Vogue Fashion Festival

Hi guys,

Last Sunday Connie took a very exciting trip down to London for the Vogue Fashion Festival. It was featured in Vogue a few months ago and I was absolutely dying to go! I went with my friend Hannah who wanted to pick up her prom dress so it was a  two birds, one stone kind of day!

It was such an amazing event, everyone was so fashionable and all had there different styles. The first thing we did when we got there was went to the Braid Bar, there was loads of  brilliant hair stylists doing everyone's hair. I wanted my hair doing in a 'wrap around' plait but apparently my hair is too short (sad times) so I just got a plait along the front which she did super fast and it looked really cool.

We then had our lips done at the YSL counter and I got a bright coral colour. Once we were all pampered we went to the talk from Mario Testino. I knew quite a bit about Mario Testino but hearing about his life was incredible. He is so funny and polite and truly inspirational. The highlight from the talk was when he came out with his camera and took a photo of the audience and said 'now you can all say you have been photographed by Mario Testino'. Living Legend!

Such an amazing day and definitely want to go again next year, Vogue really are the best at what they do!

Robyn and Connie

xo

 

Holiday snaps

So, robyn has just got back from her holiday in America (of which connie can't resent her more) and thought that she would make you all jelous by showing you a few holiday snaps. 

Of course you can't go to Orlando without doing some of the parks so one of the parks i did was universal which has the new harry potter world. Althouhg this may have made connie even more jelous (if it was possible) she did gain a box of bertie bot beans which I'm sure she will diving into soon (maybe staying away from the sick and mud flavours!)

Of course the weather was lovely over there, which made coming home that much more horrible! This was just one of the days where it was clear blue skies all day...Lush!!

And finally a trip to america deffinatley means a trip to the shopping malls and a unhappy bank account, but it just has to be done. I defiantly got a few bargins from the big discount stores on brands like converse and nike. However, the best store for me and i think possible heaven is Macy's. Lets just say thank god for the extra baggage allowance on the way home!!

We hope this post hasn't made you too jealous. If you guys are sun deprived, especially those in rainy England, then we definatley recommend booking that holiday away and catching some rays!

Robyn and connie

xo

5 Shoes that every girl must have...

Yes we both admit it, we have far too many pairs of shoes but as people say 'shoes are a girls best friend right?'. We have narrowed our shoe collection down to 5 shoes that are a must have. So those of you that do not own a pair of these, I'm sorry but your just going to have to plan that shopping day you have be wanting for a long while!

1. The Brogue
The classic practical shoe which is timeless. Comfortable to wear for work, traveling, casual events or when you just need something to slip on. Can be used in feminine outfits when paired with a skirt or dress and tights or if you want a more masculine look then a blazer and jeans.

2. The Ballet Flat
The easy to slip on feminine shoe which has thousands of variations. Great to find one that suits your unique style. Great for feminine looks when you don't fancy the hassle of heels.

3. The Boot
The all weather staple which lasts a lifetime. Great for snowy days with thick socks. Alternatively great for muddy festivals with shorts for that free spirit vibe.

4. The Sandal
The warm weather delicate shoe. Brilliant for the summer with maxi's and midi's. Super casual and get to shoe of your Pedi or tattoo in Robyn's case.

5. The Stiletto
The least practical shoe but most likely your favourite. Great for nights out if you have had practise. We definitely recommend trying shoes out around the house before a night out.

Robyn and Connie

xo

Travel in Style

Hi guys,

So like Robyn, I'm sure many of you will be jetting off to exotic places and like anything it is important to do it in style! We're going to show you a few of our outfit choices and we hope it give you some inspiration!

The only problem with holidays is they end too soon! so make the most of it!

Robyn & Connie

xo

Travelling Essentials

With Robyn travelling to America for her 2 weeks hols (Connie is a tad jel!) we thought it would be appropriate to do a blog post on those travelling essentials that you just can't do without... 

-Dry shampoo - Essential for long journeys or when your travelling around, you want your hair looking fresh for those holiday snaps.
-Make Up wipes - One of those things you never think about but you would seriously regret if you forgot them.
-Hand Gel - Another essential as you cant always get to a bathroom to wash your hands if your travelling or running late as we normally are :P
-Concealer - for those tired eyes and break outs.
-Comfy shoes - Nothing worse than being uncomfortable when your travelling, stilettos are not recommended!
-A range of magazines - Keep you entertained as well up to date with all the trends
-A good book - If you don't like the cramped and stressful travelling conditions a book is a must! It will take you away from the your travelling hell!
-and of course your laptop so you can blog about it!

