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Ladies who Lidl at West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK Style Sunday!

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK launches it's Tenth Year in Style!!

Friday, January 31, 2014

Any of my regular readers will know I'm little obsessed with catwalk shows! The buzz of excitement and expectation as you sit in the FROW.....the lights go down, the music blasts and one by one the stunning models strut down the catwalk showing off the latest trends, it's electric!! West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK was my first ever catwalk show many years ago and since then I've been totally hooked! #UltimateSUPERFAN! FASHIONWEEK recently hosted it's SS14 Press launch in the magnificent surroundings of interior designer Kris Turnbull's chic studio and I couldn't wait to attend to hear about FASHIONWEEK's tenth year celebration show schedule!!

FASHIONWEEK's press launch always marks the beginning of the fashion social callender here in NI and it was the perfect opportunity for me to catch up with friends, fellow bloggers, stylists, designers, photographers and models all of whom were extremely excited to hear about the upcoming shows and celebratory events to mark FASHIONWEEK's tenth year! I was also extremely privileged to be interviewed by the lovely Katie Larmour for FASHIONWEEK TV!!! Watch the video HERE.

Being interviewed by Katie Larmour with Aislinn Hagan for FASHIONWEEK TV!!!

(Photograph by Robin Cordiner).

Catching up with my friend Lisa McCabe, the designer behind label "Nor Lisa"!

FASHIONWEEK itself will be running from 19-23 March across various venues in Belfast, including catwalk shows, an afternoon tea, it's iconic Style Sunday event and an epic evening at Stormont, Parliament Buildings celebrating FASHIONWEEK's tenth year!!

Speaking at the launch, director of Belfast FASHIONWEEK Cathy Martin said: “I feel very proud to be standing here today as I announce the schedule for the seventeenth season of FASHIONWEEK and the beginning of its tenth year. When I created FASHIONWEEK at my kitchen table in 2004-2005, I could only have dreamed that it would become the much celebrated and anticipated event that it is today, and it’s been a pleasure to watch it - and all those who have been involved, including designers, models and many other creatives - evolve and flourish over the years. I’m looking forward to showcasing the talents of our local designers and new spring/summer collections from our high street stores and local designer boutiques, but also to ‘giving back’ a little with our Charity Challenge and to let loose some fantastic creativity with Paddy McGurgan’s theatrical make up show. These extras, as well as some new plans for Autumn, will help celebrate what has been a remarkable decade for FASHIONWEEK.”

FASHIONWEEK Director Cathy Martin rocking metallics by Goddess & Swift!

Show Schedule!!

Wednesday 19th March: Local Designers and Independent Boutiques Catwalk Show with Harrison, Blush, Rachel McKnight, Diamond Dolls in Banbridge, Nor Lisa, CRUISE, Grainne Maher and Larissa Watson all confirmed to take part. (Ulster Museum).

Nor Lisa abstract print monochrome dress.

Julia Sokele black chiffon blouse with red collar worn with Mexx coral jeans.

Thursday 20th March: High Street Catwalk Show with The OUTLET, Banbridge, Benetton, Marks and Spencer, George at Asda and Next, among others. (Ulster Museum).

Armani Exchange sequin dress by The Outlet Banbridge, orange felt trilby by Gráinne Maher.

M&S mustard blouse & spring shorts with felt hat.

Cruise DVF blue, black & white dress, Amanda Wakeley jacket, YSL bag & YSL shoes.

Friday 21st March: Paddy McGurgan's Make Up Show & Charity Shop Challenge to be held in Stormont's iconic Great Hall!!!

Saturday 22nd March: Afternoon fashion tea showcasing designer looks from CRUISE to be held in SAPHYRE, Lisburn road.

Sunday 23rd March: Style Sundy four course gourmet luncheon accompanies trend forecasts, a mini fashion show and seasonal style tips at SHU Lisburn Road.

However I'm most excited about Friday's show in Stormont as I've actually be asked to take part in the Charity Shop Challenge!!!! *squeal*!!!!!!

