Hoss Intropia Winter 2011

Spain has given us some remarkable fashion brands; Zara, Bershka, Pull & Bear and Mango, each with their own massive cult following. Hoss Intropia is another one of those inspiring brands, but unlike the contemporary feel of the others, this fashion franchise marches to the beat of it's own folkloric drum.

For Fall/Winter 2011, Hoss Intropia paints a bohemian picture in earthy shades of brown, cream, tan, khaki and black. The attention to unconventional detailing is what distinguishes the brand from its counterparts. They create their own unique prints and focus on innovative cuts, hand-beading and embroidery and mixing textures, using quality fabrics. The collection has the charm of a romantic countryside, with military-inspired masculine tailoring. Each eclectic ensemble tells a story of sophisticated style and laid-back elegance.  

I could easily go into a Hoss Intropia store and purchase my entire Winter wardrobe all in one go. I particularly love how each outfit is styled in this photo shoot. It shows off the versatility of the individual pieces, and how creatively it can be worn. All the shoes, bags, gloves, hats and accessories are also part of this incredible collection. The range is so extensive, their shapes are flattering, their fabrics luxurious, and their style refined. Hoss Intropia's Winter collection is kindled with originality, and a beauty that is honest and endearing.

Gucci Fall/Winter 2011

Winter in the Northern Hemisphere has just warmed up with the release of Gucci's inspiring Fall/Winter range. The luxury Italian brand interprets the latest fashion trends with high class glamour and relaxed sophistication. The central 70's theme is depicted through suave masculine suits and ladylike dresses. Every piece is an example of refined style and elegance, setting the tone for the season to come. The collection begins with trendy and versatile weekend wear, dabbles in stylish office wear, and ends with classic cocktail dresses. 

Black and slate grey lay down a neutral foundation, built up by terracotta, magenta and steel blue. Simple shorts and denim jeans are paired with texturally interesting tops and jackets; featuring fur trims, fringing and chunky knits. Long trench coats are slung over smooth, streamlined velvet suits. Evening gowns are modern and understated, column silhouettes enhanced by delicate draping. Fedoras, skinny belts, knee-high boots, luxe leather bags and clutches - these accessories are the perfect accompaniment to this polished collection.

Atelier Versace Fall 2011

Atelier Versace have released a magnificent range of couture gowns for Fall 2011. The collection finds its roots in Asian and baroque influences. Floor-sweeping gowns are lavishly adorned with crystal and sequin embellishments, while others bear the vintage Versace print. The different silhouettes are draped, cut-out, architectural and flowing.



I like the lack of cohesion in Atelier Versace collections. Each piece isn't a continuation of the next, but instead is a unique depiction of the brand's originality and ingenuity. Polish model Kasia Struss beautifully exhibits these looks; donning a blond beehive, dark smokey eyes and nude lips.

I like the pairing of teal and purple. The surprise element of this gown is the embellished detail upon the triangular cut-out on the back.

Unique and distinctive patterns are imprinted on dresses. The first one boldly shows off the Versace emblem, while the second one has an oriental-inspired dragon design.

You will recognize the light blue Mandarin-collared dress as the one Katy Perry wore to the MTV Movie Awards. The intricate beading seen on the close-up photo is exquisite.

Silk satin, chiffon and silk mousseline form the basis for these glamourous gowns.

These structured gowns amaze with their complexity and intricate leather engraving.

Manolo Blahnik Winter Shoes 2011

Manolo Blahnik

Autumn/Winter Collection 2011-12

The Manolo Blahnik Winter 2011-12 range is a mix of unusual, classic and slightly outlandish pairs of shoes. The collection is inspired by various themes, including the literary works of Leo Tolstoy and Miguel de Cervantes, the surrealism of Salvador Dali paintings and also, Moorish architecture. Each shoe is like a piece of art, diligently sculpted and painted to perfection.



Blahnik makes use of exotic fabrics and interesting textures like velvets, fur, animal prints, tweed, metallic leather, fringing and suede. The colour scheme starts out with neutrals like black, brown and grey, then surges into a circus of bright colours like cerise, lime, red & yellow. The silhouettes are streamlined, with steep angles, pencil heels and pointed tips. Basic designs are furnished with zigzags & scallops, geometric shapes, ankle-cuffs and tie-up bows. 

The Spanish shoe maestro is always one step ahead with his ambitious and imaginative designs. Putting a pair of Manolo's on is a sure-fire way of getting noticed. I can picture a few of these in Carrie Bradshaw's closet.

