Pink Fashion Show at the Malta Aviation Museum

Local fashion events have increased exponentially over the past year. In between store openings, blogger previews and fashion shows, our calendars can barely take all the enthusiasm around these fashion happenings. It is, however, a particular pleasure to attend one of the most well-organised fashion shows I've ever had the pleasure to sit for. Last night's Pink Fashion Show, at the impressive Malta Aviation Museum in Ta' Qali, was one of those events I would have regretted not being part of.

In a venue that could easily give some of the most prestigious international settings a run for their money, one of Malta's leading fashion publications brought together some of the biggest names in the sartorial scene for a show that was as jaw-dropping as it was enjoyable. The 1940s vibe could be felt everywhere even as the guests pranced in with their Sunday suits, albeit it being Wednesday!

The outfits I had the occasion to see yesterday included garments from Marks and Spencer, Max & Co. as well as pieces from Blumarine. I was particulary drawn to a number of items from the latest Tommy Hilfiger collection too. Other brands included high-street giant Guess and recently opened store Coccinelle.

The show was also a great example of inspirational styling! I will definitely be trying out some of the combinations that the models so gracefully showcased on the catwalk. A big well done to everyone, here's hoping for another one in Spring!

For more photos of the show, I invite you to visit my Facebook Page to view this album.

Malta Fashion Week 2013: Charles & Ron

I have to admit that it's very weird for me to follow Malta Fashion Week from miles away. Ever since the advent of Malta's most stylish week two years ago, I've always been lucky enough to sit on the front  row and I got the opportunity to view some of Malta's (and the world's) finest talents from up close.

This year I'm divided between Brussels and London. Technically I still sit on the front row, but I avoid the whole dressing up thing. I get the opportunity to follow in my PJs and oversized jumpers (yes, it's still cold up here!)

I may be a little bit too far away to attend this year's show, but I'm definitely not far enough to overlook a great piece of work from well-established designer duo Charles & Ron. Last year's show, based on the contrast of hot and cold, was a crowd-pleasing, applause-inducing bonanza, but I have to admit that this year's contribution is on a whole other level.

In a collection inspired by the traditional Maltese village festa, Charles & Ron explored the jovial details and aspects that make up one of Malta's most well-known traditions. Models were sent down the catwalk sporting what the designers dubbed as 'bandalori prints', as well as laser-cut garments, sheer pieces and fabrics patterned with a patriotic eight-pointed Maltese cross.

The two Maltese designers never disappoint in their full exploration of a chosen theme: there's always a great variety of silhouettes, colours as well as draping. Shades of black, gold and green paraded alongside sweeter, Summery pastel shades and to my personal delight, white was the main colour used as a base for these stunning prints. Necklines were quite diverse. From one-shoulder ethereal garments, to a neck-hugging yellow show-stopping dress, on to a sultrier interpretation of a halter to the unforgettable sweetheart neckline of the bridal show-closer: variety was key.

Apart from the headpieces, the iconic Maltese cross print and the very well-executed laser-cut details, the collection featured an ideal selection of magically-draping fabrics. The floor-sweeping, flowing dresses were evocative of the dozens of flags flying against in the warm Summer breeze on Maltese rooftops during the village festa season.

Photo Credits: Steven Muliett

SCOOP INTERNATIONAL FASHION SHOW FEBRUARY 2013

The February 2013 edition of Scoop International Fashion Show shall forever be remembered as the first 'big' event I attended here in London. Despite having received quite a few event invites from the British capital over the past few months, this was the first I could actually attend personally.

The event brought together a selection of international designers that showcased their Autumn / Winter collections for the scores of buyers who also attended the show. There was a lot to see in terms of variety and colour, but it was the mix of different countries represented that truly gave the show its richness.

Set in the gorgeously lit Saatchi Gallery in central London, the event seemed to attract quite a few attention. Visitors were also given complementary drinks and some - including myself! - were lucky enough to be given a lift in what seemed to be a cross between a pram and a rickshaw from Sloane Square station. I must admit that was quite amusing!

To my pleasure, there were also items from more established designers like Vivienne Westwood, Kenzo and House of Harlow, which I touched and raved about for nearly 3 minutes each. Fangirl moments in the house.