I remember the first FASHIONWEEK I ever attended, watching the models grace the catwalk.....never in a million years did I ever imagine I would have the opportunity to see looks I personally styled on their iconic catwalk! For me it's a dream come true, made all the more special by the fact that I'll be creating awarness for my chosen charity, Heart Foundation!!

The Charity Challenge concept was created by Cathy to bring together ten fashion bloggers or stylists with ten charities and their retail stores to create a collection of ten catwalk-worthy outfits each. Cathy said: “I can’t wait to see what classic, quirky and vintage ensembles our exceptionally creative stylists will come up with. Actually, we started off with the goal of ten charity partnerships to celebrate our tenth year, but I’m delighted to say we now have twelve. And all the outfits shown on the catwalk as part of the Charity Challenge will be available to buy (via donation) on the night at each charity’s pop up store, so as well as exposing what great finds there are in store at some of these gem shops, we’re hoping that the charities will sell the entire collections to make some much needed funds.” Cathy, who will fund the Charity Challenge production herself, has supported charity over the years through FASHIONWEEK tying in with Mencap via the Style Sunday event, as well as breast cancer charity Pretty in Pink, which collects donations at all shows.

As for what I was wearing at the launch I opted for my favourite label once again, Karen Millen!! With one of my favourite bandage body con dresses! (Click HERE to read more about my outfit!)

Bandage knit dress (KM212), Snake print stud box bag (GR139) "InnerPower" large rose gold crystal carrier pendant with ball chain and tricolour open star coin from Argento & L.K. Bennett leather and pony skin "Cheyne" peep toe sandals.

The full show schedule is available online at www.belfastfashionweek.com along with details of this season’s trends plus links to all participant retailers and sponsors. Catwalk tickets, which cost £20 (or £25 for a limited number of exclusive front row seats), are available from the Belfast Welcome Centre on 028 9024 6609 or via the website. Ticket price includes a fabulous goodie bag and a refreshing West Coast Cooler.

Massive thanks to CMPR for the invitation to attend, and for supplying the press release and all catwalk photographs by Brendan Gallagher!

Spotlight on the Fantastic Diet Coke Design Award Winner and Runner Up's at Belfast FASHIONWEEK!

Monday, November 04, 2013

Diet Coke Design Award Winner Gordon Donaldson with his winning design "Pink Ice".

One of the best parts of West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK is it's commitment to encouraging our local design talent. Over the years FASHIONWEEK has seen many Northern Irish designers grace their über stylish catwalk, not least the internationally acclaimed designer J.W. Anderson, as well as top Irish designers such as Una Rodden, Zoe Boomer and many others. With this in mind the Diet Coke Design Award was created four years ago in a bid to encourage anyone with an interest in fashion design to gain valuable experience in the world of fashion design!

As I sat FROW at FASHIONWEEK's Local Designer Catwalk Show I was totally blown away by the level of diversity and creativity from the three Diet Coke finalists!

As a teenager in the 90's i've a real soft spot for the movie "Clueless" and I loved the quirky influence of the bright and fluffy fashion's from that era in runner up Lucy McElwaine's striking ensemble "Fashionably Clueless"!

While runner up Scott Wilson went for an edgy look in his "30 Years of Fashion" design! His design perfectly blended iconic fashion trends from the past 30 years, with the iconography associated with Diet Coke!

But it was budding designer Gordon Donaldson from Newcastle, County Down who was announced as the winner of the fourth Diet Coke Design Award!

His unique design of 'Pink Ice' which consisted of a pastel pink a-line skirt and grey sheer chiffon top, which caught the attention of the judges on the evening!

Gordon said: "The concept of my design was to demonstrate the best of the past 30 years of fashion and to create an outfit which was both classic and sophisticated through making use of classic cuts, colours and sumptuous fabrics. It's stylish, sophisticated and timeless and I think that ties in nicely with the Diet Coke brand and everything it represents."

Winning the competition has provided a platform to Gordon to further his dress making and design skills as Diet Coke will fund a trip to attend a short course at the London College of Fashion in the incoming year. He will also take part in a photoshoot with their winning creation by top fashion photographer, Khara Pringle.

