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Trend Alert: PVC Leggings

FabSugarUK — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 03:00:45 -0700

PVC leggings aren't a new trend but they're a left over item from the fetish trend from last autumn which have carried though to this season. They have been spotted on celebrities on both sides of the Atlantic. From Kate Moss at Glastonbury 2007, to Mary Kate Olsen, to Rihanna at the Much Music awards they're always a great statement item. Obviously they're pretty unforgiving but I think most girls would be surprised at how flattering they can look.

Unless you have supermodel-esque legs I would team the leggings with a longish top or coat dress (as seen on Nicky Hilton). I would also avoid wearing them with boots as your risk looking like a dominatrix! A soft knit (seen here on Mary Kate) is a great way to offset the harshness of the leggings. Most of the celebs have invested in a pair of KOVA&T black oxy leggings (pre order here for £85) but American Apparel offer a great alternative with these shiny high-waisted leggings (£32). Have you dared to try this trend yet?

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Trend Alert: Paisley Dress

FabSugarUK — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 04:00:12 -0700

Paisley is a trend that seems to have come out of nowhere. It fits in nicely with this Summer's Boho renaissance (in the form of Bopo) and has been included in collections by Matthew Williamson, Paul Smith and Paul & Joe.

The traditional Persian fabric adorns dresses this summer for the ultimate festival chic look. The great thing is, the darker paisley prints are perfect for Autumn too. Just team with black tights and a cardigan, or even a gilet if you fancy!

Below are some of the paisley print dresses currently available. I especially love the Matthew Williamson Paisley print dress (£695).

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Trend Alert: Pussy Bow Blouse

FabSugarUK — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 04:00:33 -0700

Pussy bow blouses are the ultimate in androgynous style taking the best elements of a men's tailored shirt and adding a soft feminine, playful touch with a neck-bow. This style featured on the catwalk for Autumn/Winter at Fendi and D&G. Dolce & Gabbana gave a heritage twist to the blouse with a plaid print.

Here's Kelly Rowland sporting the trend at last week's Sky+HD party. She teamed hers with straight leg jeans and brogues which is a great casual way to wear the style.

Whilst the Dolce & Gabbana shirt will set you back £478, Miss Selfridge have also fully embraced the trend meaning you can pick up a shirt at a mere fraction of the price at £28.

Team yours with a Barbour jacket to channel the latest style icon; HRH Queen Elizabeth II.

BigPicturesPhoto.com

Trend Alert: Crisp White Shirt

FabSugarUK — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 03:00:00 -0700

I guess this shouldn't really be called a trend alert, but rather a wardrobe staple as a crisp white shirt should always be an integral part of your wardrobe. But seeing as Katie Holmes was spotted out this week in hers I thought I'd pick the best currently available to share with you. You don't have to spend a lot on a shirt but if you do the tailoring and the fit will obviously be better. However, if you're the kind of person that can't wear white without spilling something down it then I would recommend one of the bargain High Street options. See below for some of the best white shirts currently available.

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Trend Alert: Purple

FabSugarUK — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 04:00:08 -0700

Purple has long reigned as a Royal colour and has been popping up on the catwalk for the last few seasons. This Autumn is no exception appearing on the catwalk at Dior, Givenchy, Alberta Ferretti and Erdem (pictured on Keira).

The colour can be worn as shoes, dresses, tops and even handbags but it's definitely not subtle so be careful you don't overload. Team a purple dress with black shoes or break up solid colour with a black waist belt.

I love the Paul Smith purple bubble dress (£195) which does not just cover the purple trend but also hints at the sheer trend. On the High Street, I like this Dorothy Perkins exposed zip top (£15) (which also nods to the exposed zip trend.)

See below for more options.

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Exclusive Elle Pick Their Autumn Winter Fashion Must Haves

FabSugarUK — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:00:30 -0700

Today, we've asked another fashion industry insider to pick their top Autumn buys. This time we've asked Elle UK's online Fashion, News and Star Style Editor Laurelle Gilbert to pick her five must-have Autumn items. Working for one of the world's leading fashion magazines means that she knows a thing or two about fashion so here, exclusively for Fab UK are her top 5 items.

First up is a gothic blouse by Vanessa Bruno (£105) with sheer panel detail. It's a great piece to team with tailored trousers which leads us nicely on to Laurelle's second choice!

To find out about the rest of Elle UK's picks

Exclusive My-Wardrobe Pick Their Autumn Winter Fashion Buys

FabSugarUK — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 04:00:48 -0700

In the run up to Autumn we're asking the top beauty and fashion editors, bloggers, buyers, makeup and hair artists, stylists and industry experts to share with us their new season tips.

Today we caught up with My-wardrobe.com buyer Joanne Watkinson to find out what she recommends for the colder months.

