Status Symbols

Red Carpet Guards

2009-06-19T01:18:00.002+01:00

Sascha Baron Cohen has completely verified the idea of the court of celebrity by appearing on the red carpet for the premiere of Bruno dressed as the Queen's Guard. Celebrity is the new royalty. It all makes sense.

Royal Symbols at Graduate Fashion Week

2009-06-16T23:47:00.018+01:00

So, it seems that royal symbols are still popular with some of the new trend-makers emerging from the London fashion schools. One of the hot, new tickets out of the London College of Fashion who's done status symbols justice is menswear graduate Asger Juel Larsen. His collection has been mentioned everywhere from WGSN to a blog in Thailand, and he's even been nominated for the finals of the Mittelmoda Fashion Award in Milan. Asger explains his collection on his blog, "The focal point of the collection is themes of medieval warfare and more specifically chain mail. Exploring its use down to the method of its manufacture, I have created a modern adaptation of the armour by producing ‘futuristic’ ideas of chain mail, using alternative materials such as leather, PVC and rubber cords." Knights were medieval "gentlemen soldiers" (think King Arthur, the Crusades, and England's Order of the Garter). In addition to their expensive armour, they also sported the banners and colours of the nobility or monarch they supported. Asger's interest in the attire of these "gentlemen soldiers" seems logical considering his Danish origin and their current knightly order, the Order of the Elephant, founded by King Christian I in 1693. The ruling monarch of Denmark heads the order, and it is worn by members of the royal family and foreign heads of state, including Queen Elizabeth and the Prince of Wales. The insigna worn consists of a gold collar of elephants and towers, a badge of a white-enamelled elephant, a silver star on the left side of the chest, and a light-blue sash when the collar is not worn.
But enough of my fashion history ramblings. Asger's modern armour is pretty exciting.

When I ran into Asger at the LCF library and he showed me his research (to which I told him to check out the armour at the Wallace Collection, one of my favourite London museums, and which I will shamelessly plug now), I knew his work would fit in perfectly with Kensington Palace's Status Symbols theme.

The Central Saint Martins BA show also had a touch of royal symbols. And, although, I don't have decent images, there's still one worth mentioning. Ryan Strong's collection featured royal colours of red and purple in dresses that flowed back to form robes. They were really stunning, and I was definitely reminded of the new Order of the Garter robe the RCA students designed in 1961 for the Queen. Now we just need Beatrice or Kate Middleton out on a night in one of Ryan's dresses and we really would have royal symbols in contemporary fashion.

Chris Martin rocks military

2009-05-16T19:06:00.003+01:00

Chris Martin rocked a slightly femininely coloured military jacket on the opening night of Coldplay's US tour in Palm Beach, Florida last night.

Claire

Mischa again . . .

2009-05-13T23:33:00.003+01:00

Spotted in London: Mischa Barton sporting a Union Jack top and School boy blazer . . . do you reckon she took a trip to Topshop?

Katie Eary

2009-04-23T11:12:00.003+01:00

This is Katie Eary's graduation collection in Menswear MA at the RCA. Finally we have a menswear designer who produces beautiful garments, yet wearable without being to boring as men's clothes tend to be.
For A/W09 Katie have again drawn on her fascination for military attire

T.L.

Jimi Hendrix fashion icon

2009-04-20T14:20:00.004+01:00

I accidentally stumbled across this amazing picture of Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones founder Brian Jones at a festival. We now see where Kayne West got his fashion inspirations from.

T.L.

Young Victoria on BBC

2009-04-19T18:41:00.003+01:00

Watch the BBC program Timewatch following young Victoria from her childhood to her throne.

T.L.

Rihanna Loves Balmain Too

2009-04-18T22:46:00.002+01:00

Beyonce is not the only celeb who's loving Balmain's take on military this season - Rihanna was spotted sporting the look while shopping on Melrose in Beverly Hills yesterday.

Claire

Here it comes again...!

2009-04-17T16:45:00.003+01:00

Labels are loving our Union Jack! Who's next...?

Jamie Reid in Conversation

2009-04-15T21:33:00.003+01:00

If you've ever wondered what the inspiration was for the classic Sex Pistols album covers, including God Save the Queen, then you need to get yourself down to the V&A for Jamie Reid in Conversation. The notorious artist and anarchist will be there discussing past and future projects on Friday April 24th from 19.00-20.00, either book online or call 0207 942 2211.

Claire

Dressed to Kill

2009-04-15T20:52:00.000+01:00

Last week saw the launch of the much awaited Henry VIII: Dressed to Kill exhibition at the Tower of London . Part propaganda, part fashion, this stunning new exhibition celebrates the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII's coronation, with a display of some of the world's rarest arms and armour.

So take a trip to see some of the killer looks of one of Britain's most intriguing Kings.

Caroline.

Henry VII: Dressed to Kill until the 17 January 2010.

When Michelle met the Queen

2009-04-15T12:55:00.006+01:00

Two style titans gave each other a pat on the back for their services to fashion.

I found this article on the Queen's style and thought I would share it with you:

Enjoy!

E.D

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's tale of male peacockery

2009-04-14T21:20:00.004+01:00

BBC's very own dandy, Laurence Llewelyn Bowen recounts the history of British dandyism and male peacockery in Radio 4's series Men of Fashion.

And with episodes entitled Henry VIII: the King must wear gold, Charles II: Fashion Restored? The Tartan Titan and the Highland Fashion Cult, Men in Uniform and Empire Resplendent, and Sporting Gents: the Prince of Wales plays golf, it is clear that royalty often set the sartorial tone.

Take a look at the full episode list and and listen to them again on iPlayer.

Caroline.

Beyoncé in Balmain

2009-04-13T20:40:00.000+01:00

Spotted in New York yesterday: the queen of bling rocking 'the' Balmain jacket . . .

Caroline.

Model Citizens

2009-04-10T17:45:00.000+01:00

The new series of Britain's Next Top Model hits our screens on Monday 20th April, and has returned with an Anglophile theme - the boot camp inspired advertisement pays homage to Royal Military style with a glamorous twist. With the contestants draped in union jacks and 1950s pin-up military dresses, they are flying the flag for aspiring British models. They'll fight for that top spot until they are red, white and blue in the face.

Will the crowned victor be able to cut it in British fashion with the likes of Agyness Deyn and Kate Moss? We'll have to wait and see!

