a cup (who was I to refuse it?), we chatted about the brand; she told me that there were less than 100 calories in this treat, amongst other things before I tucked in. The first spoon and I was hooked, it tasted just as good as it looked: Heavenly!, it's no wonder that Simon Cowell and Rachel Zoe are fans, even they can't resist.

Apologies for the bad photo, I got too excited!!

Pinkberry is coming to the UK, and will be located in Selfridges London's food hall come AUGUST (I am unaware if they will be opening in Birmingham or Manchester)

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Beach Wear: Norma Kamali

by The Dream Stalker
On the 17th of July, Norman Kamali's SS'12 collection hit the runway at Miami Swimwear Fashion Week, here is a look at what she had to offer us this year!!

Personally, her collection was my favourite of the whole week, I loved how she used the current trends such as nudes, prints and the vintage hair dos (so 50s-60s). The models looked great in all the swimsuits, the cuts were perfect, I especially fancied the suits which looked like normal dresses and the animal print outer wear.

Have a look at the Mercedes Website for more, let me know which designers you particularly liked or if one of your favouite celebrity hit the run way, I know a few walked the runway.

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Attempting Green-ness with Emesha

by The Dream Stalker

In the follow up to my sit down with Alina Ratsep; editor-in-chief of Six Magazine, I have be researching a lot on ethical fashion, and making attempts to do my bit to help the environment, which means, less shopping, more vintage, looking for more sustainable brands and more recycling. While on the quest to a more environmentally friendly life, I came across Emesha, a London based ethical brand, headed by Hungarian designer, Emesha Nagy. 

Emesha was founded not too long ago in 2008, where the main aim of the brand was to fill in the gap that was present in ethical women's wear, and has since been a rising star in green fashion. Her autumn-winter collection (the picutres in this post), which was said to be produced in Hungary is simple and fresh, a mesh of girly girl and boy meets girl ready-to-wear, with pieces that would suit any personality. 

Her Fashion Timeline

I graduated at the London College of Fashion in 2006 and since then have worked with Vivienne Westwood and Jasper Conran as a designer before setting up my own label. Currently I’m working on my 4th collection which will be showcased at Somerset House during London Fashion Week in September.

Interested to know more about Emesha? Why not hear it from the horse's mouth, TDS asked Emesha a few questions about herself, the brand and fashion experiences, full interview below: hope you enjoy.

Pushing Trends: Silk, Colours and Patterns

by The Dream Stalker

My favourite look!

During the Edinburgh show at Graduate Fashion Week, I took a particular liking to Anna Stephenson's collection, it reminded me of Mary Katrantzou; who right now is huge for her crazy prints, even though AS is more subtle. 

The collection as a whole was a good mix of prêt-à-porter, and not so ready to wear, with pieces like the skirt in picture 5, which were daring and dare I say outlandish? For me however, it wasn't the excitement of those edgier clothes that got me excited, it was the silk ensemble that hit the catwalk first. 

Bam! It was bang on trend and so RTW (well, at least I was), it didn't look like something you'd see on every Tom, Dick or Harry, the silk was just perfect, the prints oozed confidence [and the model owned it]. It was sexy in the- I don't have to show too much kinda way- well except from ankle cleavage. 

My main problem with this collection was the choice of footwear, toes were sticking out everywhere, which moved the clothes down the scale a few pegs towards being trampish but other than that I thought Anna Stephenson did a great job! 

Late congratulations on graduating!!

Here are some other pieces from Anna Stephenson's graduation collection:

Harry Potter and The Film PHD

by Nicholas Barber (for Intelligent Life)

Source: Intelligent Life

Future generations of film historians should adore the Harry Potter series. Featuring the same core cast in the same few settings, the eight movies provide an unrivalled chance to play compare-and-contrast. In essence, episodes two to eight are all remakes of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (2001). Students of digital effects will be able to note how those house elves were a little more lifelike on every outing. Trainee fashion gurus can catalogue a decade of adjustments to Harry’s school uniform, while proponents of the auteur theory can measure the impact of four different directors on almost identical material.

In the first two films, Chris Columbus established the series’ systematic, scene-by-scene method of transferring J.K. Rowling’s novels to celluloid. This resulted in a lot of bladder-testing running times, but satisfied young fans who demanded to see every one of their favourite moments on screen. Columbus was also wise enough to hire some light-fingered scene-stealers: Maggie Smith and Alan Rickman more than compensate for the stilted central trio. Alfonso Cuaron took over for “The Prisoner of Azkaban” (2004) and conjured up the misty, magical atmosphere that Columbus’s films had lacked. Mike Newell, Harry’s first British director, focused on character and performances in “The Goblet of Fire” (2005): Harry and Ron are as tongue-tied with the opposite sex as their older counterparts in Newell’s “Four Weddings and a Funeral”. David Yates directed the last four films, making dark epics which were largely incomprehensible to anyone who hadn’t memorised the books in advance. This summer’s “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” marks the end of the series, but the PhD proposals have only just begun.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 British release July 15th

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Music Stalking: Station Sessions

by The Dream Stalker

ROBBIE BOYD BAND

On Monday, I found myself at St. Pancreas International, not to spontaneously voyage to Paris as I have dreamt so many times, I was present to watch the station sessions; which were playing host to Robbie Boyd Band and Alice Gold for the evening. On arrival, I found myself very disappointed with the venue, I had expected something more sheltered to the train announcements but I made do (Ha! Like a had a choice..)

