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British designer Amanda Wakeley shares her insights on creating a timeless and sustainable wardrobe through essential pieces.

Having a to-die-for wardrobe doesn’t have to mean rows and rows of exquisite options. All you need is a good head on your shoulders and a clear sense of your personal style in building that 10-30 piece capsule wardrobe.

From classic blazers to versatile dresses, Amanda talks about foundational items that can be mixed and matched, ensuring endless outfit possibilities.

The build

Classifying what you have

It is best to start with what you currently have when building your capsule wardrobe. Do a massive try-on and see which ones fit and flatter you.

I would start by making sure you have some well-fitting lingerie

Amanda Wakeley

The goal is to trim it down to just 10-20 items of your existing clothes, shoes, and accessories.

Choosing your colour palette

Anna Curtis, founder of Colour Code, says “you should prioritise creating a wardrobe that brings you joy, makes you feel confident and reflects your personality.”

When you shop from a tonally cohesive palette, half the work is already done for you and you’re building a wardrobe that coordinates perfectly.

Anna Curtis

Because our skin tone can change depending on the time of year – not to mention hair colour – Wakeley recommends going old school, i.e. coming into a shop to try on clothes, when intending to experiment with colours and bold prints.

Go for quality and versatility

Wakeley recommends, “Pick pieces that can be styled in different ways and worn for various occasions.”

A classic design and high-quality fabric – such as linen – are not only versatile but also ensure breathability and ease.

Items such as a well-tailored blazer, crisp white shirts, a little black dress, and versatile shoes are integral. The idea is to create a cohesive wardrobe that simplifies dressing and maximises style with minimal effort

Amanda Wakeley

These investment pieces add an air of sophistication to any outfit while maintaining timeless appeal.

Wakeley wraps it up well when she said that “a well-curated capsule wardrobe strikes a balance – while your wardrobe’s foundation should include versatile, functional pieces, there’s always room for items that can be transformative – a statement belt, shoes, jewellery or a bag, not to mention a pop of unexpected colour.”

High-end luxury brands and streetwear labels join forces, offering a new take on fashion trends. From collaborations for satchels (Cambridge Satchel and Hello Kitty) to clothes (Rokh and H&M), this year shows us that fashion is for everyone.

With a whole gamut of collaborations to look out for, summer will be sunnier than ever! Let’s look at noteworthy collaborations this year.

Making Waves

Collaborations inject a fresh vibe into established brands. Following is a list of such collaborations that make fashion all the more exciting this 2024.

Cambridge Satchel x Hello Kitty

Raising a glass to 15 years for Cambridge Satchel and 50 years for Hello Kitty is the cutest character celebration on a selection of leather bags and accessories.

https://x.com/CamSatchelCo/status/1727372998808637528

Hello Kitty and Cambridge Satchel fit the kitsch character into the classic adult mould; and it is looking fantastic.

Stella McCartney x Hajime Sorayama

No one would have thought that sustainable fashion could tie up seamlessly with a futuristic visionary. The result is one for the books.

https://x.com/StellaMcCartney/status/1709506361623453972

This collection has got everyone talking, esp. with top celebrities showing them off.

Fenty x Puma

Fenty and Puma joined forces again this 2024 to release a pair of pony-hair Avanti trainers. Retailing for a little over $250.00, they were sold out almost instantly after being introduced at Paris Fashion Week.

Balenciaga x Gucci

The summer 2024 collection features the unexpected use of both brands’ iconic logos. The collaboration has created a lot of excitement the first time.

With prices starting at around $600, these designs are sure to be sought after by fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Rokh x H&M

The high street collection includes men’s clothing, women’s clothing, and accessories. Rokh’s recognisable design elements come at a more accessible price in this collection, available online and in select shops.

These collaborations demonstrate how the fashion industry is constantly evolving and pushing boundaries.

Avant-garde fashion, an unconventional and boundary-pushing movement, has shaped the way we perceive and wear clothes for over a century.

In this article, we’ll look into the evolution of avant-garde fashion, from its inception to the present day, and explore how it continues to inspire and challenge us.