Stephanie

Gucci does the Union Jack

2009-04-06T16:35:00.004+01:00

Gucci jumps on the Union Jack bandwagon by producing this bag for the launch of their new flagship boutique on Sloane Street. Looks like Kate Moss is a fan...New Look has also produced this homage to Britishness, as everywhere goes Union Jack crazy!

Claire

Britannia rule the sea!

2009-04-04T11:33:00.007+01:00

Topshop's new Summer Pirate collection coaxes us to 'Sail Away' on a pretty seafaring journey in a palette of navy and red, stripes and vintage florals, teamed with flag and floral printed tshirts. Summer's on it's way!

Caroline.

Topshop bites the big apple!

2009-04-03T11:18:00.000+01:00

Check out the Union Jackesque window display for Topshop's first New York store which opened yesterday and saw fans queuing from 6am!

Royal Shoes!

2009-03-31T15:46:00.002+01:00

Bruno Frisoni, the creative director at Roger Vivier, has entwined a little British and French history into his new shoe collection for next autumn/winter.

One of the key designs has a royal inspiration. It is a gleaming, black patent, round-toed platform, with a 12cm heel, featuring the famous RV square buckle, embroidered in gilt thread with the words “God Save the Queen”, and the initials R.V.

Brit loves military

2009-03-28T22:08:00.003Z

Following on from my post earlier this month, Britney continues the military theme during her Circus tour, with this airforce-inspired jacket worn in Pittsburgh last night.

Claire

Bargain Balmain

2009-03-27T12:54:00.000Z

Can't afford the £6,560 crystal encrusted Balmain jacket? (and even if you could, it's pretty much sold out everywhere) Why not settle for Jigsaw's very own quaint little 'Admiral' jacket. Due in store any day now. Keep your eyes peeled; this one won't stay on the rails very long . .

Caroline.

Balmainia

2009-03-24T19:59:00.004Z

Who says Balmain's military jackets are limited to women? The Swedish fashion magazine Dorian show men out there that they too can rock the urban military look!

T.L.

Empire of the Sun

2009-03-21T15:28:00.000Z

Just found this pic of hot new Aussie band 'Empire of the Sun', of whom NME recently said 'world domination awaits' and Radio 1's Zane Lowe currently has their track 'We Are The People (That Rule The World)' as his 'hottest record in the world right now'. Anyway, on the Status Symbols front, they are wearing some brilliantly military and royal get-up and their logo appears to be a crown. So well done for entering into the spirit lads.

Claire

Mini Royals

2009-03-19T10:36:00.009Z

You can still get involved with Status Symbols by sending in projects along royal and military styles. We welcome anything - photos, text or videos...so check out our Get Involved section on the website and see the gallery of projects we've already had submitted. If you want to get involved, email us your projects at fht.csm@gmail.com and we will get them up online.

Here is a fantastically creative project that I've just received from my adorable 2 1/2 year old twin god-children, Paige & Ollie, who have been entering into the regal spirit by making these fabulous crowns, with Paige even dressing up in a Disney Princess dress to set off her crown. Thank you to mummy Helen for helping with cutting and sticking!

See, any age can get involved and have fun...so why not give it a go?!

Claire

Bling, the new Crown Jewels?

2009-03-17T17:06:00.000Z

Bling is all around us as a form of status. It sets the wearer apart, implying a message of wealth, elitism and maybe fame. Is this the new Crown Jewels of celebrity culture.

Deceived by Dries Van Noten

2009-03-16T12:23:00.003Z

How amazing is this Dries Van Noten cardigan?? I adore the trompe l'oeil froggings and the clashing patterns which somehow work wonderfully.

T.L.

Jack strikes again

2009-03-15T10:51:00.000Z

Just came across this Union Jack top on the Topshop website. Thought I'd share.

Claire

Ruff it Up!

2009-03-14T18:37:00.000Z

Chanel Fall 2009 RTW

History meets contmeporary and its super-feminine! The collection displayed white collar and cuff treatments—frothy plissé ruffs, chiffon camellias, and French maid frills encircling the neck or sleeves on soft, fitted black silhouettes.

Galliano's Guards

2009-03-12T18:12:00.002Z

Loving today's Balkan-inspired Galliano collection! As well as the panniers, pompom boots, peasant blouses and embroidery, Galliano also threw in a little bit of military frogging.

Take a look at the rest of the great collection - makes a change from most of the other recession affected collections.

Claire

Fairy Tales

2009-03-11T18:46:00.005Z

Check out these Tim Walker photgraphs, im loving the fairy tale theme. It reaches all elements of fashion and is clearly an adaptable theme!! Sophie

Making Dreams Come True

2009-03-11T16:02:00.008Z

Continuing with the idea of the Status Symbols exhibition using a fairytale narrative and following on from my recent blog about celebrities being photographed in fairytale tableaux for a recent Disney series, I thought I would share the rest of the images with you. So, here is Whoopi Goldberg as the Genie from Aladdin, Julie Andrews as the Blue Fairy from Pinocchio, Jessica Biel as Pocahontas and Roger Federer as King Arthur. I'll keep you posted if I come across anymore.

Claire

Maiden Britain

2009-03-10T05:04:00.007Z

During LFW, Caroline and Claire briefly touched on our visit to the Maiden Britain show. Well, I was equipped that day with a video camera, and I've finally managed to produce a short movie with footage from the collection as well as a quick interview with designer Ziad Ghanem about his use of royal symbols in the designs, specifically the union jack. The union jack is something that is recurrent in the Maiden Britain collections (maybe because they're about Britishness...ha!), and Ziad makes some really great comments about this theme, my favourite being his personal image of British women painted head to toe in union jacks and Burberry.

But be sure to check out the S/S 08 Masturbazar collection especially.

http://www.myspace.com/englishboyworkinggirl
And as a personal plug--check out Ziad's couture collection as well (I do some modeling for it! hehe) http://www.ziadghanem.co.uk

Glossies Aren't Anything New

2009-03-09T18:49:00.011Z

So, we've just updated the site, and there have been some additions to the gossip section. However, there wasn't room to go into a load of detail, so I figured I'd make up for it here, starting with some thoughts on glossies and court journals.

