styleeast

Debatable

2012-02-06T11:49:00.005-06:00

I was very excited to feature in this week's Observer New Review, along with a collection of other UK bloggers, in this article that began, controversially, by stating that 'what we wear is increasingly shaped by fashion bloggers'. I, an avid reader of many blogs, wholeheartedly agree that since discovering a wealth of quick, innovative inspiration at my fingertips, for free, the way I follow fashion has changed. And I bet many of you reading this would say the same.

One scan of the 100 comments left on the online article will leave you in no doubt many people do not agree. And that, of course, is absolutely fine, it is the Guardian after all, the comments always form a fascinating, if sometimes visceral, debate - whatever the topic. I didn't enjoy this particular debate any less just because I'm a part of it. Perhaps that's why I don't feel compelled to defend or justify the topic of the feature at all, that would be for the paper to do, though I'm sure they're content with having sparked such a great furore!

What I will say in response is this: Contrary to what some people tend to assume about anyone who does fashion, my day job ensures I have good perspective about what 'really' matters - family, opportunity, education, democracy (all of which the Guardian covers amply) but let's not forget that fashion is a multi-billion pound industry that creates jobs and supports our economy. I know fashion isn't important, or even interesting, to everyone and appearing in the paper doesn't mean I think my little blog, a minuscule cog in a huge wheel, will ever have the power to influence anyone (which unfortunately thwarts my plan to use it for taking over the world, Bond villain-style).

But the growth of blogging is interesting to me, and (contrary to what one comment suggests) brings me, and hopefully my readers, joy. Which, along with the fact my mum could go out for the Sunday paper and tell the man in the shop her daughter was in it, is why I was thrilled to be included in the feature. Let's not forget, fashion is allowed to be just for fun and, sometimes, frivolous. Or perhaps, as one commentator put it perfectly, fashion is simply the fetishisation of something we all have to do in order not to die of exposure.

Thanks to the Guardian staff for being helpful and courteous throughout. I hope you enjoyed reading the article, and the comments, as much as I did.

VOTE FOR STYLEEAST IN THE COMPANY MAGAZINE BLOG AWARDS HERE

FOLLOW STYLEEAST ON TWITTER HERE

In good Company

2012-01-15T11:42:00.004-06:00

Before we get down to business and discuss the Company Style Awards, let's just pause for a second on this wild ensemble. From pastel curls to red creepers with clashing green socks - with fur and spikes aplenty inbetween - it just screams 'I don't give a you-know-what'. Possibly one of my favourite street style spots ever, and totally sums up why I shoot where I do as, on Brick Lane, as this chap demonstrates, anything goes. And somewhere within me is a proper photographer just dying to get out who loves the light that creeps across the graffitied walls in the late afternoon.

So, yes Company magazine. Guess what! Yours truly has been nominated in the first ever Style Blogger Awards, in both the street style and overall best blog categories. To say I'm chuffed and surprised would be a serious understatement. It's an absolute honour to be sharing the longlist with some of the best bloggers around, not to mention for a magazine that I not only read (honest) but have a lot of respect for because of the way they recognise and promote the importance of blogging in fashion in this day and age. Good luck to all the nominees, and if you want to give a little blog from the backstreets of east London a chance, you can vote for me here

DON'T FORGET YOU CAN FOLLOW STYLEEAST ON TWITTER AND SEE ME TALKING A LOT OF CRAP ABOUT DR DRE AND TEXTS FROM BENNETT AND OTHER SUBJECTS IN MOST WAYS UNRELATED TO THIS BLOG - HERE

Glasgow smile

2012-01-08T13:59:00.003-06:00

No, I don't mean this (warning - it's gross) type of Glasgow smile, but an actual one, on a lovely smiley lady from actual Glasgow. It certainly brightened my day, so much so that I didn't even notice that amazing pastel topknot at first. I've yet to take my first east London streetstyle shot of 2012 (failed to shoot today, I blame the gin), but stay tuned...

NYFR

2012-01-02T05:20:00.001-06:00

That's New Year Fashion Resolutions dontcha know. If you don't want to worry about your post-Christmas waistline/credit card bill/alcoholism, put your efforts into your wardrobe instead. Here's just a few mottos I'll be adopting for 2012:

1.Try something different. I might finally get round to dyeing my hair red. Though probably not this short. I'd also quite like this coat.

2. Get brave with colour. Wear a bright green feathered mermaid skirt in the daytime (especially if you're the lovely Rosalind). Oh, and don't forget to smile.

3. Consider yourself a bit clever with pattern clashing. And if that involves also wearing flared trousers, so much the better.

4. Accessorise like there's no tomorrow. Wear feathers if you like, as Stella does (of course it helps if you also have a little Christopher Kane going on)

5. Layer like a pro. The pro being Nadia, not me, I'm utterly crap at it. On me, this cardi looks like something I pulled out of the cat's basket. On her, layering perfection.

Happy new year, everyone, I'll look forward to seeing you all heeding Styleeast's fashion wisdom on east London's streets soon...

Christmas Cracker

2011-12-24T11:30:00.002-06:00

All I want for Christmas is a green bob. Hope you enjoy this festive fashion cracker, my last post of 2011, effortlessly mixing granny chic with that modern (and very seasonally appropriate) coloured hair. Now go enjoy some mulled wine, chestnuts roasting on an open fire, and turkey in every recipe you can imagine (until it runs out). Hope for something nice from Santa but don't forget those who have less than we do. See you all in 2012 for more adventures and thank you everyone for reading and supporting Styleeast in 2011. Happy Christmas.

Dog day afternoon

2011-12-14T14:38:00.000-06:00

Trust me, it's no small challenge getting a dog to pose for a streetstyle photo, and this cheeky chappy had clearly had enough of me by the time I got this shot - sticking his tongue out at me, the naughty thing. Luckily for him (and me) though, this picture is not about the canine but his winter-fabulous owner. I do tend to be drawn to a bit of tartan, being a Scot and all that (witness here and here), but this lady gets extra marks for avoiding the obvious black tights option and instead matching her pins to her pet. And for rocking the Rooney Mara hair look, making me seriously consider the chop again. Gorgeousness.

