LOFTY AMBITIONS

Any frequent traveler is constantly reminded of the stress and hassle associated with airports and airplanes. The constant queuing, security points and luggage-limit can all contribute to an unpleasant experience. It goes without saying that most BAA airport staff are less than helpful, on constant power trips, and will not hesitate to reprimand any type of atypical behavior (this naturally includes staring at the departure screen for any extended period of time). So what can we look forward to in this world of chaos, disorder and brutally bad terminal architecture? It seems as though our only respite can be found in first, business and a select few economy class cabins.

It has become blatantly obvious that the upper echelons of air-travel have improved past all measure, bounding beyond any pre-existing spatial frontiers that may have existed. The days of shared television screens, stiff chairs and supersonic travel are long gone. Although the retirement of Concorde may be regrettable, airlines recognize that most passengers spend more time in the sky, often on long-haul flights. As a consequence expectations have elevated to new heights; fundamentally, we expect our high time to be more enjoyable. Thankfully a quasi proxy war seems to have developed between national carriers, and competing to upgrade all areas to improve overall ambience seems to be the battle tactic du jour. The spoils of war include lie flat beds in business, private cocoons in first, and general ambience upgrades in coach.

Any modern first or business class should provide cabins with ample space to stretch, seats that lie completely flat, and an enjoyable in-flight service comparable to the best five star hotel concierges. If you feel you are being shafted, you are, for in the best first and business classes you will not think twice about each penny you spent. Singapore Airlines is probably the most renowned luxury carrier, and nowhere is this attention to aesthetic more apparent than on their A380 fleet. Here first class must be redefined entirely, as guests are allocated ‘suites’ that are multi-functional and entirely innovative. A large hand-stitched Italian leather pilot chair (with in-built massage function) offers unsurpassed space and comfort. A 20inch flat screen TV brings you over 1000 entertainment options and with an amenities kit packed full of Ferragamo toiletries, you will be sure to arrive refreshed. Exhaustion is not an issue, as a turndown service converts your seat into a large standalone bed, complete with luscious duvets, full-sized pillows, and exclusively designed Givenchy pajamas.

Air New Zealand’s take on business travel rivals most first class cabins, offering privacy and comfort. Each business passenger’s seat may be swiftly converted into a lie flat bed measuring close to 7 feet in length. Thankfully, with direct aisle-access from every seat, the days of jumping over other passengers are long gone. If you enjoy wine you have most certainly arrived, for the airline boasts the best ‘cellar of the sky’, with over 20 different red and white options. Active Noise Cancellation Technology headsets guarantee remote baby screams are well and truly drowned out.

Although first and business class air travel may only be available to the incredibly wealthy (or senior businessmen), your first glimpse into the finest celestial cabins will most certainly incite envy. Harness this emotion into motivation to earn, for one day you will want to travel like a king, and no one should deny you this privilege.

ASPIRATIONAL FASHION

Recent events have led me to conclude that many people have no idea what fashion is, what it represents, or what it cultural foundations it upholds. Whilst the inherent superficiality that surrounds beautiful objects cannot be denied, the thought-processes and mind-set required to create and design should be recognized, and not written-off. We live in clothes; should we not therefore aspire to own beautiful clothes? I would argue that 90 percent of Vogue or V Magazine readers would never be able to own nor wear the majority of items featured within its pages. Yet the escapism high fashion and lifestyle publications induce allows many to dream, imagine and be inspired. Furthermore, it is a well-known fact that the Highstreet serves to both emulate key seasonal trends set in Milan, New York and Paris and essentially allow for mass access to otherwise unattainable style. As a fashion journalist it is far more stimulating to research and write about original (and by default designer) creations, not their Highstreet imitations. The Tribe too can offer a platform for exquisite escapism, and with this new column I hope to do just that. And what better place to start than in Paris, where a review of the quintessential collections may offer insight into what we all might aspire to wear in the near future.

