18.12.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #11: Keira Knightley

I've posted before about my love of Keira Knightley's style, and I think she's one of a select few modern film stars who embodies a really vintage inspired elegance on the red carpet. As the face of Chanel's Coco Mademoiselle fragrance, she can take her pick from Karl Lagerfeld's creations, but the thing I really admire about Keira is her support for upcoming British designers- she wore Erdem back in 2007 and sported a stunning Mary Katrantzou dress at the Venice Film Festival earlier this year. Her street style is relaxed, cool and comfortable, and her model-like proportions are perfect for showcasing stunning couture pieces on the red carpet:

This look was inspired by the autumnal Erdem printed dress which Keira wore to the Olivier awards in 2010, and by a look she put together back in 2008. I love the floral pattern on this blouse from Miss Selfridge, and the black bow detail ensures it co-ordinates perfectly with this Topshop skirt. These boots from Zara really remind me of the Isabel Marant Dickers, and I think they toughen the outfit up perfectly. This satchel from ASOS also matches the blouse beautifully, and the gold buckles make it look like a designer piece. Finally, this ring from Cheap Frills is the perfect statement accessory to finish the look off.

What do you think of Keira Knightley's style? Are you a fan?

(Image credit: Look, ASOS, Miss Selfridge, Topshop, Cheap Frills and Zara.)

11.12.11- Sunday Style Spotlight #10: Liv Tyler

Since the age of about 11 (when I became obsessed with all things Lord of the Rings!), I've really admired Liv Tyler's style. Her attitude to fashion is relaxed, classic and easy-going, capturing an attitude which is quintessentially New York. As someone who is a little bit on the tall side, I also look to Liv (who is 5' 10") for inspiration- I love the way she returns to trusty staple items and never picks up a trend just for the sake of it. She's perfected the accessible wardrobe- cute patterned dresses teamed with beautifully cut blazers, understated accessories and timeless designer pieces all combine to create a series of signature looks which are effortlessly stylish:

This look is cool and uncomplicated, featuring items which are really versatile and classic. This beautiful pansy print dress from Warehouse is a dead ringer for the Thakoon design which Liv wore to the New York premiere of her film Super, and it's a piece that would look amazing dressed up or down. This blazer from River Island has a really luxe feel thanks to the leather effect lapels, and I think it's a staple item which you could wear again and again. These limited edition heels from New Look are stunning, and co-ordinate perfectly with the oversized clutch bag from Miss Selfridge- I love the gold accents. Finally, there are few things more classic than a pop of red lipstick, and this shade from Topshop is a brilliantly bold finishing touch.

What do you think of Liv Tyler's style? And who is your fashion icon?

(Image credit: Look, Google Images, Miss Selfridge, Warehouse, New Look, Topshop and River Island.)

27.11.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #9: Kirsten Dunst

Kirsten Dunst has long been a fashion inspiration of mine. I've loved watching her films (Marie Antoinette is one of my all-time favourites), and, after randomly bumping into her in the shoe department of Selfridges a few years ago, I've been an avid follower of her style. Whilst I'm yet to catch her performance in Melancholia, it was great to see Kirsten on the red carpet again during the promotion of the film over the summer, wearing stunning dresses by Chanel, Chloé and Rodarte. If I had to summarise her look in one word, I'd probably choose romantic- pretty details, classic shapes and a touch of whimsy all come together to create a much-coveted signature style:

My interpretation of Kirsten's style is all about taking classic pieces and adding to them- this shirt from Miss Selfridge is a perfect wardrobe staple with an added element of sparkle thanks to the embellished collar. The same goes for the Oasis skirt- the lace overlay captures the sense of romance which makes Kirsten's look so recognisable. The embellished touches on this Topshop dress evoke a couture feel at a fraction of the price, and I think these shoes from Zara could be mistaken for a Miu Miu pair. Finally, these earrings from Whistles are both simple and cute, capturing the essence of Kirsten's approach to fashion.

What do you think of Kirsten Dunst's style?

(Image credit: Look, Miss Selfridge, Whistles, Oasis, Topshop, and Zara.)

20.11.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #8: Zooey Deschanel

I've been a fan of Zooey Deschanel's style for as long as I can remember. She's perfected a look which is unmistakably her own, consisting predominantly of cute, vintage inspired dresses, often with a nod to a classic 50s silhouette. As well as having a serious case of hair envy, I love her approach to fashion as it's unashamedly girly- she's a big fan of cute accessories, flowers and bow details, and her style borders perfectly on the conservative side of kooky...