Aoife Nagle, Senior Brand Activation Manager at Diet Coke said, "We had many applications to this year's Diet Coke Design Award and we were encouraged to see so many which were of a very high standard. Gordon has a very bright future as a designer and on behalf of our fashionable brand we are thrilled to aid his progression as he continues to carve a successful career path."

I for one cannot wait to see what Gordon and his fellow runner ups produce in the future, and massive congratulations to Gordon for producing the winning design!

Massive thanks to Lisa Bell at CMPR for providing the press release and all relevant imagery.

Designer Boutiques Dazzled at West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK AW'13!

Monday, October 21, 2013

Day one of West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK was jam packed with events, having already attended the "FASHIONWEEK at the Fitz" Cocktail Party and Una Rodden's innovative Fashion Instillation (Read all about it HERE.) I was then hopping off to the Iconic Ulster Museum for the first of the main catwalk shows, this time featuring Designer Boutiques! I was extremely excited to see what FASHIONWEEK had in store for us, the Designer Boutiques show is always a firm favourite of mine, as it features a wide range of boutiques from across Northern Ireland!

This time garments from seven boutiques would be on show, including personal favourites of mine, CRUISE, Blush, Rio/Brazil and Diamond Dolls! Not forgetting fantastic millinery from Gráinne Maher, as well as established boutique Jourdan and boho chic from Liberty Blue!

Having recently attended CRUISE's own intimate AW'13 catwalk show instore I was curious to see which trends they would be featuring on the FASHIONWEEK catwalk! The brand "Almost Famous" featured strongly on the night, as well one of my favourite denim brands Dr Denim! (I adore my DR Denim snakeskin print jeans!!!)

Trend wise there was lots of colbalt blue and lace in cute and flirty dresses, I especially loved the corset style detailing creating structure against the delicate lace of this dress!

While stunning luxe knitwear was also a favourite as it can be styled with leather trousers, or kept casual with jeans, the metallic lace detailing on this jumper giving it a real edge! But stand out was a red carpet worthy black embellished evening dress with sheer mesh side panels!! Major *swoon!!

Blush is a hidden gem on the Lisburn Road, the go to boutique for truly special bridal gowns, as well as trend led eveningwear! However Blush also stock great day dresses too, which can be worn for a day at the races, or a even a girly lunch! Tartan can be a hard look to wear top to toe, but I loved the black contrasting detail on this sleeved dress! Perfect for an Autumn/Winter event!

Peplum's are still proving popular, as are florals for winter and this little number caught my eye too!

Last but not least, as a girl who loves her sparkle I fell hard for this shimmering sheath of fabulousness! A mixture of exquisite jewels and mesh it's a dress that will certainly make a statement!

Rio/Brazil are another favourite of mine, they pride themselves on providing customers with wardrobe staples made from the finest quality fabrics and cut! On the catwalk the looks were all about layering and a play on textures, showing us how to stay warm but with a fashionable edge! I do love the luxe feel of fur and I fell in love with their beige fur trim poncho from Reno and Pelle, finished off with a fur hat! Of course as you all know I'm a total sucker for an evening dress and I loved this winter pink sequin dress finished off with a cute and sassy pink fur cape!

Liberty Blue went print crazy with lots of digital prints inspired by nature, as well as poka dots, florals, animal prints, all in cute and girly silhouettes.

For anyone who really wants to stand out from the fashion pack, look no further to Diamond Dolls in Banbridge! Boutique owner Brenda prides herself on stocking distinctive pieces you won't see every day! I loved the monochrome coat/dress with it's exquisite button's and metallic gold edging! While Melaine Bond's handmade neckIace perfectly compliments the look! I would style it a la "The Devil Wears Prada" with thigh high leather boots! Anne Hathaway eat your heart out!

I love my skater dresses and this black version with it's metallic and pearl embellishment on it's bodice worked perfectly, creating a strong, yet ultimately feminine look!