As demonstrated by the Spring 2010 ready-to-wear collections, a handful of designers have boldly abandoned 80ies revival themes, which dominated past seasons. However whilst typical 80ies silhouettes are being replaced by futuristic and truly inspirational designs, their bold construction and hallmark shapes are omnipresent. Alexander McQueen and Nicholas Ghesquière lead the pack in this new back-to-the-future approach, as demonstrated in Paris. McQueen’s collection bounded through new frontiers, not only in terms of what was presented but also how it was showcased (the show was streamed live on Nick Knights website SHOWstudio.com). Footage of underwater landscapes, strange human forms and organic shapes served as the set for McQueen’s stage. As a result Atlantis, the mythical underwater city, acted as chief inspiration for the designer. What emerged were incredibly structured dresses covered in digitally re-mastered reptile and organic prints. Paired with the model’s coiled hair and nude makeup, McQueen ultimately created total-looks reminiscent of sea urchins, fossils and coral reefs. The covered, curved and crustacean-esque heels (which can only be described as impossibly innovative) added the finishing touches to McQueen’s ecological mood. Ultimately a new biologically fused woman surfaced from the unknown depths of the designer’s mind, we can only hope more inspiration can be salvaged for the future.

Over at Balenciaga a rather straightforward statement was made. Ghesquière offers an entirely urban approach for the season, a welcome contrast to the pretty cocktail dresses of many other collections. Here sleeveless leather hoodies were paired with re-worked patched denim and leather trousers. Cut-off shirts and tank-tops (crafted from chiffon and silk) with bold striped details added an upbeat athletic couture undertone to the collection. A hybrid cylindrical ankle boot cum peep-toe heel eloquently demonstrates Ghesquière’s creative and constructional ingenuity. Overall Balenciaga proposes a working solution to daywear, a practical approach to clothes with enough design aesthetic to elevate them from the mundane or regular.

It is precisely this type of elevation in everyday-wear that can serve to set any individual apart. Accessorizing with a statement tote, or incredible shoe will ultimately make any outfit standout. Finding a balance between drama and discretion is key, and aspiring to own pieces that thereby create incredible looks is vital. 3^rd Year Economics and Management student, and DONT WALK committee member Alexandra Chapman demonstrates how the everyday can become extraordinary. By adding statement pieces and interesting textures her neutral ensemble becomes an outfit that is both bold and functional. The sleeveless Zara lambs leather gilet, Miu Miu bag and buckled black Chloe boots are items that create interest to a well tailored white shirt and blue jeans ensemble. Clearly, focusing on and aspiring to own only a few designer statement pieces is key, as they serve to set you apart.

Alexandra Chapman Wears:

Lambs Leather Gilet by Zara

White Shirt by H&M

Current/Elliot Blue Jeans

Brown Belt by Ralph Lauren Collection

Black Boots by Chloe

Gray Bag by Miu Miu

Dressing for cold weather conditions is a challenge, especially when all four seasons eventuate on any given day. How can we ever hope to look stylish and keep reasonably warm in anything apart from a Moncler duvet? Well, it seems that fur is the only plausible solution. Classic, flexible and comfortable, fur is elegant, luxurious and chic. Any mink can be considered an investment piece, an heirloom that can be cherished and altered generation after generation. We need not look further than to our own Saintly Style Spy student than to see how fur is applicable to people of all ages and styles. Some brands in particular offer amazing designs. Check out J.Mendel’s (jmendel.com) dark vison vest, which can be worn with anything from a classic crew-neck to a cool printed tee. Remember fur requires confidence.

Focus on Elizabeth Fauconnier-Bank

Elizabeth Fauconnier-Bank is a 4rth year Modern History and
IR student, as well as a columnist for The Saint.

She wears:
Jack Wills blouse
New Look leggings
Primark Gladiator heels
Chloe Paddington bag
Mink Coat tailor made for her Grandmother

What fashion items do you aspire to own?
Classic items that I'll wear for decades: Christian Louboutin nude patent leather heels, a Chanel black 2.55 bag, and a Burberry stone trench. Plus an outrageous Oscar de la Renta dress.

Focus on Camille Labat

Camille Labat is a 4rth year IR and Management student.
She is also a member of the DONT WALK creative team.

