Archive for November, 2010

street art: milan manholes


Words by Mpdclick’s Art Trend Researcher…

In the heart of the Fashion District in Milan – on Via Monte Napoleone to be precise – The Don Gallery in collaboration with the city of Milan invited five of the most well-known street artists of the moment to design a series of manhole covers. The covers are now in place and are expected to remain for two years. 

Artists include Space Invader, The London Police, Flying Fortress, Rendo and Shepard Fairey

Image source: glltn.com

 

 

 

 

The London Police

Flying Fortress

Rendo

Shepard Fairey

film & music: mozart for next screen hit


Words by Trend Journal Editor…

An article in the Observer newspaper (UK) suggests a new film, provisionally titled ‘First Night’ is set to inspire the mainstream with the beauty of Mozart.

Although not an actual film of an opera, the storyline tells a tale of putting on an opera, set against a Mozart soundtrack. Director Jeremy Sams was spurred on in his vision by the soaring number of youths he witnessed attending the recent open-air opera screening at Somerset House, London. With research, Sams also learnt that the number of opera companies have quintupled in the past decades as well as numerous sell-out shows both in the US and the UK.

Can this possible be the start of a classical renaissance in the creative arts? We’ll be keeping our ears close to the ground on this one..

art & exhibition: transition

Words by Trend Journal Editor…

‘Transition’ titles the latest edition of the exhibition series by creative art movement group Edge of Arabia, currently on show at Sanat Limani, an art warehouse on the banks of the Bosphorus, opposite the Istanbul Modern Museum (26/11/10 – 26/12/10).

Founded by both British and Saudi artists, Edge of Arabia was established to cater to the need for Saudi artists to be represented on an international platform. With a combined belief that art transcends linguistic, religious and political barriers, their aim is to challenge misconceptions of Saudi Arabia and represent the diverse 21st century culture through contemporary art.

‘Transition’ features artists whose work represents the social transition currently being witnessed in Saudi due to factors such as globalisation. Artist Manal Al-Dowayan for example photographs women in their real jobs, from an architect and teacher to a Petroleum Engineer. Each image is juxtaposed between moderninity and tradition (see main picture). Dowayan challenges this by explaining how “the tradition is beautiful but when it is imposed in the wrong place it becomes strange and awkward causing a negative reaction.” – New York Times.

Edge of Arabia is a great initiative that has received critical acclaim for exhibitions held in both Venice, London and Berlin in recent years. The contemporary evolution currently happening within Saudi is one to be closely monitored in the coming years with its expressive art scene even more so.

Image source: edgeofarabia.com/Manal Al-Dowayan

music: margo

Words by Mpdclick’s Music Trend Researcher…

Margo, a name to remember for 2011; embracing the ‘80s with both arms and bringing it into the modern pop scene, this fiery LA resident is one throwback we want to keep.

Hasn’t the 80’s been done to death I hear you ask? Well we’ve had all the ‘indie’ cool kids ‘remaking’ it for the 100th time but finally here is someone who effortlessly encompasses, the vibe, the crazy fashion and of course the music that has come to define that much referenced era yet still manages to put across her own individual style.

 

Canadian born, LA/NYC flitter Margo is right on the cusp of making it big. With a big voice and even bigger hair, that’s not to mention the attitude and stage presence Margo is determined to make an impact on the pop scene, and there’s a niche out there just waiting to be filled with her massive platform space boots (pictured).We predict this lady, along with her highly synthesised aesthetic to go far.

Click here to visit Margo’s official website.

Image source: thecouchsessions.com

fashion & events: frock me!


Words by Trend Journal Assistant…

Held every month, Frock Me! is a great vintage fashion fair that travels between Brighton and London’s Chelsea, bringing the south coast the very best in all things vintage.

Starting 8 years ago, “over 60 exhibitors sell a complete cross section of vintage clothing and accessories from the 1900s right up to 1980s with affordable prices from as little as just a pound right up to designer items that sell for a little bit more.”

We particularly love Frock Me! regular Rebecca Denholm with her stall The Cat’s Meow. Also a feature at London’s Portobello market, Denholm stocks a stunningly unique collection of both delicate, embellished and tailored dresses as well as quirky graphical printed pieces, a must visit!