With a croissant in hand, I stood and listened to what was left of the Robbie Boyd band set (fashionably late they call it), a group of four quirky boys playing alternative music, I thought they sounded pretty cool especially when they played 'Imagine' [which I recorded for your viewing pleasure]

The band spoke to me briefly after their set, they talked about how they inspire each other musically and how everything is an inspiration to them. They were super quirky and shyish on stage, which I admired. For more information have a look at their site!

ALICE GOLD

While still videoing the Robbie Boyd chat, Alice Gold was introduced so I had to rush off to take a look at what she had in store. I had heard a bit of her new album, Seven Rainbows and even downloaded one of her single, 'And You'll Be There' which was Itunes' single of the week a few weeks ago, so I was forward to seeing her live.

Her set started and before long there was a bigger crowd than before, big enough to irritate the movers at the station; I got shoved a few times, but that wasn't the bad bit about the crowd, some people just didn't understand the etiquette that you DO NOT stand in front of someone watching what is in front of them: SO ANNOYING!!

Art Exhibition: A Couple of Broken Windows and Fancy Lights

by The Dream Stalker

Who would have thought that a couple of broken windows and some lights would be so interesting to look at? Well Natalia Escobar did. Last week, I headed down to Pyrus' flagship store with a couple of friends for a private viewing of the new gallery I talked about some time ago.

At first, Escobar's masterpiece just seemed to be exactly what the title says with some string and music but when you study it a bit more, it is pretty fascinating! The patterns which are made on the wall by the collision of the light and the windows look just like some of the scenes in a horror movie or a nightmare but then you look closer and there is a softer, more colourful and some what happier side to the whole thing, showing pretty prints and leafy pattern all round the wall.

The music which comes with the piece is calming (even though its not the sound of the sea or whales or what ever it is that my yoga instructor loves to play us) and the smoke just looks super cool.

If you'd like to get lost in Pryus' basement and get a look at the gallery for yourself, you can, it is open until the 12th of August and it is FREE.

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The Old Man is Snoring

...its raining, its pouring
The old man is snoring
and my wellingtons are calling....

The rain is finally back in LONDON, giving me the perfect opportunity to test out my Wellington booties! Yes, that is happiness you hear!! The rain is BACK.

Boots: Vintage America| Nine West

La La! I love these boots!
I have always associated Wellies with kids and looking silly but seriously they are extremely practical (especially as it rains what seems like 24-7), you don't have to worry too much about getting wet feet or socks depending on your choice of footwear.

So glad I got myself a pair of  WELLINGTONS, now I don't have to dread rainy days too much (However, I do need a hooded rain coat to be completely prepped for rainy days)

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Music Stalking: This 'VOGUE' is only paper

by The Dream Stalker

Free by Natalia Kills

featuring Will.I.Am

 For more in detail music update, have a look at Feed Limmy, one of my new favourite music blogs.

This vogue is only paper, I can't wear the pages - Natalia Kills

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StyleBop: Cozy Cashmere by Malo

Courtesy of my email box,
From Style Bop

As random this may be, I just really wanted to share, as we prep for autumn (the summer just started but its almost over, so why not begin to think about autumn wear).

Who ever thought that the emails, I used to find so annoying would be pretty interesting. I'll be doing weekly posts of my spam box on tumblr so stay tuned.

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Stalker Reviews: 'In Retrospect' by Loco 7

by The Dream Stalker

On my way to Tower Hill tube station, I couldn't help, thinking that the show would be an odd bore, odd because I'd seen photos which showed some of the puppet costumes and it all looked artistically strange. The show was set to begin at 3pm, and at 2:45, I was still at Moorgate, it didn't seem like I'd catch the first few minutes of the show but luckily the showtime was pushed back (due to travel issues: Thank you TfL for your weekend disruptions) and I arrived just in the nick of time!

[It seems from the last paragraph that finding the location; Wilton's Music Hall was a breeze but really it wasn't, I guess that's what you expect when attending a show at 'The City's Hidden Stage']
A five minute walk and a couple of clueless strangers later, I'm slouched in my seat [in a very dark room, surrounded by strangers] waiting for the show to begin, really not knowing what to expect. *lights come on*

Retrospect, defined by the dictionary as, a contemplation or review of the past, so 'In Retrospect' must have something to do with reflecting on the past. The play; a combination of dance and puppetry, is inspired by motherly love and I also think by the human nature, showing video clips explaining emotions associated with expressions.

