Empire Film Awards 2012

Stars of the film world were out in force last night in London as the Jameson Empire Film Awards took place at the Grosvenor House Hotel and boy was it a turnout worth talking about. For once everyone was kitted out to the nines with no real red carpet catastrophes. Its about time.


The themes on show were mainly red, red and some more red thrown in for good measure but it was carried out with timeless eloquence, sophisticated silhouettes and exquisite detailing to enhance, entice and inspire.


Bond Girl Berenice Marlohe stood out from the crowd in a stunning scarlet column dress. Whilst Agness Deyn rocked a simplistic skater dress of the Henry Holland variety. Complete with blue and white pattern detailing to add a little funk to the clean design. Harry Potter's Evanna Lynch sported a 1960's flared mini dress whilst Myanna Buring opted a floor length number wrapped in at the waist.

Of course not everyone painted the town red. Celine Buckens donned a white mini featuring a pink rose embellishment across the front pairing the piece perfectly with a rainbow inspired tweed cropped jacket. Jodie Whittaker also pulled off a white number opting for a leather paneled contrast alternate. There's always one who mixes it up, Hayley Atwell who was clearly excited for the premiere of Mad Men Series 5 last night rocking a 50's influenced sea green dress. Kate Middleton eat your Royal heart out.


Even the guys didn't fail to disappoint. Warhorse's Jeremy Irvine, Harry Potter's Matthew Lewis were standouts. With James McAvoy, Alex Zayn and Michael 'The Man' Fassbender also looking dapper in a variety of tailored suits to name a few.

Jameson Empire Film Awards were hosted by Lauren Laverne and Empire's Chris Hewitt. Empire Film is the only awards ceremony entirely voted by the public. Take a look at the list of winners at www.empireonline.com

All Pictures copyright of Getty Images.

Jennifer Lawrence Covers Glamour

X-Men: First Class and The Hunger Games' Jennifer Lawrence is this month's Glamour cover star and she looks fighting fit on the front page.


No Glamour shoot is complete of course without the necessary designer swagger. Donning a sophisticated Yves Saint Laurent jumpsuit and a Michael Kors ring. An Egyptian gold fish scaled vest top by Elie Tahari paired with white denim from Lucky Brand. She also runs around in a lilac Lanvin gown complete with more Michael Kors jewellery in the form of a metallic cuff.


My personal favourite however has to be the Roberto Cavalli number as Jennifer channels her inner Hunger Games warrior looking every bit like the Amazonian Queen she was born to be.


The rising star also discusses her thoughts on The Hunger Games film adaptation, on becoming famous and life as an aspiring actress and on keeping in shape. Some memorable quotes are “When I heard they were making the movie, I was like, ‘oh, that’s nice—they’re going to ruin another great book.’" and "I’m doing what I love, and then I get months and months of rest. I have a lot of money for a 21-year-old. I can’t stand it when actors complain.”

Its clear Lawrence has quite a clear head on her shoulders. She isn't afraid to speak her mind. She's direct. Straight to the point and more importantly comes across completely natural and genuine as she does so.

Jennifer Lawrence's new film The Hunger Games is out in cinemas now. Pick up your copy of her Glamour cover issue on newsstands now or take a look at www.glamour.com for more. Take a behind the scenes look at Jennifer's cover shoot below.

On Set: Titanic Gift T-Shirt Shoot

Larissa Watson's official bio lists 'Artist, Designer, Entrepreneur and Academic' and following an enjoyable morning on set with herself and her team for the vibrant new Titanic Gift t-shirt range, nothing describes the talented designer better.


Enter Larissa's new venture. The launch of a collection of design led pieces inspired by original oil paintings from Larissa herself. All to commemorate the centenary of the construction and launch of the Titanic from Harland and Wolff in 1911.

As a result, the old rustic once proud emerald iron gate of Harland and Wolff with canary yellow cranes Goliath and Samson towering above. The untouched Titanic docks and the new and soon to open spectacular signature building located in Belfast's newly constructed Titanic Quarter were naturally the perfect setting to bring these artistic designs to life.


Shot by creative photographer Tony Webster whose images have turned out sensationally. Seriously, they are stunning. All helped by the equally appealing models Seaneen, Caroline and Connor who lent their good looks, enthusiasm and playful energetic chemistry to the simple, young, fresh and clean-cut Belfast-based shoot.