Glossies scrutinize celebrity dress in the same way that Court journals of the past criticized the dress of aristocrats at Court. Diaries and letters between Court ladies reveal the pressure and judgement placed on dress. During the reign of Charles II in the 1660's, the Duchess of Newcastle was notorious for her bizarre fashion choices, and was the author of Poems and Fancies. Dorothy Osbourne unsympathetically wrote of her in a correspondence, "First let me ask you if you have seen a book newly come out made by my Lady Newcastle; For God's sake if you meet with it, send it to me; they say 'tis ten times more extravagant than her dress." This is almost the same level of bitchiness found in Vice and Glamour's do's and don't's these days.

"Wow. Carrying around a jambox is one thing, but how into yourself have you got to be to set up an entire throne for your personality and read A Clockwork Orange while smoking cigarettes (he even brought his own little pocket ashtray with lid) like you're living out some 8th-grader in detention's fantasy of what living in New York is going to be like? The bottom half of his mirror must be permanently frosted in jizz."-Vice

"The peekaboo fabric with nothing but undies underneath? A save-it-for-your honeymoon Don’t."-Glamour

These sorts of criticisms have remained unchanged as this copy of Heat magazine confirms. Like Heat claims of these celebrities, Samuel Pepys' wrote in his infamous diary in the 17th century when his cousin began wearing rouge on her cheeks, "Still very pretty, but paints red on her face, which makes me hate her."

2009-03-09T12:41:00.003Z

Anna dello Russo is spotted in this exquisite military attire with exaggerated froggings at the Emanuel Ungaro show.

T.L.

Interview with Stephen Jones

2009-03-07T23:59:00.005Z

In this exclusive interview, Stephen Jones reveals the early stages of his career and his working relationship with Princess Diana (notice the Union Jack hat behind Mr Jones!)

On Location: An interview with Stephen Jones from Victoria and Albert Museum on Vimeo.

T.L.

Blue Blood

2009-03-07T16:08:00.002Z

Launched in 2004, Sang Bleu is something of a rare find in the magazine world; a hybrid of fanzine, photography, and journal. It's statement is to use Art, Fashion, Sociology, Literature but also more importantly, Tattooing, Body Modification, Fetish and other subcultures to 'create a carefully composed image of modern urban societies and individuals.'

And it is in true punk modus operandi, that the Queen's head has been emblazoned with tattoos for the magazine's official t-shirt.

I think Jamie Reid would be the first to agree that the greatest ideas endure the test of time . . .

Caroline.

Annie Leibovitz's Fairytales

2009-03-06T16:38:00.013Z

After seeing the design proposals for the Status Symbols exhibition, it is clear that the fairytale theme is going to be a major part of the display, so bearing that in mind, I found these photos commissioned by Disney and taken by photographer Annie Leibovitz.

They show Hollywood celebrities portraying some of Disney's most iconic fairytale characters: Zac Efron & Vanessa Hudgens as Prince Charming & Princess Aurora from Sleeping Beauty, Scarlett Johansson as Cinderella, Rachel Weisz as Snow White, Beyonce as Alice in Wonderland, Gisele Bundchen as Wendy & Tina Fey as Tinkerbell from Peter Pan, David Beckham as Prince Charming from Sleeping Beauty, Jennifer Lopez as Jasmine from Aladdin and Julianne Moore as The Little Mermaid.

For more images in the series check out: http://tinyurl.com/ar455f

Claire

King Charles

2009-03-06T15:00:00.004Z

He may still be the Prince of Wales, but today Charles was crowned best dressed man in the world, by Esquire Magazine.

Esquire reveal that the Prince gets his double breasted suits custom made by Anderson and Sheppard of Savile Row and goes to Turnbull and Asser on Jermyn Street for his shirts.

What do you think of Charles' classic English gent style? And would he be King of your list?

E.D

Michael Jackson - HE'S BACK and in MILITARY!

2009-03-06T13:57:00.002Z

Michael Jackson on The Times front page today and in military!

Michael Jackson declared his return to the world stage with a typically eccentric performance as he announced a series of ten shows at the O2 Arena in East London that could net him £50 million.

Hitler as muse?

2009-03-06T12:30:00.003Z

As a purely sartorial observation, was Victoria Beckham taking inspiration from Adolf Hitler when she arrived at LAX yesterday in this Nazi-themed grey outfit??

Claire

Life imitating art

2009-03-05T22:01:00.007Z

So I know that Michelle Obama isn't proper royalty, but I guess she is as close as America gets. Anyway, she just had her first official White House photo taken where she bears a striking resemblance to Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's. Michelle wore a Michael Kors dress for her shoot, whereas Audrey's was of course Givenchy.

What do you think is the significance of America's First Lady being styled in the manner of one of the most iconic outfits in movie history?

Claire

Kingdom of Style

2009-03-05T17:38:00.005Z

Let me share with you one of my favourite blogs Kingdom of Style. This cleverly written blog was founded by Queen Michelle and Queen Mary, who cover everything from catwalk reports to snaps of their personal style and anything that is in their opinion worth writing about.

This site is a must-see for all people who are interested in the latest reports of new trends!

And their interest in the Royal Family is only an added bonus.

T.L.

Country Music Royalty

2009-03-04T17:17:00.004Z

I was thinking back to Claire's blog on Taylor Swift wearing a military-styled jacket at the Echo awards when I saw a huge billboard advertising her latest album in Shoreditch (I know, I was pretty confused as to how a country star ended up on a wall in east London). I realized that as someone who was born and bred on country music, I cannot help myself from making a further link. In my eyes, Dolly Parton is bigger than the Queen.

Well, Taylor's royal enthusiasm does not end with her military jacket at the Echo awards. The two biggest songs off her newest album take on royalty in the fairytale theme being considered for Kensington Palace's status symbols exhibition.

So, unable to pass up the opportunity to force country music upon people, here they are (And it can't be that bad--this was the first country song to top Billboard's Mainstream Top 40 chart):

And even better yet, she’s recently been to London and made a bit of a video blog about it, which includes her and one of her label executives dressing up as they imagine the English—a royal guard and the Queen!

haha, yes.

Life is like a circus

2009-03-04T08:15:00.002Z

Britney merges military with circus ringleader for her new world tour Circus which kicked off in New Orleans last night.

Claire

The Young Victoria

2009-03-04T01:56:00.006Z

Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie headed out with Mum to the premiere of The Young Victoria. Sarah Ferguson wore a purple silk Vivienne Westwood dress, in homage to Victoria whose favorite colour was purple. Meanwhile the princesses wore Alice Temperley draped numbers. What a patriotic choice! Victoria would have approved, she was very particular in supporting home industries often eschewing more fashionable choices to buy British.