She wears:
Acne Blouse
Alexander Wang studded jacket
J Brand jeans
YSL Tribute pumps
Urban Outfitters bow
Vintage Chanel trim bracelet made by Camille K Jewels

What fashion items do you aspire to own?
A YSL pantsuit, a Cartier panther ring, a light grey croc
Birkin and a Balmain leather jacket.

Our Trendy Town: Happy Hunting

Do not despair for our charming town has much to offer besides history and academia. Touring the streets of St. Andrews reveals great fashion finds. This map marks areas of interest, why not scour the streets and discover St. Andrews’ best kept secrets. Remember X marks the spot…

Hunter Wellington’s:
Female students take note, this is one type of rubber you want - strictly as part your rainy day uniform though.

Sunny St. Andrews?
Believe it or not some days truly are glorious. Avoid premature botox and wear sunglasses. Why not a good pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarers? The frames may be old but surely are classic.

Melegrano’s:
In dire need of Missoni? This boutique stocks it ergo you should buy it.


Mappin’ and Webb at the Old Course Hotel Resort and Spa:
All that glitters is golden, or platinum for that matter. While browsing through a selection of Mont Blanc’s why not join the Kohler Spa. And who said multitasking was hard?

Farmore Interiors:
Did you just wake-up and hate everything? Me too. That’s why furniture stores like this one exist. Careful you might just make yourself at home. PS. we love the goldfish.

Senisble Shopping

Apparently this winter will be one of the coldest ever, so what better time to invest in layers of cashmere, merino, mink and python? These luxurious materials are warm, durable and exquisite, and have conveniently been used by designers for the upcoming Fall/Winter and pre-collections.

As a columnist for Style it is my duty to discuss key trends, brands and coveted items. Yet in the credit crunch’s climate justifying an £11,000 Cartier watch when your Swatch adequately keeps the time is a challenge. Although you may not think buying expensive clothes and accessories is wise, certain costly purchases should be regarded as investments. True buying power it seems lies in quality and sustainability, not in trends.
Granted, it remains painfully obvious that we are still in the midst of a global recession, now is the essential time to invest. In these trying economic times financial experts continue to advise us to guard our gold and to invest when the price is right. Yet surely these ‘investments’ can move beyond the realms of real estate and into ready-to-wear?

Here is a crucial piece of advice: take part in various department stores’ 70 percent-off sales whilst they last, because when the flailing economy finally does recover you will continue to reap-in the benefits of the best bargains you ever bagged. Buying pieces that are effortlessly chic and timeless is a mission, a mission that if fulfilled is incredibly rewarding. So in your new crusade for couture know that longevity in fashion terms essentially means ditching the trendy-ness of the highstreet for solid design pieces that most often hail from the major fashion houses. Yet keep a keen and conscious eye out for quality, and importantly do not adopt a nouveau attitude by being lured solely by big names.


Why not visit one of the many local shops in St. Andrews that sell beautifully crafted top quality cashmere and merino scarves, sweaters and even socks. Johnstons (on 4 Pilmour Links) offers a wide range of throws and knitwear in a pleasing array of soft pastel tones. Their attractive cream cashmere polo neck (£135 johnstonscashmere.com) is the epitome of understated elegance and can be easily paired with a classic Burberry Prorsum double breasted navy blazer, surely a staple in any gentleman’s wardrobe. Visiting The Old Course Golf Shop on the Links is definitely worthwhile as most stock (ranging from Mulberry, Brics and Ralph Lauren) is classic and comfortable. In terms of neckwear, look out for Burberry’s selection of luxurious billowing cashmere snoods (£175 uk.burberry.com). These unisex round scarves create the perfect shape without hassle, and can easily transcend trends. Regarding outerwear key colors for this winter are shades of grey, charcoal and black. Conveniently these colors are classic and can be recycled season after season, ensuring that they become strong investment pieces. Pringle offers a great selection of women’s coats, notably the classic ‘Herringbone Pea Coat’ (£1,095 net-a-porter.com). This type of coat is instantly modernized and made youthful if paired with a leather miniskirt for instance.

My message is clear; hunt for ageless pieces with a few unique design elements to add interest. Hoarding from Primark will only cost you more money in the long run. The wise shopper chooses only a few key pieces each season thereby progressively building a wardrobe with sturdy foundations.