Caroline donned ocean blue high waist denims before pulling on a pair of red flared jeans swapping Titanic Gift t-shirts sporting the retro decorative ironwork design with diamante detailing. Topping it off with a paisley print silk head scarf resulting in several comments on how good she would look without any hair at all. Mainly from Tony Webster who no doubt would have shaved it there and then given half the chance.


Connor. Casual. Abercrombie & Fitch look and highly energetic attitude rocking the blue and gold metallic paint anchor t-shirt before stripping quickly for a further two shoots. Complete with the capstan motif t-shirt shot on top of the very capstan itself. Talk about the test of time.


It was the lucky Seaneen however who got the chance to pull off the ivory white silk Titanic ironwork dress. Featuring the ironwork pattern in a contrasting black ink detail and a black feathered collar. Seaneen stood proud inside and out weaving her way through the metallic rust letters of the word Titanic.

All accomplished following a climb on the old gates in a body-warmer and gold studded boots and a stylish strut down the docks in an American vintage blue checked dress whilst waving a paisley silk neck scarf. Oh and a little encouragement from local truck and taxi drivers alike lending their horns of enthusiasm.

The make-up for the shoot was provided by Julie Gould. Larissa Watson's Titanic Gift collection can be viewed and purchased online at www.titanicgift.com. Also take a look at the sister site for Goddess & Swift www.goddessandswift.com for more of Larissa Watson's stunning designs. For more of Tony Webster's phenomenal work take a look at www.facebook.com/bigbadllama.

Josh Hutcherson Covers Nylon Guys

It may be quite late on to post, but having only picked up my copy of Nylon Guys March issue this morning, I feel I'm warranted in doing so. Emphasised by the fact The Hunger Games' Josh Hutcherson is the chosen cover star.


In the intimate interview, Josh talks guns, his LA pad (which contains a sofa on the front porch, a Jack Daniels pool table and year-round Christmas lights), on how he began his acting career and of course his role in The Hunger Games.


On reading the Suzanne Collins penned novels, Hutcherson said "I tore through them in like five days-I loved it. And I loved Peeta." Even going so far as to compare himself to the character. "I hadn't ever read any material like that where I felt so much like a character. So I was like I have
to do this movie. I have to."

The rising star also dons a variety of jackets, shirts and stylish pants courtesy of Allsaints, Marc Jacobs, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Gap and Burberry.


My favourite being the Michael Bastian grey grandad cardigan featuring blue and red stripe detailing. A Loden Dager powder blue shirt complete with white polka dots and a plain white Calvin Klein t-shirt, Armani pants and Adidas shoes as the chosen ad-ons.


Josh Hutcherson's Nylon Guys' shoot was styled by J. Errico and shot by Curtis Buchanan. The Hunger Games is out in cinemas now.

P.S fun fact...Josh Hutcherson leant his image for motion-picture work for the lead character in the 3D animated holiday epic The Polar Express.

Belfast FASHIONWEEK Menswear

Barely 20 minutes in to the closing Highstreet Haven catwalk show at Belfast Fashionweek and the crowd went wild. No, the West Coast Coolers had not run out. The first male model had arrived. And when we say model we mean Adonis.

Sporting looks from the likes of French Connection, Republic, Gap and Gino, male models Richie, Connor and Matthew John took to the runway to represent the modern man for this season's Spring/Summer 2012 trends.


Most of the looks were pretty standard and notably plain. Nautical themes, Sport's inspired styles, colored chinos and of course formal wear were the main looks on display. Ultimately serving to generate an energetic atmosphere as the guys reacted accordingly to an amazing response from the female crowd. I happened to be sitting in a row filled with glamorous mothers...I've never heard screams quite like it. Even when their own children took to the stage fronting kidswear's current styles and trends.


One male model in particular completely reveled in it. Even stripping off his t-shirt as a chorus of whistles and screams sang out managing to encourage a cheeky wink from stunning and charismatic model Caitlyn. I think his work is done.