Bumming around

2011-12-04T15:57:00.001-06:00

Bum bags! Remember them? Less alluringly entitled 'fanny packs' by our American friends, can you think of a better way to keep your hands free whilst carrying around all of your essentials? I've been pondering on a purchase for a while but was put off by the rule of not wearing something if you were old enough to the first time it came around. Clearly not an issue for this young lady, sporting my current favourite revival look - 'Mom' jeans, chunky boots and some laid-back layers, not to mention that lustworthy leather carrying apparatus.

Leo

2011-11-25T05:29:00.000-06:00

Don't you just hate it when someone jumps in on your shot? Well that's what I shamelessly did while David was shooting Leo the other day, quickly followed by some rather rude tourists who were passing by. But I couldn't resist, Leo has got to be one of the most dapper gents I've ever happened across, a man in possession of all the best Bs - beard, brooches, bloomers and brogues.

Speaking of old trousers (see what I did there...), I was contacted today by the Give Jeans a Chance charity, who want to donate your old denim to the homeless of east London. All you have to do is drop off your still-wearable jeans and jackets, and the charity will do the rest. Further details here, please take a moment to read it and help this very worthy cause.

Nonchalance

2011-11-19T16:36:00.000-06:00

Double-denim, scuffed-up shoes and hoody, so should not work as a look, but I defy you not to be envious of this insouciant young lady's natural beauty, fiery hair and total disregard for fashion 'rules'. And I defy you also to not be impressed that I got to use two of my favourite words (nonchalant/insouciant) in one post.

Warm your cockles

2011-11-14T16:12:00.001-06:00

If you find yourself in need of tips about how to finish a look, these two ought to provide a wealth of inspiration. Who doesn't love a furry collar or a jazzy shoe to brighten the winter months? And also, I challenge your cockles not to be warmed by how sweet they are together. All together now, awww..

Made up

2011-11-06T14:11:00.001-06:00

Guess who's back. Back again. And no, I haven't just been holed up in my room listening to the best white rapper since Vanilla Ice (though I do do that a lot), that thing called life has been getting in the way. But I hit the pavements of Brick Lane today with David who, as well as always inspiring me, was my lucky charm, resulting in a great selection of winter (thought I'd just come straight out and say the 'w' word..) streetstyle shots to share with you over coming weeks. Let's start here with this lovely lady who almost didn't let me take the close up as she wasn't wearing make-up. I repeat, she's not wearing make-up, and she looks like that. I'll leave you to ponder that while I book in for some hardcore facial action, and re-stock the bathroom cabinet. Guess who's back. Tell a friend...

London Fashion Week Street Style - Green eyed monster

2011-10-14T15:35:00.001-05:00

This skirt is BY YSL and cost FIVE POUNDS. That is all*

(*not jealous. Not jealous at all)

And now for something a bit different

2011-10-06T18:18:00.001-05:00

It's surely only a matter of time until these looks are translated into style on east London's streets. And although pulling off a sequined head or a giant box might be tricky in real life, I was so impressed with these collections by students of the Swedish School of Textiles this London Fashion Week.

London Fashion Week Street Style - My So Called Life

2011-10-02T05:30:00.002-05:00

The 90s were pretty good weren't they? We could stare at Jared Leto on telly on a weekly basis, nick our dad's checked shirt and wear it interchangeably as a skirt, dress or top, channelling Rayanne of My So Called Life big-time. The only bag to be seen with was a backpack, which handily accommodated all of our schoolbooks (and pencil cases - remember when pencil cases were, like, the accessory?), our jeans were high and occasionally we wore overalls and not just because we were finally painting over our cartoon wallpaper which was waaaay too young for our mature teenage selves. The good news is the 90s are back, and that the Best TV Series Of All Time is available on DVD. Style inspiration at your fingertips, people, and these gorgeous ladies at LFW have a head-start on the rest of us...

And to end, the inspiration, Angela and Rayanne, circa not-yet-fallen-out-cos-one-pashed-the-other's-boycrush-at-the-school-disco...

(you know you want that duck egg blue crochet waistcoat in your life now, oh yes you do)

Also in this week's news, Styleeast has, for the second season in a row, been voted in the The Most Wanted Fashion 100 - coming in at number 9 in the Street Style category. It's a real privilege to be on the list with so many of my favourite blogs and still completely unbelievable to me that anyone reads my blog, never mind votes for it! Check out the full list here

London Fashion Week Street Style - What Karina Wore

2011-09-26T15:57:00.001-05:00

I've photographed Karina three seasons in a row at London Fashion Week and she is without a doubt one of the most stylish and electic ladies on the courtyard. Switching effortlessly from old school glamour to rockabilly, via the hot trends (midi skirts, two tone brogues..), Karina always stands out, and this season (from which the first 3 shots are taken) was no exception...

Sept 2010

Feb 2011

Inspired by this recent post, this is the first of five 'what she wore' posts from LFW, also coming up: Stella , Roz, Nadia and Frances

London Fashion Week street style - Whites

2011-09-23T10:00:00.000-05:00

I spotted a certain tendency to whites and creams in the courtyard of Somerset House, perhaps as a nod to the last days of summer sun. Rules for pulling off the white look appear to be a) look like Audrey Hepburn circa at her most endearing, b) add tough boots and/or lace to keep textures interesting, c) incoporate coloured knits and/or infectious smiles, d) only come out when the sun's shining.

Thanks to all the photographers that have featured Styleeast during fashion week: Melanie at Street Muse/Elle; Style Crusader; Carrie for Cosmopolitan; Dina at She Loves Mix Tapes; Fashionistable; and David Nyanzi - it was an honour.