Contemporary avant-garde fashion designer, Barbara í Gongini, guides us in our exploration of the term.

Origins of Avant-Garde Fashion (early 20th century)

The avant-garde movement began around the early 20th century, with artists, designers, and thinkers rejecting societal norms and exploring innovative ideas in various fields.

In fashion, this translated into unconventional designs that challenged traditional silhouettes and materials, paving the way for future trends.

Mid-Century Innovations (1950-1960)

During the mid-20th century, designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Cardin continued to push boundaries with their radical creations, such as unisex garments and futuristic shapes.

Avant-Garde Fashion (1970-1980)

Punk and new wave movements influenced avant-garde fashion during this period, with designers like Vivienne Westwood and Jean-Paul Gaultier embracing rebellion and experimentation.

Present day avant-garde

Today, avant-garde fashion continues to shape the industry, with designers like Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons and Rick Owens pushing the boundaries of form, color, and texture.

As opposed to those who merely imitate the trend, we try to craft pieces with a particular message. In my eyes, the very non-compromised fashion is the most relevant nowadays.

Barbara Í Gongini

The influence of avant-garde fashion extends beyond traditional fashion channels, with social media playing a pivotal role in promoting and popularizing its boundary-pushing designs. The digital platform offers unprecedented exposure for designers and their unconventional creations, allowing them to connect directly with consumers and challenge societal norms on a global scale.

The enduring influence of avant-garde fashion on our sartorial landscape stems from its relentless pursuit of innovation and rejection of societal norms. As we move forward, this groundbreaking movement will continue to challenge, inspire, and shape the way we view and wear clothes.

What used to raise eyebrows is now perceived as progressive and forward thinking.

Casinos have long been synonymous with elegance and sophistication, often evoking images of James Bond in a tuxedo, glamorous dresses, and sparkling lights. Whether you’re planning a night out at a luxurious land-based casino or participating in an online casino event, understanding the dress code can enhance your experience. Here’s a guide to help you dress appropriately for a night of glamour and gaming.

1. Understand the Casino’s Dress Code Policy

Before heading to the casino, it’s essential to check their specific dress code policy. Many high-end casinos have strict dress codes, while others may be more relaxed. Generally, casinos classify their dress codes into several categories:

• Casual: Comfortable and relaxed attire, such as jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers.
• Smart Casual: A step up from casual, including collared shirts, dress pants, blouses, and closed-toe shoes.
• Business Casual: Professional yet comfortable, featuring blazers, dress shirts, slacks, dresses, and heels.
• Semi-Formal: Elegant and sophisticated, such as cocktail dresses, skirts, dress shirts, and tailored suits.
• Formal: The epitome of luxury, requiring tuxedos, evening gowns, and high-end accessories.

2. Daytime vs. Evening Attire

The time of day can also influence what you should wear to a casino. During the daytime, casinos may be more lenient with their dress code, allowing for smart casual or business casual attire. However, in the evening, the atmosphere becomes more refined, and a semi-formal or formal dress code is often expected.

Daytime Attire

• Men: Collared shirts, dress pants or chinos, loafers or dress shoes.
• Women: Blouses, skirts, dresses, dress pants, and comfortable yet stylish shoes.

Evening Attire

• Men: Tailored suits, dress shirts, ties or bow ties, polished dress shoes.
• Women: Cocktail dresses, elegant skirts and blouses, evening gowns, and sophisticated heels.

3. Accessorize Appropriately

Accessories can elevate your outfit and add a touch of personal style. For men, consider wearing a stylish watch, cufflinks, and a pocket square. Women can opt for statement jewelry, a chic clutch, and a shawl or wrap for added elegance. Remember to keep accessories tasteful and not overly flashy.

4. Grooming and Personal Care

Good grooming and personal care are crucial aspects of dressing for a casino. Ensure that your hair is neatly styled, and your nails are clean and well-maintained. A touch of cologne or perfume can add a subtle yet sophisticated appeal. However, avoid overpowering scents that might be disruptive to others.