First up the all important it-bag. Joanne recommends Anya Hindmarch's Perry, "This season texture is a key feature, and the mix of cord and leather in this bag is a perfect combination." She also loves the D&G Dolce&Gabbana Lily bag in black (£695). "The Lily bag is still a baby, entering into its 2nd season and creating quite a stir, the multi zip fastening being its piece de resistance."

For more new season picks from My-wardrobe.com

Trend Alert: Little Navy Dress

FabSugarUK — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 02:00:01 -0700

From the moment I saw these pictures of Lily Allen out having dinner with her Grandad I knew that everybody would be lusting after her dress. We saw Victoria Beckham in a Marc Jacobs navy blue dress back in April and this dress too features cute cut out detail.

Lily matched her dress to her navy blue quilted Chanel handbag. Although there are plenty of Little Black Dresses around this winter, I think the little navy blue dress is also a good contender. Blue tends to be less harsh against pale skin yet remains as flattering as black.

Navy blue has been breaking in to the fashion colour palette for a while. It's a great alternative to both brown and black and is often credited with reflecting our new and improved eco-shopping habits.

See below for just a few of the little navy blue dresses currently on offer.

BigPicturesPhoto.com

Exclusive Elle Pick Their Autumn Winter Beauty Buys For BellaSugarUK

BellaSugarUK — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 04:00:00 -0700

If you want to get a head start on all the latest beauty, hair and fashion trends for autumn/winter, we're asking the top beauty and fashion editors, bloggers, buyers, makeup and hair artists, stylists and industry experts, to share their pick of the hottest trends for the new season.

First, we have Amy Lawrenson – ELLE UK Web Assistant and beauty addict – sharing her top beauty buys for autumn's high voltage, dramatic look. Here's her exclusive blog for us:

Next season’s beauty trends are all about drama. Start with dark berry lips (read blood-stained) for that true soft goth vibe.

Chanel has just launched the Fantastic Plum shade, (£17.50). Apply the colour to the centre of the lips and then blend for a softer look. Next, aim for rich, rust-toned eyes. I love MAC's pigment in Mega Rich, (£15).

For more new season beauty picks from ELLE UK, just

Trend Alert: Ja Beanies

FabSugarUK — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 01:28:23 -0700

Trend Alert: Ja Beanies It's going to take more than a little breakup to stop Kate from showing her face around town. After all, it doesn't take much for this boho-princess to stand out in the crowd. Check out that funky knit hat. Pretty awesome, right?

Trend Alert: Going Orange

BellaSugarUK — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 10:00:00 -0700

There's no getting away from the fact that orange is this season's hottest makeup shade – and the quickest, and quirkiest, way to inject some colour into your summer beauty routine.

The Orange trend all started with MAC's now cult lipstick, in Morange, (£11) – summer's most covetable shade. MAC's head of artistry told Grazia, "Orange is the perfect antidote to the vampiness of last season, but still has enough to pack a punch".

I spoke with make-up artist Becca Harrison, who creates beautifully wearable versions of catwalk beauty trends, for Vogue, The Guardian, The Independent and Elle, amongst others.

She admits that "The very thought of orange makeup can send even the most glamorous girl running in the opposite direction" but advises that with the right products "it can be a truly versatile colour with a variety of tones, to suit all shades of skin."

It's best to just wear one orange product, and team it with neutral beiges and tawny brown shades, or pale gold at the most.

Here are Becca's top tips, and expert beauty picks, for working this summer's beauty phenomenon: Just

Hair Master Guido Says Matte is Back

BellaSugarUK — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Now, I don't know about you, but I've been obsessing about matte hair for a while now. Since seeing those first catwalk pics of Candyfloss hair, not to mention the polished dreadlocks trend – I've been trying to wean myself off the super-shiny look.

The man behind this trend is hairdresser Guido Palau. He kickstarted the look for bag-lady, dragged-through-a-hedge-backwards hair. Think the cloud-cuckoo, crazy birds-nest hair dos at Moschino, Peter Jensen and Marc Jacobs (pictured).

"We've seen all that red-carpet tonged hair," He tells the Telegraph, "so I went for a scruffy, big teasy thing that felt ladylike but a bit throwaway. I think people respond to feminine ease and a sense of humour."

Guido works with photographers such as David Sims, Mert & Marcus and Steven Meisel, and his editorial and advertising campaigns include Prada, Alberta Ferretti, Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, and Balenciaga. Yet he still has a down-to-earth attitude to hair: Just

Trend Alert: Fringed Shoes

FabSugarUK — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 23:00:52 -0700

I know this might seem like an easy point of blame but I think it's fair to say that you can blame Kate Moss for fringed shoes. Her obsession with moccasin boots has caused them to stay on the fashion radar (albeit on the outskirts) for almost as long as Ugg boots.