LFW Street Style - French Kiss

2011-09-20T10:39:00.003-05:00

Recognise anyone? No, me neither. When I first stopped Hannah, from French Kiss Vintage, who I shot before (in this post) at Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair back in June I had no idea it was the same girl. It's interesting considering that a few posts down I was going on about innate style, when Hannah is living proof that, when it comes to fashion sense, there really are no rules! I can't choose my favourite from her two looks but what I do know is that she was rocking the courtyard at London Fashion Week in this get-up, check out the feather eyelashes in particular...

Btw, 4 posts in 4 days.... certain people should never again call me a lazy blogger!

LFW Street Style - Day 4: Montage

2011-09-19T17:19:00.006-05:00

My final day at Somerset House this season and it didn't disappoint. Kudos to the hardcore LWF-ers who have 2 days left, I'm bloomin' knackered.

Maybe I'm just feeling patriotic, but I am loving that tartan

Want

Lucie wins the prize for accessorising today. Her bracelets are from her own Band 4 Hope project, a truly unique and socially conscious initiative, which I urge you to read much more about here

Polka Dot in polka dots (do you see what I did there?)

Yep, it's those shoes

Star blouse, red lippy, vintage Ray-Bans - gorgeous

LFW Street Style - Day 3: Snippets

2011-09-18T13:59:00.011-05:00

Once I'd recovered from being in close proximity to Jefferson Hack, it was a very successful day street shooting. Here are some highlights from Somerset House for London Fashion Week, day 3:

A lady who needs no introduction, looking utterly fabulous and making time for chatting and photos

Matching for the second day in a row, this time in Christopher Kane skirts

Bloggers' bench (photo by the lovely Dina)

Quite simply, loved it

Jill's bracelets

My favourite colour combination of the day, not unlike the ice cream colours seen at the Mulberry show, but with added edge

LFW Street Style - Day 2: Details

2011-09-17T16:09:00.002-05:00

Thought I'd make like David Nyanzi and focus on the details from my first day (everyone else's second) at London Fashion Week this season:

Rosalind's hat pin

Stella (right) and friend's satchels

Minty bowtie

Bag envy

Jen, the Style Crusader's clutch and purse against her fabulous orange vintage skirt

Frances's cowboy boots

Ladylike v Grunge

2011-09-09T10:36:00.000-05:00

Often when I grab a streetstyle shot, I'm left wondering what my subject wears on every other day...is the photo I took their usual 'look', is it something they're experimenting with, do they like to glam up in the evening? And usually you just never know, the mystery is part of the appeal. In Ella's case however, I have crossed her path several times, as she works in one of my favourite vintage stores, and is now working for the new Blitz Department Store (where I expect to be a regular visitor).

It was at the press party that I took this first shot, in which Ella is the epitome of ladylike retro glamour, in a vintage lace dress from the store. The second shot is from when I first met Ella, a look I described at the time as modern grunge. About her dressed-up look, Ella told me she was going 'ladylike' having cut the green from her hair and wanting to dress up for the evening. But her innate style is still there, in the collection of rings she wears, and the attitude with which she wears that dress, and now I look back at that original shot, you see her tendency to glamour was there all along, in that flowy skirt and up-do.

Proof, I'm going to venture, that personal style is about more than just the clothes you wear- and that it's fun to mix it up sometimes...

Hats off to Blitz Vintage - part 1

2011-09-03T06:13:00.003-05:00

If you've ever thought that east London couldn't possibly need a new vintage store, I can tell you now you'd be wrong. That's because Blitz Vintage Department Store has arrived in town with something new and fresh to offer us jaded vintage shoppers. Spread over a vast Victorian warehouse space on Hanbury Street, it's a delight to shop in, with an accessible collection of hand picked quality vintage (all at reasonable prices I might add), a delightful collection of rare 40s, 50s and 60s vintage dresses, plus homewares and quirky antique furniture. There's also plenty for the boys too, and if they get bored while you're browsing there's space for them to sit (on stylish leather sofas of course), read and enjoy a drink. Here are some snaps from the press night this week, with huge thanks to Ella for the invitation, who'll feature in a future post (I took so many photos I'll have to do it in two parts!):

Self-style blogger Stella, a swingin' 60s chick and an absolute delight, in a dress borrowed for the evening from Blitz (and subsequently bought!)

A 60s sundress I fell for

Writer Angel Adoree, her gorgeous book, Vintage Tea Party, is out now, featuring patisserie recipes from a bygone era - there is definitely someone in your life who needs this for Christmas!

Sparkly knitwear, for when the winter sets in (any day now!)

Plenty here for the boys too (by which I mean the jacket and shoes above, not the lovely lady below)

Gorgeous vintage styling, love the coordinated hat and lipstick.

It's Blitz!

2011-08-26T10:57:00.007-05:00

You'd never guess from the sense of space in this photo that I nearly got knocked over by a cyclist, 2 cars and around 40 pedestrians whilst trying to get the shot. It's come out almost monochromatic but for that amazing doll-like complexion and a peek of burgundy cut-off under the crochet tunic. This girl (must start asking people their names) was flyering for the new Blitz Vintage Department Store on Hanbury Street, sister shop to The Vintage Store from where you may remember Ella of this post. Seems like this chain has got east London street style all sewn up! Pop down for a visit soon and maybe I'll see you there...

Also this week:

My photo of Ella (and several others) was also featured recently in Japanese street style magazine Jille, who did a whole page about my blog ...huge thanks to the lovely Aya and Sayaka who spent an afternoon with me shooting for the feature, which you can see below on the left page:

Don't forget I'm currently judging the Westfield Stratford City's 'Create your Take' competition , to celebrate their launch, and will be looking for your version of a family portrait. The prize is good...all I can say is start thinking who your ten favourite people are.

And finally, I've discovered my new favourite self-style blog this week, and just had to give a shout out to the gorgeous Emily of It Girl Rag Doll, who also featured in the August issue of Jille.

