Winter Sun

Packing for holidays, especially in the winter is always stressful/difficult. Most of us have thrown our linens and sandals in the loft and the department stores don’t seem to cater for those of us who just can’t get through the never-ending winter months without a bit of sunshine.

Usually you would just pick up a few bikinis and a couple of Levi’s cut offs and just enjoy the rays laying on the beach in Barbados or in the Maldives somewhere, and cherish the fact that it is December, and the only layers you’re wearing are those of Clinique’s sun-screen...not the same story if you’re packing for the Middle East.

The thing is that most tourists in Dubai are on short visits, and don’t really bother to research the local culture, traditions, and more importantly – dress-code. This is quite surprising, because when one is packing for somewhere like Marbella or Ibiza, they log onto the Daily Mail to try and find what trashy look the WAGs et al are sporting...

Anyway, Dubai is the one holiday destination for which you must must must do your research when it comes to your wardrobe, and it really is not that difficult – think more Grace Kelly and less Coleen Rooney.

Dubai is essentially, a desert, so take into consideration not only the length of the garments you are taking but also the fabrics. Natural fabrics such as cottons, linens and silks are your best options – that way you won’t be hot and uncomfortable even when you’re totally covered up (meaning don’t trap around showing off your stomach/thighs/cleavage/shoulders – a) very ignorant b) just don’t be ‘that girl’).

Do invest in some good-quality lightweight clothing – not only is it perfect for any hot climate, but they also look chic! Go for whites, nudes and light browns, this way you can easily achieve a cool laid back layered look as well as show off your tan perfectly.

Try ‘Vacation’ section on net-a-porter, Momptoir de Cotonniers and All Saints for your basics. And try to get some pieces from Chloé - amazing light fabrics and dresses that will take you from day to night.

NEWSFLASH: Chanel Pre-Fall 2013

Chanel has finally show-cased its Pre-Fall 2013 collection – and what better place to presents the tweeds, chunky knits and the tartans than at Linlithgow Palace, where Mary, Queen of Scots was born. Karl described his collection as easy pragmatism with an element of doomed romance...isn’t Scotland where Coco herself spent a great deal of time with her beloved Duke of Westminster? Thought so!

The collection burst with languid knits and patchwork, imagine kilts made from chiffon and lace, swingy jackets accessorised with jewels, patterned tights, berets and tasseled bags – all created in Chanel’s ateliers!

Here are few looks from the collection

OMDior

I've seen the Dior show this fall. I liked it. Raf Simons' designs were nice. Not spectacular, but nice. Obviously with the air of the traditional Dior-esque shapes and cuts. And this dress is my fave out of the whole collection...

...anyway, after the show I didn't come out with the vision of Raf being a risk-taker or on crack.

BUT...apparently the house of Dior are releasing a special Christmas collection and OMG is it freaking fantabulous! 

There're firs, color, leopard print, baubles, gold, more fir, Lady Dior...

Check it...

Russian Fashion Mafia

The Russian Fashion Pack have been a hit at all the fashion weeks worldwide this season. As ever, the girls' ensembles are impeccably pulled together, showing off the latest trends, personal style, as well as a luxurious and chic nature of a Russian woman.

So no wonder the Russian Fashion Mafia have been the bate for the paparazzi when leaving Valentino Spring/Summer 2013 fashion show.

Polina Kitsenko, Elena Perminova, Natalia Vodianova, Ulyana Sergeenko, Vika Gazinskaya and Mira Duma have been snapped here at Skazka for Centro charity flashmob at Valentino Fashion Show!

Chanel 2013

This bag has obviously stirred some well deserved attention at the show, and my BFF Facebooked me asking what the purpose of it was, after I made it my background picture. Then she proceeded (I imagine to look at it in disbelief/may be she was stoned, and she must have googled the purpose of it) and found the need to send me THIS article. 

I mean, obviously the purpose of this giant masterpiece/art was clear from the beginning - beach. South of France - as it would look much out of place anywhere other than St.Tropez.

Still. It's insane and I totally love it, and haven't even been drinking for like, three days. I have been watching Chanel 2013 Fashion Show and getting my kicks for the last few evenings running from it. And obviously I have exercising lots - Fashion Weeks are such good thinspiration/motivation to keep in shape/diet!