Helen Louise Dixon Creative
Helen Louise Dixon
I am a fashion communicator with a wide skill set and innovative creative streak. The combination of these assets allows me to undertake challenges with confidence and enthusiasm. My creative forte is writing. I am capable of applying this skill to a variety of writing types, which shows professional versatility. I enjoy writing in many styles but creative writing is my passion. I love to paint a rich and layered picture of the issue with evocative words. Coupled with artistic, natural photography my writing aims to inspire and conjure emotion within the reader.
About:
This creative and informative piece provides the reader with an insight into Grenson, a true British heritage brand.
Inside Grenson: A True British Heritage Brand.
About the Brand: Established in 1866 Grenson is one of Britain’s most renowned shoemakers. The red-bricked factory, which was built in 1895, is nestled in the heart of Northamptonshire. It is here that the company continues to produce quality shoes on a daily basis. Grenson pride themselves on the history of their brand. For over 100 years the company has gone from strength to strength, overcoming periods of economic uncertainty and reduced demand to remain one of Britain’s most treasured footwear producers. Made from the finest materials, Grenson shoes are built to last. The Goodyear Welting method used for the soles not only makes the shoe last longer than most others it also allows for the shoe to be resoled if necessary. Grenson have long since been using this method despite it being a lengthy process. Product quality is a top priority for the brand, which means that only the best methods and materials will be utilised in the production of their shoes.
Investing time, expertise and quality materials in every pair of shoes makes Grenson standout from the majority of modern shoemakers. Their standards have not wavered over the years, with every pair of shoes being quality checked before distribution. The company wish to ensure that each and every customer receives a pair of Grenson shoes that they will wear and cherish for years to come. Purchasing a pair of Grenson shoes is an investment. Not only does the brand offer a repair service ensuring the longevity of the shoes, they will produce bespoke pairs designed by the client. Customer satisfaction ranks highly on their list of priorities as they endeavour to complete any requests made by potential clients. The true nature of the brand shines through its products. The attention to detail coupled with the beauty of exquisite craftsmanship allows the shoes to speak for themselves.
Brand Profile - Grenson
Beyond the Red-Brick Walls: The Grenson factory is situated on Queen Street in Rushden, Northamptonshire. Set amongst the houses of local residents the factory’s beautiful red-bricked exterior rises high above its surrounding neighbours demanding more than just a glance from those passing by. Even from outside the heritage of the brand is conveyed through the factory’s traditional architecture. Beyond the doors and up the stairs lie the offices and workshops of the Grenson designers and other employees. Evidence of the brands achievements, collaborations and heritage line the walls, showcasing Grenson’s prosperity over the years. Through the corridors and down the stairs lies the factory, which sits in a much greater area than the exterior suggests. Production, finishing and packaging is divided between several rooms, each with their own dedicated and highly skilled employees. The factory space is home to all of the materials, machines and tools used in the process of producing a pair of Grenson shoes. The beautiful rolls of leather are stocked in an array of colours to ensure a wide variety of choice for new and bespoke designs. The aroma of the hides immediately conveys their quality and the vast number of tools and machines throughout the factory show just how detailed the process is. Visiting a footwear factory for the first time is both exciting and awe-inspiring. From the first fleeting look it is clear that the process of producing a pair of Grenson shoes is far more involved than it would initially appear. Since the brand was established the methods of production have barely been altered as the tried and tested techniques have proven to be the most effective. The journey begins in the Clicking and Closing Room, here the leather is examined
and cut, following this the expert machinists piece together the components to create a three dimensional upper. Following this stage the upper is taken to the Making and Lasting room. It is in this room where the shoe takes on a rigid shape. An insole is temporarily attached to a ‘last’ – a plastic mould that mimics the foot shape. The upper is then stretched over the top of the ‘last’ and attached to rib of the insole. This detailed process continues with the ‘welt’ being sewn around the shoe and the excess being trimmed off. The insole is then reinforced and filled with cork. The sole is applied and trimmed before the heel is finally attached. The finishing process is then carried out. This includes buffing, polishing and waxing the shoe as well as staining the sole. Finally the shoes are taken through to the Shoe Room. Here a sock is fitted inside the shoe and the Grenson logo is applied to the sole. Before being boxed up ready for distribution each pair is cleaned and scrutinised to ensure that the Grenson standard is upheld. At each stage a craftsman applies his or her skill and expertise to a shoe that will represent the Grenson name. Experiencing the process establishes an incredible sense of appreciation for the hard work, time and skill involved in producing just one pair of Grenson shoes. The employees of Grenson have a wealth of experience in the shoemaking industry, which shines through in the work they produce. The relaxed atmosphere in the factory suggests that every employee enjoys their role within the company and takes pride in their work and rightly so; each member of the Grenson team plays an integral part in the preservation of the brands’ impeccable reputation. Visiting the factory is a truly insightful experience that brings the beautiful shoes of Grenson to life. Watching the process is an inspirational journey.