However, fringe detail on shoes has taken a turn for the better as it begins to grace not just boots but also t-bar heels and sandals. It's quite subtle on suede t-bar shoes as the fringing is short but the same cannot be said for sandals.

Whilst I like the Urban Outfitter sandals pictured below I can't help but think that anybody wearing them near an animal of the feline persuasion should be very careful. A cat could easily mistake the fringe-detail for a tassle and quickly scratch your poor toes to bits. You've been warned!

The pair pictured are from Topshop for £60.

Planet Beauty: From Not to Hot

BellaSugarUK — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 04:00:00 -0700

Yesterday, at an outdoor swimming pool, I noticed a pretty, pale girl wearing yellow nail varnish on her toes, and lime green on her fingernails. I'd always thought yellow and lime green makeup was a no-no on pale skin, but she looked great.

This got me thinking about so-called beauty faux pas, or beauty blunders, that are now cool.

Chipped nail polish, for example, used to be thought scruffy and unkept, and now looks edgy and rock n roll. Even the New York Times, the last bastion of groomed Manhattans, cited chipped nail polish as a new trend for this summer.

So here's the beauty crimes that have gone from 'not' to 'hot' this season: Just

Trend Alert: Rustic Romance

BellaSugarUK — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:00:00 -0700

This Spring/Summer the catwalks were awash with ultra modern makeup looks, from theatrical glitter, to bursts of bright colour. The trend we all actually want to wear though, is going by the name of Rustic Romance. Think fierce, bold brows, rust eye shadow shades and gently blushed cheeks.

Rustic Romance was the main makeup story at the Milan shows, where grown up glamour is always on the agenda. This season, however, there's a definite, Southern Italian influence, with strong, womanly looks being all the rage.

I loved the rust mixed with berry lipsticks at Dolce & Gabbana, (pictured), the subtle gold shadow at Daks by Giles Deacon and the soft, pink blush at Prada and Blumarine.

It's a classically romantic look, tinged with rustic influences. For my pick of the best products to re-create the trend, simply

Guyliner, Manscara...The Boys Are Back in Town

BellaSugarUK — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0700

Boys in bands and indie men have been stealing our black eyeliners and smudgy kohl pencils for a while now – whether they're heading to a festival or just hanging out in Camden. The voice of middle England, aka The Telegraph, may be expressing subdued shock at the new 'guy-liner, man-scara' trend, but edgy London boys have been rocking the makeup look for the past few seasons.

British bad boy, Russell Brand is often photographed in eye makeup, although he covered up in dark glasses, for a night out at Boujis, last night. While Pete Doherty, The Killers' singer Brandon Flowers, The Horrors, and The Libertines, all regularly rock out in dark eyeliner and sometimes chipped black nail polish.

Today, everyone's talking about the launch of Guyliner, (£6.50), Just

Trend Alert: Exposed Zips

FabSugarUK — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 09:00:01 -0700

Exposed zips have been on the catwalks for a few seasons. They originally appeared at Lanvin as Alber Elbaz created beautifully feminine dresses where your attention was seductively drawn to the thick visible zip at the back.

Initially there was some confusion, as though the dress was not quite finished, but then they began to emerge all over the fashion spectrum and a trend was born.

Zips appear on both the front and back of garments to become a feature of the item rather than simply a function. In Topshop this season you will struggle to find a dress with a hidden zip as it quickly becomes the focal point of dresses, skirts and tops.

It definitely gives items a punky edge and with all the tartan around next season your wardrobe is sure to feel very '70s very soon...

Trend Alert: Animal Print Bikini

FabSugarUK — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 01:00:34 -0700

Sugarbabe Heidi Range showed off her toned body in an animal print bikini yesterday as she holidayed in Florida with her sister. Whilst normally I am left unsure about animal prints, I think it works for swimwear. It's such a small amount that, if done well, can look quite classy and fun.

Heidi's zebra print bikini has a coral trim so she matched this with a maxi skirt for a beach cover up.

There are many different animal print swimwear pieces available. They range from zebra to giraffe print with pieces being available on the High Street as well as at designer boutiques. A brown coloured bikini would be more flattering for those with fairer skin. See below for some examples.

BigPicturesPhoto.com

Trend Alert: Fringe Benefits

FabSugarUK — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:00:33 -0700

As fashion begins to return to the world of elegance and glamour we see the emergence of fringe detailing. This delicate addition to tops, dresses and accessories adds texture and movement. It featured on the catwalk at Chanel and Jaeger but also at Gareth Pugh where (never one to do things by halves) he used actual hair. Fringe detailing is most strongly associated with flapper dresses but can adorn tops and jackets just as effectively.

See below for pieces available now to get this Autumn Winter look.

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Trend Alert: Lace

BellaSugarUK — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0700

It is a well known fact of fashion, that where Miuccia Prada leads, the rest of us follow.