Pastel Bouquet

Spring/summer seems to have finally emerged from the usual rainy cold days that we have become so accustomed to. Befittingly and as the Highstreet dictates florals are hot, yet surely summer chic can be achieved without looking like a poppy garden. At any rate avoiding Laura Ashley (unless you are wallpaper-shopping is good advice), except if you are counseling annoying flat-mates. This season should be all about light breezy layers, try combining simple linens with neutral pastels to achieve effortless style. Essentially simple pastel color combinations, creams and whites will accentuate form. Become the petal; bloom into beautiful layers of immaculately cut cardigans, shirts and uncomplicated tunics.

Compliment any breezy look with powerful accessories, in effect making these the focus points of an otherwise neutral outfit. Wearing House of Harlow’s ‘Black Gladiator Cuff’ (shopkitson.com) will give a rough edge to any layered feminine look. Alternatively Chanel’s white J12 watch is perfect for this summer season, its strong structure and design aesthetic will provide for an interesting contrast between stark forms and airy layers. Bottega Veneta’s (style.com) S/S 09 womens collection offers exceptional foundations for building a neutral layered combination. In particular Bottega’s earth-beige tulip-cut shift dress expresses organic shapes, yet avoids the busyness of a floral print, perfect as a basis for outfit cultivation. Stella McCartney’s take on summer style remains simplistic and incredibly elegant. Colors remain strictly tonal and luxurious materials are combined to add shine and subdued shifts in shade. McCartney’s cropped trouser and 80ies power blazer combination offers exquisite tailoring and is versatile especially for refined summer encounters.

Summer menswear has also been transformed; shorts have sprouted into cropped trousers whilst certain colors seem to be in full bloom. Take for instance Michael Kors’ royal blue blazer and white pant look. The shortened trousers put the shoes in the spotlight, ergo they should be stage-ready. Whilst Kors has opted for basic white plimsoles, this style of trouser necessitates Tod’s delicately crafted loafer. Whilst these loafers are not durable, they are versatile and offer understated masculine elegance (tods.com). Continental style moves away from jet-set influences, for a more clinical approach. Paul Helbers’ studio over at Louis Vuitton best exemplifies the monochromatic look whilst simultaneously transforming the average sandal into a truly gladiator shape, perfect for any Roman holiday or romantic conquest.

POWER PLAY

80ies power dressing may not be as outdated as we all like to believe. It so happens that a vast amount of designers are once again incorporating built-in shoulder pads to add incredible angles and structure to basic blazers and jackets. Both men and womenswear have been transformed back to the future, so to speak. Essentially this Fall it’s all about the strong power suit, yet retro concepts have definitely been redefined to suit modern needs.

Any man knows buying a suit that will stand the test of time is a mission…to cuff or not to cuff? The choice of skinny or baggy trouser legs creates many a moral dilemma on Saville Row, which now perhaps can be averted. Take for instance Jill Sander’s FW/09 charcoal suit styled with a dark turtleneck (men.style.com/fashion). The sharp lines with a slight hinge on the shoulders add to the subtle tailored look, giving any lean frame clear distinction and assertiveness. Vivienne Westwood’s take is directly reminiscent of 80ies masculine shapes (viviennewestwood.com). Her cream suit with waistcoat is incredibly versatile with regards to styling as the long jacket means business. Importantly this suit leaves enough room in the arms allowing for rolled up sleeves, giving the look a ready-to-work attitude.

The rolled up sleeve look is also a staple regarding womenswear currently. Hermès’ incredible ‘Indian Summer’ belted and rolled sleeved combinations actually managed to combine power shapes with fringe, the current hype of the Highstreet (try to avoid the Cowboy and Indians look though). Yet Acne provides perhaps the most potential for power (shop.acnestudios.com). The brand’s ‘Corine Pre’ suit jacket uses simple lines to maximum effect, as high placement of the pockets elongate the torso whilst the jacket’s square cut add stark angles to the shoulders. Combining these jackets with tights and Marni-esque heels will definitely update any look, giving a formal feel. Fashion tells us we are in the midst of an 80ies revival; surely we the babies of the 80ies should grab this opportunity by both hands?