Labelled ‘The fashion world’s favourite vintage event’, Frock Me is the vintage lovers chance to grab the ultimate fashionable bargain.

The next Frock Me! vintage fashion fair is held on December 5th 2010, 11am-5pm at Chelsea Town Hall.

Click here for more information.

Image source: frockmevintagefashion.com

look of the week


Words by Trend Journal Editor…

The super trendy streets of Los Angeles have brought us an abundance of quirky styles that can’t help but inspire styling, this week presenting you with two adorable contemporary geek chic looks.

Our lady this week embraces the ‘of the moment’ ankle length skirt in a neutral powder puff pink which is brought into autumnal domain with a rich berry purple sleeveless shirt. The striped hair bow and cinched waist silhouette gives a 50’s feel to the ensemble, we love it!

Polka dots and stripes make an impact on our trendy guy in a slick monochrome colour way, pulling the contrast together. High waisted trousers indulge in the geek trend, further enhanced with rolled up cuffs, Perspex aviators and classic lace-ups.

Click here to view our full male and female street style report from Los Angeles.

fashion: essential statement shoes from moda in pelle


Family run footwear business Moda in Pelle epitomise femininity and chic with their spring/summer 2011 collection, appealing to every aspect of a girl’s personality and wardrobe. With an assortment of inspiration, from 50s glamour to Amazonian Tribal, the seductive shoe brand offers style and affordability, whether you want skyscraper heels or cute flats.  

Voyaging back in time, the Fifties Nostalgia influenced range presents flirtatious, feminine colourways concentrating on a light pink and monochrome palette. Soft fabrics increase the 1950’s aesthetic, whereas cut-out detailing ensures a distinct contemporary Moda twist. In attempt to revive the thicker mid-height heel, they add it onto a simple shoe producing a classy vintage look.

The ‘Glamour Puss’ collection is guaranteed to be recognised, combining sophistication with authentic styling resulting in each individual shoe having an element of chic. Luxurious leopard print and decorative flowers add facets of delicate glamour, while subtle hues create an indulgent yet classic feel.

An enchantingly exotic collection is unleashed in the wild Amazonian Tribe line, revealing a dramatic colour palette of olive greens to sultry bronzes and burnt oranges. Jewelled plaits and metallic studding form a tough tribal appearance; similarly the arrangement of leather with wooden heels makes an unusual aesthetic. Snakeskin styling and sea shell detailing is used as decoration to emphasise the look, which is used on a brown and silver t-bar sandal.

Moda in Pelle displayed a variety of shoes from feminine flats and sandals to stylish heels. Consideration of elegant embellishment was used in their Sweetness and Light range, as with previous collections, an essential assortment of summer staples for all wardrobes was created. Intricate detailing is customary through a combination of flowing lines with summer pastel colours.

Portraying a selection of killer heels, the dramatic High Impact collection is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Step into the spotlight this summer with sultry stain and fuchsia feathers. Flirtatious and vertiginous, the shoes utilize bold colours and glamorous diamante, resulting in the perfect must-have heels for every diva. An eye-catching look is enhanced through striking embellishment, especially noticeable on a satin peep-toe heel, covered in an array of silver diamante.

Award winning shoe designer Lola Cruz was commissioned to create an array of shoes for Moda in Pelle as well, leaving a perfect range of shoes to fit the needs and desires of the modern woman. A sandy-brown suede platform shoe was among these designs, with gold diamante and cut-out detailing.

50′s Nostalgia

‘Glamour Puss’

Amazonian Tribe

Sweetness and Light

Lola Cruz for Moda in Pelle

fashion: authentic guess


Lifestyle brand GUESS impress with their authentic spring/summer 2011 collection of jeans, GUESS by Mariano and accessories.  Chic with a classic twist, GUESS portrays an exciting yet iconic line; premium in fabrics, quality and impeccable attention to detail. An up-to-date interpretation of summer appears through natural, light and colourful silhouettes. 