‘Each member of the Grenson team plays an integral part in the preservation of the brands’ impeccable reputation.’
Brand Profile - Grenson
Grenson and the Heritage Trend: The resurgence in heritage menswear in recent years has truly encompassed Grenson as a company. The functionality and quality of the products make it a staple brand in this trend.
Naturally Grenson has flourished as this trend has made its return to menswear. The ideals behind the brand mirror that of the trend and the exceptional quality and timeless style of the shoes appeal to the men adopting the heritage style.
With a greater demand for garments and accessories that have a guaranteed longevity, Grenson has enjoyed increased coverage from the world’s fashion media. A greater number of men are now looking for brands that can deliver quality products with a timeless aesthetic. They want to invest in company’s who have a verified history of excellent craftsmanship and service.
After the increased media attention that has made Grenson known to a new customer base, the future of the brand can only be a prosperous one. Backed by its impressive history and highly skilled staff Grenson should look forward to greater expansion in the future as more and more people turn to reliable, quality brands.
Brand Profile - Grenson
Brand Profile - Grenson
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This profile of Barbour aims to creatively inform the reader of the hard-working functionality behind the brand’s garments.
Barbour: A Brand at Work Barbour has provided functionality for 117 years. The brands heritage is internationally revered with orders being submitted from around the globe. Despite its success and popularity Barbour has remained true to its roots and continues to provide high-quality British clothing. Each Barbour coat has its own story to tell. Whether it has been purchased for its functionality or its fashion aesthetic every owner has bought his or her coat for a purpose. A Barbour coat can work as many hours as its owner and remain as efficient as the day it was bought, albeit with an added dose of personality. It will perform its duty in all conditions. Come rain or shine a Barbour coat will prove incredibly useful. The distinctive smell of a waxed Barbour coat is unforgettable and instantly relatable to the brand as is the fabric quality and cut. Each piece is made to stand the test of time. This heritage brand certainly knows how to produce hard working attire.
Brand Profile - Barbour
Brand Profile - Barbour
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A creative brand profile about Private White V.C. featuring a behind the scenes look inside the factory.
Exploring Private White V.C. About the Brand: Private White V.C. is a brand with a personal story. Inspired by Jack White, a WW1 hero, it aims to produce clothing that embodies this admirable character. Born in 1896, Jack White joined the army at 18 and did several tours of duty. This commendable soldier fought for his country managing to save the lives of many of his comrades.
part of the brands ethos. They are pioneers in the quest to breathe life back into the British textile industry, showing other companies that quality garments can be entirely locally produced. Behind the company’s morals stands Private White himself, who would no doubt be immensely proud of his family for continuing in his footsteps.
After being presented with the Victoria Cross, the highest and most esteemed award given to British soldiers, Private Jack White continued serving for the armed forces until the end of the war.
No clothing brand could enjoy success without the support of their dedicated employees and Private White is no different. Generations of families continue to work with each other in the factory, passing down skill and expertise from one family member to the next. The highly skilled technicians and machinists at Private White V.C. are the backbone of the brand, applying their years of experience to every garment they make.
After his retirement from armed service he moved to Manchester and trained as a pattern cutter. Over the years, Private White progressed from this role, becoming general manager before ultimately taking ownership of the factory. To this day quality outerwear continues to be produced in the Manchester-based factory with Private White’s great grandchildren at the helm of the business. The factory is one of very few that continues to manufacture in an area that was once a hub of textile activity. For Private White V.C. British heritage is highly important. Manufacturing in Britain with locally sourced materials is a major
Specialising in outerwear the brands aesthetic closely embodies military style. This echoes Jack White’s own manner of dressing, an aspect that his great grandchildren aim to preserve. The functionality of military style makes the brand very adaptable and desirable. Each garment is carefully designed with the idea of timeless style and durability in mind. The result – immaculately crafted, clothing for the everyday modern man.
