CHANEL STORE VISITS

In October, as part of an assignment I had to visit Chanel stores over London and analyse different layouts, surroundings and general feel of each store. I began on New Bond Street where it was a strictly 'NO PICTURES' environment, but me being me, I managed to take a couple sneaky snaps. The outside; Classic, simple, elegant. I also visited Chanel at Selfridges where it was completely packed with big spenders and I waited at least 20 minutes before I got any assistance (in the meantime I took pics). One thing I found in all Chanel stores was that the layouts were very clean and simple with black and white as the continuous theme. A clear difference between the boutiques and the Chanel's within a department store were the layouts. In the boutiques they were minimalistic and clearly advertised each fragrance with a simple bag accompaniment or small hand structure whereas the Chanel's within department stores had more distracting graphics and was merchandised with a lot more colour.

-Krystal Rose-

LOUIS VUITTON- SERIES 3

A LITTLE LOOK IN TO LOUIS...

Walking up to the building I didn't know what to expect but I was soon to be greeted outside by two perfectly polished men who led us toward the door, inside we were surrounded by yet more model like employees with white smiles and flawless make up. Implying that the brand is top quality and luxury (I mean, everything about it screamed opulence). All part of the Louis Vuitton experience and the exhibition hadn't begun. 

A LITTLE TOO PERFECT? Everything was clean, shiny and fresh. Not a blemish in sight. The outward appearance of the exhibition just lived up to the idea that the brand Louis Vuitton IS top quality and IS a strong competitor in the world of fashion. Perfect crisp lighting and overly happy employees made me think- is there anything imperfect here? It all seemed top secret and exclusive, making me feel special as the viewer, but despite all of this high class excellence, I couldn't help but feel the need to add a  touch of imperfection to the lavish surroundings.

 OH MISTER VUITTON

In all the exhibition experience was pretty good; considering it was free, and we all love a free fashion exhibition. What particularly impressed me was the freedom they'd allowed for viewers to get 'hands on' with the exhibition. I mean literally. Walking up to garments and bags worth thousands and being able to touch them was a shock to my system (haven't washed my hands since). But I didn't complain, it was all part of the experience, and who would say no to touching and photographing LV perfection.

SIMPLY ASK YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD LOUIS DO?

Another section which stood out to me was the manufacturing of a statement Louis Vuitton bag right before my eyes. Never before had I seen any bag made, let a lone a £2,000 small Louis bag being crafted in front of me. I mean, the precision, concentration, 30 hours of labour that go into the creation of one bag left me speechless. Whilst watching the bags being made before my eyes I was allowed to question the staff who manufacture the bags anything I wanted to about their hard work, and after some English to French translation assistance, I went on to learn that it takes years of studying and examination before they can achieve the job role of manufacturing the bag. It all seemed pretty intense, but I guess not everyone can say, 'I can make a Louis Vuitton bag worth thousands''

Living Louis

Despite there being 13 rooms of Louis Vuitton beauty, I would've loved more interaction in each of the rooms. More exhibition activities to make it feel like more of an exhibition, like we were living and breathing Louis. Whereas towards the end, I felt as if I was in a museum of luxury goods and as interesting as it was to window shop things I'm a few pennies short for, I would've preferred a few more activities which were specifically chosen to wow us- the audience. In general I feel like the exhibition was a 7/10. I mean, it was pleasant. I Walked away with a free poster and initial stickers which isn't too bad considering the standard exhibition price for anything is definitely not within a student budget, so that was definitely a highlight of the visit. 

ARE YOU SURE I CAN TOUCH IT?

'Manufacturing a Louis Vuitton small bag takes over 30 hours of production'

-Krystal Rose-

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN- SAVAGE BEAUTY

Mcqueen. A man with no limits. 02.08.15 I attended the last day of Alexander Mcqueen’s Savage beauty exhibition at the V&A. Prior to my visit, I wasn’t sure what to expect as many exhibitions I had been to were similar in the way they are exhibited. However once I entered, I was in awe of the intelligence of the work of McQueen.

Originally, I wasn’t particularly interested in the tailoring side of his work as that style didn’t appeal to me, but the appreciation I began to accumulate after speculating his work really did change my view for tailoring, as it is an important part of fashion, and I began to appreciate that more and more as I took a few steps into the visual representation of how his mind worked.

Whilst walking through the mind of a genius, I found myself going through a range of emotions as I absorbed his bold quotes printed on the walls next to his work. A lot of his work was gothic and dark, but as he himself mentioned, it was all created in a romantic way and I myself could see that throughout all of his designs.

A lot to take in. Walking in to the ‘dark room’ (not too sure what it was called) physically took my breath away. I remember walking in, looking up, and seeing hundreds of his pieces all carefully placed in glass boxes. Almost like a giant glass wall cabinet you have at home. But better. It was metres high of shoes, head pieces, dresses, coats, everything I could dream of all in one room. Each piece in the glass was accompanied by a television show casing his fashion shows over the years around the world, with iconic models wearing pieces I was standing inches from. The colours, the patterns, the masks, the music, the voices, the whole experience in this room was indescribable.

Grotesque? Inappropriate?

Nudity was definitely something McQueen wasn’t shy of, but it never felt crude or uncomfortable. If anything it made me want to get involved, get me kit off! He simply appreciated the sculpture of a woman. Each curve, impurity, imperfection, he wanted to expose it all. Never for the wrong reasons, and it never felt wrong, everything he created made sense.

Atmospheric.

One thing in particular that got me was the Kate Moss hologram. Never have I seen a hologram, and trust me, if I cross paths with one again it has a lot to live up to. I was lucky enough to get a front row view of the hologram and the silence in the room added to the magnificence. Despite children being present, there was not one moan, cry, cough or sneeze. It was pure bliss. Silence. The fluidity and eeriness of the hologram felt cleansing, it was really something special.