Hope you all have great holidays and you have all you need!

Robyn and Connie

xo

What is your Fashion Capital?

Hi guys,

The world is full of different styles and fashions but there are four cities which definitely stand out. London, Paris, London and of course New York City! These are the fashion capitals of the world.

We are going to do wardrobes for each city and show you the key styles of the city. What is your fashion capital?

London

London is the closest to us and definitely the one we have spent the most time at. London is classic and definitely has a vintage feel. It can be seen all round the city, from the vintage shops in Camden to the streets of Chelsea.

Must Haves:

• Woollen Coat
• Oxfords
• A Satchel
• Pearls
• Chiffon

Paris

Parisian style is effortless . Its very natural and definitely sophisticated. Parisian style is timeless and it suits all ages.

Must Haves:

• Trench Coat
• Navy
• Pleats
• Stripes
• Brogues
• Suede

New york City

Ahh... new york city, our future home. The fashion here is deffinately city chic. Mix simple basics with bold accessories and throw in the odd designer piece and your ready to walk the streets of new york!

Must Haves:

• basic top
• boyfriend jeans
• statement jewellery 
• designer bag
• mid heel court shoe
• oversized jacket

Milan

If you love wearing colour and print then Milan is the place for you. Their style is done very eleganntly and especially during Milan fashion week people are not afraid to show their creativity.

Must Haves:

• Floral patterned pencil skirt
• Plain white shirt
• Bright accessories
• Classic sunglasses
• And finally.. A great collection of shoes

We hope this has given you an insight into the style of the worlds fashion capitals... Quite honestly neither of us have a favourite, but of course we will have to learn the style of New york City as we will soon be walking the streets. 

Robyn and Connie 

xo

'Fashion rocks my socks' R&C offer...

Hi guys!

We have exciting news! We have been talking to Rhiannon from Fashion rocks my socks which is an amazing YouTube channel and blog. She is offering a promotion code for R&C which will allow you to get free shipping on your order. She has posted the code on tumblr, twitter and Facebook. If you want to get your hands on it, go check it out.

Tumblr: http://fashionrocksmysocks.tumblr.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fashionrocksms

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/FashionRocksMySocks/201158089903603

Happy shopping :)

Robyn and Connie
xo

Wedding fever...

Don't worry neither one of us are tying the knot (hopefully not for a few years yet!) We have just decided to do a post on that big day we all dream about. With Connie attending a family wedding next month it got us thinking about the all important wedding dress and what on earth do you wear to a wedding!

Heading for a disaster... What not to wear!

• Simple one, but some people still do it- Do not wear white to a wedding! Leave the white dress for the bride! It is her big day
• Do not go OTT and outshine the bride- Lets face it, you have to look the best on your wedding day so stay away from the show stopping dress and play it simple.
• Don't wear Black! By all means wear a bit of black but don't go head to toe in it. A wedding is a time to celebrate and wear colour, don't go dressed to the wrong event and wear a funeral outfit!
• Avoid showing to much flesh. Remember, all your relatives will be there so don't go for the tight mini dress! I'm sure the grandparents would agree with this!

Hopefully, this has given you some tips if your looking for that perfect wedding outfit. We will keep you updated on Connies outfit choice. God help us when our wedding days come around! The stress involved in choosing an outfit for another persons wedding is hard enough!

Happy wedding outfit planning!

Robyn and Connie

xo

Get that Perfect Interview Look...

We are currently going through the process of all our university interviews and the hardest part for us was deciding what to wear. Yes, we both admit to googling 'Interview Outfits' but we wasn't all that inspired so we thought we would create one to help those of you with upcoming interviews.

Interview Musts...

- Printed trousers- this is a great take on the suit but not going over board. A statement pair of trouser teamed with a plain top will allow you to express your creativity but still have the smart and sophisticated look about you. Don't be afraid with the print! Be bold, its all about making a statement, who knows you may even be remembered for the 'girl wearing the cool trousers!'