Family portrait

2011-08-20T09:48:00.001-05:00

I am very pleased to announce that my news is that Styleeast has been chosen by Westfield Stratford City to be guest judge for their exciting launch competition, 'Create your take'. The regeneration of east London, in anticipation of the Olympics, is something very close to my heart, and the new Westfield centre is a major part of it - it will bring jobs, tourists and shoppers from across London into an area that was previously not much more than a wasteland in places. So I'm very proud to be even a small part of the huge changes that are happening. You can find out more about the competition here, or on my new facebook, get involved and you could win an amazing (though currently secret!) prize, with Styleeast as your guest judge in the 'family portrait' category. And who better to illustrate that than the lovely Rosalind, who many of you will know well from her blog, Clothes, Cameras and Coffee, who I met for the first time this year, along with her lovely (and equally stylish - just check that vintage fur) mum - maybe they should enter the competition, though we probably ought to at least give others a chance of winning...!

Guessing games

2011-08-15T14:21:00.002-05:00

This is Lally, of Oh Are You Sure About That blog. Ever since I shot these photos, a couple of months BC (before Canon), I've been obsessed with this sort of look. I can only guess at the source of its inspiration...it's a bit 70s, a dash of peasant girl, a touch grunge - pretty but with an East London edge (it's all in the glasses, as anyone spending a significant amount of time in E1 will tell you). Lally describes it as 'witchy'! Successfully combining all these elements is, according to my rule book, a mark of true style. Perhaps that's why I haven't shown you these photos before now, I wanted to keep this look all to myself...

Now, stay tuned for some exciting Styleeast news later this week. There will be prizes. And shopping, lots of shopping! In fact, it will be shopping on scale previously only available in West London. And it represents a huge milestone in the regeneration of the east......can you guess what it is?

Hello, Canon. Goodbye, rain

2011-08-01T15:03:00.002-05:00

The sun has got his hat on, hip hip hip hooray. And how better to celebrate than by taking out my new pet (Canon 550d, 28mm lens, oh yes, it's turned me into a shameless camera geek). This lovely lady was pretty much stalked round Brick Lane by yours truly until I'd got the shot, after initial photo fails due to incredibly bright sun (my eyes, my eyes!) and forgetting to reset all the manual settings I'd been mucking about with earlier. But I got there in the end, and you can see her amazing floral and denim maxi jumpsuit in all its glory, plus accessorising so good it's practically an art form*. To quote a friend of mine, when it comes to accessories, "if you can't minimise, maximise". Summer perfection.

*portrait shot is a blatant and unashamed excuse for showing off the new lens!

Goodbye, Olympus. Hello, rain

2011-07-16T05:15:00.002-05:00

I'm back from my brief blogging hiatus and have to say am not enjoying this 'summer' we're having. Luckily, the sun shone a few weeks ago, giving me the chance to photograph this smiley lady looking just as cute as a button in her summery pink confection, while giving a modern edge to her 50s jumpsuit with that red hair. This may be the last photo you see taken on my trusty Olympus camera, which has been with me from day one of Styleeast, I'm moving onwards and upwards with what I like to refer to as the Canon of Joy. Watch this space...

Teenage kicks

2011-06-26T04:54:00.000-05:00

When I was young(er than I am now, ahem), I could not possibly claim to have good style. You would have found me as a teenager most likely in a baggy jumper and some bad denim from the Jean Scene. I most certainly would not have had the confidence to rock a half-shaved head and some badass colour blocking like this young lady (of course I'm only assuming she's a youngster, she might just be clean-living and heavy on the Oil of Olay...). It's a strong look and one she is 100% pulling off, she stood out a mile from all the other stylish people on Brick Lane for her don't-give-a-crap look and attitude. It was one of my top shots from the weekend I went style spotting with Kate, while she did her 'A Day in the Life' feature about Styleeast, which, incidentally, you can read about Here. Now I come to think of it, I really should thank Kate for suggesting my messy, frizzy barnet was in fact 'Alexa hair'. Bless her...

West End Boys

2011-06-09T16:34:00.001-05:00

You'd think, in the wilds of Scotland, that fashion would be the last thing on my mind. There's not a lot in the way of style round here (unless you're into, er, cow print, or sheep wool, or, well, fields), but I've still got a whole load of photos I want to show you from my recent adventures. I'll start with this, from my day out to Carnaby Street, away from the east London badlands. A very stylish pair, definitely with a similar sensibility, but in overall very different looks. People say that friends tend to dress the same and morph into one another style-wise, but I think these two demonstrate that you can have some similar tastes (note the skinnies) but still have your own thing going on - whether that be a nod to the mod in that scarf and hat or a grungey denim and DM combo.

Do you have a similar look to your friends? And which of these is your preferred style? (David and Mat, I'm looking to you two for answers here..)

A day in the life

2011-06-04T07:35:00.003-05:00

Last weekend I was happy to be invited to style-hunt at Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair in Spitalfields market (thanks, Kieran and Jill). Judy's is exactly what it says on the tin - affordable vintage clothing, they do fairs up and down the country and it's pretty much the best place to find high-quality bargains all under one roof. The day of the Fair just so happened to coincide with the day that fashion journalism student Kate was following me around, doing a 'day in the life' story about little old me. Now, given that I'd spent the first part of the day in my scruffs cleaning the house, I thought I'd better jazz up the afternoon somewhat, lest anyone get the impression that fashion bloggers are anything less than exciting and glamorous at all times. So to Judy's Fair we went and what a perfect place for style spotting, the stallholders alone were flying the flag for true vintage glamour. We topped off the day with a Japanese cherry tea at my favourite Brick Lane bar, Hookah Lounge, and shopping at Beyond Retro on Cheshire Street. Here's a selection of the stylish ladies we met at Spitalfields:

First up, from Dandy Dolls, a lesson in casual glam, with a silk white maxi and Moschino belt mixed up with white Cons (and a great smile):

Next, one of our favourite style-spots of the day, the lovely Hannah from French Kiss Vintage. We loved her rockabilly styling and her red shorts:

Credit for this one goes to Kate, who spotted Jessica from Smoking Gun Vintage's beautifully toned hair and outfit. Catch Smoking Gun at Spitalfields on Thursdays and Brick Lane at the weekends:

Vintage Fair

2011-05-30T04:39:00.003-05:00

Another of my west London style spots, ably assisted by David, it's a very east London-y vintage look which, as David noted, is what I'm always drawn too even when dragged kicking and screaming from my usual turf. This look is also a masterclass in layering and accessorising - I don't know if that's a poncho, a cardi or a shawl, but I want it.

