Street Style

I find Street Style can be a massive contribution to generating ideas and knowing who to target for. With each of these images I found elements of their outfit were creative and unique, for instance (at top right) his chiffon skirt layered over the loose tracksuit made it softer and edgier. And with the girl left to this her popping grey hair makes the statement with her outfit choice.

Anthropologie

Nothing negative can come from Anthropologie. The shop itself situated on Kings Road, Chelsea featuring innovative displays of garments and accessories. I find the store refreshing and busy with countless objects capturing my attention. 

I find it interesting the attention to detail when considering the presentation concepts Anthropologie use, for instance the necklaces pinned to a board with butterflies; which really does make the jewellery more desired much like a rare insect. 

Very intricate beading work here featured in a dress by Anthropologie; using an interesting colour palette and mirrored effect. 

Up-market Charity Shop.

I was quite disappointed by the Oxfam Boutique in Chelsea. I imagined for it to be bursting out the doors from all the clothing and accessories, yet was surprised to discover a tiny shop with a very small collection of stock. It did not make it any better than the other oxfam shops around the country, and compared to the displays of the high-end stores I visited it was evident it was run by volunteers. None the less I did still see inspiring items hidden amongst the rails, that were interesting and had a certain beauty about them.

Close up detail of second hand Jason Wu dress. 

Selfridges

When I visited Selfridges I was immediately drawn to the captivating window displays and vast range of designer's current collections. Here the colour palette Tory Burch uses within her prints are a refreshing look for Winter, and evidently portrays American influences. 

 A close up of Erdem's signicture floral pieces, with heavy sequin detialing; and a bold mix of colours. 

Unusual laser cut silver leather detail.

Love the touch of leapord print to her simple outfit, shoes from Russell & Bromley; skirt Donna Karen. Her bag is vintage. 

Liberty State of Mind.

British Store Liberty is uniquely designed with historic Tudor architecture and ornate carved details. I feel when stepping inside it is a beautiful stately home, and the owner is proudly showcasing their entire wardrobe. I began my adventure with the Scarf Room which has an incredible collection of designer printed silk scarfs. My current obsession with paisley went into overdrive, when viewing a vast range from simple to complex and beaded designs. 

I then took myself through to the mesmerizing Jewellery Room. Statement necklaces are a still key accessory piece this A/W and this rich purple Ek Thongprasert design has brilliant texture and attention to detail. 

 

Layered necklaces designed by Etro 

U.O

Urban Outfitters is a popular high-street chain targeting the increasing need to be an 'East London Hipster'. Although you'll find just like any other high-street store such as Topshop or Zara you will never be the exclusive owner of that studded leather jacket, or the purple velvet skirt. Therefore in some ways to me personally this ruins the appeal, inevitably making you blend in...  But then again it does depend on how you style an outfit, adding personality. I love mixing elements of current season pieces, yet with unique staples; which brings me onto the saviour of the store, a small section called 'Urban Renewal'; which revives old, battered garments from previous eras, ultimately giving them a new lease of life.

I find the unfinished interiors of the shop interesting; with the cluster of lamps as the staircase centerpiece; or the scaffolding shelves to display the shoes. They give an edgy look to the whole atmosphere of the store, making you feel almost you're at an abandoned warehouse- redecorated into a clothing store..

Topshop/Poshpot

I find inspiration from collating a variety of subjects and merging elements together. Starting with high-street chain 'Topshop' I am able to access key statement pieces following the current trends that are filtered to become more popular to the 'everyday' woman. 

This embroidered sheer organza skirt, is delicate and soft; but the black organza adds edge and makes it perfect for A/W. It's the first thing on my Christmas list!

 I love the clashing prints presented here, the concept is very current for styling this season. With the bright blend of primary colours in the scarfs they become a perfect accessory for layering dull winter coats..

Trash or Treasure?

Beautiful second hand shop from my hometown, Maidstone: Trash or Treasure. This small aladdin's cave features a collection of unique items. My particular favourite from this shop is the deer heads on display which I find are interesting to use for observational drawing (and for my window sill). Along with the variety of stock on display in 'Trash or Treasure' there is a small collection of second hand clothing, ranging from vintage kimonos to mink fur coats.