It was she who revitalised the trend for heavy, boiled wool, paired stilettos with socks, and has such an open distaste for what she perceives as constrictions in fashion, you could almost credit her with kick starting the current love affair with mixing it up – think vintage garments worn with ultra-modern pieces, as well as a clashing of colours and textures.

So when Mrs Prada showed elegantly grown-up lace in her autumn/winter 2008 collection, the fashion world took note. Think layers of dark, Italian Bordello-style lace, worn over simple blue shirts, or layered with stern black jackets, for an erotically charged, silhouette. Just

Trend Alert: Sheer

FabSugarUK — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 01:00:15 -0700

Sheer is my big tip for next season. Whether it's a sheer shirt or a dress with sheer detailing it's a demure yet sexy look which can be easily pulled off.

Madonna has already worn the trend and it appeared on the catwalk at Chanel, Luella and countless Graduate Fashion Week shows.

It's good to see the world of fashion returning to such a grown-up style of dressing. Team a Victorian style blouse with a pencil skirt (as pictured at Chanel) or wear a dress with patches of sheer with thick black tights.

If you are big busted then avoid a high-necked blouse, instead opt for an open neck or pussy-bow tie.

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Trend Alert: Oversize Sequins

BellaSugarUK — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 08:00:00 -0700

Sequins have been around for a while now – witness the huge success of those 60s style, French Connection dresses last winter – but this autumn/winter, they're getting super sized!

Large sequins, or paillettes as they're known in fashion-speak, adorned the edgy creations on the catwalk at Christopher Kane, and Italian label Krizia, also seemed to have caught the glitter bug.

For a Christopher Kane look – hot from the runway – pair your paillettes with contrasting fabrics, such as sheer chiffon or leather. Add chunky-heeled sandals and an arm cuff and you have your new season party look sorted.

On the high street, look for sequin-embellished clutch bags, belted cardis that are part Burberry, part Christopher Kane, at River Island and Topshop, and paillette encrusted party jackets at Monsoon.

Keep hair simple and sleek to avoid glamour overkill, or work the gothic look with smoky eyes and va va vamp lips. Shine on.

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Trend Alert: Headscarves

BellaSugarUK — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:00:00 -0700

For Autumn/Winter, Dolce & Gabbana, Paul Smith and Jean Paul Gaultier all showed beautiful models wearing – I kid you not - headscarves. Yes, it seems that the hitherto frumpy style, beloved of Hilda Ogden and the Queen, is back.

As part of the new season's obsession with traditionally British heritage looks – such as tweed, tartan and Country House chic – the bright, print silk headscarf is back on our radar.

Take celebrities, like Amy Winehouse, rocking this retro style, and the general love for all things vintage – and it's no surprise the headscarf is this season's hottest hair look. For why, just

Trend Alert: Tartan

FabSugarUK — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:00:30 -0700

Classic heritage fabrics such as tweed, tartan and checks featured heavily on the catwalk for Autumn/Winter. Leading the way was British designer Henry Holland who created his own tartan pattern and based his entire House of Holland collection on the indigo fabric. The most memorable piece was a tiered tartan dress modeled by Henry's BFF Agyness Deyn. Dolce & Gabbana produced a D&G line inspired by our very own Queen with neatly tied head scarves and midi-length tartan skirts. The trend has already begun to take over the High Street with Topshop particularly pioneering the style. See below for some items already available.

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Hair How-To: Polished Dreadlocks

BellaSugarUK — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0700

A little bit glamour, a little bit grunge – this season's matted hair texture takes inspiration from hippie dreadlock styles, and gives a fresh look to summer hair.

Think full-on dreadlocks at Etro, matte hair at Lanvin, or just lots of texture at Balmain and Preen.

Like with the candyfloss hair trend, this summer, the polished dreadlocks look is about working with the natural texture of the hair, as oppose to creating an overly fake, super shiny look.

It's certainly a breath of fresh air, after seeing so many WAG-wannabes with ironed straight, glossy manes.

For one of the edgiest looks this season, just

Are Loafers Really Back?

FabSugarUK — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 09:00:03 -0700

Our friends over at Elle UK tell us that everyone in the Elle office is currently wearing loafers and whilst every hip celeb from Alexa Chung to Fearne Cotton has been spotted sporting a pair I'm still not fully convinced. The ballet pump has reigned as the flat shoe du jour for many seasons now and has arguably outstayed it's welcome (thanks in part to it's celeb following of Kate Moss and Amy Winehouse). So whilst I am excited that change is in the air, I'm not convinced that loafers are really for me. The most popular pair currently on the High Street are from Topshop (see below) but they also featured on the catwalk at House of Holland where they featured the Holland shield. How do you feel about the new season shoe style? Are they really back?