Meanwhile the palace has also been caught on film. Check out this Sky News video discussing the new release. Let us know your reviews!!!

E.D

Court Dress

2009-03-03T18:27:00.004Z

Galliano goes wild again with lots of Royal influence in his 2009 collection! Loving the military/court dress/royal influences all at once!

Royal Influence

2009-03-03T14:40:00.005Z

I find it really interesting how this Marni A/W09 black brocade coat and neck-piece bears an incredible resemblance to Henry VIII royal attire. Can it be sheer coincidence?

T.L.

Spring DIY

2009-03-03T13:43:00.006Z

As we have observed from the A/W catwalks, military is going to be a huge autumn trend. But fear not, we don't have to wait until winter. A quick and easy (and idiot prof) way of updating our wardrobe and be ahead of trend is to add some trimmings to your existing garments. I found these beautiful braids in Barnett Lawson for incredibly little money. I'm thinking of stitching the golden braiding on to a white t-shirt to emulate epaulets and replace the buttons of my black cardigan with these fabulous military inspired fastenings. Spring wardrobe sorted!

T.L.

La Roux!!!

2009-03-02T11:50:00.006Z

I went to see La Roux last Thursday and noticed the girl was rocking out this militaryesque jacket (photo right). I think its really interesting the way the shadows look like the front of a military jacket, don't you think? Despite my friends insisting its vintage I know I've seen that girl shadow print before, just can't remember where?!?! Do you have any ideas where it come from?

My internet image searches also came up with this sky blue beauty (top left), now this looks more like it came from Portabello, gorgeous colour, love the epaulettes. The blown up Victorian Cameo style necklaces are also gorge. The girl is busting a hot look right now!

E.D

Pearly Dollies

2009-02-28T18:44:00.008Z

Wandering through the very cramped Pollock's Toy Museum (yes, that's right) I stumbled across this delightful doll of Queen Alexandra. The label reads that though the original doll was broken, (this is a 1971 reproduction) the clothes are those that were made by the donor's nanny at the time of Queen Alexandra's Coronation in 1902.

The museum has also dedicated a little window display to the Pearlies with a variety of dolls and ephemera.

This handsome couple were dressed by Lily Lodge when she was Pearly Queen of Lambeth.

Would you like to find out more about Pearly Kings and Queens, one of the most cherished East End traditions, and even try the look yourself?

Be a Pearly King or Queen for the day! Saturday 7 March 12:30 - 3:30pm at the Museum of London Docklands, as part of the EAST festival which celebrates London's history and cultural richness.

Caroline.

Is military a 'do'?

2009-02-28T17:14:00.008Z

It seems that Glamour magazine online has caught onto our royal style idea. Their Slaves to Fashion style blog asks visitors to fill out their do's and don't's quiz for their May issue, and the headlining question? Is the military look a do? Ah! Well, our blog shows plenty of celebrities and designers trying it out, but like Glamour we want to know what you think.

Personally, I'm all for it. Military only ever reminds me of my dearest 18th century riding habit a la Lady Worsley, or some dirty indie boy trying to channel Mick Jones or some gorgeous French revolutionary Incroyable. Am I crazy? This is a serious debate.

Check out Glamour's blog.

K.R.

Sire Slimane

2009-02-27T22:42:00.000Z

We all knew that Hedi Slimane was a fierce Anglophile, but following his recent shoot for Dazed and after taking a thorough look through his photo blog (a personal favourite) it seems he may well have a certain penchant for the regal too . . .

Caroline.

Historicism A/W09

2009-02-27T21:31:00.006Z

D&G's show appeared to be a theater show rather than a fashion show. This time the Italian duo transported us back in time and back the the early-mid 18th century. The models strutted down the catwalk in intricate low-necked bodices with puffed short sleeves teamed with 'mini crinis'. A bodice and trouser suit featured beautiful prints reminds of renaissance religious paintings. Dominico and Stephano are truly one of the greatest masters of historic fashion.

T.L.

Capitano Dolce & Capitano Gabbana

2009-02-27T19:22:00.008Z

Look what else was marched down the runway at Milan Fashion Week.... This embroidered jacket by D&G evokes the captain's uniform with the red piping, epaulets and gold buttons - there is definitely a feel for all things military in Italy this season, we expect to see an army of stylish ladies this coming autumn!

Stephanie

Milan Fashion Week Trend Spotting

2009-02-27T17:39:00.005Z

Just had a browse on Catwalking.com and came across these fabulous military inspired pieces from the Blugirl Show (not to mention the trench is in Royal Blue!)

I also spied an underling military theme sweeping across both Emporio and Giorgio Armani's catwalk; with military badges pinned to knits with gold piping, and in the double breasted trench coat...

Stephanie

McQueen or Topshop?

2009-02-27T01:50:00.004Z

As Steph and Sophie pointed out all designers are going crazy over the Union Jack trend from Chanel to McQueen and this month Topshop has too jumped on the bandwagon.

Can you spot the difference?

T.L.

LONDON FASHION WEEK DAY 5 ROUND UP

2009-02-26T10:54:00.030Z

Mark Fast opened day five with more punk. His signature second skin dresses look like they had been knitted in 1977. London Fashion Week girl got tougher as the day wore on, but her embroidery continued to shine.

Jewel encrusted armour styles at Osman Yousefzada echoed MacDonald pieces of yesterday.

Military Embroidery at Meadham Kirchoff.......

A touch of refinment to round off the day. Smart styles executed in watermarked taffeta at Bora Aksu.

E.D

King of British fashion

2009-02-26T00:29:00.010Z

If Vivienne Westwood is the queen of British fashion, surely Paul Smith must be the King. Paul Smith has always used iconic symbols like tweed and Union Jacks in his collections fused with a bit of British humour. This time the A/W09 collection pays another homage to his homeland, packfull of British references, including the classic trench coat which has been transformed into dresses and skirts, Fair Isle sweaters and oversized English rose prints, which remind me of 1930s hand painted postcards and military style fashions.

T.L.

Naval Funhouse

2009-02-25T21:00:00.002Z

Seems like P!nk is taking up the trend for all things naval. On the opening night of her new tour, in France, for her album Funhouse she wore a naval bicorne with feather plumage and a rather space-age bodice and plume skirt.