He did look pretty good in a suit though. An off-white linen suit to be exact. Paired with a white shirt perfect for certain more formal beach getaways and of course those who own luxurious Yachts off the stunning cliff-faces of Ibiza. If anyone happens to know anyone this applies to please do not hesitate to pass on my details.


A pale blue tribly and a pair of red glasses were the token accessories. With the must-have denim shirt popping up here and there when required. P.S If you don't own a denim shirt you should really just find a way to go back in time to 2009 and stay there. Oh there was also some swimwear thrown in as an added bonus.

Pictures courtesy of www.brendangallagher.com

Belfast FASHIONWEEK Highstreet Haven (Part 1)

Following spectacular opening shows on both the Wednesday and Thursday nights, Belfast Fashionweek saw the highstreet take centre stage on Friday March 16 closing the catwalk in a climax of style proportions at the Europa Hotel.

Entitled 'Highstreet Haven', the coming seasonal trends for Spring/Summer 2012 stampeded their way down the pink runway. Sports Luxe. French Noir. Aztec/Tribal print and Denim were prominent themes. So naturally these themes will be what I shall discuss.


Sponsors Boohoo.com were first up bringing the Olympic inspired Sports Luxe trend to the forefront of BFW. Zip backs. High-waisted shorts, jersey crop tops and wool-blend baseball jackets were key pieces with a strong emphasis on both legs and slimline silhouettes. A neon sports bra and paneled jersey leggings were the statement looks keeping styling young, fresh and form-fitting throughout in bright funky shades as an added fighting fit bonus. They even threw in a fuchsia anorak for good measure.


Next-up. A trend I like to call French Noir. Its a little French Riviera with just the right amount of minimalistic touch in the form of black and white contrasting colours. Striped skinny denims with a mixture of cropped and oversized boyfriend blazers combined with classic sunglasses were the main focus here. A standout white mini vintage dress being a particular highlight.


Aztec prints and tribal patterns followed, a personal favourite of mine, running consistently from start to finish. The highstreet's top designs came in the form of zebra printed body-con dresses and leggings, leopard print bustiers, floral print maxis and aztec patterned silks. All paired with just the right amount of metallic influenced jewellery, geek-chic frames and leather look leggings to complete the looks.


Then came the denims. I previously was very sceptical when it came to denim-on-denim, but now I'd coat my cereal in all things Levi related if I could. You see the key is to keep it simple by mixing colours and alternate shades. Don't use the same shade. I know right? Who would have thought it could be that easy? Anything that could have been denim was denim at one point or another and I bloody loved it.

And so concludes my time at the amazing three nights that was Belfast Fashionweek. Don't fret...there is a little encore coming in the form of menswear aka male models folks. You do not want to miss it.

Pictures courtesy of www.brendangallagher.com

The Hunger Games Red Carpet

It may only be a few days away before the big screen adaptation of Suzanne Collins' epic novel The Hunger Games reaches the UK screens, but before it does the leading ladies and gents set to star in the motion picture took to the red carpet five days ago at the film's London premiere.

X-Men First Class actress Jennifer Lawrence who plays the lead role of Katnis Everdeen kept the metallic trend alight. Donning an Egyptian inspired halter-neck gold scaled gown complete with a black detailed waist, Jennifer looked a million dollars.


Something reflected by her equally dapper co-star Liam Hemsworth in a tapered to perfection dark grey tweed three-piece suit and Josh Hutcherson who rocked a rust brown ensemble. Very 1950s Mad Men of him. Even dashing (And I'm using this term lightly as the words hammer and me come to mind when I talk about this man) older bro Chris Hemsworth (aka Thor) came along to show his support. Decked head to toe in a grey stoned three-piece.


As with every red carpet event there is one who exceeds above all others in the style department. Her name? Miss Elizabeth Banks. Who turned up to the bash in a stunning canary yellow embellished silk and sequined full-length gown. Jaw. Hits. Floor. Right. Now.


Asides from the ridiculously good-looking Hollywood A-listers, 'style' horrors were also on hand in the form of Z-listers Aisleyne from Big Brother, Katie Price, Michelle Heaton of Liberty X and Jenny Frost of Atomic Kitten who all turned up to the bash looking like complete sluts. With the exception of Jenny Frost who just looked like she had taken the wrong turn on the way home from a Dulex sample sale. Oh Mel B was also in attendance looking pretty damn good.