Sean Parsons/Ed Cooper/BigPicturesPhoto.com

Are Loafers Really Back?

Yes! Finally a new flat shoe style

I don't want to like them now but I will give in

No way

Trend Alert: Cheeky Contours Part 2

BellaSugarUK — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0700

As contoured cheeks are suddenly cool again – witness the girls at Fendi and Giles, showing off their knife-sharp cheekbones – what's a cream blush addict to do?

Creating contours is undoubtedly easier with powder blush, but it is possible to get this season's natural-seeming, structured look with your favourite cream formulation.

This look also works better in the day, when you want to look like you're sporting a just-in-love glow, not piles of make-up.

Here's how: Just

Trend Alert: Purple Reigns

BellaSugarUK — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0700

Eyes awash with all shades of purple, from the stormiest plum, to the lightest lilac, stormed the catwalks – setting a darker, more sultry mood for autumn/winter.

Christian Dior, Miu Miu, Louis Vuitton and John Galliano all fell for this alluring look that is part vamp, part pretty.

I know it's still the middle of summer, but this is a great trans-seasonal trend to start practicing now, so you can wow them with your violet eyes come September. Plus it works well with the autumn/winter clothes in the shops at the moment, especially the sheer and tartan trends.

Here's some expert tips: Just

Hair How-To: Making Waves

BellaSugarUK — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 03:00:00 -0700

For unstructured, wavy hair, you don't have to bother with a myriad of curling products and heat appliances. This is a trick lots of models use when they want to give their hair a break from over-styling and just go natural.

If you have very straight, thin hair then you'll need to use a curl-enhancing product. If your hair already has a bit of a wave, then this will work really well for you. If you have very curly hair, then this trick can create a more easy-to-manage curl, with less frizz.

Here's how: Just

Trend Alert: Bubble Skirt

FabSugarUK — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:00:22 -0700

If you're sale shopping this month then be sure to look out for a bubble skirt. The unusual shape item is great for the Summer if you team with gladiator sandals and then even better in the winter with tights and brogues.

They appeared on the catwalk at Miu Miu and PPQ to name but a few. Bubble skirts look best worn high waisted with a blouse and heels.

It's quite easy to adjust an old skirt in to a bubble shape. Simply make a small cut in to the hem of the skirt and thread through elastic before securing with a stitch.

Alternatively, if you're not feeling that creative then see below for some of the skirts currently available.

Trend Alert: Bright Lights, Bold Colour

BellaSugarUK — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0700

This is the sumer of bright, bold colours and look-at-me makeup. Think peacock blue, cream eyeshadow, with cerise cheeks and raspberry lips.

At the Haute Couture shows, makeup artists were like magpies for the bright stuff – there were red berry lips at Valentino, lime and yellow eyeshadow at Dior and painted-ladies with purple eyes and bright red lips at Christian Lacroix. A sign that sizzling shades are here to stay.

Here's my top five bright products to get you started – just don't wear them all at once!

Mavala, (£3.75), nail polish in Romantic. A bold, coral pink that looks good on toes.
Maybelline Dream Mousse Eye Shadow, (£5.99), in Fabulous Turquoise. This is one of the best cream shadows around. Very long-lasting too.

Lancome Juicy Tube,(£9.50), in Fraise. A sticky, sweet lip gloss with an orangey-peach colour. Young and fun.
Revlon Renewist Lip Colour, in Cherry Desirable. A special moisture-boosting formula and SPF 15 make this a great colour buy.
MAC nail polish in Phosphor, (£8), a bumble bee yellow with a slight lime sparkle. Slightly putrid, very Dior Haute Couture.
Rimmel Colour Rush Eyeshadow, (£3.99), in Intense. A very deep, moody purple, as at Lacroix. Intense!
Nars blush, (£18.50), in Exhibit A. For exhibitionists only. A bright red blush for rosy, catwalk cheeks.

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Trend Alert: Nautical Bikini

FabSugarUK — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 03:00:41 -0700

It's bikini season again (I know, it always comes round too quickly) which means the stores are packed with various swimwear items. Whilst on her honeymoon, Coleen showed off an impressive range of bikinis mainly sticking to solid bright colours.

However, I like to have more fun with swimwear so one of my favourite trends this Summer is the continuation of of sailor chic as bikinis get taken over by stars and stripes. This is certainly not a trend for top-heavy girls as the horizontal stripes may not be too flattering.

See below for the best nautical inspired items available this Summer.

Trend Alert: All That Glitters

BellaSugarUK — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 03:00:00 -0700

At the Dior Spring/Summer Haute Couture show, John Galliano sent out a bevy of brightly dressed, models-as-society-beauties; all with eyes that were loaded with glitter.