Claire

Shooting Straight-Up

2009-02-25T17:03:00.028Z

Was just alerted to these photos from a recent hunt that a friend of mine organised.

As demonstrated by the Straight-Up on the Status Symbols website, there are so many Londoners who are going crazy for the Barbour jacket at the moment, but it was originally adopted by the 'country set' back in the 1890s for practical reasons when out hunting on the estate. So I thought these photos would be great evidence to show that the Barbour is still worn in the surroundings it was originally intended for.

Also notice the tweed suits, flat caps and plus fours, which bear remarkable resemblances to these two photos of Royal Hunting Parties in 1905 (King Edward VII) and 1936 (Edward VIII, later the Duke of Windsor).

Claire

LONDON FASHION WEEK DAY 4 ROUND UP

2009-02-25T13:11:00.039Z

Military ruled the runway on Monday.

First stop tea with Luella, and her models marched down the catwalk in dresses with blown up hook and eye plackets and military caps. The trenchcoat was reworked in khaki and black wool.

The navy suit jacket (left) edged with red also had a military vibe...

Even Julian MacDonald swapped glam for grungy. Showcasing punky looks; holey knits were partnered with ostrich leather trousers and layered under sheepskin and furs.

This green dress with zippered shoulder was reminiscent of Zandra Rhodes' sanitised punk of the seventies.

Jasper Conran lopped the bottom off his trench reinvention for his noir-clad vixens.....

The trend continued at Paul Smith with the designer proclaiming khaki as a sexy colour for women. Harris tweed featured heavily; a pink cocoon piece came with bright yellow epaulettes. Very Sergeant Pepper....

Rising talent William Tempest harked back to Tudor times, abstracting a Hilliard portrait of Elizabeth I for his prints.

Elizabeth's style reigned over the whole collection manifesting itself in stiff shapes and high collars.

E.D

PPQ

2009-02-25T12:46:00.004Z

PPQ's party invite featured an oh-so-sweet kitty with jaunty coronet perched atop her head. Tartan also featured in their show- which relied on the celeb model count as a talking point, where the clothes were concerned, there wasn't much to chat about .

E.D

Vivienne Westwood Red Label

2009-02-25T11:32:00.006Z

This season saw our Viv continue to draw upon details of the past - a hint of longevity to accentuate her own. Tulip-shaped dresses in brocades and traditional upholstery florals came out amongst gathered skirts and school blazers. Colours were deep and rich, reds, blues and greens, often in the plaid of Scottish tartan.

The press release talks of St Trinians as a basis for the anarchic style of rebellion that has long been expected from Westwood’s collections. Fuzzed, puffed, candyfloss hair was gently enticed into horn-like peeks, whilst shoulders were sharply pointed. Entirely wearable boyfriend knitted sweaters and cream long johns softened the devilish creatures.

Daisy Lowe had an awkward walk that presaged her immanent fall in the direction of Erin O’Connor who sat in the front row accompanied by David Walliams. Pamela Anderson failed to show face but Siouxsie Sioux and Kanye West made an appearance. The girls accompanied the designer back on the runway at the end, and bubbly model Tanya Dziahileva provoked a playful race back down the catwalk.

Samara Tompsett

syndicated from t5m, click through for more coverage of London Fashion Week

Flying the Flag Bag

2009-02-24T16:58:00.010Z

As mentioned in the January post “Patriotic Fashion” and in Sophie's recent “Accessories!” blog, the most talked about accessory on the fashion front is Agyness Deynn's union jack bag by Chanel. The bag has been carted around by the super (cool) model for weeks...

Get yours at a snip of the price for £40 by Paul's Boutique (left) – available at Topshop and asos.com. Or for style on a shoestring budget go for the asos.com version at only £17.75!

Stephanie

LFW day 3 Street Style

2009-02-24T15:35:00.002Z

In front of the Natural History Museum.

T.L.

LFW day 3

2009-02-24T15:12:00.006Z

I went to help the Oxfam shoot, which was a rebranding of their image. The photographer is Deidre O' Callaghan and the stylist is Fee from Mrs Jones. The shoot is meant to act as a 'social documentation, a catalogue of real people, wearing real clothes.'
The models were casted from various London locations to give a more realistic feel to the shoot.
One of the looks featured a red dress with tartan sleeves worn by lovely Grace.
I told Grace about this project and fate had it that she is a true royalist. She has been collection royal brooches for as long as she can remember and a good friend of hers even sells them. I'll send a link as soon as I've got the address.

T.L.

Central St Martins MA Show Review

2009-02-24T14:13:00.005Z

It’s a known fact that Central Saint Martins’ MA course is well versed in fostering the fashion stars of the future; just look at its list of alumni for proof: Christopher Kane, Ashish, Roksanda Ilincic, Louise Goldin and Marios Schwab are just a few showing at LFW this season.

And this year’s turn out should prove no exception. As ever, the Friday night show was the hottest ticket in town: the queue scaled the length of the tent and only half of those made it in.

There were two distinct themes that ran throughout the seventeen collections on show. Bold, structured designs cropped up with big shoulders, cartoon like detailing or built up-silhouettes in often vibrant colours, as seen in the work of Laura Mackness, Charlotte La Roche and menswear designer Matteo Bigliardi.

But in other cases the designs were diaphanous in jersey and feather-light silk, billowing like sails down the catwalk. Katie Greenwood countered her elegant designs with a sportswear edge while Abigail Briggs opted for a statement shade of deep plum.

The overriding silhouette, whether structured or not, was long, long, long. Ankle-skimming or floor-length, there wasn’t much in the way of thigh on show and I wonder if it’s too much of a cliché to flag up that age-old sartorial observation: that hemlines rise and fall with the economy.

One designer who paid no heed to this though was the winner of the Harrods Design Award, David Koma, whose high-octane, off-the-wall glamour dazzled the end of the show. Black mini-dresses were adorned with mirrored panels in undulating architectural shapes, a bit of rubber thrown in for good measure.

Imogen Eveson

syndicated from t5m, click through for full report and more on London Fashion Week:

Accessories !

2009-02-24T10:49:00.010Z

The Union Jack Chanel Bag is as British as it gets! Get patriotic girls!!!