- Be comfortable- Its not just about how the clothes look, you have to feel comfortable. Feeling comfortable in yourself will make you more confident and this will show in an interview. Wearing a really short skirt is a big no no as you'll be consciously pulling it down all day. Also, the amount of walking involved with our interviews, a comfortable outfit is much needed, especially if your planning a long train journey there!

- Statement Jewellery-  If your wearing a plain top, a statement necklace can really make the difference. It is a great way to add that extra bit of edge without going overboard. Big, bold necklaces are really in this season so not only will you be on trend but it will also help that bank balance of yours as, purchasing a great necklace is definitely cheaper than buying a detailed top that, lets face it will only get worn that once!

- Colour- This is a great way to express your creativity and stand out from the crowd. Go for a bold coloured blazer or a brightly coloured bag, whatever it is make sure you throw something colourful in there that will catch peoples attention. Lets face it! Too much black can be way to boring!

Stay away from...

-A two piece full on suit  - It is always good to make an effort but there is a line. You dont want to take it too far. Play it cool!

-The classic black pencil skirt and white shirt - zzzzzz... An interview is normally some sort of competition. There will be loads of people applying for a few postions, it is vital you are remembered. if you where something that it is plain, unexpected, doesnt show your personality, you could be easily forgotten. if like us you are applying for anything fashion related, show your style. It will make a difference!

- Anything Revealing - We always say 'if you've got it, flaunt it' but in an interview you are there to make an impression. This is not the opinion you want someone to have of you. It will make you look unprofessional and will lower your standards. There is no need!

- Stilettos- High heels are not your friends at an interview. Interviews are exciting and who doesnt want to feel like Carrie Bradshaw but to get to any of our interviews, it was a trek to say the least! Train journeys, taxi's, the endless walking around trying to find the place! Heels will just make the day a lot more difficult. If you dont have very much stuff you could always take a pair with you and put them on when you are there but we both had portfolios and practically our whole collection so this wasnt even worth thinking about. A classic pair of oxfords or ballet flats will give an elegant yet practical look.

Hopefully you got some ideas and good luck!

Robyn and Connie
xo

Surely Not! Unusual Style... Shelock Holmes

Hi guys,

Last Sunday I went down to London for the day for a bit of a break and some well needed retail therapy! Whilst I was there I went to Sherlock Holmes museum. Now, I didn't actually realise until I got there how little I knew about Sherlock Holmes. Turns out he was a fictional character... who knew!! I took my camera along and took loads of snaps. When I got back I showed them to Robyn and we had the idea to do a Sherlock style post! He was quite the fashionista...

Key Fashion styles...

- Tartan - In our 2012 favourites we had a tartan scarf. It goes with loads of outfits and it's an easy  way to add colour. Mr Holmes rocked a more subtle tartan which is more sophisticated. He paired his tartan coat with  of course his classic tartan deer stalker (his odd shaped hat which he is sporting in the picture above for anyone who is unfamiliar).

- Bowler Hat - Now I believe that Sherlock's assistant Watson officially was the one who wore the bowler hat but never the less I thought it was still worth being included because they are so cool. Unfortunately i have a weird shaped head so I can't wear them but Robyn rocks the look! They have been around for a while but I think they are still an awesome way to complete a look.

- Bow tie - We love bowties! There a forever chic way to make a look work. If you're willing to go all out there are some gorgeous ones in American apparel.

- Long Coats - If you want a coat that will keep you warm, a coat like Sherlock's is ideal. I know its coming to the end of winter but for anyone else who lives in the UK you will know that it doesn't mean it is getting any warmer. I would recommend getting a coat in either a black or beige because I think coats are expensive so you should be able to get some decent use out of it therefore, a more neutral colour would be best.

Get the look...

1. Tartan Scarf - £8 - Etsy
2. Black Velvet Bow Tie - £19 - American Apparel
3. Roller Bowler Hat - £25 - Topshop
4. Long Green Coat - £87.28 - Romwe

Robyn and Connie

xo

Trend Report: Welcome to the sixties!

Designers have been diving into the archives this season as there is a trend which can practically be recognised in all the shows – the 60’s. There is no denial that from the hair to the shoes, the swinging sixties is a huge influence on the spring summer 2013 fashions. Waving the flag for the 60’s has to be Louis Vuitton.