‘Each garment is carefully designed with the idea of timeless style and durability in mind.’
Brand Profile - Private White V.C.
Out on the Factory Floor: Approaching the factory it is plain to see that textile production in the area has gradually disappeared. Abandoned factories stand neglected, the shadows of their advertising barely visible on walls. However, one factory stands out from all of the others, the home of Private White V.C. Windows are ajar and curtains can be seen blowing in the breeze. Its red-bricked walls are testament to its age but it stands proud, as impressive as the day it was built. Through the door the seemingly intricate layout of the building adds to its charm. Upon reaching the office the friendly, relaxed atmosphere is made quite apparent. Brutus, the friendly Bulldog who the team have deemed the company mascot, roams around under the desks of the employees and surfaces are piled high with patterns, designs and samples. Up the steep stone staircase and through the heavy, sliding wooden door lies the factory floor. Machinists are hard at work ensuring each garment is constructed perfectly. The atmosphere is lively as the day’s production targets encourage the employees. Pieces of garments move systematically from one area of the room to another, taking on a more fixed form at each point.
The skill and expertise of each employee is evident. The craftsmanship required for each garment is phenomenal as apparel becomes increasingly detailed. Extra pockets and colour-trimmed seams are only two of the additional details that have been added to outerwear in recent years. A veteran of the trade, Jean Seddon, has seen and experienced the changes in modern menswear. Her account of the trade in today’s society is very much rooted in the need for greater manufacturing in Britain. She has noticed the move towards greater styling and detail in response to a demand for garments that make an impression. Although the styles have evolved the machines used to produce them remain almost the same as they used to be. Being a versatile craftsman is imperative in this job as the number of people working in the factory is not as great as it used to be. However the familial nature of the team suggests that help is always at hand to guide and advise on problems and challenges. Heads down and sewing machines stitching at full capacity, the hard working nature of the Private White V.C. employees is obvious and unlike a lot of people they take great pride in the work they produce.
‘The craftsmanship required for each garment is phenomenal as apparel becomes increasingly detailed.’
Brand Profile - Private White V.C.
Private White V.C. and the Heritage Trend Despite its roots being deeply embedded in the past, Private White V.C. will undoubtedly play a major part in the future of menswear in Britain.
Jack White himself. The true heritage of the brand is consistently portrayed in the clothing through the design of the item and the material that it is made from.
The resurgence in heritage menswear in the last few years has indeed benefitted Private White V.C. With a greater interest in the aesthetic of a brand such as this, a surge in popularity is almost guaranteed. With their speciality lying in outerwear, the idea of investment is a key part of their sales success. For the majority of men a coat is an item that is expected to have longevity and by investing in Private White V.C. a man can be sure his coat will be keeping him dry for years to come.
The functionality and durability of the outerwear produced by the brand details just how important the heritage aspect of clothing is to Private White V.C.
The quality of each and every garment made by Private White V.C. is a testimony to
The company holds great pride in both its British history and its use of British materials and labour both of which are highlighted throughout the offices and factory. They are a prime example of how to execute the trend and remain true to brand ideals and history as well as showcasing what Britain has to offer.
Brand Profile - Private White V.C.
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This piece of editorial journalism profiles Iris Apfel and her influence on the fashion industry. The accompanying photo shoot is inspired by Apfel’s style.
Iris Apfel:
Style Queen, Muse, Icon.
At 90 years old this ‘geriatric starlet’ is in the prime of her life. Iris Apfel is the
90-year-old style icon with the trademark owl shaped glasses. With her unmistakable outfits, Apfel does not often go unnoticed on the streets of New York. Over the years the ‘geriatric starlet’ has rubbed shoulders with fashion royalty, decorated the White House and travelled the world. She has seen more in her lifetime than anyone would dare to dream possible but why has her whimsical style suddenly thrust her into the public eye? As a child growing up in Queens, New York, Apfel was surrounded by creative people. Each contributed to her personal style but none more so than her mother, ‘my style turned out to be completely different to hers but it was she who laid the groundwork.’ Apfel spent her early years working a range of jobs meeting some very influential people, who undoubtedly contributed in some way to her vivacious and daring style. However it was her marriage to Carl Apfel that allowed her access to a world of shopping prospects. They have spent many year travelling the world in search of fabric for their business, Old World Weavers
but whether she is shopping in Loehman’s or a flea market Apfel always finds something worth having. ‘I enjoy the thrill of the chase, the discovery and the endless search. I just buy what I like. I’m a hopeless romantic. I buy things because I fall in love with them. I never buy anything because it’s expensive.’
admirers from all over the world. So extensive is her collection that the majority of it is now stored in a warehouse. From Navajo skirts to elephant jewellery there are no limits to Apfel’s creative eye. Whether she is dressed in haute couture or wearing a $15 pair of jeans Apfel always looks the epitome of style.