Sophie

Anna Lou British Collection

2009-02-24T09:37:00.015Z

We have just been alerted to the great accessories designer Anna Lou, who is rapidly becoming hot-property after having beenfeatured in many fashion magazines and after Paris Hilton was spotted wearing one of their hairbands.

They have a fab British Collection, which features a range of jewellery and accessories featuring the Queen, her favourite dog - the Corgi, crowns and Union Jacks.

Got take a look!

Claire

London Fashion Week Day 4

2009-02-23T18:39:00.014Z

Sophie and I headed down to LFW today to promote the Status Symbols website and check out what the fashionable crowd were wearing for shows such as Jasper Conran, Roksanda Illincic and On/Off designer Olivia Rubin.

It wasn't too busy around SW7 today, but we did spot a few people in royal and anglophile styles. Also, while handing out our flyers we came across several people who had already heard of Status Symbols, which is very exciting - the word is spreading!!

Things we spotted: a dapper looking gent (who happened to be the doorman at the Ziad Ghanem show on Saturday) carrying a bag covered in union jacks. A printed silk scarf a la QE2. The guy in the photo top right was wearing an amazing 17th century style doublet over his shirt (not strictly SS related, but certainly fashion history inspiring current fashion). We also saw The Telegraph's Hilary Alexander dashing across the street looking slightly harassed.

One of the best outfits we spotted all day was this fabulous jacket by Rifat Ozbek, which was a interesting fusion of ethnic and military, worn by a lovely lady who worked for Red Light PR.

Claire & Sophie

The Fairytale Oscars

2009-02-23T18:02:00.007Z

As we've mentioned on the blog before, Kensington Palace are going to use a fairytale theme running throughout the Status Symbols exhibition, to give the idea of fashion being transformative and to reflect the transformation of the palace as it is re-developed. The palace could do with asking for some loans from some of last nights Oscar attendees, several of whom were working the fairytale princess (wedding) look - not to everyones taste, but they certainly made a statement. Shown here are Miley Cyrus in Zuhair Murad, Sarah Jessica Parker in Dior Haute Couture and Penelope Cruz in Atelier Versace.

Claire

London Fashion Week Day 2

2009-02-22T16:22:00.053Z

Not many royal styles out and about at the tent this morning . . . maybe saving themselves for the Westwood show later . . .

We did bump into the lovely Elena Corchero, (recent Central St Martins MA Textile Futures graduate) in a dash of tartan who had just received a commendation from the hands of Hilary Alexander for the British Fashion Council UK Young Fashion Entrepreneur of the year.

The night took us to the other side of town for the launch of Maiden Britain's AW09 Immigrant Collection at Shoreditch venue Beach Blanket Babylon. (Keep an eye out for Kendall's full coverage of the show including backstage footage.)

Ziad Ghanem's Maiden Britain ready-to-wear line is a collaborative label that integrates elements from contributing artists, illustrators and designers. All the fabrics are ethically sourced and re-worked into provoking designs.

We bumped into the stunning Bosaina sporting an amazing studded leather jacket and skirt and union jack 2.55 Chanel (she even rocks it better that Agy!) Very Alaïa-Punk-Chic! Bosaina has her own label, Basbousa and it turns out she's quite an Anglophile herself. Take a look at her latest collection DIY Rocket Science - a great mix of studs, bleached denims and badges.

We also rubbed elbows with stylist and costume designer Nova Dando and her assistant Myles in Burberry and tartan.

Roll on fashion week!

Caroline and Claire.

LFW Day 2 Lookbook

2009-02-22T12:50:00.022Z

Charles Anastase: a quilted gold satin suit and abundant tartan.

Central Saint Martins MA Graduates: regal colours.

Kinder Aggugini: channeling the 'hunting pink' look.

Shina-Stanic: Going mad for Pearly Kings & Queens.

Vivienne Westwood Red Label: No escape from tartan, also notice the Tudor Rose.

Claire

Taylor Swift

2009-02-22T09:17:00.004Z

Spotted: American music star and chart-topper Taylor Swift continuing the military trend in this white double-breasted coat at the Echo Awards in Germany.

Claire

London Fashion Week DAY 1

2009-02-21T10:26:00.013Z

Our objective was simple: put Status Symbols and Collect-ive on the radar at London Fashion Week...

We began by heading up to Vauxhall Fashion Scout, where a lovely young lady offered to put our postcards on the seats of the Julia Smith show.... Then onto the Royal College of Art and the Art Fair where we dropped off postcards and posters. So far so good.

We then headed over the the V&A to check out the scene of visitors and gave some flyers to a select few, before stopping off at the Young British Designers: Mapping Future Fashion Event to do some style scouting, where we spotted fantastic shredded union jack dresses by Saint Martin's MA graduate Thomas Vicary, and this partygoer in the coolest military jacket, which was our find of the day!

We spent most of the day scouting for street style outside the main entrance to the BFC tent at the Natural History Museum, look at these great snaps of fashionistas in royal inspired clothing. We particulary loved Alex's tartan dress (we believe it was the D&G one!) who we spotted having lunch in Pret but didn't wish to snap her with a mouthful of salad, so when we saw her (many) hours later we seized our opportunity and got a fabulous photo on her way into the Central Saint Martin's MA Show.

We even managed to snap Anne Lomax from the British Fashion Council as she dashed out of the Tents, wearing a Twenty8Twelve union jack punk inspired dress.

Hoards of students buzzed around outside the tents for the CSM show, hoping to be allowed access into the coveted spot of the day. Try as we might to blag our way in, it was to no avail. The word on the street was that the tickets were ranked, and some silver ticket holders were turned away! Still a fabulous day despite not getting into any shows, and some insider reports are heading this way soon....

Steph and Eve

London Fashion Week kicks off

2009-02-20T21:08:00.004Z

Phew! Just arrived home from a long day out and about for the first day of London Fashion Week.... We had a very successful day promoting the Status Symbols website, thanks to all of those who we spoke to and snapped with our cameras!

Come back to the blog tomorrow to check out the full report of the day's events.

Good luck to the next batch of Collect-ive girls heading out tomorrow for LFW Day 2 - just wear comfy shoes!

Stephanie and Eve

Time Out Fashion Special!