That being said and done, I bid you good night and sweet dreams of all things Chris and Liam Hemsworth related. :) The Hunger Games hits cinemas this Friday, March 23. Take a look at the epic trailer below. The film also stars Lenny Kravitz as a bisexual character. If any more reasons to see this film pop up in the space of three days I'll be sure to inform you all.

Kimberly Wyatt's Retro Revolution Shoot

With Series Three of hit Sky One TV show Got To Dance out of the way, Kimberly Wyatt isn't planning on slowing down anytime soon on her goal to dominate in all things dance orientated.

Fresh from performing not once but twice on the show itself, the former Pussycat Doll recently took to the stage alongside X-Factor winner Shayne Ward and the cast of Rock of Ages in the critically acclaimed West End musical. A place Kimbo will be getting familiar with in the coming months set to star in the upcoming stage production Revolution.


Labelled as 'London's Exciting New Multi-Media Dance Spectacular', Revolution is Kimberley's first major West End breakthrough. Posting on her blog Kimberly commented "3 years of dedicated hard work and I'm finally at a point that instead of building and creating I get to be creative and focus on me as an Entertainer again!! I love doing business but I must say....there is nothing like being on stage!"

The Candy singer has also unveiled a stunning disco inspired photoshoot complete with jumpsuits and bouffant hair by the bucket loads. Psychedelic springs to mind.


Revolution will be held at the Theatre Royal Haymarket and is set to run throughout May and June on selected dates. More information is available at www.dinc-revolution.com.

For an idea of what the former Doll will be cooking up, take a look at Kimberly Wyatt in action at London Olympia's Move It via the clip below.

P.S she is sporting an amazing tribal inspired body-con sports bra by H&M's upcoming Fashion Against Aids collection.

Belfast FASHIONWEEK Designer Night (Part 3)

The Goddess and the Crown. Grainne Maher and Una Rodden closed Belfast Fashionweek's Designer Night in the Europa hotel to an enthusiastic and excited bunch on Thursday night. Grainne Maher Millinery's Pluck & Devour range being the Crown. Una Rodden's stunning full-length gowns being the Goddess.


Pluck & Devour displayed creative headpieces in a variety of luxe yellows, turquoise blues, blood reds and emerald greens to name a few. Perspex by the bucket loads, a lace and Swarovski crystal brimmed hat and a statement clear collar were the overall highlights. All arriving down the catwalk to an epic Aretha Franklin remixed 'R.E.S.P.E.C.T'. Something Grainne undoubtedly has earned among the industry professionals and the fashion conscious population of Northern Ireland.


P.S. I need a white perspex Pegasus necklace and the equally awesome seahorse necklace in my life right now please.


Una Rodden's turn swiftly followed for a grand finish with a little help from the Amy Whinehouse hit 'Back To Black' as her exquisite garments took to the runway. Greek Goddess elements were incorporated in metallic gold, midnight blue and clean cut white numbers. Whilst other standout designs came in the form of ocean spray high-waisted pleated skirts, pearl rimmed perter-pan collared shirts and a silver floral embroidered one shouldered organza frock for the finale.


Truly a marvelous night with immense talent on show at every step of the pink glittered catwalk. By far one of the best shows I've had the pleasure of attending. Long may the creative flare of these local designers shine and ultimately flourish.

Take a look at Grainne Maher's Pluck & Devour range at www.grainnemahermillinery.com

Pictures courtesy of www.brendangallagher.com

Belfast FASHIONWEEK Designer Night (Part 2)

Last night I had the pleasure of meeting talented knitwear designer Mary Callan (and her equally hilarious and lovely mother Mrs Callan) both before and after her stunning knitwear collection took to the catwalk at the Designer Night of Belfast Fashionweek.


Showcasing eleven looks on the runway, Mary Callan's collection displayed a variety of hand loomed cottons, lurex, yarns and merino wools. Featuring funky patterns including my new favourite word. Intarsia. A word I'd never knew existed but literally heard on repeat for the remainder of my evening. Blacks, whites, pale blues, lilacs and golds were prominent throughout in a variety of skirts, sweaters and dresses but the eye catching full-length rust chunky lace/yarn dress was certainly a standout piece. The perfect finish to an interesting and diverse line.