Chunky jewellery, bright clashing colours and daring prints, you name it Apfel wears it. In recent years her stand out wardrobe has become a fixture of society columns and fashion features, a true original if ever there was one.
Apfel’s rise to fashion fame correlates with the growth of technology and social media. The Internet allows people to access fashion and style at the click of a button. Trends spread in seconds through electronic passages, from New York to London in the blink of an eye. So with bloggers all around the world writing about her quirky, kooky style it is no wonder Apfel has become ‘a staple of hip New York life.’
Apfel has no fear when it comes to fashion. So why now? After a lifetime of dressing in an assortment of odd and eclectic outfits Apfel has caught the eye of the fashion world. The catalyst for her rise to fame seems to lie in the exhibition of a small selection of her wardrobe at the Museum of Modern Art in 2005. The exhibition has grown into a conceptual phase including a gallery of her clothing, accessories and furnishings, gaining Apfel a strong group of
Editorial Journalism and Photography
However her style is not just appreciated on the streets, the exuberant 90 year old has been featured on many occasions in the New York Times, (often photographed by Bill Cunningham) and in magazines such as Paper and Elle. Despite this increased attention Apfel remains humble in her newfound fame.
‘Although often a pre-existing condition, fame is not a prerequisite for being a muse.’ For Apfel this is certainly the case. Her fame has grown almost entirely from the way she dresses. Designers have taken inspiration from the way she compiles pieces from different cultures to create an outfit that is distinctly Iris. Duro Olowu and Isaac Mizrahi both admire Apfel’s style and consider her a muse. Her status has only heightened her fame and with it comes the power to alter the way we think about and wear fashion. Surprisingly Apfel is not a follower of fashion but prefers to stick with her own style claiming ‘Unlike fashion it cannot be bought, true style implies attitude.’ There is certainly no shortage of that where this lady is concerned. Apfel is not afraid to speak her mind: ‘There is a sad lack of glamour in the world today. It seems that the fatter people are the less clothes they wear.’ It would appear it is not only her outfits that are bold but her opinions too. She is as vivacious at 90 as she has ever been! Maybe it is her approach to fashion and style and the
demeanor with which she carries herself that has made Apfel an icon, as it is well known that the fashion industry thrives off larger than life personalities such as hers.
She is as vivacious at 90 as she has ever been! Since the exhibition of her clothes in 2005 Apfel has been increasingly recognised as one of fashion’s influential and inspirational icons. It would seem that in the last few years more people have allowed themselves to become adventurous dressers, unafraid to be bold and original with their outfits. Society has become much more relaxed about what manner of dress is appropriate, giving people the fashion freedom that Apfel has had since her early years. Undoubtedly this ‘Rare Bird of Fashion’ has always dressed ahead of her time. Apfel has always had admirers throughout her long and prosperous life but it is in the last six years that her unique sense of style has truly been appreciated. Many have tried to imitate her but to no avail, there is, and can only be one Iris Apfel! According to the guru
herself ‘true style is elusive, exclusive, and ephemeral: therein lies its magic.’ At 90 years old this style icon is as busy as ever. Her schedule is littered with filming, interviews and even lecturing. She is a true inspiration, not just with regards to fashion but lifestyle too. How many other nonagenarians are still as active as they were when they were 20? So is it a change in society, the excessive use of technology or extensive media coverage that has sent Apfel flying into the fashion hall of fame? Whichever it is let’s hope her legacy is here to stay, ‘Wit and humour are key components to my philosophy of dressing. Never take yourself or an outfit too seriously.’ So take a leaf out of Iris Apfel’s book, wear something daring, express your personality through fashion.
Accept no imitations. This 90-year-old fashion veteran is the queen of kooky style!
Editorial Journalism and Photography
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Creative writing and photography inspired by purity and society’s perpetual lack of regard for it.