I'm style-hunting at Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair in Spitalfields today so look out for someone barely able to use their camera and instead just shopping excessively, chances are that'll be me. Oh and check out Styleeast waxing lyrical about the midi skirt for Heatworld Star Style here, with thanks to Callie at Heat. Blog favourites Jill aka Polka Dot and Jen the Style Crusader also feature.

In association with the the Nyanzi Report

2011-05-22T05:40:00.002-05:00

So, I finally figured out what some of those buttons on my camera do, thanks to the very photographically talented David of staple streetstyle blog, The Nyanzi Report. On Friday, after coming into town without his own camera (I almost didn't recognise him!), he acted as my very able assistant for the day, and this is the result. I love the colours and the sleekness of the whole look, from hair to loafers - this is a man who knows how to accessorise. Styleeast, in west London you say? Shooting men? Whatever next...

Thanks, David!

Take it back to the concrete streets

2011-05-13T15:37:00.002-05:00

After that brief foray back to Fashion Week in the last post, I thought I'd bring it back east (with the help of a 90s hip hop reference, which I thought was fitting with the background. I've been listening to a lot of the old stuff lately, definitely the genre at its peak...but I digress). I shot this photo late in the evening after the Jones and Payne party - so for once the shoddy light isn't the fault of my questionable photography - but I couldn't miss it, it was love at first sight with that leather jacket. Teamed with a floral playsuit and with a casual hairdo and plimsolls to top and tail the look, it's pretty much east London style at its best. AND she said she'd seen my blog! That NEVER happens. It made me happy.

Three of a kind

2011-05-07T17:27:00.001-05:00

From Somerset House, LFW, aaaah remember that (clue - we were all freezing our asses off)? I've been meaning to post these for ages, to demonstrate how February fashion week may be colder, quieter and harder work, but the style is also cooler, darker and much more Styleeast's cup of tea. Almost made losing all feeling in my toes worth it....

Champagne in the afternoon

2011-05-02T06:34:00.001-05:00

I think it's fair to say that Shoreditch's best hair salon know all the ingredients for a great party...endless champagne, cupcakes (complete with J+P logo), a candyfloss machine, superstar DJs and a collection of east London's most stylish people. Oh, and about 100 handsome, tattooed boys. Jones and Payne were celebrating their first birthday party in their gorgeous salon and, if you haven't been yet, you need to get yourselves along sharpish, not only for a haircut of joy (ask for Gary!) but to experience the surroundings and get a go on one of their massage chairs. Thanks, Jones and Payne, for a great afternoon...

Happy Birthday to me

2011-04-05T03:49:00.000-05:00

I was just thinking it might be coming up for Styleeast's first birthday, so I checked the date of my first ever post and - lo and behold - it's today! You may all sing Happy Birthday and, if you insist, bring me cake. Champagne to wash it down with is also welcome. Slightly belatedly, I'll be cooking up a Styleeast giveaway, where you can win delights such as Henry Holland NY tights or maybe a Topshop maxi (just in time for summer). In the meantime, let me leave you with these colourful characters. Pulling off primary colours and cartoon prints isn't always the best idea for anyone over the age of 5, but if you do insist, take some tips from this stylish couple, all you need is a dash of bravery, some grown up accessories (e.g. no skateboards/Simpsons sticker books/Haribos) and bags of 'tude...

East

2011-03-16T16:41:00.002-05:00

So, I've spent the last 2 weeks trying to think how to follow that pigeon shot. And what better than going back to the streets of this blog's home, east London. I've been saving this gem for a while, it needs few words to accompany it. All I can say is, you might think you wouldn't want your boyfriend to wear a headband, you might not have realised you need a zebra coat in your life. BUT....how much do you want to be these two right now?

Stop the pigeon

2011-03-01T13:59:00.000-06:00

Do I need to introduce Roz? I'm guessing not, as you've doubtless already seen her, maybe on Facehunter, Style Scout, Stockholm Street Style...I could go on. BUT, did any of them employ a pigeon to fly in at just the right moment and make the shot even better? I think not!

It's a serious business, this fashion thing, of course, it creates jobs, it inspires young people (and not so young people) and it helps us express ourselves...but sometimes it's just a bit too serious, no? Which is why when Roz, who'd spent three whole days at the mercy of the many streetstyle bloggers, started larking about when I tried to shoot her, I loved it! I'd been all set up for the posed shot and then she took her position and started jumping about. This is the first shot I took, and I cursed that pigeon at the time for ruining an otherwise perfect, spontaneous photo. I got the 'perfect' shot at the end, but I don't love it as much as this one. It's just a (literally) passing moment, captured through luck and maybe something to remind us all that fashion (and fashion week) is fun...and long may it remain so.

For more fashion fun see also Roz's post and Lucy's shiny thoughts of fashion week

London Fashion Week street style - Crusading

2011-02-25T16:04:00.001-06:00

I'm sure you all know Jen, the Style Crusader, by now. But what you may not yet know is that her style at LFW was out of this world. Every day she worked a different look. Cat shorts! Flares! Big jewels! But (despite being nuts about anything cat-related) this was my favourite ensemble of the lot, a crisp white coat dress, vampy purple lips and, well, it's all about those amazing shoes. Custom creeper DMs! Basically my shoe heaven. Check out Jen's blog for the rest of her LFW looks...