While I do appreciate the beauty of the conventional pieces, I haven't embraced the unique charm of the quirkier pairs. What are your thoughts on this collection?

Lauren Conrad's Fashion Line for Kohl's

Lauren Conrad has proved that she is much more than just a Reality TV star. She's written three bestselling books, runs her own beauty website and is the design diva behind two fashion lines - her own called Paper Crown, and one for US retailer, Kohl's, called the LC Lauren Conrad Collection. For Fall 2011 Lauren collaborated with Kohl's on a clothing range that's both pretty and affordable.

Lauren's personal style is conveyed by the flirty florals, pleated skirts, 70's style blouses, boyfriend blazers, girly dresses and dainty jewellery. Ballet flats, wedges and platform loafers also form part of the range. I like that this collection is cohesive throughout, with a touch of vintage elegance melded into the peach toned palette. Every piece costs just under $100 / R700, with sale items under $50 / R350. See more at Kohls.com

Mango Fall/Winter 2011

Mango Fashion Campaign

featuring Isabeli Fontana



Gorgeous Brazilian supermodel, Isabeli Fontana is the newest brand ambassador for Mango. The well-known Spanish clothing brand chose the Victoria's Secret model for "her extraordinary beauty and naturalness." Isabeli represents the two sides of their Winter 2011 collection; ultra sexy femme fatale and masculine elegance. Each side is differentiated by the styling - tousled waves with smokey eyes, and slicked back locks with striking red lips.



A primarily black colour scheme runs throughout the range, with dashes of leopard print and polka dots. The collection is a mix of glitzy cocktail dresses, leather and faux fur, classic coats, luxe knits, mini skirts and impeccably tailored suits. I love the gold-tipped black shoes and embellished clutch bags. 



With their Winter 2011 range, Mango seeks to style the modern, dynamic and independent woman. While the rest of you dress for success in one of these polished looks, us in South Africa will only be receiving the range next year. 

Hobbs Winter Fashion 2011

Hobbs NW3

Fall/Winter 2011



After seeing the Hobbs NW3 Winter 2011 range, I'm think that they should start shipping to South Africa. The British fashion label provides a trendy and unique interpretation of contemporary womenswear. Aimed at the young, cool and free-spirited, NW3 is a trendier subset of the classic Hobbs brand. 



All the outfits presented are very wearable and exceptionally tailored in a mix of traditional, quality fabrics like wool, denim and corduroy. The dark colour palette is functional, the styles practical and laid back. Navy blue is proffered as a neutral, with grey following close behind. This eclectic collection features chunky knits, fitted shirts, smart trousers, maxi skirts and adorable dresses. The classic blazers are lined with quirky prints and stripes, so you can roll up your sleeves for a more casual, contrasting look. Each individual piece is meant to easily weave its way into your current wardrobe. 

All the chic accessories pictured are also part of the Hobbs NW3 range. I'm loving the felt Willow Road hat, tan ankle boots and structured satchel bags. The collection maybe perceived as 'essentially British', but it does have a mass appeal. Check out more of this effortlessly cool range at Hobbs.co.uk

Oscar de la Renta Winter Shoes 2011

Fall/Winter 2011-12 Shoe Collection

by Oscar de la Renta



The Dominican designer's Winter shoe collection is an exhibition of elegance and sophistication. All the pieces are wearable and somewhat safe, if not for the dash of leopard print. There is a richness to this range, provided by luxurious fabrics like fur, satin, tweed and lace, with a scattering of sequins. It's nice to see that flats and kitten heels stand their ground against sky high heels.

The violet satin heels will add a lovely pop of colour to a neutral coloured outfit. Tweed heels are embellished with feathers and beads. The lace peep-toes also come in nude.

These kitten heels are such a versatile height; great with jeans, dresses or skirts. Leopard print is a prominent theme, in every shape and style.

Tweed adds textural interest to plain black ankle boots. The tan tie-up high-heeled riding boots are a classic and trendy pair. 

I would really like to see the effect of black lace boot when its worn. A forest green suede boot is an unusual addition to the collection. The black leather thigh-high boots will bring out the vampy-vixen in anyone.

Elie Saab Fall Couture 2011

The exuberance of Elie Saab Couture was unveiled at Paris Fashion Week yesterday. I am mesmerized by his Fall 2011-12 Collection, which stays true to his opulent design aesthetic. Elie churns out glamourous goddess gowns unlike any other.

 His latest range reminded me of the seaside. The aquamarine of early morning sky settling in over the ocean. The crisp whites like heavenly clouds floating above. The sandy shades that catch the sunlight and chocolate brown seaweed that lays upon it. Then there's the shimmering dark blue waves, reflecting off the starry night sky. 