Gráinne Maher is a FASHIONWEEK veteran and favourite amongst NI's fashionista's, her millinery and "Pluck and Devour" jewellery collection always turns heads, but this time she really outdid herself! Adopting her trademark perspex pieces onto headpieces and hats, it was her use of clear neon perspex which stole the show! Her green and orange feather "flame" pieces glowed as the light caught them!! Absolutely stunning!

Last but not least was Jourdan, this is a boutique that always showcases classiclly chic looks, and again I found myself drawn to fur & monochrome once more in the form of an über chic funnel neckline houndstooth jacket with peplum detailing!

But most of all it was the cleaver use of zig zag panelling and leopard print on this wrap dress that really caught my eye!!

Of course a FASHIONWEEK post isn't complete without a quick mention of what I was wearing on the FROW! While I'll be going through all of my looks in detail in my "FASHIONWEEK Diary" blog post I thought I'd give you a sneak peek of my outfit from Day One! A mix of winter pink sequins in my shorts suit and some animal print in the form of my Karen Millen "Snow Leopard" print cashmere cardigan, I hope you like!

Massive thanks to CMPR for the invite and to Lisa Bell for providing me with all relevant information and imagery! All photographs by Brendan Gallagher.

Day 1: Fashion Cocktails & Una Rodden's Instillation kicks off Belfast FASHIONWEEK AW'13 in Style!

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

In it's 9th year and 16th season West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK firmly remains top of my fashion callander!! Over the years FASHIONWEEK consistently delivers when it comes to it's schedule of shows and events, and this year we not only had the main shows, but lots of fringe event's too!

FASHIONWEEK opened with a bang hosting a glamorous cocktail party: "FASHIONWEEK At The Fitz" for fashionista's attending the opening night's Independent Boutique Show! Having been at the stylish Fitzwilliam Hotel for the FASHIONWEEK launch, I couldn't wait to attend and we weren't disapointed, with their barmen mixing specially themed FASHIONWEEK West Coast Cooler cocktails, as DJ Steven Simpson set the musical tone!

Enjoying a FASHIONWEEK inspired West Coast Cooler Cocktail! (Handbag Jasper Conran).

Then it was off to The Meter House for a very special event indeed featuring established designer Una Rodden! Best known for her iconic designs, working with luxurious fabrics, perfectly draped and cut in jaw dropping creations! Una is one of those designers who perfectly walks the balance between fashion as art, but still rooting her designs in wearable creations designed to make a woman feel fabulous!

Her designs have been seen on many a catwalk, but this time her aim was do do something different! To create a fashion instillation to evoke the mood and feel of her Autumn Winter '13 collection, something which would resonate with her clients, and create a lasting impression with them........and so began her collaboration with visual artist and filmmaker Neil Kerr!!

To say I was impressed was a massive understatement!!! As someone who has been to numerous fashion events it was a true joy to be at something so creative and visionary. It felt as if we had been transported to New York or London as live models posed and moved around the set, while imagery from her recent photoshoot with Neil played on the walls! It had a wonderful edgy feel, due to it's set design but retained an intimate feel between audience and model, allowing us to get up close to see the exquisite detailing on each of the dresses! Ending on a high with the viewing of Neil's specially commissioned fashion film showcasing Una's amazing work!!

While I do love attending all the catwalk shows, it was fantastic this time round to be able to catch up with friends over cocktails and to visit Una's amazing fashion instillation! Her collaboration with the hugely talented Neil Kerr was an artistic match made in heaven and I sincerely hope they continue to work together!

A great way to begin FASHIONWEEK, it was fantastic to have such a varied start to proceedings! Then I was off to the Ulster Museum for the first catwalk show of the schedule featuring Independent Boutiques! (But that's for another post!)

Only a few weeks left to enter The Diet Coke Design Award!

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Fashion Fans flock to the Fitzwilliam for the Launch of West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK AW13!

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

We all have heard of the company Apple, and their many devoted "Fan Boys"! Well I have a confession to make.........I'm a self confessed West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK "Fan Girl"!!