5. Online Casino Events

While online casinos, such as the top australian casinos on 1337.games, offer the convenience of gaming from home, special events or virtual gatherings might have their own dress codes. Dressing up for these occasions can enhance the experience and bring a sense of authenticity to the event. Consider dressing in smart casual or business casual attire to get into the spirit of the game.

Conclusion

Dressing appropriately for a casino not only shows respect for the establishment but also enhances your overall experience. Whether you’re enjoying a night out at a luxurious land-based casino or participating in an online event, adhering to the dress code can make your night of gaming more enjoyable and memorable. So, next time you plan a casino visit, take a moment to choose an outfit that reflects the elegance and sophistication of this glamorous world.

Fashion is a realm where creativity knows no bounds, and sometimes, the most unexpected combinations can yield the most striking results. Stepping outside the conventional can refresh your wardrobe and add a unique flair to your style. Here are some unconventional fashion combinations that surprisingly work, ensuring you stand out in any crowd.

Embrace the Floral Frenzy

Pairing multiple floral prints can be striking when they share similar base colors, creating a cohesive and vibrant look that radiates confidence and creativity.

Stripes Meet Blossoms

Mixing florals with stripes works well because both elements are timeless, with the simplicity of stripes balancing the playful florals, resulting in a sophisticated and eye-catching outfit.

Primary Color Power

Combining primary colors (blue, red, and yellow) in your outfit creates a bold, vibrant look. Wearing these colors as separate pieces or in a color-blocked ensemble adds energy and visual impact.

Retro Revamp

Mixing retro colors like 1970s brown and orange with modern pastels such as lavender and seafoam refreshes the nostalgic look, blending eras to create a forward-thinking outfit.

Harmonize with Hues

Layering prints in similar colors or varying shades (e.g., different greens) adds depth and interest while maintaining cohesion, using color theory to create a thoughtfully curated outfit.

Trend Fusion

Combining different styles (e.g., grunge with polished) can create a unique look. Letting the subtle elements dominate and using the rule of two parts, subtle and one part loud, balances and showcases different facets of your style.

Fashion is all about expression, and these unconventional combinations prove that breaking the rules can lead to unexpectedly chic results. By mixing prints, colors, and styles thoughtfully, you can create standout looks that are uniquely you. So next time you’re in front of your wardrobe, dare to experiment – you might just discover your new favorite outfit.

Haute couture in fashion epitomizes artisanal craftsmanship, offering made-to-order garments of sartorial excellence and exclusivity. Originating from the French ‘Haute’ (high) and ‘Couture’ (sewing), it represents the pinnacle of fashion design, regulated by La Chambre Syndicale de la Couture. Pierre Balmain described it as the ‘architecture of movement.’ Designers utilize intricate techniques like embroidery and pleating to realize their visions.

The term haute couture emerged in 19th-century France to describe bespoke attire for royalty and the elite. Charles Frederick Worth, known as the ‘Father of Haute Couture,’ institutionalized personalized garments in his Parisian atelier and introduced garment labels, emphasizing the designer’s role.

The Federation de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM) was founded in 1868 to maintain couture standards. Today, haute couture encompasses a wide range of high-quality fashion, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology like CAD design and 3D printing.

The characteristics

Haute Couture embodies three main characteristics: expertise, exclusivity, and quality. According to Didier Grumbach, co-founder of Saint-Laurent Rive Gauche, haute couture creation is intricate and time-consuming, requiring skilled artisans and over 700 hours of work.

Each garment is exclusive, tailored precisely to the client’s measurements, ensuring unparalleled uniqueness. Moreover, haute couture materials, ranging from fabrics woven with gold threads to hand-beaded embellishments, are sourced from the rarest origins, emphasizing incomparable quality and craftsmanship.

The clientele

The clientele primarily consists of celebrities, royals, and high-net-worth individuals who view their purchases not just as garments but as investments in art, reflecting their identity and status. Each haute couture piece is custom-made for the client, contributing to its exclusivity. Despite the prohibitive prices, celebrities and royals are among the common buyers of haute couture.

The unique and stunning nature of these garments makes them a preferred choice for weddings and formal occasions. Professionals in industries requiring formal attire often opt for haute couture designs from renowned designers like Armani and Stephane Rolland.