Glitter on the eyes is nothing new, but what is different this season is a cabaret meets BoomBox-esque twist, where the glitter is piled on with abandon and spreads out from the eyes, down the cheeks, for a modern take on this starlet classic.

For a big night out, experiment with different coloured glitter – iridescent green and bright gold are hot right now, but bronze is a good starter colour. For some easy application tips, just

Which Autumn Trend Are You the Most Excited For?

FabSugarUK — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:08 -0700

The autumn season clothes are beginning to hit stores as the sales slowly run out of bargains (and we run out of energy). But don't mourn the end of Summer just yet, clever shoppers will be able to buy a item to wear now that with some careful layering will see you through to Spring. However, what I really want to know is, which trend are you the most excited for?

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Trend Alert: Cheeky Contours Part 1

BellaSugarUK — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 09:00:00 -0700

Softly contoured is this summer's new buzzword for cheeks. Forget the scarily sculptured, Linda Evangelista-esque cheeks of the early 90s, this look is about a soft, natural flush with emphasised cheekbones.

If you don't have killer cheekbones, like the Viktor & Rolf girls, then fake them – but go easy; it's all in the blend.

Here's my quick tips using a powder blush:

After applying foundation or tinted moisturiser, use a large brush dipped into powder blush. Try Bourjois Cendre De Rose Brune, (£6.25). Shake the brush a little, or apply to the back of your hand, to remove any excess powder.
Next, use sweeping strokes, up and then down the cheek to give a lifting effect. Blend the colour with your fingertips. Focus under, and just on, your cheekbones for a sculptured appearance.
Keep the blush shade natural and matte. Anything too shiny or bronze will immediately look fake.
Dot a little highlighter onto the very tops of your cheekbones. Try Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid, (£18). Go easy though, you don't want to look too shimmery. Apply it under your blush for a more subtle look.
If you've applied too much blusher, then tone the colour down by using a loose translucent powder. This will blur it out a little.

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Beauty Masterclass: Super Natural Trend

BellaSugarUK — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:00:00 -0700

So it may be the middle of summer, but smart beauty junkies are already practicising a natural, yet polished, look that's straight off the 2008 Autumn/Winter catwalks. Dubbed the 'super natural' look by makeup artists, Calvin Klein, Valentino and Stella McCartney all showcased glowing skin, with a natural-looking flush and minimum fuss.

It's all about enhancing your natural beauty, and not wearing makeup as a mask. Think clean, clear skin and illuminated features, such as sheer, nude lips, lightly mascara'd eyes and subtle creamy blush. Here's how to do it:

FACE Make sure you look after your skin with a regular routine of cleansing, toning and moisturising, so you'll need a minimal base. Next use an illuminating mineral primer, such as Becca's, (£33). Then add a light but even layer of foundation. Try Max Factor Miracle Touch Foundation, (£11.95). Then dust with a layer of translucent powder.
EYES Copy the Prada show where eyes were left almost bare. Just coat lashes once with brown or black mascara. If you want to add more glow, a few dots of Benefit's HighBeam, (£15.50) just below the brows will open up the eyes.

CHEEKS At the Valentino shows, models had a healthy flush. Use a berry-coloured cream blusher like Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge, (£16).
LIPS This look is all about a youthful insouciance. So keep lips nude with just a touch of sheer gloss. I like Max Factor Lipfinity, (£8.99), in shimmering pink and gleaming coral. The double-ended gloss colours can be layered for an ultra pretty effect.

Trend Alert: Cut Offs

FabSugarUK — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:00:38 -0700

Kate Moss won us all over this week as she beamed holding the baby of a fan whilst showing off her pins in some cut off shorts. Well, as always Kate was on to something with those shorts as Kirsten Dunst quickly followed suit. Kate teamed hers with gladiator sandals where as Kirsten opted for ankle boots. Both girls have worn shorts with a big t-shirt sticking to the old theory of legs or cleavage! You could buy a pair of turn up shorts (see below for some examples) or why not get creative and cut an old pair of jeans?

BigPictures.co.uk

Trend Alert: The Scunchie Returns

BellaSugarUK — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 06:00:00 -0700

When Carrie criticised Jack Berger in Sex and The City, season six, for giving his novel's leading lady a hair scrunchie, she was talking for all of us. What sophisticated New York woman would run around town in a scrunchie? Of course, Jack later broke up with Carrie on a post-it note, begging the question – was the scrunchie to blame?

Perhaps Mr Berger was actually ahead of his time, because this season it's all about the scrunchie. Hip young things are wearing them, 80s-style in side-ponytails, or high on the head for a retro, aerobics-instructor vibe. It's a look that's mainly come from the streets – you can't move in Brick Lane on a Sunday without seeing lycra-wearing girls with scrunchies, either in their hair, or around their wrists.