Clever Kiwi Creations: New Zealand’s Debut at DON'T WALK

Although New Zealand may be ‘down under’, by no means should its fashion be considered backwards. A clear impression of the nation’s design aesthetic was made at Don’t Walk 2009. This year two incredibly diverse New Zealand designers were featured at the most fashion-focused show in town, and most certainly left their mark.

After a powerful opening, where the DJ’s blasted Justice’s killer beat ‘Planisphere’, Lower NZ (lower.co.nz) was the first New Zealand brand to make its debut at Don’t Walk. Lower NZ can only be described as the up and coming urban street-culture brand of Australasia. Inspired by the continent’s unique Hip Hop scene and the laid back lifestyle of Mt. Maunganui near Tauranga, Lower NZ prides itself on originality. In the brand’s ‘Hike’ collection, skinny distressed low rise jeans were paired with XXL t-shirts, creating total looks reminiscent of 80s urban wear. One look that was especially impressive was the ‘Mammoth’ t-shirt/jeans shirt combination, where a clear focus on layering was apparent. We can now only pray that Lower NZ globalizes its brand, as urban domination would be a real possibility.

Zambesi (zambesi.co.nz) was the second New Zealand based brand to feature at Don’t Walk. Compared to its native counterpart, Zambesi offers a completely different aesthetic and prides itself on being one of Australasia’s most established premier high-end studios. Founded in 1979, the brand represents true innovation regarding design, shape and structure. Sighting history, memory and imagination as central to its design philosophy, Zambesi essentially captures the spirit of influence and ingenuity. Essentially the looks featured most definitely transmitted the brand’s remarkable attitude. Regarding menswear, a vest made completely out of gold, silver and bronze zips conveyed Zambesi’s incredible attention to detail, whilst a khaki suit and red-fringed shirt offered an alternative twist to everyday wear that remained masculine and powerful. The most impressive women’s look was the black feathered and sequined skirt with structured shirt, expressing design ingenuity and practical imagination. Thankfully Zambesi is stocked at Elizabeth Charles in New York and Austique on the Kings Road in London; investing in any look would be wise, as these items will sustain.

FOCUS ON FASHION: FRONT ROW AT FS:09

Once again fashion show season has hit St. Andrews, and what better way to kick-off catwalk delirium than with the notorious FS:09? In its 17th year running organizers created great anticipation and hype, with a spectacle promised to be bigger and better than ever. The FS prophecy was immediately fulfilled if only by the massive tent pitched-up on Lower College Lawn (rather befitting as the theme of the show was ‘Circus’) and the huge 25 meter-long catwalk, which would put most at Milan to shame. Essentially the occasion proved to be the climactic event in FS’s academic year, a year that has been marked by numerous photoshoots and promotional campaigns.

The opening of the show definitely set the mood of the evening, as an aerial acrobat elegantly pulsated to the DJ’s beats. The models subsequently walked out wearing circus-inspired tulle collars and revealing leotards layered above stripped t-shirts. Especially impressive were the slicked-up ponytails sported by the female models, reminiscent of Balenciaga’s FW08 Ready-to-Wear Show. Paying close attention to detail seemed to be a priority as the fit and tailoring of the menswear Jaeger suits was immaculate; this in itself is quite an accomplishment. Certainly one of the most flamboyant looks of the first half was the giant feathered headpiece, which opened for the native Indian-esque themed designs that followed in the segment.

The always-pretty Luca Luca and Luella pieces proved interesting on the catwalk. Yet it was the elegant full silhouettes of the Junko Yoshioka dresses that were definitely most dramatic; the lengthy sweeping silk frames flowed effortlessly. Regarding menswear, it was a welcomed surprise to see that this year FS had scouted true design orientated brands that were obviously innovative regarding shapes and contours. A dynamic start to the second half of the show was marked by the militaristic creations of Three Cheers and a Tiger. Here powerful tailored jackets crafted out of rigid cotton in earthy greens and browns brought masculine power dressing to another level. Equally impressive were the Nikolaj d’Etoiles pieces, where breezy tailoring and sedate combinations gave onlookers tips for dressing effortlessly chic this summer. As always, Emporio Armani proved flawless. The stripped suits and the incredibly sleek, elegant total-looks proved yet again that Italian style rules supreme under any condition.