London Fashion Week Street Style - Fred Butler

2011-02-23T16:14:00.001-06:00

London Fashion Week street style - David Nyanzi (payback)

2011-02-22T17:15:00.003-06:00

One of the best things about fashion week is catching up with other bloggers, and meeting those you 'know' online in real life. David's and my paths seems to have crossed on several occasions recently - on a brick lane street corner, in snapping the same subject entirely coincidentally, and in Adorngirl's imagination where she sees us having some sort of X Factor-style blogger-off (he'd win, hands down, I'm not even going there). And then again, daily, during fashion week, from which I'll leave you these photos of the usually-camera shy man himself, as payback for one he posted of me - since removed, there are rules people and I am sticking to them! Check out David's blog, The Nyanzi Report it captures perfectly his energy and talent, and you can see for yourself that the man also got style (plus, incidentally, more coats than a cloakroom)...

London Fashion Week - Masha Ma's Kinky Boots

2011-02-21T11:45:00.003-06:00

After a stellar debut last season, all eyes were on Masha Ma's show this weekend back at the Freemason's Hall. And it did not disappoint. From my spot in the front row (thanks, Ashanti!) I could see that still firmly in place were the sculptural shapes and the icy shades, the softest fabrics and the minimalist styling. But fresh for AW11 were higher collars, zippering and more than just a nod to the fetishistic.

Those red boots were the talk of the town on Sunday afternoon. They wouldn't have worked without the beautiful, precision cuts of the garments, and perhaps the knitwear and midi-lengths would have looked too chaste without the boots. It was a design marriage made in heaven, so right it made all who watched feel like that's the only thing we should be wearing. All in all, another sure sign that Masha Ma is destined for great things...

London Fashion Week street style: I love cool stuff

2011-02-20T15:40:00.002-06:00

(disclaimer: kids, smoking is not cool, unless you're this guy)

London Fashion Week street style: Roz

2011-02-19T13:12:00.003-06:00

This is Roz, from Clothes, Cameras and Coffee. I'm posting her as my first LFW street style shot this season as pretty soon she's going to be all over the internet and I want to get in there first! It took her and her incredibly patient (and very lovely not to mention ultra stylish) mother probably about an hour to leave Somerset House today as the paps, bloggers and model agents could not get enough of Roz. And you can see why. Stunning, poised and impeccably stylish, not to mention a lovely, friendly girl. Meeting her was one of today's highlights. Many more to come...

Featured in London's Evening Standard Magazine 25.03.11

Sorry, black, you're over

2011-02-13T05:43:00.002-06:00

You know when you open your wardrobe and see before you a myriad of colour and think 'this will not go together', but then you try it all on and....you were right? The fact is, the majority of us shy away from bold colour mixing, or struggle to get it right (with Kit, the Style Slicker, being one notable exception). And now, this girl, street-spotted at Spitalfields yesterday. The combination of coral coat with red tights and blue scarf is genius. Let's be honest, most of us would have gone for a dose of black to balance it out. Instead, the finishing touches are a vintage floral dress peeking through, brown tasseled brogues, and that smile. Enough to brighten anyone's day and, possibly, inspire a bit of colour bravery...?

ps - don't forget I'm twittering now, or tweeting, or twitting. Here, anyway.

A little sunshine - twice

2011-02-06T06:42:00.005-06:00

Well, I said yesterday that I was going in search of colour, and this is what I found. As if the yellow coat wasn't divine enough, just look how it's paired with the olive trousers, the tartan scarf, the patterned carpet bag, and those rosy cheeks. The perfect antidote to a long, grey winter. More, please!

And speaking of more, a quick post-edit...turns out the very same girl was shot the day before, on the other side of town, by none other than David 'Nyanzi Report' Nyanzi, yes, he who also just happened to be shooting on the same corner as me the week before! His shots are great (as always) - check out the rust and grey colour combination paired with the yellow coat, possibly my new favourite mix. Wherever will this colourful lady pop up next...?

Don't forget, you can now find Styleeast on twitter, keep me company HERE

Baby you can drive my car

2011-01-30T16:10:00.003-06:00

After looking all winter for the perfect 70s car coat, it walked right past me two weeks ago, on this stylish girl. The proportions, the lighter suede colour and the sheer cosiness of it have made me supremely jealous. And that's even before you chuck in the gorgeous patterned skirt, oversized pendant and dark berry lips. A marvellous example of perfect winter style. Some people just have it all - including my coat!

ps - I just caved in to Twitter, I'm looking a little lonely over there at the moment...come find me here?

Max it up

2011-01-23T15:47:00.001-06:00

Dedicated blogger that I am, I spent all of 7 minutes shooting last weekend before toddling off for lunch with a friend. But, I packed a lot into that 7 minutes, getting not one but two great shots, and having the absolute pleasure of meeting one of my favourite bloggers, David of The Nyanzi Report who happened to be shooting on the same corner. One of the photos I got was this. I couldn't resist the not-quite-maxi skirt and I loved the way it was styled so simply with the vest, leather jacket and brogues...proof that you don't always have to wear a long skirt with heels and that you can wear one in the winter...

Hot off the press is the news I've just WON Platform Princess's recent competition and will soon be taking delivery of some amazing 70s flares, as modelled here by the lady herself. I never win anything, and I'm currently obsessed with the 70s (I blame the excellent Runaways movie - Dakota Fanning, you are just too cool) so it's made made my weekend. Thanks!

Hazy shades of winter

2011-01-17T05:33:00.001-06:00

You'll either have that song in your head now, or be far too young to even know what it is (as am I, she adds hastily). But hazy shades perfectly sums up this gorgeous winter ensemble. Though still understated, it's an antidote to all the black on the streets. It's what I'll call wartime chic, given a modern twist with the kneesocks and leopard scarf.

