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This publication explores an unsettling identity, taking inspiration from research on the uncanny, surrealism, distortion and collage. The rough edited photograph scans, which were created based on a variety of photographic manipulation research, intentionally possess a grainy and raw quality, as this reinforces the disconcerting tone of the publication. 0 fills eighty-two pages, which demonstrate a gritty alternative to fashion photography and illustration, turning a common subject into a thought provoking images. 0 was selected as the title because the publication contains neither an original image nor a full portrait on the subject; despite the fact the identity is the sole focus. This hardback publication has a pure and minimal aesthetic with a uniformed, chaptered structure. As 0 presents destruction and creation of identity, the chaotic imagery is purposefully contrasted with the methodical organisation of each chapter. The tactile nature of this publication creates a personal experience for the viewer, allowing not only one but two senses to interact with the tone of the book.

Photo and edits by me, modelled by Andy @ Nevs

London Fashion Week AW14 - Simone Rocha

Simone Rocha presents a modern femininity in her AW14 collection.  Like all seasons, this collection was inspired by historical references and presents an Edwardian feel throughout. Rocha has continuously highlighted different aspect of the female body within this collection; emphasis on shoulders, elbows and hips underlines that particular influence in such a raw manner, that it becomes signature to Rocha.

 The cut of this collection is typical to Rocha – minimalist but so intricate and pretty. A-line shapes presented within dresses and skirts mixed with cut away detailing and feminine highlights. Jackets were waist length with cropped sleeves, whilst coats had a-lines and pea shapes.  

This collection presents quite a diverse colour palette, exploring dark tones in addition to metallic colours, nudes and beautiful python prints. A sense of sweet femininity and innocence were first presented in the collection, swiftly followed by quite a seductive yet reserved feel with the transparent fabrics paired with solid high waist knickers.

Of course this collection would not be Simone’s if there were no embellishment! The entire collection was subtly frosted with pearls and beads, all of which highlighted the female body via the hips, waist, shoulders and neck. This beautiful detailing was complimented with beaded jewellery around both the neck and the wrist. All looks were accessorized with matching over sized clutch and shoes and were finished off with a back-combed French plait.

This Edwardian inspired collection definitely provides for its younger and older market, striking the right balance of salty and sweet, innocence and impurity, sophistication and simplicity. Simone Rocha autumn/winter 2014, is an undisputed favourite this season. 

 

Position at London Critic

I came across the position of 'Social Media Contributor' on UK Fashion Intern on Twitter. After speaking with the Editor In Chief, I landed myself a permanent assistant position - positing 2 images every Thursday through to Monday. London Critic provides bite-sized international menswear fashion news. As I am keen to under take a career within menswear editorials, I found this position ideal for me.

My daily posts allow me to research new, existing and upcoming trends from across the globe and present them on social sites like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. I provide a piece of creative writing for each post explaining that specific trend, campaign, look or designer.

Furthermore, this position give me the freedom to post current events, awards and designs from fashion weeks from around the world. I also have the option to post accessories, street style and anything else which catches my eye within menswear fashion.

I thoroughly enjoy having this position of Social Media Assistant, as this has allowed me to focus my attention on my strong interest in menswear.

Internship at Gingersnap Modelling Agency

After applying to a variety of agencies, designers etc. Gingersnap was the first response. I have always wanted to experience this side of fashion; working with models and clients, organising shoots etc. I jumped on this opportunity and started almost immediately. Throughout my month-long internship, I had the title of 'Booker Intern' and had the opportunity to experience a variety of different roles and responsibilities (all of which tested my patience, confidence and ability to work under pressure... and I loved it!).

A key part of my internship was familiarising myself with the model board. I was constantly matching models to briefs, organising test shoots, models' availability... the list goes on and on. As my work was predominantly computer based, I was taught how to use Netwalk, a model and client database software. Here, I added new models, updated profiles with new polaroids and measurements and searched for existing clients and their previous work with Gingersnap Models. I also had the opportunity to use my Photoshop skills by editing, cropping and brightening images.

One of my tasks was to organise a test shoot (taken by myself) within in the studio of two new faces. I had to come up with a mood for this shoot, supplying images of styling, make up and themes to the models. On the day of the shoot, I positioned and styled the models, continuing the shoots theme throughout.. the images are now on the models website profiles!

Other tasks included clerical duties - emailing and calling clients, models, stylists and MUA's, organising shoots and open call days. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to select model applicants which fit Gingersnap's model criteria.

I was put in charge of the social media for Gingersnap, regularly tweeting and updating Facebook statuses to encourage interaction with followers.

In conclusion, I found this experience extremely useful. I enjoyed learning how to use new software, having interaction with models and clients and organising shoots. It was interesting to understand this aspect of fashion and work in such a fast paced environment.