Now in it's sixteenth season, I have found myself in attendance at most of them and rarely missed a season! FASHIONWEEK was my first ever catwalk show, and since then I've been totally hooked!! Over the years i've seen FASHIONWEEK grow from strength to strength and seen it in it's many homes, from the Potthouse, to Baby Grand, the Europa and even the City Hall, to name but a few, and most recently the iconic Ulster Museum building!

For me, FASHIONWEEK will always hold a special place in my heart and is my favourite time of year, I can think of no better way to take in the season's hottest fashion trends than from it's ever fashionable FROW! It was therefore with tremendous excitement that I headed off with fellow fashion fans to attend the FASHIONWEEK AW'13 Media Launch in the Fitzwilliam Hotel!

West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK Director Cathy Marin and fellow models looking pretty in pink!

Photograph by Stephen Potter.

This year FASHIONWEEK will be running from 10th-13th October and promises to be one of the best yet, with a jam packed schedule of events running across various locations. The brunch launch event showcased a selection of looks from participant retailers and designers while director Cathy Martin outlined key looks for the season ahead from Ireland’s favourite fashion event. From winter blues to lace, sumptuous leathers, tartans and Christmas reds! However the standout trend was girly pinks, with many of the country's top fashionista's at the launch sporting the trend (including FASHIONWEEK Director Cathy Martin), while yours truly went for winter blues in a Karen Millen cobalt blue knit snake texture dress (snakeskin is also a top trend for AW13, especially in accessories!)

Pictured at the Launch of West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK were models Kellyanne wearing red jumpsuit from Next worn with Nor Lisa Scarf as belt; Carys wearing red lace dress from Oasis with Gráinne Maher headpiece & cuff and Finola wearing luxe red evening gown by local designer Shauna Faye.

Photograph by Stephen Potter.

Karen Anderson, brand manager for West Coast Cooler, which sponsors the events said: “The winter months can always be a bit gloomy, but at West Coast Cooler we believe that your winter wardrobe doesn’t have to be gloomy too, so I’m looking forward to another fast-paced and exciting autumn/winter FASHIONWEEK.”

Cathy Martin, director of FASHIONWEEK added: “We have a very busy schedule this season – and we have teamed up with Belfast City Council’s Restaurant Week to share some events, which is great for the city as a whole – but ideal for foodies and fashionistas.

“I can’t deny that it is a difficult time for many of our retailers, particularly independently owned stores, but West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK allows designers, retailers and fashionistas to come together and celebrate all things fashion. It’s a great marketing tool for retailers, and our fashion hungry audiences certainly love it!”

She added: “In terms of trends to look out for this season, the key colours and patterns include deep reds and burgundy, pale pink hues, plaid and leopard print. Texture is important too and we can expect to see leather, velvet, lace and chiffon as well as lots of embellishments. As for shapes, design and cut - the turtleneck and polo neck are both back, and new this season are sexy thigh high splits on skirts and dresses as well as large oversized coats and capes.”

Stand out for me was a butter soft Marc Jacobs leather dress from CRUISE and the high impact look of a gold metallic leather skirt and mustard polo neck combo from Mexx. Whilst the girly side of me adored the super cute and girly pretty in pink look from Liberty Blue and Una Rodden's stunning designs who never fails to amaze every season!

Pictured at the launch of West Coast Cooler FASHIONWEEK was model Sarah in a Marc Jacobs leather dress & Alexander McQueen gold skull cuff - all from CRUISE.

Photograph by Stephen Potter.

Model Ruta in a gold leather skirt & mustard gold polo from MEXX worn with Melanie Bond Necklace.

Photograph by Stephen Potter.

Model Meagan in a pink dress by Liberty blue & local designer Susan Black necklace.

Photograph by Stephen Potter.

Of course the question you're all asking is what can we expect form this year's shows? Well as always we will have high impact catwalk show's which are once again returning to the iconic Ulster Museum. Showcasing the very best of N.I's Designer Boutiques, as well as the ever popular High Street Heaven show and last but not least our hugely talented Northern Irish designer's show also feat. the Diet Coke Design Award finalists!