Pure Beauty Underneath the fake smiles and painted on faces lies pure beauty. Forever taken for granted, a fresh face is significantly more beautiful than one that is artificially made up. Be yourself and only yourself, the way nature intended you to be. There is no need to cover imperfections; they are what make you special. Individuality is often overlooked in the race to be perfect do not get swept along in the tide. Embrace what you have been given with open arms. There is no need for hesitation or doubt. Pull back the veil that has hidden your beauty for so long, it is never too late. Purity is not irreplaceable. Strip back to your roots, ignore outside influences and draw on your emotions to return to a state of original purity. Slow down and let yourself breathe, feel your insecurities unravel as you embrace your natural beauty.
Photography and Creative Writing
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Promotional copy written by ‘FreshFace PR’ for Holly Fulton, an emerging Scottish designer.
FreshFace PR
Mission Statement Holly Fulton is a designer brand that stands out amongst its peers as an innovative and glamorous fashion house. The bright, bold, graphic prints channel a fun but sleek look that no other brand does. Inspired by pop art, art deco and aboriginal work, Holly Fulton provides the fashion world with a modern take on maximalist fashion. As the brand continues to expand we will see Holly Fulton develop into a world-renowned designer label.
About Holly Fulton Holly Fulton is a womenswear designer from Edinburgh. After graduating from the Edinburgh College of Art then The Royal College of Art, London, the designer has flourished on the British fashion scene. Since graduating in 2007 this fresh, bold designer has won the Elle Style Award for New Designer in 2010 and the Young Designer of the Year Award at the Scottish Fashion Awards. Her repertoire of skills has stood her in good stead and every season since graduating the designer has produced a stunning collection that exudes her signature style. Drawing inspiration from the Bauhaus, Art Deco, geometry, and Aztec culture this designer is not afraid to produce garments that make a statement. Using
a wide range of fabrics, prints and bright colours, Holly Fulton’s designs are both luxurious and elegant. Describing the perfect Holly Fulton woman as ‘someone who knows what they like and likes what I do’ Fulton enjoys designing bold garments and the accessories to compliment them. Her daring attitude to fashion sets her apart from other designers. Holly Fulton definitely has her sights set high in the fashion industry. Making a very successful start for herself in a highly competitive industry this designer will not be stopped as she and her brand grow and evolve. The future of the brand lies in her talent for reinventing her signature style. We are sure to see more bold deigns hit the runway under the name Holly Fulton.
FreshFace PR
News Release Holly Fulton is a bright, bold, contemporary designer brand that has been expanding year on year. Now its time to take the next step… You’ve seen her collections on the runway and in various editorials; you’ve bought her pieces from Browns and Matches but from the 24th of September 2012 Holly Fulton will be launching her online store at www.hollyfulton.com This online store launch will be unlike any other before it. From Monday the 23rd of July 2012 followers on Twitter, Facebook and Tumblr will begin to receive weekly updates, teasers and competition opportunities relating to the launch. Twitter will be at the core of this launch. Regular tweets will provide information about the online store opening so start following and be sure to mark @RealHollyFulton in your Favourites. Those followers who regularly retweet will be entered into a competition to win a front row seat at the Holly Fulton show at London Fashion Week 2012 as well as the chance to win a piece from the latest collection. The count down will be published everyday via the Twitter account. A Facebook page will also be used in the run up to the launch of the online store. A main feature of the page will be an application that will allow followers to put together outfits using pieces from Holly Fulton’s collections. These can then be Shared and Liked. The most innovative and stylish looks with the
most Likes will be chosen to feature on the style section of the Holly Fulton website. Submit your best effort for a chance to have your style featured! Tumblr will also play a key part in the online journey that will lead to the launch of Holly Fulton’s online store. By following Holly Fulton’s Tumblr you will gain an insight into the inner workings of a fashion designer who is taking her next step in the industry. Personally updated by Holly Fulton, the blog will update you about the online launch and other exciting things in the designers calendar. Inspirational snaps and teaser images of what the online store will look like will all feature on her blog. For your chance to win a preview of the online store and a personal promotional code for exclusive discount at www.hollyfulton.com make sure you follow the progress of the launch on all three social media sites. A trail will be left throughout the three sites and each week a new piece of code will be released. Those who avidly piece together the trail will receive a personal promotional code and a preview of the site. This exciting, one of a kind launch is not to be missed. It will be bold and innovative just like the designer herself and will definitely not disappoint. So whether you follow on your smartphone, tablet, laptop or PC make sure you do not miss out on the opportunity to take the next step with Holly Fulton - the designer and the brand.