 

This look is all about the dress. Anything that emphasises the waist and incorporates an A-line skirt is a sure fire way to evoke some of Zooey's sartorial charm. Colours are simple and sophisticated, and a cute flower detail here and there keeps things youthful and fun. And, if you're a fan of Zooey's music, be sure to complete the look with a copy of A Very She and Him Christmas!

What do you think of Zooey Deschanel's style? Are you a fan?

(Image credit: Look, Google Images, Topshop, Accessorize, Warehouse, Miss Selfridge and Rokit.)

30.10.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #7: Elizabeth Olsen

I've been a fan of Elizabeth Olsen's style for a little while now, and she's been steadily making a sartorial impact at events and premieres over the last few months. This week she attended a screening of her film Martha Marcy May Marlene at the London Film Festival, gracing the red carpet in sparkling Chanel Couture and cementing her status as an up-and-coming style icon:

I love Elizabeth's style as it's really simple and sophisticated. Unlike Mary-Kate's penchant for vintage and Ashley's attraction to all things minimalist, Elizabeth seems to prefer looks which are feminine, classic and youthful. I adore the dress by The Row (who else?) which she wore to the Cannes Film Festival back in May, and, as we saw at the SS12 presentations, this 20s inspired look is set to be big news for next season. Throw in some statement accessories and a touch of sparkle and you're well on your way to emulating Elizabeth's sophisticated elegance.

Are you a fan of Elizabeth Olsen's style?

(Image credit: Look, Google Images, Warehouse, ASOS, Oasis, River Island and very.co.uk.)

16.10.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #6: Florence Welch

Less than a fortnight after emerging from a giant seashell to sing at the Chanel SS12 presentation, Florence Welch is gracing the cover of every magazine from NME to Interview as she promotes her new album, Ceremonials, which is released next month. Since the release of her debut album, Lungs in 2009, Florence has not only become one of the most recognisable voices on the radio, but has also worked with a succession of designers including Givenchy, Valentino and Gucci to cement her status as a style icon:

From floor sweeping couture gowns for red carpet appearances and performances, to a laid back street style which incorporates lots of quirky little touches, Florence's signature looks are always beautifully co-ordinated. Embellishment, lace and metallics are all key players here, as are vintage accessories and statement jewellery. I love Florence's look predominantly because she's such a style chameleon- from ethereal dresses created by the best design houses in the world to a simple plaid shirt accessorised with a ribbon neck tie, she takes a fun, fearless approach to fashion which works so well and compliments her music beautifully.

What do you think of Florence Welch's style? Are you a fan?

(Image credit: Look, New Look, River Island, Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins, Accessorize, Topshop and Rokit.)

25.09.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #5: Alexa Chung

Alexa Chung's style is quintessentially English. Part school girl, part granny (her words, not mine!), Alexa's look has become extremely sought after and much replicated since she made her breakthrough hosting Popworld back in 2006. I remember tuning in to an episode and being amazed to see her wearing a smock from Primark identical to one I had hanging in my wardrobe (needless to say I was a very cool sixteen year old!) Alas said smock has now bitten the dust, but Alexa's appeal has not abated and she's now one of the most sought after faces in fashion, regularly appearing in Vogue, ELLE and Harper's Bazaar to name but a few. It's thanks to Miss Chung that Mulberry gave us the Alexa, and this week her second collaboration with Madewell proved so popular that it crashed their website. In fact, Alexa's come a long way since that bargain Primark smock:

Alexa's signature style has spawned a myriad of copy-cats (how else do you explain the sudden popularity of loafers?), but the thing I love about her look is its simplicity. She knows what suits her and she sticks to it, which is why she's regularly seen in mini-dresses, chunky knits and 60s inspired shapes. The 'school girl meets granny' vibe is the perfect thing to keep in mind whilst trying to emulate a slice of Chung style, so be sure to incorporate opaque tights, school uniform shades (charcoal greys, plum reds and navy blues) and of course the now globally famous satchel. Even if you can't stretch to the eye watering expense of a Mulberry original, there are plenty of cheaper alternatives about. My standout item from this 'Style Steal' is this gorgeous navy military coat from New Look- it looks so much more expensive than the £49.99 price tag, and the swing shape, cute collar and bright gold buttons all scream Alexa. Happy shopping!

Are you a fan of Alexa Chung's style?

(Image credit: Look, style.com, Google Images, New Look, Jane Shilton, Topshop, River Island, Mulberry and ASOS.)