New to FASHIONWEEK's schedule is the Fashion Friday lunch demo at James Street South, coinciding with this year's Restaurant Week, along with a private FASHIONWEEK cocktail party at the Fitzwilliam Hotel: "FASHIONWEEK at the Fitz!" On Saturday fashionistas will have the opportunity to pick up a vintage treasure at the Fashion Souk, while all us designer junkies will have the chance to view the latest designer delights from CRUISE at the Fashion Tea in the opulent Merchant Hotel! This year Style Sunday, an event I rarely miss has moved to SHU Restaurant and will include a four course gourmet meal, mini fashion show and advice from the country's top style experts!!

It was fantastic to attend the launch event for this season's FASHIONWEEK, and lovely to catch up with all my friends on the day, as well as people watching to see what fantastic outfits my fellow fashionista's were wearing!! (Watch out for my upcoming "Style Watch" on Belfast Times from the launch!)

I of course was wearing my favourite brand, Karen Millen!! Blue is one of the colours carrying through to next season, so I decided to wear my snake texture knit dress (KQ136), as with it's 3D effect snake texture I was hitting two major trends! This body con design works perfectly with my petite frame, and is one of those dresses I always feel great in! Following the texture trend through I accessorized with a fantastic statement necklace from MIMCO. Their "Wilderness Drape Necklace" combines thick silk cord, chain mail and gold and silver textured leaves, giving my ensemble a welcome autumnal feel! My metallic leather buckle cuff (ZQ014) tied in perfectly with colour palette of my necklace, and as a girl who loves her skyscraper heels, I went for my super high "Beano" platform sandals from Dune! My handbag was another one of my personal favourites, my blue ostrich bag (GJ174), again from my beloved Karen Millen!

Wearing Snake texture knit dress (KQ136), Buckle cuff (ZQ014 - Ltd Edition this version not made available to purchase) & Small ostrich bag (GJ174) all from Karen Millen. "Wilderness Drape Necklace" from MIMCO with "Beano" platform sandals from Dune!

Photograph by Brendan Gallagher.

Portrait shot taken by Alwyn Spence.

Photograph by Stephen Potter.

Check below for the full show schedule. Further details about it and the Diet Coke design competition are all available online at www.belfastfashionweek.com Catwalk tickets, which cost £20 (or £25 for a limited number of exclusive front row seats), are available from the Belfast Welcome Centre on 028 9024 6609 or via the website. Ticket price includes a fabulous goodie bag and a refreshing West Coast Cooler.

West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK Full Show Schedule:

Thursday 10 October 8pm, Designer Boutiques show.

Friday 11 October – Fashion Friday Lunch demo – James Street South Restaurant.
Friday 11 October 6-8pm Fashionweek at the Fitz! Private cocktail party with prizes up for grabs TBC.
Friday 11 October 8pm High Street Fashion Show, Ulster Museum.

Saturday 12 October 10am - 2pm – Fashion Souk at Spire’s Mall.
Saturday 12 October 2pm – Fashion Tea, CRUISE designer emporium at The Merchant, showcasing Victoria Beckham, Armani, Vivienne Westwood, Marchesa etc
Saturday 12 October 8pm NI Designers show and winner announcement of the Diet Coke Design Award, Ulster Museum.

Sunday 13 October 1pm – 5pm Style Sunday, SHU Belfast.

Massive thanks to CMPR for my launch invite & to Lisa Bell at CMPR for providing the Press Release & selected imagery.

Images very kindly taken and provided by Stephen Potter, Alwyn Spence and Brendan Gallagher.

Ladies who Lidl at West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK Style Sunday!

West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK launches it's Tenth Year in Style!!

Spotlight on the Fantastic Diet Coke Design Award Winner and Runner Up's at Belfast FASHIONWEEK!

Designer Boutiques Dazzled at West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK AW'13!

Day 1: Fashion Cocktails & Una Rodden's Instillation kicks off Belfast FASHIONWEEK AW'13 in Style!

Only a few weeks left to enter The Diet Coke Design Award!

Fashion Fans flock to the Fitzwilliam for the Launch of West Coast Cooler Belfast FASHIONWEEK AW13!

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