The works which caught my eye included a line inspired by vixen Brigitte Bardot, a minimalistic silk-based collection by Marina London as well as a line of eye-catching artistic scarves by Rosemary Goodenough. They're officially on my radar!

Check out the official Scoop International Fashion Show website for more information.

Shooting for Gadgets Malta

Dear Readers,

I rushed into Valletta early on Friday morning to meet six lovely, stylish ladies and one patient cameraman. As you might know from my social networking profiles, I was asked to be in a feature for the popular, local technology-centred programme Gadgets. 

Around one week ago, I was kindly handed a brand new Canon EOS M, a genius camera somewhere in between a point and shoot and an SLR. Tested my new love for an entire week, enough to build an opinion about it. My job was to analyse the camera's features and structure from a blogger's point of view. How worth is it for a blogger to invest in this new camera?

I shot a couple of street style photos with my six girls - Christabel, Abigal, Justine, Ellie, Kelly and Stephanie - for the feature as well. It was a blast! It also enabled me to review how appropriate the camera is to shoot street snapshots of fashionable people.

After a short interview with Ian, the programme's host, I had to part ways with the Canon camera and make my way back to work. Fun time, it was. I decided to upload each of the girls' street style snapshots on my blog eventually, but I don't want to spoil too much of the feature at this point. The feature airs on Saturday 15th December, so keep your eyes peeled. 

Log in to my Facebook Page for more photos from behind the scenes as well as further details on the feature itself. Thank you to the hard-working Gadgets team for the opportunity!

-B

Patches (Christmas) 12th Edition

Dear Readers,

After missing the last (or two?) editions of Patches Market due to my very busy and hectic life (that is killing me!), I made time for it yesterday evening. As I walked in the Magazzino, I was greeted by an ever-so-lovely scent of cakes and cupcakes and a big crowd of people feeding their eyes (and their stomachs) with the products presented before them on the numerous stalls at the market. I have to admit that I'm a bigger fan of the usual setup and venue at 'Is-Suq tal-Belt', but it was still worth attending. As usual, I visited a few vintage clothing stalls but I ended up walking empty-handed. Missy is trying to save up, remember?

It was very encouraging to see so many people as well as so many new vendors at Patches yesterday. Did you go too?

-B

Dermalogica Skin Bar Launch at The Point

Dear Readers,

After looking at the pretty Christmas lights just outside Tigne Point in Sliema for way too long, I headed to the Dermalogica Skin Bar launch. Dermalogica is an internationally well-acclaimed skin care brand who's been around for over 25 years, becoming the number one choice of many skin care professionals. I remember using the brand a few years ago and I've never been disappointed with them myself. Luckily I have some products to review for you in the coming weeks, including a brand new primer that sold out like hot cakes.

The event was very well-organised, with flowing wine and wait for it...Bloody Mary! That was a first for a beauty event and the guests, including myself, were definitely amused at the thought of sipping this popular red-coloured drink over their beauty related conversations. The attendees included style A-Listers like Marisa Grima and Noelene Miggiani, who always look younger every time I see them, as well as popular TV personalities Moira Delia and Pauline Agius.

I encourage you to visit the Dermalogica Skin Bar at the Point - just outside Mango! - to check out the wide selection of products as well as to avail yourselves of the excellent services provided by the therapists.

Check out the event photos in this album on my Facebook Page.

-B

Visiting the MeAmChic Women Expo 2012

Dear Readers,

I popped by the MeAmChic Exposition yesterday to check out all the stands and the serious pink overdose. Luckily for me, the event wasn't too crowded when I went, so I took my time to stroll around and check out what was on offer. In between haircare stands, make-up stalls and a few pop-up fashion stores, I was glad to see some familiar faces, including that of the lovely Stephanie from Pupa Milano! Speaking of Pupa Milano, I just can't wait to try out some of the products from the newly released Christmas collection. It looks fabulous!

I was mostly impressed with the dynamic stand from Schwarzkopf, which some of you might also know as 'Testa Nera'. Not only were the team nice enough to give me an overview of their product ranges, they also generously distributed samples of some of their latest product additions. I've been using some of the brand's product for a while now, but following yesterday I'm surely adding a couple more to my shopping cart next time I go on a hair shopping spree!

-B