Sneaking a peek into the Platinum Ticket holder’s ‘goodie bags’ revealed such treats as Vitamin Water, Henley & Sloane socks and a whole range of Schwarzkopf hair gels. Led Zeppelin fans seemed pleased to bid on memorabilia during the auction as the signed disc sold for the respectable sum of £1400, whilst an internship at the Financial Times received heightened excitement from the crowd. The FS tradition has most definitely been upheld to the highest standard this year, as students managed to organize a professional show where real attention to fashion, design and aesthetic detail was paid.

BACKPACK ATTACK

This season Milan has shown that a dynamic fashion paradigm shift is amongst us, calling for all to retire their favorite satchels and totes for the simple backpack. Although most fashionistas would rather burn their beloved minks and join PETA’s forces than sport anything other than their prized Birkin, apparently backpacks are all the rage right now. Investigation into this phenomenon does reveal that some (emphasis on some!) backpacks are cool. Take for example Yohji Yamamoto’s Y3 line (adidas.com/campaigns/y-3/). These bags are incredibly sleek and simple. Note the green ‘Futuresport Shopper’ model, its clear-cut sophistication makes it an exceptional design piece. Of course it is impossible to hate Prada’s classic nylon models, especially those featured in the Milan S/S09 collection. The vibrant lilacs and purples combined with the soft shine of the material add a certain degree of understated elegance, perfect for travel. Yet despite the hype hold on to your messengers and speedy’s as backpacks attack lacks true occupational powers.

Reviewing the Past: BOMBASTIC BURBERRY SS/08

Burberry, the diamond in English Fashion’s crown, has managed to reinvent itself once more. Founded in 1856, the brand has a strong military history (Burberry supplied the trench coats that were actually used in the First World War). Under the guidance of Christopher Bailey, a Royal College of Art graduate, the brand has been transformed from boring check patterns to crazily studded, incredibly textured materials.

Both the men’s and womenswear Prorsum collections are impressive, to say the least. This season’s Burberry babe is essentially a mixture of the English Rose meets punk rock chic. Each item has a specific eclectic aura, where ruffles meet shimmering fabrics embedded with ‘warrior’ studs, which draw inspiration from medieval times. The ‘Warrior Trench’ mixes the brand’s signature item with high fashion marvelously. The ‘Luxury Warrior’ bag reuses a classical shape from prior collections, yet combined with the polished brass stud detailing and alligator skin, is absolutely original. For this winter its all about the thick sock/high-heel combo, a look complemented by huge beanies and belted trenches.

Prorsum’s menswear collection outlines Burberry’s shift of focus for the modern man. Typically this man isn’t afraid to embrace a gold beaded metallic top paired with a hip belt, for instance. Notably, the collection has certain maritime qualities making Bailey's men super-sophisticated. Of particular interest is the ‘Queen’s Guard’ jacket, which truly captures the essence of the sea and maybe even Napoleon. So why not visit the brand's flagship in Kensington, or alternatively a more intimate store is located on Old Bond Street. Insiders head straight upstairs (thats where the Prorsum goodies are kept)…you won’t be disappointed.

A CHANEL CRUISE

A pleasant surprise usually awaits me around this time of year when I open my iTunes. Oh yes, it’s Podcast time, and being subscribed to GQ, Details and the Upgrader (via the iTunes store) always inspires me, and my credit card for that matter. Yet recently it wasn’t Pharrell Williams’ discussion of his new custom made purple Birkin bag (with canary diamond detailing) or a store tour of the incredibly exclusive L’Eclaireur in Paris that caught my attention. No, it was something far more classic, timeless even; the latest podcast of the Chanel Cruise 2009 collection.