 Gowns glistened with intricate beadwork, delicately sheer fabric was enlightened by a sea of sequins, and billowy chiffon sailed across the runway like a cool breeze. Ethereal white gowns were sprinkled with pearl-like embellishing.

If I could chose any gown from this collection, it would have to be the first one to the left. I love the sheer beaded fabric and vintage style.

Waists were accentuated by decorative floral motifs. Make up was kept natural with a barely-there look. Hair was swept up in waves.

The collection is one to marvel at, with each gown more beautiful than the next.  

Elie Saab has retained his crown as 'King of Couture'.

Emporio Armani - Fall 2011

Emporio Armani

Fall Ready-to-Wear 2011 Collection



During Winter, we choose to hide beneath full black, because it's warm, shielding and slimming. Black suits everyone and is a safe option, but wearing it 6 out of 7 days a week can become tiresome. At the Emporio Armani Fall 2011 RTW show, black was proven to be anything but boring. 



Mr Armani's collection was inspired by 1940's spy-wear, with confederate caps, military jackets, breeches and capes. His variations on silhouettes, combined with rich textures and unusual layering has revolutionized basic black. This is the new way to wear black.

 Jackets were at the forefront of the collection, in varying lengths and styles. The collarless military coat (2nd from left) is such a chic piece. Armani layered jackets over skirts and skirts over pants, playing with different proportions. Pants were either slim-fitting or cuffed. Velvet added an air of luxury to skirts and jackets.

The Little Black Dress took many forms from fitted to flair. Unattached bell-sleeves, pocket holsters and leather shin guards added weight to each look. Necklines were kept high and interesting. Models wore flats and kitten heels and carried shaggy fur bags and leather totes.

Emporio Armani's Fall range is innovative and valiant. Each outfit was individually compelling and together the collection pioneered a new frontier for all-black attire.

Dolce & Gabbana - Winter Collection 2011

Dolce & Gabbana

Autumn/Winter Collection 2011



I had stars in my eyes (literally), when I saw the Dolce & Gabbana runway show on FTV. Stars and musical notes have never looked this grown up. The Italian designers have turned this unexpected punk-rock print into high-end fashion. Add the essential D&G animal print and sparkle, and you have an exuberant, sexy and harmonious collection for Winter 2011.



Masculine vs Feminine

The two main themes of the show alternated between masculine and feminine designs. The colours were basic black and white, with some grey thrown in. Suits had tailored or oversized coats with large collars and lower-rise, slimmer-fitting pants. The masculine looks were enhanced with trilbies, suspenders, vests and ties. Feminine dresses were form-fitting in stretch charmeuse, lace and sheer star-print fabrics.

Chiffon and Shimmery Shades

Long chiffon dresses in yellow, turquoise and orange with pussy cat bows elevated the feminine theme. Another prominent feature on the runway was sequins - sequined dresses, tuxedo jackets, trousers and blazer lapels. Vivid purple, deep teal, gold and metallic grey added some colour to the catwalk.

The Accessories

The jewellery was a continuation of the pop-rock music theme with star-shaped earrings and neckpieces. Miniature pouches were worn on waistbands. Animal print, paillettes, chains and piano keys adorned clutches and leather handbags. Pointed-toe heels in bright shades and prints were worn with ankle socks. Brogues were given a make-over with neon colours, leopard print and sequins. 

Spero Villioti - Autumn Winter 2011

Spero Villioti Haute Couture

Autumn/Winter Collection 2011



Johannesburg based haute couture designer, Spero Villioti has been dressing SA's elite for 25 years. Besides for managing a successful fashion house, Villioti also runs a specialized design academy, passing his couture knowledge and expertise on to budding design students. 



His winter collection for 2011 is all about glitz, glamour and gold. Spero took inspiration from his surrounding 'city of gold' to create this luxurious range. Metallics and sensational short dresses were the frontrunners at his show during fashion week.

A-line dresses were beautifully presented in opulent fabrics; adorned with floral appliqués, tulle, feathers and lace. Fringed ankle-strap stilettos and bold headpieces rounded off the look.  

 The 'precious metal' theme was magnified by liquid silver and gold mini's and sparkly sequined dresses. Fringed accessories continued with black clutch bags.

Evening gowns glistened in rich satiny fabrics and sumptuous colours. Frills and florals also made an appearance. 

Spero Villioti clearly demonstrated his creativity and expert craftsmanship with swanky cocktail dresses and glamourous couture gowns.