On exit, I was going through a cocktail of emotions. The whole exhibit was enlightening. However, I felt sorrow, I’m not sure what towards, but the whole short journey through his mind opened up mine. I felt empowered. I definitely took on board many of his intelligent words and I am definitely inspired. As a young person especially, it really did touch me. Made me see life in a different perspective. A life without social media and the little things I worry about, but the appreciation for raw beauty, true beauty, savage beauty.

‘I think there is beauty in everything. What ‘normal’ people would perceive as ugly, I can usually see something of beauty in it’ -Alexander McQueen

~Krystal Rose~

UK PLUS SIZE FASHION WEEK 11/09/15-13/09/15

Style has no size. Possibly the truest statement amongst the fashion industry. Whether you’re a size 6 or a size 16, size doesn’t hold you back from making a fashion statement. From being confident. From being you. Just a little gem of information I learnt whilst being lucky enough to be a part of UKPSFW.

Friday.

My role as a PR event assistant began; (obviously the tubes were delayed, making me late) but despite my bumpy start, fuelled on adrenaline, I was determined to soak up the entire experience. Walking up to the venue, I didn’t know what to expect, but as I walked inside I was in awe of the regal ceilings, carefully sculpted decor and rather expensive furnishings; definitely not something I’m used to. My role as a PR event assistant began; (obviously the tubes were delayed, making me late) but despite my bumpy start, fuelled on adrenaline, I was determined to soak up the entire experience. Walking up to the venue, I didn’t know what to expect, but as I walked inside I was in awe of the regal ceilings, carefully sculpted decor and rather expensive furnishings; definitely not something I’m used to.

It didn’t take long before I was distracted by the hustle and bustle of the preparations for a fashion event; people everywhere, questions being asked, models rehearsing, my idea of heaven. Nevertheless I threw myself in the deep end and began the busy weekend. I met the team I went on to work with (CiCi PR) and I felt right at home. As the day went on, I was responsible for meeting and greeting the press & bloggers, directing which way to go etc and I couldn’t help but smile as I met important people from magazines and radio stations. Once everyone went downstairs, I got the opportunity to have a lil sneak peak into the main room. Press were engulfed with capturing every moment of the event, camera flashes enlightening the atmosphere. Bloggers were being interviewed, which obviously to them is the norm, its everyday life, reality; but for me the whole experience was mind blowing, another world. Beautiful plus size models showcasing extravagant outfits with flawless make up. The whole room was buzzing and the main event hadn’t even begun.

Saturday.

Day two, the main event, the crème de la crème of the weekend. Waking up Saturday morning I was raring to go, ready to face the day’s challenges. After arriving late (nothing new) I remember rushing to throw my bags down and get stuck in, but it was only until I saw the set for the catwalk show that it really hit me; ‘Krystal! You’re at UK PLUS SIZE FASHION WEEK’

The room for the catwalk was breathtaking. From the simple layout, to the mood changing lighting- the room became alive, full of personality. However, it didn’t take long before the perfectly laid out room became full with crazy outfits and wild characters.(After all this is a fashion week, no one here is boring) After finishing my duties, I was lucky enough to get an in depth view of the entire show. With amazing brands showcasing new season clothing, I really was in my element. Evans, Studio 8, Boohoo, Society plus, Eleven60 & Very were just a few of the brands which featured throughout the show. Eleven60 being my personal favourite- a designer to watch out for.

Mesmerising.

The show itself, really was a lot to take in. Everything seemed so refined, so perfect, it was clear that hard work went in to every aspect. The music was almost enchanting, and mirrored the intensity of the models. I Found it hard to compose myself as some songs were buzzing (I couldn’t keep still- a little twerk here, a little stanky leg there) Each model really was beautiful in her own right and raised awareness for us little juicer ladies, that we CAN look stylish and fashionable and enjoy a Krispy Kreme donut at the same time. You could see the confidence beaming off of each face as they walked down the end of the runway, with hundreds of eyes glaring. All eyes on them. The show was split into two parts, both being incredible. The whole day was madness, but I was surrounded by such positivity and enjoyment that it didn’t even feel like I was there to work. I didn’t want the event to end.

Sunday.

Inspirational.

The last day (I actually arrived on time- ish) This day focused on brands selling pieces from collections on different pop up stands. From eyelashes to shoes, from jewellery to portrait drawings- just a fun filled day. Despite all the glitz, glamour and finding out my actual bra size thanks to Curvy Kate (I advise you all to get measured, because oh how wrong I was- now the proud owner of 32HH’s) A mini catwalk show for the public was held. Curvy, confident ladies took to the catwalk to show yet more brands collections. This part of the day was super cute as anyone and everyone took part, making each person feel as glowing as the professional models from the day before. Really gave the room energy and vibrancy. To wrap up the day, a panel of bloggers took to the stage to discuss the positivity behind the event. Each one took turns to talk to the public on how important it is to feel comfortable in your skin, to embrace your body, to believe in YOU! With jokes and smiles, they really gave motivating advice to women of a larger size and encouraged them to be daring and wear whatever makes them feel fabulous. Advice I myself am taking.

Mind blowing.

UKPSFW was insane.

As a whole, I can definitely say after this weekend that I have found my career path. Pretty damn crazy for me. Although I’m not entirely sure, I can confidently say that being amongst the fashion industry is something I will work my ass off at being involved in. Now I know the industry is cut throat and brutal, but I honestly believe that as long as I continue to have the love that I have for it and get a job within it, I will never have to work for the rest of my life.

~Krystal Rose~