Shall We Polka?

So a while back I wrote a blog about stripes.  My friend Sarah then suggested to me that I should write about polka dots.  To tell you the truth, I was a little dubious at first because to me, polka dots, spots (whatever you want to call them) are just so 80s.  I am still struggling with designer's reinvention of the 80s - especially if we wore it the first time around, (did I really just admit that?).  I also felt that spots should not really be worn by somebody over the age of 15 because, well shall I remind you of the image of Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman when she is on the polo field wearing that brown and white spotted dress... scary.  

Of course the ironic thing is that spots have now popped up everywhere on the fashion scene  and are currently quite the trend with designers like Dolce & Gabanna, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs and Sonia Rykiel sending them down their spring/summer runways.

So I guess these ladies don't look all that bad, do they?   

For me, polka dots have always represented a sense of fun and frivolity, and not something to be worn if you want to be taken seriously.  But then again, fashion should not really be too serious, should it?   The good news is that designers are taking spots in a different direction, mixing them with colours not seen before and the result is they are more than sophisticated, and very grown-up indeed.

Derek Lam 

Luella 

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Be wise about your choice of spots.  Don't over-do it, subtlety is key.  And if you're feeling less than daring, why not start out with a scarf or hosiery?


Because really, this is one trend that I think will not stand the test of time. 

Hx




Sources: People.com, marieclaire.com, thesartorialist, omiru, whowhatwear.com, justjared, vanessabruno, vogue.com.au, style.com, jezebel.com

10 Rules of Style by Sophia Kokosalaki

Known for her elegant and sophisticated take on drapery, Sophia Kokosalaki moved to London after receiving a degree in Greek and English Literature to pursue a career in fashion. Her feminine and Hellenic-inspired designs are regularly worn by the A-list; Chloe Sevigny, Kirsten Dunst, Christina Ricci and Jennifer Connelly to name but just a few.

Of her creations Kokosalaki says: "I like to design functional apparel that also allows you to look interesting."

The Greek-born, London-based DESIGNER, 36, shares her fashion principles.


1. EVOLVE YOUR STYLE
Growing up in Athens, my look was very rock, but also Mediterranean and sexy - my skinny jeans and T-shirts are remnants from those days.  Living in London for the past 13 years has made my style more urban and dark.


2. WORK YOUR HEELS
For me, good shoes are paramount as they can make and outfit.  I've been known to go to work in heels 11cm high - a chunky heel, though; a stiletto for work is tacky.


3. DITCH THE BAG
I've noticed a trend of not carrying a bag.  I think you can look more individual without one.  I have a Chanel bag for evenings and that's it - I'm definitely more of a shoe girl.


4. PROTECT YOUR PIECES
I have a separate wardrobe for my evening dresses and I use every chemical you can imagine to protect them from moths - it's like a nuclear facility!


5. GO HELL FOR LEATHER
My favourite piece is my leather blouson jacket - it makes a statement and goes with anything.  I also have a pair of leather trousers I've had for 15 years; I don't wear them any more but I love them too much to throw away.


6. MAKE AN IMPRESSION
Before I even knew what fashion was, I saw how the way you dress affects how people react to you.  It's important to project personality into your clothing - a sense of individuality or humour.  My look often says I'm too busy!


7. LOOKING GOOD IN FIVE MINUTES
Messy and loose is the look at the moment, so I don't brush my hair.  I add lipstick and sharp, straight eyeliner - but by the end of the night it's smoky. 


8.STICK WITH WHAT YOU KNOW
I'd never experiment with an outfit before a big occasion - I'd go with something tried and tested.  I experiment less and less now I know what suits me.


9. WEAR JEWELS
I like expensive jewellery but I'm no Liz Taylor.  My weakness is Georgian pieces that I pick up on my travels.


10. CREAT A COLOUR PALETTE
You just know when colours look good on you, so stick to them.  I only wear bright colours when I'm back in Athens and it's just too hot for my usual dark clothes.   I have never worn yellow, though.

Ciao for now,


Hx




Source: Elle magazine, UK edition, April 2009