Trend Watch | Black Lace Tights

Black lace tights do two things. They make an outfit a little more fancy and they show just enough leg without showing too much skin. There are many options out there from designer to high street but we are all for DKNY Lace Tights via Bare Neccessities. These tights offer a specific lace print is much more refined and classy. Pair them with a great pair of lace-up oxfords or thigh high boots.


Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Men's Fashion | A Sturdier Option Dr Martens Fall '09

Summer seems to finally be releasing her grip upon us, and as the cooler days of Autumn begin to quickly sweep in, you may perhaps want to give some thought to your choice of footwear for the upcoming months.


A pair of boots or hard-wearing shoes are definitely an important investment for the cooler months. Aside from keeping your feet warm and dry, they are also invaluable for traversing the ice and snow on your way to work (well if not, your average city pavement provides quite the obstacle course). Functionality aside, a pair of boots certainly make for a nice addition to just about any autumnal outfit. Pair them with a wool blazer and gingham shirt for a smarter look, or pair them with a worn in pair of jeans and knitted sweater for the weekends.

For those who may not want to go full out with a pair of 8-Eye boots, the desert boot is the perfect solution. Versatile enough to be worn for just about any occasion, they are certainly an easy step into the world of boots and hard wearing footwear. A simple pair of camel or chocolate coloured suede desert boots could easily see you through the winter, however if you require a slightly more colourful approach, then the latest releases from Dr Martens should definitely have you covered.

The Manton desert boots, with their colourful contrast soles, would add a beautifully vibrant touch to your outfit. A simple colour play of either complimentary or contrasting colours with your chosen sole could add that perfect dash of variety and individuality. Some may however also feel the equally colourful 1461 3-Eye shoes a nicer option. Dr Martens sell like hot cakes, if only for their legendary soles, and the 1461 shoes would definitely be a sturdier alternative to your average shoe. -D.K.

Copyright ©2009 Haute Mimi International LLC. All rights reserved.

Interview With Matthew Williamson

GT: What was the initial inspiration for the new Autumn Winter Collection?
MW: This season I wanted to continue the two key themes of shape and texture from my Pre Fall 09 collection. The silhouette is fairly extreme, with the oversized outerwear and knitwear balancing out with nipped tulip skirted dresses and long lean trouser shapes. The waistline in particular is defined by strong tailored lines, wide heavily beaded belts or simply by the considered placement of the prints. The ‘power’ shoulder has also returned for Winter, particularly in seen in the zig zag wool weave, where the chevron curved seams emphasis the strong lines.

Again, with the theme of texture, I have played on extremes to create an eclectic yet luxurious look. Much of the outerwear has a deeply tactile nature, with natural furs, heavy tweed and mohair giving a glamourous volume. This is balanced and complimented by the high shine metallic brocades, silk shirts and fluid like all over sequin dresses at the close of the show.

GT: You are known for your love of colour, can you describe your choice of palette this season?
MW: Much of the collection is made of high quality natural wools, furs and cottons and I wanted to echo this ‘organic’ sentiment with the colours I choose. Winter creams, ash, and pebble are all present along with the deeper hues of bitter chocolate, Bordeaux reds and rich purples. In a way this is a much more defined colour palette than I am use to designing with, but the shots of watermelon and kingfisher blue brightens the collection and brings the signature Matthew Williamson in!

GT: I would say that there is definitely a moving Prints, Beads and Colour are synonymous with your label. Will you preserve this direction?
MW: My design philosophy is similar today as when I started in 1997 and that’s really about me creating collections for women to wear that are very uplifting and celebratory and give the wearer a sense of escapism. I like clothes that are full of texture, pattern and colour. The prevailing trends when I began were for dull, minimalist, utilitarian clothing. I believe what made my label and designs stand out was this colourfulness and striking contrast to that current trend. I have always kept true to this design aesthetic as I believe it is important to have integrity as a designer for people to understand your brand.

GT: What will you most look forward to about your return to London Fashion Week this September?
MW: The British Fashion Council asked if we would return to London this season for their 25th anniversary celebrations. We were very happy to do so alongside such international power labels such as Burberry and are excited about all the celebrations that will be taking place around fashion week. The move to the more central venue of Somerset House is also fantastic news, an elegant setting in which to show the collections. I am most looking forward to having my family and friends being able to attend the show to support me.

GT: How has the recession influenced your natural style?
MW: As a brand, we are fortunate to have a loyal and growing customer base. I have always remained true to my fundamental aesthetic principals; each season showing an unabashed love of colour and print. The extrovert quality in my designs could be seen as overly decadent in times such as these but I see it as a celebration and a reminder to people of the more joyful aspects of life.

Gabrielle Teare is the Leading London Personal Stylist and Personal Shopper based in the heart of Shopping in Chelsea, London. International Fashion Writer and Stylist Gabrielle has been style/editorial consultant for 2 Disney films in June 09. July 09 saw Gabrielle featured Internationally in Elle, Marie Claire. http://www.gabrielleteare.com/