Then came Nor Lisa who brought a clear mission statement to Belfast Fashionweek. Spring/Summer 2012. Is. Here. Beachwear at its best. Black chiffon tops, body con and Swarovski laced dresses alongside colourful bikinis illustrated the Summer Sirens sure to be plaguing our shores this sunny season. Providing a night and day element for all. Including a standout red laser cut spitfire dress, a turquoise bird cage dress and a statement backless bright yellow floral print sleeved dress screaming sun, sand and several cosmopolitans. Certainly a hit on the runway. Helped by Uniquely Different's stunning statement jewellery to give it an extra wow factor.


Next up was Maria Cardenas who brought to the forefront the one fabric often overlooked for Spring/Summer. Linen. Perfect for those quick to get hot and bothered. Pastels complimented with shades of lemon, powder pink, mint green and cream. A mixture of looks adopted for a slightly more city break take on the seasonal approach accentuating the waist at every opportunity. Peplum dresses/jackets, wide legged trousers and high-waisted shorts to name a few. With kimonos and a halter neck top also proving to be a huge hit on the catwalk.


However something was missing. Where were all the prints? Fear not The Fairest of Them All has got your back. A collection designed and created by David Henderson, a final year textile and fashion design student at the University of Ulster Belfast. It was bold and unlike anything else on display proving rather gothic/Tim Burtonesque in both prints and style inspired by film and theatrical costume designs. Fairest also contains an interesting method of craftsmanship in the form of laser cut perspex, cotton sculpting, pva glue and water. Blue Peter ain't got nothing on you David.

Take a look at all the collections and more at:
www.facebook.com/marycallanknitwear
www.nor-lisa.com
www.mariacardenas.com
www.facebook.com/thefairestofthemall

Pictures courtesy of www.brendangallagher.com

Belfast FASHIONWEEK Designer Night (Part 1)

A dress commissioned to mark the centenary of the Titanic's maiden voyage kicked off Belfast Fashionweek's Designer night last night. An evening jam packed of local designers showcasing their amazingly creative and innovative talents for the fashion forward Belfast crowd gathered in the Europa Hotel.


Displayed to the backdrop of Madonna's new Nicki Minaj assisted track 'Gimme Ur Luv', Lizzie Agnew's individually named collection took centre stage. Opening the show to an incredible atmosphere setting the tone and standard for the rest of the evening. With timeless and classic dress after dress making their way down the sparkling pink and silver glittered catwalk. The colours ivory, off-white and well...white. Embroidered, embellishments and lace details all complimented every design with an accentuation on the waist through silk ties, belts and bow features prominent on every stunning piece.


Cara Couture showcased a similar approach opting for a more natural and earthy take on her catwalk designs. Silk organza, silk chiffon and vintage french lace bodice featuring Swarovski embellishment details and a few peplum fitted dresses thrown in for good measure.


The mood immediately shifted with Grazia quoted 'big hit' Zoe Boomer delivering an assortment of Spring/Summer looks in the shape of oversized light cotton t-shirts, shift dresses and silk kimonos. A touch of tropical floral prints in ocean blue and soft pink shades dominated with the closing number, a simplistic white silk chiffon ensemble paired with a gold necklace providing a perfect finish to a collection bursting with energy and an overall youthful fun feel.


John Paul Millinery came next with almost every colour of the rainbow being displayed. Headpieces, laced fascinators, feathered hats, and a pastel tweed signature hat were highlights. Emphasis on the pastel tweed. It was amazing.


Then came Ruedi Maguire whose passion for cutting edge design and intricate craftsmanship shone from start to finish. A skin coloured full length leopard print jersey dress. A stunning gold African embossed doll dress and a black leather dress with metallic stud detail to name a few standout pieces. Closing with a stunning black silk evening dress featuring a sensational cathedral train. Did I mention this was all done with Beyonce 'Crazy In Love' raved up remix blaring throughout? No? Well...now you get the picture.

Take a look at the collections and more at:
www.lizzieagnew.co.uk
www.blushboutique.co.uk
www.zoeboomer.com
www.johnpaul.biz
www.ruedimaguire.co.uk

All pictures courtesy of www.brendangallagher.com