Happy new year

2011-01-09T05:44:00.002-06:00

Gosh, it's good to be back. For your delectation, here is styleeast's first street spot of 2011, and a perfect way of starting as I mean to go on, bringing you original looks and natural style from Brick Lane and beyond. I love everything about this casual look, from the hair colour to the 50s half-rim specs to the on-trend midi - and she was a lovely friendly girl too. Lots more to come so stay tuned...

We wish you a...

2010-12-21T17:27:00.006-06:00

As I sign off for the festive season, to face untold transport delays and a break from east London's street style, I wanted to wish you all a happy, happy Christmas and - as we say in the homeland - a braw Hogmanay. As this is Styleeast's first Christmas, it seems like as good an opportunity as any to thank all my readers and followers for their encouragement and support. When I started this in April, it was for my own amusement, a hobby and just somewhere to wax lyrical about the style of my neighbourhood. But it's fast becoming a vocation and I've had some unbelieveable experiences already (Vogue! Fashion Week! George Lamb!...the final one is a story for 2011 I think) and made some amazing friends. Special thanks go to Jill, Jen, Nicole ,Fi, Jackie, Kit, Shini, Ashanti and Lucy for adopting me right from the beginning and making me feel welcome in their world, and to Kat from Frock and Roll for helping me go international! Roll on 2011...

Love
Styleeast x

I'll be there for you

2010-12-09T14:23:00.004-06:00

Are you still with me? I've been a tad AWOL lately, but I can promise you plenty more east London street treats soon. Put on your glad rags on Saturday and look out for me and my trusty retro Olympus (no, Kit, I still haven't got a Canon). In the meantime, appreciate some of the best style my stomping ground has to offer. Is that two jackets he's wearing? I love the flash of dogtooth collar. And those shiny shoes! She's sticking to classic mac paired with high waisters and a gorgeous peroxide crop. Having a fashionable friend, it seems, is the trend of the season...

The Alexa effect

2010-12-01T16:14:00.005-06:00

I wanted to share with you this trilogy of photos. This first girl, shot last weekend, doesn't look like Alexa, does she? She has her own style and her own poise. But there's something about her which reminds me of the ubiquitous Chung. And she's not the first streetstyle spot I've found which puts me in mind of (arguably) the country's current biggest fashion icon. These other 2 photos were taken at separate times earlier in the year. So...what is it? Blatant copying? Clearly not - none of these girls are wearing an Alexa copycat outfit. A subtle interpretation? Possibly. But, I think honestly, it's not deliberate at all and is more likely just evidence that Alexa's easy, mixed up androgynous glamour is now firmly a part of our style consciousness. And, judging by these ladies, that can only be a good thing.....

The last photo is Kate, one of my original and best street spots, pictured also here

Featured in Frock and Roll

Say you want a revolution

2010-11-21T04:29:00.001-06:00

Styleeast loves a Russian revolutionary fashion reference and there's no doubt it's now firmly fur hat weather. Following on from what I've been saying about the importance of details in an outfit, this fur-topped fashion pixie shows how to use them to dramatic effect - the two-tone brogues, checked wool trousers (cue major style envy), cape, scarf, bucket bag. It's all going on. But the result is a beautifully coherent outfit, which will be keeping her lovely and cosy too...

Details

2010-11-14T11:52:00.003-06:00

I've noticed a few of my posts recently have focused on the details that make an outfit complete. This seems to be the new way that people are dressing...nothing outrageous, not too over the top (apart from when the situation calls for it obviously), no whole "looks". Instead all it takes is to just add a little something that sets your outfit apart, this girl's ensemble being a case in point. Take a simple vest dress, ankle boots and then chuck on a vintage knit (perfectly toned to hair, of course) add scarf as a belt, and - voila! Unique, individual, classic and all in the details...

Bring it on

2010-11-06T12:27:00.002-05:00

I'm mildly incapacitated at the moment so the stylish people are safe on the streets while my camera and I are bunkered down at home. Not so last weekend, when I had my first real winter fashion mission. As you may have read in my last post, there weren't many inspiring looks on the street, I'm putting it down to that tricky trans-seasonal period. But the day was saved somewhat by this two for the price of one style swoop. Finally, something interesting! Monochrome cape, two-tone tights, some rusty suede (my current obsession), colourful scarves and laugh-in-the-face-of-the-cold shorts. Winter? Bring it on.

Welcome to winter

2010-10-31T13:06:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween everyone. As we bid farewell to October, it's time to accept the fact it's very nearly winter and turn our attention to the warmer fashions on the street. Out and about today, I was struck by the extent to which there appeared to be a winter wardrobe of fake furs, trousers and boots. So it takes a lot to stand out, but this girl does it. No browns and denims for her, instead a fur of dazzling white, paired with some patterned pants and accessorised beautifully with the slow-burning shoe of the season, chelsea boots, and what I think is an Olympus Pen (so I'm not the only girl on the block with an Olympus!)

Get well soon

2010-10-26T12:26:00.004-05:00

This is Roz. I don't know her but I do know that she's a blogger, is only 15 and has just been through major spinal surgery. She made this dress to show the curvature in her spine that she's having corrected and I was struck by the maturity she has shown in facing this adversity head-on and sharing it with her readers. I'd only ever seen Roz before on Jill's blog and was struck by her youth, beauty and style. It's amazing to think what she was going through behind the smile. Jill, of the aforementioned blog, is leading the charge to bring one of Roz's creative ideas - the "mummy scissors" - to life and, through spreading it across our blogs, let Roz know we're thinking of her as she recovers. You can read about it written far more eloquently here. And of course, please check out Roz's blog Clothes, Cameras and Coffee and perhaps leave some comments for her to read on return from hospital. I'm sure you'll all join me in wishing her a speedy recovery.

Photo from Clothes, Cameras and Coffee

[Just to say I'm not making my own mummy scissors as I'm away at the moment without camera, or scissors!]