Promotional Writing
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A detailed lifestyle trend report inspired by monitoring today’s fast-paced, disposable daily life.
Trend Prediction - 2014 2014 – So near yet so far. Predicting a trend is predicting a part of the future. Take in your surroundings, note the current affairs, look at emerging style; everything that means anything can influence a new trend. A lifestyle trend can be demanding and in-depth. They often require passion, dedication and enthusiasm. Immersing yourself into a way of life that has developed from a trend can change your morals and your outlook on life. 2014’s major lifestyle trend will be a move towards self-sufficiency. The lives of many will slow down; people will no longer want to face the strain of a fast-paced city lifestyle. Imagine the ideals behind The Good Life but set forty years on in 2014 when we are wiser and can fully appreciate the delicacy of nature. We are already being warned about the exhaustion of natural resources and the need to take more care of the planet we live on. 2014 will see us take on board this advice and live at one with nature. We will live amongst it and in harmony with it rather removing it to build skyscrapers in its place. Natural fibres will be used resourcefully to build homes and provide fuel; more of us will own livestock and grow our own produce. We will become less dependant upon modern conveniences and adopt a do it yourself mentality.
With the extreme advances in technology in recent years even pre-teens are becoming swept up in the frenzy for the next amazing gadget. 2014 will see this fizzle out as advances in technology plateau and people become bored. We are forever searching for new and exciting ways of keeping ourselves and our families entertained which will spark a resurgence of craftsmanship and hand produce goods. Not only will this replace the entertainment factor that people currently find in technology but it will also provide a sense of achievement for the maker and prove to be a good money-saving option. Using scrap materials and recycling goods that are no longer wanted, will become second nature.The urge to go out and spend money on generic, ready-made goods will diminish and be replaced by the sense of achievement that comes from making what you need for yourself. The mantra: reduce, reuse, recycle, will be readily adopted. Refuse wil be limited as things will often have another purpose. Homes will be eco-friendly, generating their own power and built into the landscape rather than on it. Wood, metal and other natural resources will be used more frequently than the man-made plastics. Homes will no longer be cold and unnatural; surfaces; colours and textures will mimic those of Mother Nature as we revert back to a simpler way of living.
Earthy tones such as greens, browns, and creams will be the staple colours of this trend, as natural fibres will no longer be dyed. However the move back to self-sufficiency will be dominated by textures. Rough wood weathered by time, smooth rocks chiselled and worn by the constant tide, and metals that have stood the test of time will be used in abundance to build and produce goods. Living on a plot of land that can provide you with so many necessities will become extremely important to those who adopt this lifestyle trend. The realisation that life as we know it now is unsustainable will soon come to pass which will trigger the growth of this trend. However its inception will always lie in 2012 amongst the scientific warnings and the hustle and bustle of the city streets. As a sub-section of the self-sufficiency trend there will be a shift in social behaviour. 2014 will see a growth in close communities as we begin to move away from the technology race and realise that physical communication and integration is far more important that cyber interaction. More people will take the time to visit family as opposed to instant messaging them or not contacting them at all. We will return to a time where families sit together at meal times and talk about their day and where siblings play together and converse instead of fighting over a games console. The
forgotten days of family time will be revisited. Closer families will create closer communities. We now know more about celebrities than our own neighbours but 2014 will see a change in this ignorant behaviour. There will be a growth in community activities: street parties, neighbourhood watch, book clubs, and craft circles. We will look out for one another rather than avoid making eye contact or refraining from conversation. Not only will we be spending more time with our neighbours we will build up relationships with them, reliability and trust will grow and develop making communities strong and united instead of non-existent. Fashion Freedom is the trend to watch out for in 2014 if you are a fashionista. Applicable for both men and women this trend falls into step with that of the aforementioned self-sufficiency lifestyle trend. Fashion and lifestyle trends have intertwined before but this time around we are set to see a massive cross over between the two. The fashion world will be rocked by a major change in the way we view, buy and wear fashion. Natural fibres will be at the centre of this trend, posing a massive challenge to designers to be creative and inventive with a limited number of resources. Man-made dyes will no longer be used as designers become more conscious of the impact that their creations are having on the environment.