It's a playfully, tongue-in-cheek trend that relies on mixing the demure with the trashy. For some tips just

Trend Alert: Wellies

FabSugarUK — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 04:00:50 -0700

Can you believe that it's that time of year again?! Seems like only a few weeks ago that we were packing up our tents and heading home from last summer's festivals. Well, brush off your ground sheet and roll up your sleeping mat as the Glastonbury festival kicks off today with bands performing from Friday to Sunday.

If you haven't got a ticket yet then you might still be able to bag one but don't forget your wellies. We have tracked down some of the best pairs currently available to you. Obviously, Hunter are a classic brand and are regularly sported by celebs at the festival but that kind of brand doesn't come without quite a steep price tag.

Make sure you team yours with thick, knee high socks (like Kelly) to avoid welly-rub! Neon or bright colours are particularly on trend this Summer. See below for just some of the pairs available.

BigPictures.co.uk

Trend Alert: Va Va Vamp Lips

BellaSugarUK — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 07:00:00 -0700

Channel your inner vamp this season with dark, stained lips as seen at the shows – Rodarte, Zac Posen and Derek Lam all sent out girls working the 40s screen siren look, while YSL went one step further with dark, gothic black lips of the kind that Morticia Addams would be proud of.

This bold, striking looks adds an edge to summer's romantic and floral trends, and Allegra Versace is certainly working her fashion heritage, as she sits next to Anna Wintour at the 2009 Spring/Summer Versace Menswear show, in Milan this weekend. Note how she contrasts her berry-hued lip colour to a violet silk dress, for a look that feels fresh and modern.

Try Viridiana lipstick, (£17), by Nars and remember to use a brush for a defined appearance. I like the Famous by Sue Moxley lip brush, (£6). Paint on colour gradually, building up to a more intense shade. Remember to apply balm first though, as dark colour on lips only accentuates any dryness.

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Trend Alert: Drawing the Line With Winged Eyeliner

BellaSugarUK — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 07:00:00 -0700

From Lily Allen, to Kelly Osbourne, to our current beauty obsession – Alexa Chung – normally fresh-faced girls are taking inspiration from the catwalks and winging it, eyeliner-wise.

Thick, black liquid eyeliner is a favourite – as seen here on Jessica Stam at the Karl Lagerfeld show. There's a touch of the modern-day Cleopatra about it, plus it's also an easy-peasy way of looking like you've made an effort when time is short. I like Rimmel Exaggerate Liquid Eyeliner, (£4.99), from Boots. You need a steady hand though and be extra careful when lining the lower lashes, so you don't look over done.

A kohl pencil is easier and can look just as effective, especially if you layer. Start with a grey, like Chanel Le Crayon Kohl in Graphite, (£14), and draw along the inner rim of the lower lashes, extending it slightly at the outer corner. Extend horizontally across, rather than flicked up, to really open up the eyes. Next use the same colour on the upper lash line. Then, dampen a dark blue or black eyeshadow, such as MAC Nehru or Deep Truth, (£10), and use a flat angled brush to draw a thin line along the upper lashes. This looks dramatic, without that slightly cheap look that thick black eyeliner can sometimes create.

Navy or granite are the 'in' colours this season. Navy looks cool on brown or hazel eyes, whilst granite makes blue eyes look extra vivid. Experiment with colours and layering though, as it's all about finding a shade that suits.

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Hair How-To: Candyfloss Hair

BellaSugarUK — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 03:00:00 -0700

Shelve the straightening irons! The new hair trend on the block is all about matte texture and huge, cartoon proportions. The Spring/Summer catwalks featured hair-do's that were big and backcombed - from disheveled up-do's at Roberto Cavalli and John Galliano, to whispy knots and ridiculously exaggerated piles of hair at Moschino and Peter Jensen. Admittedly, this is not the easiest look to pull off, but take a tip from Amy Winehouse with her trademark beehive, or just keep hair matted and slightly messy like Mary-Kate Olsen does.

For our step-by-step easy cheats guide

Trend Alert: Lauren Moshi Animal Tanks

FabSugarUK — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 02:00:44 -0700

Yesterday, we asked you about animal prints and whether you ever wore them. Well, this is an animal print with a difference! The LA girls are already firmly backing this trend with the likes of Paris Hilton and Lauren Conrad sporting the printed tank tops. Also, on a recent visit stateside Sienna Miller was spotted in a zebra print top (which she wore as a dress).

Now the tops are available to order in the UK! Hoorah! You can chose from zebra, rose, elephant or teddy bear all in a black and white illustration print. The best thing about this celebrity trend is that it won't break the bank, the tops are just £55. You can wear it with nothing else (a la Sienna) or with jeans like Lauren Conrad. Paris wore hers with a leather jacket and leggings. Go get yours now from Bunny Hug.