2009-02-20T09:00:00.003Z

This week's Time Out Fashion Special, guest editor and Central St Martins graduate Gareth Pugh unveils the hottest new style talent! (which happens to nestle, unsurprisingly, in the East End)

As well as a Pugh and Daphne Guinness interview, the issue includes a delightful 'Stephen Jones and friends pick their top London shops' before the opening, this Tuesday of the genius milliners exhibition Hats: An Anthology at the V&A.

The issue also features music duo Basement Jaxx indulging in the Sergeant Pepper trend.

Caroline.

LONDON FASHION WEEK

2009-02-20T00:55:00.008Z

LFW is here and our site officially launches!!!

Kendall has created our amazing flyer, absolutely loving it.

Keep you eyes peeled as it shall be making its way into the best events in town,

Which are they??? I hear you cry, deep breath......

Friday PM

MA Central St Martins show 7.30pm, BFC tents, South Kensington.

then trot over to the V&A for Young British Fashion, curated by course alumnus Shonagh Marshall and her LCF cohorts.

Work It Dj's are also there, NICE! , check it out on facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=49769872747

Saturday

Back to the real world of the shop floor, might treat myself to a frock for.....

Sunday evening the Party everyone's talking about:

10 magazine and Chrisopher Kane host in a glam West End location.

Can't drink too much though because Monday is when my some of my favourite designers are showing, hoping to blag my way into Luella, Pam Hogg, Marios Schwab, Olivia Rubin and Giles.

In my first year I did a presentation on Olivia whilst she was creating her graduate collection, she was trotting out the tailored jumpsuit back then in 2006, a whole 2 years before everyone else. She's as fab then as she is now, so I can't wait to see her show.

The LOVE party.... are you starting to wish you'd never asked?

Where will you be going, seeing, partying???

E.D

Crazy Horse Caberet......

2009-02-20T00:48:00.003Z

Caroline your post remined me of these Fantastic Ladies, from Crazy Horse Caberet.

Working a bearskin like no-one else can!!!!

E.D

Another peak into Kensington Palace's archive . . .

2009-02-19T20:01:00.016Z

We're really spoiling you now, with this splendid Victorian Order Mantle from the Palace's Ceremonial Dress collection which clearly encapsulates how royalty is disseminated through colour with its sumptuous red and blue silk satin.

It looks like Vivienne Westwood has been plundering the collection for inspiration, judging by this cape from her A/W 09 Red Label show.

Caroline.

NY Fashion Week Paints The Town Royal Red!

2009-02-19T19:38:00.013Z

New York Fashion week confirms its penchant for the regal and wears its red heart on its sleeve. (top to bottom, left to right) Vivienne Tam, Devi Kroell, Marchesa, Tibi, Oscar de la Renta and Badgley Mischka.

Caroline.

NY Fashion Week Paints The Town Royal Blue!

2009-02-19T19:34:00.005Z

New York Fashion Week brings us lustrous Royal blue from (top to bottom, left to right) Jason Wu, Ygal Azrouel, Thakoon, Narciso Rodriguez, Badgley Mischka and Nicole Miller.

Caroline.

Love the Sparkles

2009-02-19T16:20:00.004Z

I noticed that several people had loved Caroline's post which showed a gorgeous court dress from the 1930s, so I thought you might like another one as a treat. This stunning one is again from Kensington Palace's collection and is from 1936. It is pale green tissue brocaded with silver thread, trimmed with silver bugle beads. Badgely Mischka continued the trend for evening gowns with all-over sparkle in their A/W 09 show.

Claire

Shall we alert the guards?!

2009-02-19T15:41:00.011Z

Spotted: Kanye West sporting another military-inspired jacket at the 3.1 Philip Lim show at NY Fashion Week.

Has he been stealing from the Palace?! It is almost identical to some in the collection! Moving away from The Nutcracker inspiration this time, his look is leaning towards a cross between a Buckingham Palace guard and this frock coat and court coatee from Kensington Palace's Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. Keep supporting the trend Kanye, but we will be keeping careful tabs on the collection to make sure nothing goes astray!

Claire

High Fashion meets HRH

2009-02-19T09:11:00.000Z

Vogue.com have just produced a gallery of Kate Moss' 27 (!) British Vogue covers accompanied by a snippet of an interview between Kate Moss and Philip Green where they recall that a recent visit to Buckingham Palace was a highlight for both of them. 'We were looking at the crown jewels. With Prince Edward,' Moss reveals. 'HRH! That's what I called him, HRH!'

The gallery also gives details explaining the photo of Moss with royal regalia which graced the cover of the December 2001 Royal issue: 'Since the magazine was launched in 1916, it has chronicled the reigns of four monarchs, two coronations, two silver jubilees, the funerals of two reigning kings and one abdication. Vogue was fortunate that its first star photographer, Cecil Beaton, was entranced by the House of Windsor – and even luckier, perhaps, that the admiration was mutual. This relationship paved the way for successive contemporary photographers to portray royalty in the spirit of the times.'

A 24-page portfolio features images of the royal family, taken from the Vogue archives, by Beaton, Snowdon, David Bailey and Norman Parkinson.

An interesting combination of high fashion combining with royalty.

Claire

Court Dress Meets Contemporary

2009-02-19T09:08:00.002Z

Speaking of Jason Wu, this dress from his recent Autumn/Winter 09 collection bears a certain resemblance with this 1930s court dress from Kensington Palace's Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. This diaphanous dress of tulle lace was designed to be at its full advantage in the evening where the delicate silver bugle beading would shimmer and sparkle in the soft candlelight.

Caroline.

Jason Wu

2009-02-18T22:15:00.008Z

We all know that the American first lady has a preference for colourful dresses and we also know that her inauguration dress was designed by Jason Wu, so will we expect to see her wear these fabulous dresses from his new collection?

T.L.

The Return of the Wig

2009-02-18T16:57:00.009Z

Today, The Sun featured an interesting little article by Caroline Iggulden about the returning popularity of fashion wigs. It reports that eBay saw a 44 per cent increase in wig sales last month. Of course, it's Iggulden's fashion history reference that's really entertaining. She writes, "The centuries-old popularity of the wig, which was a status symbol for Europe's Royal houses, including King Louis XIV of France, and the male aristocracy, died out more than 150 years ago but was revived in the Sixties and Seventies as a female fashion accessory." Makes sense then that it's the celebrity royalty of today who are bringing the wig back into the limelight, including the likes of Britney Spears, Lily Allen, Pixie Geldof, and Kelly Osbourne.