Their fashion show consisted of four huge escalators which carried models onto a yellow and white chequered floor.  And just like the ark they came in twos! Fashions twins took to the runway with coordinating outfits sporting the iconic sixties beehive. Louis Vuitton went all out on the graphic prints. The combination of the prints and the bright colours creates the iconic sixties statement.

The sixties was an era where people wanted freedom. Everyone became a little more care free. When Mary Quant came on the scene everything changed. She was a pioneer for revolutionary fashion with the introduction of the mini skirt. It was her biggest success and nowadays what she is most recognised for. There are a few Louis Vuitton looks which have this short hem matched with black and white checks which is truly sixties.

You can’t think of the sixties without thinking about flower power. Moschino have embraced flower power with some breath-taking results. It’s not about decorative detailed flowers, it’s about bold patterns in bright colours which create a statement. A personal favourite being a white shift dress covered with white and orange daises paired with a matching orange handbag and orange shoes – real sixties style.

Marc Jacobs has brought a new taste of elegance to the trend. The collection was in a monochrome scheme. The loud patterns are heavily featured but the simplicity makes the looks feel effortless.

This is a trend which should definitely be looked forward to. It’s a trend which you can’t take too seriously. Its eccentric, exciting and a bit out there which is what every girl should be. So have fun!

Robyn and Connie

xo

Our Top 5 Fashion Reads

Hi guys!

Here's a quick guide to what we think are the best top 5 fashion books out there. 



1. The teen vogue handbook- An insiders guide to careers in fashion by Teen vogue

We have nicknamed this book 'The Bible' and when Connie got it for her birthday she recommended me to get one as soon as possible. The "Teen Vogue Handbook" is a dream book, filled with tips on the stylish life from the top people in the industry'. There are hugely famous people interviewed (Marc Jacobs, Bruce Weber, Patrick DeMarchelier) alongside assistants and others who are just getting started which gives some great advice in how to start of in the fashion industry on the right path. It is a must buy for anyone wanting to go into the fashion! We hope to one day write something similar with our own tips that we have learnt along the way. Buy Here!

2. Fashion- The ultimate book of costume and style

This book has 3,000 years of fashion history in one stylish visual guide. It also features on famous trend-setters, fashion icons and designers from Jackie Onassis to Alexander McQueen bringing the world of fashion to life. This book is guaranteed to add style to your bookshelf; with its luxurious textured fabric jacket and spine, it's the season's must-have for anyone with a passion for fashion. This is your own personal fashion show through history. Buy Here! 

                                       

 3. Vintage Fashion - by Emma Baxter-Wright, Karen Clarkson, Sarah Kennedy & Kate Mulvey

We love vintage fashion! I have never really enjoyed history but I adore fashion history. This book travels beautifully through the decades accompanied with stunning photography. Anyone taking A-level textiles like us, this would be great for that. It has loads of information which can be easily absorbed; it is the easiest revision ever! I have it by my bedside table and when i fancy reading it you can open it on any page and learn something new. Buy Here!

4. How to prepare for a career in Fashion - Stephanie Finnan

This book was a Christmas present from my lovely Granny! It goes through all the different jobs in the fashion industry but what makes this book so great is that it has a section on what you can do now. We are both doing A-levels 5-days a week and both work every Saturday so it doesn’t leave us much time for big projects. This book has lots of good ideas on little things you can do to get you prepared for you future career. It is done by the Fashions Careers Clinic who also have a great website which has more information on careers which I would recommend you checking out if you are interested in fashion. Buy Here!

5. The Trend Forecaster's Handbook - Martin Raymond

This book was actually recommended to me in a university interview. The lady said that all the professionals still refer to it because it is so good. I found it in the book shop at the Victoria and Albert museum. It’s all about trend forecasting. I am very interested in trends which is why it was recommended to me because it covers all the basics and the process of trend forecasting. There was so much which I didn't know and I never realised how important it was in everything we do, not just the fashion industry. This book definitely opened my eyes! Buy Here!

Happy reading!

Robyn and Connie
xo

Trend Report: White on White...

This season your wardrobes need cleansing and purifying back to basics however this trend is not as simple as you may think. Simple silhouettes are lavishly embellished. Jewellery is being kept to a minimum purely because it is not needed.