BigPictures.co.uk

Trend Alert: Cropped Sleeve Jacket

FabSugarUK — Thu, 22 May 2008 03:00:25 -0700

A long sleeved jacket can be too much during the summer months but no jacket at all may leave you cold, which is why those clever designers have created the cropped sleeve jacket. Hardly revolutionary but they're appearing everywhere this season following their appearance on the catwalk at Balenciaga. Topshop have channeled Balenciaga with this cute floral jacket (£45) but it doesn't have to so on trend. You could opt for a simple plain jacket for a chic timeless look.

If you're quite heavy on top then opt for a scoop neck style which will be more flattering. If you've got a boyish figure then a tight fitting style will give you more shape.

Trend Alert: Corsage

FabSugarUK — Thu, 15 May 2008 23:00:55 -0700

The impact of the Sex and the City movie is going to be felt in the fashion world for some months to come. Although the premiere may now be over the movie is going to leave you wanting to recreate all 81 (!) of Carrie's looks. So why not get ahead of the game and invest in just one of the items now; a corsage!

You'd have to be quite brave to wear as big a corsage as the one on Carrie's dress but there are plenty of subtler options currently available. You could wear it as a brooch, or in your hair or maybe on your handbag. It's a cheap way to update your wardrobe and you might end up looking a bit like Blair Waldorf!
See below for some options currently available.

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Trend Alert: Two Tone Pumps

FabSugarUK — Thu, 08 May 2008 02:00:16 -0700

Alexa Chung was spotted on a night out earlier in the week with Dev Hynes. Her outfit wasn't to everybody's taste but I couldn't overlook her gorgeous two-tone pumps. The classic Chanel style flat are making a come back this season with French Sole offering them in many colour varieties.

A few High Street stores have also cottoned on to the trend and are offering a variety of colours and styles. The great thing about them is that they go with almost anything, you could even wear them with a dress for eveningwear. Alternatively, wear with your favourite pair of jeans for an instant update of the classic ballet pump.

See below for some great options available.

BigPictures.co.uk

Trend Alert: Gladiator Sandals

FabSugarUK — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:00:06 -0700

It may feel like gladiator sandals pop up as a Summer time trend as regularly as knitwear appears in winter, but this season they come in more shapes and sizes than ever.

Whether you opt for a metallic pair, sandals emblazoned with jewels or a statement knee high style this is an item that you're sure to give in to. This year they appeared on the catwalk at Balenciaga, Miu Miu and Burberry but plenty of cheaper styles are now available on the High Street.

If you've got long legs then you could easily pull off an ankle high pair or knee high if you're feeling daring, for those with shorter legs opt for a lower pair which will be more flattering. You can team with a maxi dress (as seen here on Rachel Bilson) or with a playsuit (as seen on Sienna Miller).

See below for some options available from as little as £14!

BigPictures.co.uk

Trend Alert: Printed T-shirts

FabSugarUK — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:00:17 -0700

I have already told you about cat print t-shirts and for Earth Day last week I showed you some of the best eco tees but when I spotted Kate Moss in this cockerel print t-shirt I couldn't resist showing you some more. There are so many great versions available and even designer versions are well under £100. You will find that the quality of cotton varies greatly but obviously the designer equivalent is the best and will hold it's shape for the longest. Sass & Bide do a great range and obviously there are the Luella prints. It's such an easy fun way to update your wardrobe. See below for more options.

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Trend Alert: Monochrome Checks

FabSugarUK — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 08:00:22 -0700

Monochrome gingham appeared on the catwalk at Burberry Prorsum as big voluminous skirts and dresses were styled under elegant, classic trend coats for a classic feminine look.

Now the High Street has taken on the trend and made it their own with midi-length skirts and pretty prom dresses. Boohoo.com has this gingham strapless dress (left) for £25 which could be worn over a long sleeved top on cooler days and with a cute cardigan in the summer.

Warehouse have an adorable taffeta skirt (£65) with bow detail which would be perfect for Spring officewear and ideal for a Charlotte from Sex and the City outfit! See below for some great options.

On Our Radar: Have Fun in a Playsuit

FabSugarUK — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:30 -0700

The idea of a playsuit may fill you with dread and make it seem like the most difficult item in the whole world to pull off, but trust me, it's not so bad! Using an image of Sienna Miller to demonstrate the trend probably isn't too reassuring as she would look great in almost anything but her relaxed layering shows how versatile the item can be. I also think that gladiator sandals are a great choice of footwear but that definitely depends on how you feel about your legs!

The great thing about a playsuit is that you can wear it with a t-shirt and a low slung belt for day wear (a la Sienna) and then you can wear it on its own with heels for evening wear. They are available in a range of fabrics, including denim which was seen on the catwalk at Mulberry.

See below for some of the playsuits that are currently available.

BigPictures.co.uk