The Courier- Carrie Bradshaw-ly you're not going to wear that?

This article was originally published in The Courier

YES, Carrie is a Style Icon

Carrie Bradshaw has arguably broken every rule in the fashion book, in fact, in some instances, she’s chucked the book into a massive fire and danced around it (in Manolos of course). Over six series of Sex and The City, Carrie taught us a lot; but perhaps the most important lesson she gifted us was one of fearlessness. Be that in the form of heartbreak and careers, or wearing a brightly coloured tutu past the age of six. By no means has she always got it right, the fur coat, jeweled turban, leather boots and pajamas look was perhaps a low point…but that’s exactly why Carrie Bradshaw is a style icon. In the rocky path to finding your own style identity mistakes are made, and if you’re gonna make a mistake you might as well make it a BIG one (ha get it?). Carrie taught us that in the sometimes daunting and dark world of fashion colours are allowed, as are ridiculous shoes and weird little feather headdress things. Her style may not have been eternal, but it was fun at the time…which is surely all we can hope for.

The Courier- Libbin' da Vida Loca

This article was originally published in The Courier

With deadlines looming over us like turn-it-in thunder clouds it can be hard to feign any fashion enthusiasm. Have no fear however, there are some really simple things you can do to ensure you knock out those assignments, and maybe even your library boyf too (metaphorically I mean, don’t actually hit him…poor guy.)

The serious lack of desks at the Robbo means you’ll have to be there by nine for any chance of nabbing a spot- meaning the ‘I woke up like this’ look must be taken to a whole new level. Unless you’re one of those mythical creatures that makes a pack up lunch and plans their outfit the night before, it’s likely you’ll need to grab whatever’s closest/cleanest. An oversized jumper teamed with some skinnies is a staple look- ensure you’re not dwarfed by it however by rolling up the sleeves and tucking in a section. And for those of you feeling slightly risqué, flash some ankle and watch everyone fight to play footsie with you.

Onions have layers, cakes have layers… you should have layers. The Robbo’s questionable climate has been known to range from tropical jungle to artic circle, so it’s a good idea to leave yourself with plenty of options. Boyfriend shirts, camisoles and knitted scarves are all good basics. Take inspiration from Burberry AW14 and wrap yourself up in a cosy cape- also handy for sneaky library naps. If you don’t happen to have a spare grand lying around for an exact replicate of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s, check out Topshop and Urban Outfitters for some snuggly alternatives. 

As far as footwear goes, comfort is key. A decent pair of trainers is a must have, and will come useful when there’s a mad sprint to the last desk or mozzarella panini. The huge trend for Nikes on campus last year seems to have been overtaken with the classic Adidas styles in the past few months. Go for a pair with some brightly coloured detailing, which you can easily tie in to the rest of your outfit via some clever accessorising.

Although during exam season it can feel like you’ve got the weight of the world on your shoulders, its much more practical to carry it around on your back. Rucksacks have been a student staple since forever, and are never more necessary than when you’ve got two tonnes of textbooks to transport. ASOS have a huge selection ranging from bright canvas to chic leather, consider spending a little more for a bag that will last longer and has that all important space for copious library snacks.

Realistically, if Britney could make it through 2007, shaved head and all, you can make it through the next few weeks. After all, your library boyfriend should love you for you, if he’s cool with your unwashed jeans, mismatched socks and unflattering eye bags, then at least you know he’s a keeper. 

The Courier- All about Couture

This Article was originally published in The Courier

For those insta-addicts amongst us you may have realized that there was recently a slight deviation from the standard avocado toast and #gymselfie pics that January usually brings. This deviation came in the form of the ever-beautiful, ever-creative Haute Couture fashion week- a biannual event held in Paris every January and June. 

Dating back to the 18^th Century, Haute Couture however is not just about making beautiful and creative pieces; for a fashion House to use the term ‘Haute Couture’ they must follow a stringent set of guidelines that includes; the creation of made to order designs, owning a Paris-based atelier, and the capacity to showcase their designs in the world’s fashion capital. Although this far off world of 6-figure price tags and 6-foot models may seem of little relevance to us students, on closer inspection, this may not be the case. In January 2014 Karl Lagerfeld sent every single one of his models down the runway in trainers- a look you don’t have to search long for to find on Newcastle campus today. 

This year, there has been an influx of opulent lace gowns paired with bold hairstyles and statement makeup. Elie Saab did not disappoint, staying true to form their pieces were fit for any princess, while houses like Viktor & Rolf made their mark in bold statement, origami inspired dresses. With the explosion of social media, for most of us this style spectacle will be experience via the scroll and double tap but who’s to say that come 2018 we won’t all be working that paper cut look?