Honestly, this is an idea which slightly scares me. I know that I’m not alone when I say that I never feel fully dressed without a tonne of different accessories. It is like a safety net. I see it as a way of making an outfit completely my own. I find it difficult to rely on single garments because I feel as if I don’t stand out and I am wearing the clothes in exactly the same way as everyone else would were it. I am relying on the garments rather than my own style. However, I found a way in which I can avoid this: Layering.

Layering is what I love to do in the colder months where I can layer up the knits and jackets to create a warm, dynamic look. But this year the trend has continued through to spring and summer. Light lace and gauzy fabrics are being used to make looks more dynamic. Therefore creating a more wearable outfit.

A fear with white fabrics is the see-through quality which can instantly knock your confidence. Are people admiring my outfit or my underwear? Added layers not only make the outfit less revealing but they make a more intriguing texture.

Texture is important consideration in this trend. It is not a crisp and clean white trend which we have seen in previous seasons. Unusual crochet patterns, brocade and broderie add an interesting edge to the clearly feminine edge. Textured shoes create a refreshing contrast to the femininity. Graphic designs and sculptural shapes which scream power and control are a must-have.

Believe or not you can transcend this idea into your autumn/winter wardrobe by adding monochrome accessories, in particular – black. It will add another dimension but still managing to keep it classic.

‘White on white’ is a trend which is trickier to get right than people may believe. It’s all about balance between femininity and edge. Its fresh, pure and youthful and definitely a stand out trend which will allows your confidence to surge.

Robyn and Connie

xo

 

We are now open for business!

We are very proud to announce that this week we launched our Etsy shop!

We have added our 6 piece skater skirt collection. It was a big moment for us as we have being talking about it for a  long time and its finally ready!

We have already had lots of great feedback which we are so grateful for, please feel free to let us know what you think.

We ship worldwide so anyone can get there hands on one.

This is the link to the site, please have a look!:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/RandCfashions?ref=top_trail

We have lots more ideas that should be coming soon, which we cant wait for you to hear about!

Robyn and Connie
xo

Our Very First Glossybox - Detox...

So this week we got our first ever Glossybox! We heard about this around a year ago and we had considered getting it but we never could fully justify it until we had the blog and we thought we could share it with you guys.

We were very lucky as we received the box 1 day after it was dispatched, making it a lovely suprise when connie got home from work!

This months box has the theme 'Detox'

The first item we got was a Jason - Lips Bee Healthier.

Neither of us had heard of this brand before however, we are both big fans of lip balms. We like that its in a tube which makes it easier and less messy to apply. The product seems to be very natural and organic which is good and the first time we tried it we definetely liked the taste! It will be interesting to see how it stands up against this freezing weather we are having at the moment.

The second thing we got was the Duck Island Limited - Body Lotion.

This is another brand we hadn't really heard of. It is in mandarin and bergamot which is very zesty and smells great. Not sure if it will be to much in a lotion but it is a good size sample so i look forward to finding out.

The third product we got was the Elemis Fresh Skin - Skin glow facial exfoliator.

We had actually heard of this brand!! This was a type of scrub which in the past we have found work well for us but sometimes they can be too strong and cause break outs. Hopefully this should leave our skin bright and feeling fresh. As well, a very good sample size which we were very pleased about.

The fourth product we got was a Monu - Aromatic Mask.

Who doesnt love a good face mask? Classic young women relaxing session with a magazine and candles. It is a good size sample so we should be able to get one mask each out of it which will something fun to do when we are hanging out. It also says its warming which is very intriguing and were definetely looking forward to seeing what thats like.

The last thing we got was the Premae Skincare - Balance Rescue Face Tonique.

Neither of us use toner reguarly. Connie has the simple toner but Robyn doesnt use it. So this will be good to see if it actually makes any difference. It isnt strongly scented which is ok because i dont think it really matters in a toner. But as with the rest of the products we are very happy with the size!

The beauty extra was this cute sleep mask!

We both were drawn to this when we looked in the box and the little bow just makes it cuter!

So our first glossybox experience was very exciting to say the least and we loved finding out about brands we had never heard of before. I dont think we will be getting it every month but you will most likely be seeing more glossybox posts in the future.

If we have inspired you to get your own glossybox, heres the link to there site:
http://www.glossybox.co.uk/

Let us know what you think!

Robyn and Connie xo