18.09.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #4: Clémence Poésy

Clémence Poésy has long been on one my fashion favourites. With her effortless approach to red carpet dressing, Clémence has developed a signature style which is laid back and understated, but at the same time classically elegant and oh so French. I've always thought that French women have all the luck when it comes to nailing the 'Oh, I just threw this old thing on!' look- they somehow manage to look amazing in clothes which your average human would look ridiculous in. But, after looking at Clémence's style, I think I've cracked the Parisienne formula- she usually goes for black and navy outfits which are deceptively simple, but which often incorporate quirky details, whether it be a ribbon around the waist or a peter pan collar, and she always keeps accessories to a minimum:

If, unlike Clémence, you don't have a free pass to outfit upon outfit from Chanel, then her look is fairly easily to replicate on the high street. Cute swing dresses with collar details are absolutely everywhere this season, and sticking to a classic colour palette will help to replicate some of that effortless Parisienne magic. Less really is more in this case, so keep accessories co-ordinated, and incorporate a bit of monochrome to nod to classic Chanel. Perfect!

What do you think of Clémence Poésy's style? Are you a fan?

(Image credit: Look, Vogue, Zimbio, Google Images, Accessorize, Oasis, Warehouse, New Look, Rokit and ASOS.)

04.09.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #3: Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger has got to be one of the most consistently stylish stars on the red carpet at the moment. She was one of my favourites from the MET gala earlier in the year, and as a former model, Diane certainly knows a thing or two about fashion. As well as being unveiled as the face of Calvin Klein's Beauty last year, she is also a friend of Karl Lagerfeld and a regular front row fixture at fashion week. I love Diane's style because it's so feminine, elegant and polished, but at the same time she's not afraid to take a risk here and there, regularly experimenting with shape and colour on the red carpet:

To replicate Diane's signature style, think embellished dresses (after all, who doesn't love a bit of sparkle?) mixed up with quirky accessories such as bows and these adorable two-tone brogues. Take further inspiration from her flawless hair and make-up and you're there!

Are you a fan of Diane Kruger's style? What are your favourite of her red carpet looks?

(Image credit: Look, Vogue, Topshop, Monsoon, H&M and Zara.)

28.08.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #2: Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld is one cool kid. Oscar nominated for her performance as Mattie Ross in True Grit, recently revealed as the new face of Miu Miu's AW11 ad campaign and LOVE magazine cover star. And, as if that wasn't enough, Hailee has also developed a signature style, showcasing an understated elegance on the red carpet, and even designing her own gown for the Oscars. The thing I love about Hailee's approach to style is how classic it is- simple dresses, sleek hair and makeup and co-ordinated accessories all play a part in creating the effortlessly ladylike look which she's honed over the last year or so:

Miu Miu has become a firm favourite for Hailee on the red carpet (talk about perk of the job!), and the swallow print dress from their AW11 presentation has become one of the most covetable items for the coming season. At a fraction of the price, this gorgeous red version from Warehouse is perfect for channelling some of Hailee's demure style. Embellishments, detailed collars and feminine colours are also key, as is that beautiful smile! I can't wait to see how Hailee's style develops as her career progresses- she's soon set to star in a new adaptation of Romeo and Juliet which I think will be amazing. Watch this space!

What do you think of Hailee's style? Are you a fan? And what do you think of her collaboration with Miu Miu?

(Image credit: Vogue, Look, Warehouse, Topshop, Miss Selfridge and French Connection.)

21.08.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #1: Karen Gillan

New feature alert! I've had this idea floating around my brain since the New Year (proactive, I know!) but it's taken me this long to get it down on paper (or Blogger, if you like). Anyway, better late than never, here is the first of what I'm hoping will become a regular post for your Sundays- essentially casting an admiring eye over the style of some of my current fashion favourites. Hope you enjoy!

Now, if you're anything like me (a bit of a nerd) then you'll be eagerly anticipating the arrival of the second half of the present series of Doctor Who on television next weekend. After a few massively confusing episodes at the opening of the series (too much for my tiny mind to handle!), I'm looking forward to seeing the direction the second half takes, and cannot wait for the return of James Corden as Craig. So, with this in mind, what better way to welcome back the Doctor than by celebrating the style of his most fashionable companion to date- Amy Pond, alias Karen Gillan.

I've admired Karen's style since she began making appearances when the series was re-launched last year. She's got such unique style and isn't afraid to embrace a bold fashion choice, but her look is still really accessible and easily replicated on the high street.

Think one-off vintage dresses, oversize boyfriend jackets, toughened up footwear and statement accessories and you're there. Karen is set to make even more of a fashion statement over the coming weeks, as she stars in the BBC Four drama We'll Take Manhattan, playing iconic 60's model Jean 'The Shrimp' Shrimpton. I can't wait to see it, and am sure the costumes will be amazing.

Are you a fan of Karen's style? And are you looking forward to the return of Doctor Who?

(Image credit: Glamour, Look, The Fashion Spot, ASOS, Dune, Rokit, River Island, Topshop and Missguided.)