Like every other season, Lagerfeld’s venue of choice, the Grand Palais at the heart of Paris, was impressive as it was significant. Within the massive glass and steel structure the most revered man in fashion had recreated the façade of 31 Rue Cambon, Chanel’s flagship store. With a runway extending out from the main doors (held open by porters of course), and being serenading on rather befittingly by Talking Heads’ Our House in the Middle of the Street, the highly anticipated Spring-Summer Prêt-a-Porter collection was shown.

As always there were endless meters of chiffon and apparent references to the characteristic Chanel suit. Nevertheless, these creations are by no means to be considered as mere extensions of previous ideas seen in past collections. What ‘King’ Karl Lagerfeld has done is entirely innovative and relevant. Cropped suit-jackets, tailored to expose the waist, have been paired with pencil skirts completing a total look reminiscent of the early 60ies and Jacqueline Kennedy. Soft eggshells, pastel pinks and darker grays are predominant throughout the collection, as are the elegant hatched patterns, dual-toned color combinations and detailed textures. Chanel’s ever-charming accessories do not fail to impress. The most remarkable shoe is definitely the patent leather and plastic Mary Jane, ornamented with feathers at the heel. Interestingly, Lagerfeld has made reference to 19th century forms by completing looks with intricate black tulle headpieces, which compliment the empire waists especially on the longer, breezy summer dresses.

Essentially with this collection Lagerfeld has managed once more to utilize the basic principles set in stone by Mme Coco (and ingrained in the very history of the brand), thereby creating modern and ever-chic pieces. It appears that for Chanel the saying, ‘if it ain’t broke don’t fix it’ holds true.

Sneaker Savvy

Stylistically speaking, diversity in shoes is remarkable. Effectively what shoe you choose has become a crucial aspect of any well-thought out ensemble. History unsurprisingly dictates that shoes have always been important to the stylish individual (think Marie-Antoinette). Not only do they protect and offer emotional and physical comfort, beautiful shoes are considered objects d’art. Their transitioning implications have ensured that now, more than ever, what you wear on your feet defines who you are. For example a beautifully fitted Tod’s loafer subtly conveys a certain jet-set eased attitude whilst a pair of chunky Prada Linea Rossa’s screams skipper on a yacht. Although these stereotypes often and conveniently prove true, what typecast exists for a reinvented, re-released 1980ies Nike high-top sneaker? Essentially none, and that’s why these shoes are so fascinating.

Importantly, when shopping for these shoes constantly bear your own wardrobe in mind. It is easy to be carried away by the stars, patterns and furry textures that ornament. Pure conviction is necessary to rock the sneaker. To avoid overkill, make your shoe act as the focal point of your outfit. Wear simple tones and shapes that lead the eye to the foot. Tucking your pants into the high top is a pre-requisite to success, as the lip of the shoe should always be on display.

One of Nike’s most impressive creations has to be the ‘Ferris Bueller’ Dunk SB (nike.com). Inspired by the leather coat worn by Matthew Broderick in Ferris Bueller’s Day Out, this shoe combines leopard print with camoflage tones to create the mother of all sneakers. Alternatively create a unique shoe with NikeID (offered in various Nike stores). This service enables you to place your initials on the high-tops, in essence complementing any monogrammed Goyard tote.

To constantly be in the know regarding sneakers, check out sneakerfreaker.com. This is the go-to website for anyone looking to update and perfect the urban-street look. Essentially the site provides information concerning which shoes to purchase in order to establish a well-rounded collection. Currently the Supra Skytops created exclusively for Chad Muska are must-haves. These electric blue sneakers (also available in yellow) combine suede and blue zebra print making for a truly bold statement. For that added bounce in your step, make sure to grill the shop assistant about future releases, or check out New Zealand’s premier street store for insider tips (loadednz.com).

To be honest, sneakers had never really interested me. It was only in Wellington (where sporting the latest New Balance gives the wearer a certain degree of street-cred) that I discovered how incredibly diverse and attention grabbing these shoes truly are. It is fair to say that in St. Andrews seeing a hot pair of high-tops is rare. This most probably has something to do with the whole English countryside-chic paradigm. So why not discard the Hunter boots and mix it up by pairing your Barbour or Belstaff wax with what can only be described as crazazy glitter Jordan’s? I’m confident you’ll discover the grass is greener.