On the whole, I thought the show was great; it had the right balance between scenes: one scene was never overstretched, so you were never really bored or sleepy, it was relate-able (there were scenes were I thought that's spot on!!!) and there was something about knowing that the puppets were just people laid over by an external dressing that got me excited! [May have something to do with Forgetting Sarah Marshall, if I've seen the show you'll understand, otherwise pardon me]

Here is a sneak peek of the show:

The flow of the show (and the atmosphere around) was great, I'd happily recommend it, though not to a 10 year old as suggested by someone, maybe except if they are just in for the colours and puppets; the story is mind boggling, entertaining and realistic all at the same time.

What didn't I like? The uncomfortable seats!
My favourite bits? The lighting. The giant telephone. The crystal balls that descended from the ceiling and even though I felt a bit uncomfortable about the darkness, it was perfect.

Most of all the location, though difficult to find, actually ended up being a good choice; with the lovely staff (Thank you for being so hospitable) and the building with all its history. The show is on until the 19th of July, if you guys want to go see it, click here for more information!

Thank you to the whole Loco 7 group, Federico Restrepo, Denise Greber and the staff at Wiltons Music Hall for having me.

Chatting with the creators of Loco 7

by The Dream Stalker

After seeing the 'In Retrospect' show, I got the opportunity to chat to the creators of the show; Federico Restrepo and Denise Greber, they talked inspirations and London loving!

Federico doubles up as a dancer and Denise as a costume designer [amongst other things].

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Shop It: The Vintage Way

by The Dream Stalker

If the smell of old clothes, shoes and bags entice you, then this will be a treat for you! *kidding to an extent* Okay on a serious note, following the rise in the popularity of VINTAGE (and it seems the prices have followed suit in that rise) I wanted to do a little 'SHOP IT' list of some of my latest vintage finds.

So here goes, my vintage shop it list, in no particular order:

Berty and Getty 

Camden Town, London

Beyond Retro 

Various Locations in the UK, see website

Rokit

Convent Garden and Regent Street 

Absolute Vintage

Berwick Street, London

Vintage Fashion Fair 

Cecil Sharp House, Camden Town

Which vintage stores do you shop at? 

The Life of an Intern: Week 1

by The Dream Stalker

No one ever told me that being a 'writer' would be hard work (well, granted I never asked, I thought it would be all fun and games), I never thought interning would push my limits, they aren't many hints about the reality, rather they produce shows such as The Hills, and Running in Heels [which portrays a bit of the reality when it comes to internships, but honestly they focus on the bitching & not the actual WORK (now, I wonder how these girls even found the time to have a hissy fit)

On Monday the 4th of July, at 8:00 am, I hopped onto a train headed for Oxford Circus (the ultimate destination for any fashionista, it is home to Liberty, Selfridges, the biggest Topshop ever [okay, maybe a bit of an exaggeration], multiple Uniqlo stores and the fashion gods only know how many more undiscovered fashion teasures.)

First and only stop (at least for the next 8 and a half hours) was Styloko's HQ, I guess this is where I explain what Styloko is?! But I'm just going to show you, well give you the LINK.

My first few days, were pretty slow, as I had to get to know the website; its content, writing style and what not. I have to admit, I felt b-o-r-e-d, not writing. BUT then it happened, I was given my first assignment on none order than La Duchess de Cambridge (pardon my random mixing of languages: bad habit). I had to do her royal highness justice, and prove to my boss that hiring me was the right thing: I was on that post like a car bonnet (words from Sophie, Geordie Shore, no credit taken *laughs*)

Here are some of the posts I did in my first week: Number One, Two and Three. 

Come Friday, I was knackered, plus a bit squared so I was looking forward to a very relaxed weekend [but I guess the theory of the best laid plans of mice and men is very true]

Spotted: Camden Market

by The Dream Stalker

 I thought she looked so cute. 

What do you think about the outfit?

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Being a Stalker in 'Camden Town'

by The Dream Stalker

I've always wanted to go to Camden market! So come Sunday, a friend and I headed down to one of London's shop centres, known for its quirkiness, oddity and discounts. If I'm totally honest, the market was a bit of a disappointment, there wasn't anything extremely eye catching, well except the chests which we spotted on entrance.

The chests reminded me very much of back home, they all had the hand made look with a lot of detail! I can't really explain it but we fell in love with the chest; they were very Pirates of the Caribbean and perfect for storage, thing jewellery. They were selling for £6 upwards and had a few special offers depending on how many you wanted to purchase. 

Camden market was a detour, our main mission or shall we say purpose on NW1 was to check out the Vintage Fair that was taking place at Cecil Sharp House, which was a success can't wait to show you what I got *watch this space* [Yes! That means I MAY be venturing into outfit posts; pretty darn scary]

Here are some more pictures of the market: