Behind-The-Scenes: Howard Showers

Last weekend I was invited to capture all the action behind-the-scenes at Howard Showers' High Summer campaign shoot. Despite the early call time, it was such a terrific morning and everything went smoothly and ran on time, which is highly unusual for campaign shoots!

The iconic brand is known for their bold prints, clean cuts and perfect tailoring, all things that their High Summer collection boasted. The collection has the perfect balance of timeless and classic designs, as well as on trend pieces, with peplum waists and stripes being the heroes of the collection.

every collection needs a statement bling piece!

after the jump check out all the behind-the-scenes action!

Spotted...

Glee's Lea Michele was at Comic Con over the weekend promoting her hit show, Glee. The always stylish 25-year-old kept it chic in a monochromatic suit, and a white knitted tank by Bec & Bridge ... I am a huge fan of this look, the pop of red on Lea's feet was the perfect way to finish this look off and to keep this look young. A+!

Collette by Collette Dinnigan SS12/13 Campaign

To celebrate Collette Dinnigan's diffusion label, Collette by Collette Dinnigan a campaign video featuring Australia's Next Top Model 2011 winner, Montana Cox has been released showcasing their latest Spring/Summer collection.

This short-film is so pretty, natural and fun... which made me pine for Summer's return! The casting of Montana was absolutely perfect, who just always exudes natural beauty.

Designer Spotlight: SOOT

I first discovered SOOT. at the PR Department showroom and was instantly drawn to the amazing use of pastels and the unexpected element that each garment possesses, whether it be hand sewn flowers on a panelled skirt or the mix of a psychedelic print and gingham. Then I found out the designer, Edwina Sinclair is in fact younger than me! I seriously couldn't believe someone that young could have accomplished so much, (she even has her own store!) 

Edwina is definitely one of the most inventive and exciting designers I have seen in a while... I am obsessed with all the fabrics she uses (as I am a huge fan of cotton!) and her designs are flattering, feminine, refreshing and unpredictable, definitely a winning combination in my eyes. 

Check out our interview with Edwina, as well as my favourite looks from her SS12/13 collection below :)

Marnie Skillings Calls it Quits!

One of Sydney's top designers, Marnie Skillings is calling it quits after 12 years of designing, blaming the slow retail market as one of the main reasons she's decided to close up shop. The Bondi-based designer explains, "you have to be smart and realistic as a business owner and think which direction is going to be more feasible for me... It's one of the realities of the fashion industry at the moment and I'm evolving with those changes."

Marnie had her first child last year, Costa. She's looking forward to the time off to spend with her little one. She also told The Sunday Telegraph, "it was time to try something new and give myself more time to say 'yes' to some of the opportunities I've had to turn down in the past."

Marnie Skillings' stuff is truly delectable! Some of my favourite pieces from my wardrobe are designed by her... It's a sad day for Australian fashion.

Spotted...

Vogue Australia's new Fashion Editor, Christine Centenera spent last week in Paris for Fashion Week. The always chic and gorgeous Centenera was spotted looking killer in a dress from Josh Goot's Resort collection.

I am obsessed with Josh Goot, and I am obsessed with Christine Centenera so this combo is obviously a clear winner in my eyes.... Flawless!

Graine Giveaway!!

Which do you prefer?

Graine owner, Anna, told The Fashion Patriot that her favourite pieces from her latest collection are the Festival Hall of Dreams bag (right) and the Meet me at the Degraves clutch (left). 

So, which bag do you prefer??

Simply 'like' the Graine Facebook page, www.facebook.com/graineaccessories, and tell them which bag you like best and why, for your chance to win a Top of the Town card and money holder! 

The winner will be announced Friday, July 13 on Facebook and Twitter so be sure to 'like' and follow The Fashion Patriot and Graine to find out if you're the lucky winner!

Graine
Twitter: @graine_
Facebook: www.facebook.com/graineaccessories 

The Fashion Patriot
Twitter: @FashionPatriot
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheFashionPatriot

Spotted...

Last week was Neutrogena's Wave for Change Launch; Neutrogena's Wave for Change is an initiative that supports educational charities in America. Their aim is to raise $250 000 for Global Giving, a charity that gives children the chance to an education - what a great cause!


Emma Roberts was there to show her support, while looking cute in a white Bec & Bridge dress.


Love the dress, love the necklace.... And I love the shoes, just not paired with that dress. I think she needs a fun, strappy sandal instead of those studded pumps, it's just a little too jarring. 

Spotted...

Globe-trotter, Kim Kardashian was spotted in Paris recently with her boyfriend, Kanye West, rocking a tie-dyed sweater by Bless'ed are the Meek. Kim finished the look off with her signature leather leggings and Celine bag.

Designer Spotlight: Graine

Australian accessory labels that offer a unique and great quality product have been difficult to come by in the past... However, I have recently noticed a few new players to the accessories game, and one label, Graine, definitely caught my eye. Their minimalist designs have a hint of quirky that essentially creates a functional and fashionable piece that is distinctively Graine. 

What makes me love Graine even more is the fact that each piece is made from 100% leather and handmade right here in Australia.... AND the price point is totally affordable too... What's not to love?!

The Fashion Patriot caught up with Graine designer, Anna, to discuss Graine's future, her addictions and her Graine must-have. Read it after the jump! 

P.S. How amazing is the Just South of the River clutch?? (above)