OUTFIT POST: THOSE SUMMER NIGHTS.

"Those Summer Nights"

Flicking through the calendar and I had to double check at how quickly the year is going. As we come to the closing days of May and roll into June, I noticed something unusual on the calendar.. Time off! 

I have the whole of June to recharge my batteries before beginning my latest career adventure in July.

In contrast to my vision of long summer days at my own leisurely pace.. June is looking action packed. Between a trip to Istanbul, two cliff hikes and a month of filming for MossProctor Vlog that easy, breezy 30-day-break is quickly disappearing. 

Planning ahead to my own holiday, I started looking through spring summer looks to build some outfits. This look is for of those summer nights. I decided to contrast the minimalistic pieces from Neil barrett's latest collection and the heavier prints of Kenzo to give balance. I also took this approach with my choice of accessories. A chunky strap sandal, also by Kenzo and a must have shoe for summer, works complimentary when partnered with this light pouch from WANT Lez essentiels de a vie at Mr Porter. 

(If sandals aren't you thing, then loafers, espadrilles or driving shoes will make a workable alternative!)

I didn't want to over indulge with accessories - Less is more, so I think this rose gold watch by Thomas Sabo is minimal luxury at its best.

Click the brand names for links to product pages.

The Backdrop for this picture is from the Eden Restaurant, San Miguel, Ibiza.

TOKYO BLOOM.

"TOKYO BLOOM"

 The presence of summer has been strong as of late. It's hard not to spread positive vibes when the sun's shining and the the temperature is above average for the time of year. Our latest styling project at Condé Nast had me reflecting on the summer bloom and where my next adventure lies. My time at Condé Nast is drawing to a close but what a remarkable journey it has been. 

My latest shoot I have named "Tokyo Bloom". The inspiration came after I spent the evening going through some boxes I still haven't touched since moving to London [Baring in mind I moved here in September '13] and the unexpected yet pleasant discovery of  Gwen Stefani's album Love. Angel. Music. Baby.

I remember how fascinating I found these four little Japanese girls who followed her every move, Harajuku had been opened as a new world to the west. Rich Girl stood out for on that album with the video prominent in my head.. her blonde locks in tight buns embellished with beads and flowers.

Using this embellishment and an a visual reference I remember of Kate Moss,dancing to The Strange Boys - Be brave in a Nick Knight video for a summer Topshop campaign, were the combined ideas for the shoot. [I once played this video on loop at a house party I was throwing at my dad's house.. Awkward].

 I worked the trend of clashing prints with an (amazing) white, lace wedge to create that oriental/Vivienne Westwood style. [I kept thinking of the runway show where Naomi fell in her Westwood shoes circa 1993].

My model was Ella Bernie from Elite London. Gifted with never ending limbs, thick brows and a youthful image, this home-bred London girl will have a strong career in both runway and editorial. She had a brilliant personality with great charisma and a strong ethic to work!

Here's my unedited images as a preview & mood board.