The vogue for pink is interesting too, as Marie Antoinette, the original pioneer of over-the-top wigs, was rumored to have deviated from the typical white wig powder of the time to a more adventurous pink. There's a scene in Sophia Coppola's Marie Antoinette where she tries it out.

Personally, I think Marie Antoinette did the pink wig the best. Then again, I've got a thing for the Rococo, and I would probably attach a miniature ship to an enormous wig if I had the means. And I think Britney's public breakdown would have been a little bit more interesting (if that's possible) had she been wearing a two ft. high bejeweled and feathered hairpiece rather than a candy pink bobbed wig. What do you think-who's done the fashion wig the best? The royalty of the past, or the celebrity royalty of today?

K.R.

And the Medal goes to...

2009-02-18T00:40:00.007Z

The French born designer Laura Poretzky, who works under the name Abaete, has been inspired by Les Incroyables. And the result is a simple and timeless collection featuring little black dresses adorned with medals.

Lucky for us we don't have to wait till autumn because Urban Outfitters have already spotted the trend and produced a more affordable version.

T.L.

Land Ahoy!

2009-02-17T22:55:00.008Z

I went into New Look at the weekend & was bombarded by their new Land Ahoy! collection, which is inspired by all things naval. There are anchors, stripes and a red, white and blue colour scheme on practically everything, from daywear, to swimwear and accessories. So head down to New Look to follow the trend, or else you run the risk of walking the plank!

Claire

London Fashion Week Countdown!

2009-02-17T16:37:00.011Z

Eagerly awaiting London Fashion Week, the Guardian's supplement G2 on 11th February paid homage to all things British in it's British Fashion Special. Agyness Deyne graced the cover draped in a Union Jack, and it included interviews with Alexandra Shulman, Phoebe Philo and Stephen Jones.

We will be hot on the heels of the fashion elite at this year's London Fashion Week events, starting Friday 20th February, to promote our website; braving the cold to get Status Symbols and Collect-ive on the map, (and to hopefully bag ourselves a sneak peek at some of the shows too!)

Stephanie

Dressed to impress

2009-02-15T18:14:00.007Z

This weekends Guardian teased us with the article Dressed to Impress, a few days before the opening of the the exhibition Van Dyck and Britain at Tate Britain (18/02/09 until 17/05/09)

The Flemish Antony Van Dyck brought 'emotion, movement and exotic costume' to Charles I's court and his royal portraits until now 'evoke an age of sumptuous costume and cultivated ease.'

Expect lavish silks, exquisite lace ruffs and (fingers crossed) the Earl of Denbigh in oriental pyjamas.

Caroline.

Queen Lily For a Day

2009-02-15T11:00:00.000Z

Lily Donaldson reveals in this months issue of i-D that if she were invisible for a day, she'd "skip into Buckingham Palace, jump on the Queen's bed and make a cup of tea."

T.L.

Mischa Doing Military

2009-02-15T10:23:00.000Z

Just came across this photo of Mischa Barton in a military style jacket with gold frogging out & about in Paris for fashion week.

Claire

Fashion Crown

2009-02-14T16:48:00.000Z

Even though Elise Oeverland's A/W 09 collection doesn't have a royal theme, a model has been seen sporting a crown by the artist Alexander Calder's, as a decorative piece of head jewelery.
Who says crowns are only reserved for the royal?

T.L.

Alex loves Elizabeth

2009-02-13T12:57:00.005Z

I came across this interview of Alexander McQueen being interviewed by his mother, for the Guardian in April 2004 . . . I read it and couldn't stop giggling! He talks about his dream dinner party guest being Elizabeth I, vowing not to make eye contact with Elizabeth II when receiving his CBE in October 2003, but did, and claims their eyes locked and he fell in love . . . .

Stephanie

Let's Talk Tartan

2009-02-12T13:35:00.004Z

Writer, lecturer and artist, Jonathan Faiers author of Tartan (Berg) will give a talk on the history of the traditional fabric at the V&A Wednesday 18 February (13:15-14:00, Hochhauser Auditorium.)

Faiers will discuss how artists and designers such as Westwood, McQueen and Matthew Barney have subverted the traditional fabric and how it has influenced stage costumes and interior design as well as fashion.

The talk is free and no booking is required.

Caroline.

Glory Days

2009-02-12T12:54:00.004Z

Topshops line Glory Days is all things English! 'Nostalgic for the glory days of post-war Britain, pack your faded garden florals and take a trip to the English countryside.'

English rose prints, muted gingham, weather-worn Union Jacks, petticoats, schoolboy blazers. Get the latest look!

Garde-à-vous!

2009-02-11T10:20:00.000Z

The cover of this weeks French Elle magazine features the lovely Julianne Moore in a dashing 'officers coat' by Ralph Lauren.

The 21st Century Debutante

2009-02-10T13:02:00.017Z

I'd completely forgotten about this until I picked up a two month-old copy of Grazia in my flatmate's room. Inside was an article about the Crillon Ball, or le Bal Haute Couture through the eyes of Isabella Blow's god-daughter Victoria de Silva. The Crillon Ball is a vestige from the days of the aristocracy. It's an annual debutante ball in the Crillon Hotel in Paris. 22 of the wealthiest and most glamorous 17 to 21-year olds are invited from around the world. Like the old debutante balls, the event is a priviledge and can have a dramatic impact on their social standing. Court events of the past, where debutantes were originally presented, had strict rules regarding dress. Every year the Lord Chamberlain would release an update of rules for dress in the monarch's court. The Crillon Ball is no different. The debs are required to wear a couture dress from a high-end designer from their home country. And no one is allowed to wear the same designer. In a time when presentation, primping, and couture are left to the celebrities on the red carpet, an event like this seems as much of a fairytale as the royal courts of the past, or like Victoria de Silva says in Grazia, "[a] Cinderella weekend."

Attendees of the 2008 Crillon Ball

Catherine Guiness's daughter Anna Hesketh in Vivienne Westwood couture with her escort

If you're not one of these 22 socialites, then The last Debutantes exhibition running at Kensington Palace until 31 June 2010 is the easiest way to come close to the debutante experience. It features dresses from the last presentation of debutantes to the Queen in 1958, including Christian Dior and Pierre Balmain couture.

Dresses from the Dear Debs exhibition at Kensington Palace

Some of the last debutantes in the 1958 presentation to the Queen

K.R.