Trend Prediction
Careful consideration will be taken when sourcing materials. Sustainability will become a very important part of fashion. Of course what’s done is done and we must not let old clothes go to waste regardless of their origin. The ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ mantra will play a massive part in 2014’s fashion trend. Swap-shops, clothes recycling banks and vintage stores will enjoy a considerable revival. However we won’t simply don the clothes of others. We will get creative and put our own stamp on the clothes of the past. Craftsmanship is key in this trend, let your originality flow into your wardrobe. Women will enjoy undefined silhouettes as clothing becomes more about freedom of movement than a tiny strapped up figure. Delicate, flowing material will allow women to feel relaxed but feminine. The idea of craftsmanship will follow through to fashion and it will become less throw away and unappreciated. More time will be taken to produce each garment increasing its longevity. Earthy tones and textures will be used profusely. Sourcing natural dyes will ensure that fashion is not having a detrimental effect on the environment. Light spring colours will make up the palette for this trend with cream being the colour of the season. For men fashion will be all about utility as they adopt the do it yourself lifestyle. Rugged and rustic are key words to describe this trend. Again natural materials will be very important to this part of the trend. Canvas and denim will also be a central part as they are hard wearing materials that work well as part of a utility style.
Outdoor wear that is both practical and stylish will be very popular. Men have always bought fashion that is of high quality and that will last more than one season - 2014 will be no different. The look will be very masculine but will give off a carefree feel. The clothes will allow men to be unrestricted and limitless. The colours and textures of this trend will show where the inspiration was drawn from. Greens and simple browns will dominate the colour palette with splashes of natural colour and denims to bring the trend to life. Garments will be made practical with pockets and waterproofing. This even mix of style and practicality will make style more accessible to a wider male audience. The similarities between male and female fashion in 2014 will lie in the materials used and the craftsmanship behind making the garments. The ethics and morals behind the finished product will become increasingly important. Fashion will be cherished rather than disposed of almost instantly. As fast paced living becomes a thing of the past so will fast fashion. This way we can be sure that what we are buying is a quality product that will last. 2014 will be a year of realisation. We will be awakened to the effects we have on our environment both on asmall and large scale. These insights will lead to social, economic, fashion and lifestyle changes. Nothing will go unaffected. Downsize, move to the country, remove the stress, take advantage of your freedom, forget technology, and appreciate your loved ones.
‘Craftsmanship is key in this trend, let your originality flow into your wardrobe.’
Trend Prediction
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A creative portrayal of one of England’s beautiful beaches, focusing on the sensory elements of a walk along the waters edge.
A Coastal Exploration Descending the steep stone steps brings a panoramic scene of beauty into view. The wide beach stretches from the base of the towering cliffs to the edge of the vast rolling waves of the sea. The thunderous sound of the water diffuses a calming mood from the moment it meets the ear. Coupled with the fresh, salty sea air and the feel of the soft sand under foot, the exploration of the coast is undoubtedly a sensory one. Imprints left by the waters edge are soon washed away, leaving the sand smooth once again. With each wave the composition of the beach is altered, pebbles shift and sand swirls in the water. Overhead sea birds soar, calling to mates resting on ledges that protrude from the cliff face. In rock pools hidden creatures wait to be washed out with the tide and seaweed floats in the depths. Despite the constant state of flux the sensory elements of the coast remain unchanged. They conjure memories and encourage relaxation, inspire thought and calm the soul.
Photography and Creative Writing
Photography and Creative Writing
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An account of natural life and serenity via photography and creative writing.
Natural life in Whinfell Forest Two hours away a haven waits. Forget city living. Forget your stress. Amongst the trees in Whinfell Forest all you need to do is exist. Breathe the fresh, clean air. Let it fill your lungs and cleanse your mind and body. Winding paths strewn with acorns and autumnal leaves lead the way to hidden retreats. Exploration uncovers the burrows and nests of the forests non-human inhabitants. Growth is wild and sporadic, with natural colours and textures merging with one another. Nature’s casualties become integrated with the forest floor. Moss creeps over their static forms whilst their shapes cast unidentifiable shadows under the canopy of giants. Live in harmony with nature while you can. Appreciate its infinite beauty, let it surround you and consume you. A life cannot be more pure than when it is experiencing nature.
Photography and Creative Writing
Photography and Creative Writing
Helen Louise Dixon: Creative