Full of mystery and free expression in GUESS jeans, the season begins as a ‘Travelling Fair’, turning into a ‘Wild Romance’ for the woman, while the man takes the role of a ‘Victorian Nomad’. Adventurous and fantastical, the collection emphasises a somewhat seductive aesthetic, putting a modern twist on traditional style. ‘Travelling Fair’ prioritises stylish comfort, using stripes as a prevalent pattern for both him and her. Womenswear consists of figure-hugging jeans and frayed waistcoats with intricate detail through sequins and diamante, turning simplicity into glamour. Menswear enhances a tougher look, favouring used denim and classic tees.  The soft colour palette includes a multitude of greens, tinted pinks and chalk blue, contrasting with deep shades of grey, jet black and charcoal blue.

Dreams become reality in ‘Wild Romance’ with flirty clothing and accessories, adding adornments of lace and candy accessories. Floral prints are first and foremost, appearing on simple and ruffled dresses and bags. Colours range from beige, khaki, with flashes of light corals, purples, blues and pinks making a girly feel.  

Evoking a traveller on an adventure, garments have elements of a cosmopolitan aesthetic as the ‘Victorian Nomad’ is touring the world. All cultures become part of his lifestyle and of course, his clothing. Mysterious and sexy, his eclectic look is fresh and high summer; denim and linen shorts worn with light fabrics for short-sleeved shirts and tees.  Checks and cashmere prints are essential and colours are natural and earthy with a main selection of egg-shell white, dusty blue, bold yellow and beige. 

GUESS by Mariano presents a selection of flawless garments, perfect for every occasion for women, though takes an almost eccentric approach for men, proposing a combination of utility and luxury. With three main inspirations of contemporary, urban and summer glow, practicality is needed for a casual look though feminine dresses and elegant, classy outfits are not missed out. Ethnic and animal prints are present, breaking up linearity and mixed with neutrals. The diversity of womenswear creates a perfect summer wardrobe for both day and night.  Menswear is a dynamic city look, characterised with a sober style using light-jersey t-shirts acting as a second skin and cotton draping softly on his figure.

Launching a range of jewellery for women, a new playful pendant collection is sure to be the spring statement. Each is encrusted in different shapes, from penguins, bees, bunnies and owls to fairies and dragons. With a selection of styles to suit each unique personality, every girl is sure to find one to complement her look and character. Men have a wide range of watches to choose from; with so many diverse styles there is undoubtedly one for everyone. A trend-setting ‘Caliper’ watch is available with a bold yellow or a bright blue silicone strap.

GUESS jeans

GUESS jeans

GUESS jeans

GUESS by Mariano

GUESS watches

fashion & collaboration: gap x valentino


Words by Trend Journal Editor…

An unexpected collaboration is to be released tomorrow, Gap & Valentino. It’s not every day a casual lifestyle brand teams up with a renowned Italian courtier so we here at Mpdclick were just a little curious to see what such a collaboration would look like…

A strict colour way of moss khaki, charcoal, navy and off-white was used reminiscent of Gap’s signature style while Valentino’s influence was undeniable, seen in an abundance of layered ruffles and bows. The couture-esque detailing structured with the use of a heavyweight cotton mix upon streetwear basics adhere to the current zeitgeist for “combining luxury with basics”. – telegraph.co.uk

An unexpected yet beautiful capsule collection in all, could this inspire even more renowned courtiers to follow suit? We’ll have to wait and see…

Available at a select number of stores including, Gap’s new Milan store, Colette in Paris, and, in Britain, Gap’s flagship store in Oxford Street, London and at Dover Street Market, London from tomorrow (27/11/10). 

Image source: telegraph.co.uk

book: ‘i-D covers 1980-2010′


Words by Trend Journl Assistant…

A new book has been released paying tribute and celebrating the art of magazine i-D’s famous covers to mark the well known fashion magazine’s 30th anniversary.

The book will hold all of i-D’s 308 front covers from 1980 – 2010, as well as featuring the behind the scene stories and personal memories from the founder and creative director of i-D Terry Jones to give the reader a deeper insight into this iconic publication.

 ‘i-D covers 1980-2010’ is on sale now in many high street book stores and online at a price range of £19.99 – £27.99.

Image source: taschen.com