Elements

2010-10-20T16:40:00.001-05:00

I think the best outfits are those that aren't too try-hard, that look comfortable but unique and are composed of some simple elements that together equal great style. This recipe for fashion success is demonstrated a treat by this young lady from Ease the Squeeze clothing, in her Aran knit, leather shorts, button-up shirt and sock/loafer combo. And, if you have perfect hair as she does, that helps too.

Goodbye summer

2010-10-14T15:05:00.002-05:00

It's freezing outside - and Styleeast is actually looking forward to bringing you some winter fashion. But in the meantime, here are two friends both in black and brogues, enjoying the brief Indian summer last weekend. It's all in the details for their looks, his cropped pants and barrel bag, her sheer top and what I'm guessing are AA jodphurs (a style that rarely fails to impress). Goodbye sunshine...see you next year...

Featured in Frock and Roll

How to wear a maxi

2010-10-10T07:09:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was a good day blogging. I went slightly off-mission to buy a new hat, chatted to some lovely people, including Mr+Mrs Style Scout (and Baby Scout in his dog shoes, that's some serious cute), and took some great shots - at last, after a period where it seemed the stylish people of east London deliberately hid indoors when they saw me coming.

Anyway, as regular readers will know I am a tad obsessed with creepers shoes. Even more so since meeting this girl and seeing how ingeniously they update the maxi trend, for a laidback, grungey style. I almost don't want to give away the secret that this pleated number is from Topshop, as it looks so fresh and unique paired with the old t-shirt and those perfect shoes. She works in The Vintage Store on the corner of Cheshire Street, which is, incidentally, my new favourite shop. Pop along if you're in need of a new pair of ankle boots, leather shorts or some vintage denim, and pick up some style hints from the staff while you're there...

Featured on Line Love & Katarzyna and Frock and Roll

Fast women

2010-10-05T16:37:00.003-05:00

Now, just to be clear, I'm not casting aspersions on these ladies' character! I spotted them working for Mark Fast in the New Gen hut at LFW, ahead of the hot-ticket show, with both of them pulling off some seriously risque Fast cutout gear in the daytime. Jill of Street Style London did a gorgeous portrait shot of Laura, on the right, here, which really shows off her gorgeous make-up. Both of the girls had completed their looks with perfect faces and the girl on the left was made up with one of the trends I spotted throughout the week - dark, drawn-in brows and coral lips. Not that I profess to know anything about make-up, really I should stick to the street style...

Fish handbag

2010-10-02T07:11:00.002-05:00

It's good to be back shooting in the east again. Where else will you stumble across a girl sporting a giant fish handbag? Not to mention the layered tights, oversized woolies, cute collar and unique head gear. I'd been wandering up Brick Lane with Celeste and Kit saying I wasn't really feeling the local street style after LFW and then this girl pops up and lo and behold I was back in business! Stay tuned for more....

Back to the east - vintage street style

2010-09-26T14:09:00.015-05:00

Aaah, after all the lovely craziness of fashion week and trying to get through the hundreds of photos I want to show you, it's time to get back to what I'm here to do (on the blog I mean, not life in general!) - bringing you the best of east London street style. And where better to start than with this gorgeous vintage lady? I took this photo several weeks ago, before we had this cold snap, and thought she must have been too warm in her coat with furry collar. Oh, how the weather has changed, brrrr! And speaking of fur, check out Celeste's story of our run-in with the anti-fur brigade at Beyond Retro today. Anyway, back to the glamour of this girl, she looks just perfect (and cosy) with the red lips matched to her shoes, coiffed hair and hat...bringing a bit of class to the streets of my stomping ground...

Visit Aimee and her friend Harriet's new blog Bright Young Twins

London Fashion Week street style - knitwear

2010-09-24T17:00:00.005-05:00

Ok, so I lied when I said there wouldn't be any more, but we can't have great style like this going to waste. I'm one of those annoying people that isn't sad when summer comes to a grinding halt (as it felt like it had today) - I like jumpers, and cardis, and tights, and hats. Just like these girls, bringing some new season chic to LFW....

Karina from Stylesnip

Veronika of Venkavision in the midi trend - in her grandma's skirt

Beckie and her marvellous hair - from brand new blog Bibi and the Antlers

London Fashion Week - Masha Ma

2010-09-23T16:38:00.010-05:00

Time goes quickly in fashion, I've realised, so you've probably already heard all about Masha Ma. But I couldn't let this one go. Thanks to Shini of Park and Cube, I was fortunate enough to find myself in a great spot at the Freemasons Hall for the debut LFW show. To say we were all impressed would be an understatement - there was such a buzz of excitement after the show amongst all its guests. It was the slickest, most enchanting show I saw at the weekend, putting some of the more established brands to shame, and everything that came down the catwalk was stunning, cut with the highest precision and entirely wearable (though requiring a dash of bravery in some cases). There was just enough risque, a lot of glamour, and a pallette of soft tones to enhance the sculpted shapes, all styled up with only the models' unwashed hair and gleaming skin. The phrase "one to watch" is often overused but, in this case, wholly justified...

all photos by me - please credit me if you'd like to use them

London fashion week street style - pink

2010-09-22T18:05:00.004-05:00

As anyone who's ever met me will know, I'm not exactly what you'd call a 'pink' person. Not that I don't like the colour, it simply doesn't go with my face. I always think of it as too girlie, too twee and just too pretty. But look what we have here, 3 stylish ladies proving me wrong, wearing different shades of pink in their very own way and proving pink doesn't always have to mean flowers and fairies, it can be as laid back and edgy as anything else. You'd most likely find me in the first look....which is your favourite of the 3?

You're all still asking for more LFW street style but I might leave you with this for a while - not least as I'm now running out of sets of 3....but stay tuned, there will be more!

London Fashion Week street style - autumnal blondes

2010-09-21T13:25:00.006-05:00

Do you have room in your lives for more LFW street style? I hope so, as how's this for a new season colour combo - earthy shades of brown and rust, mixed with black and topped off with icy blond hair. First up, Anastasia, who had just walked for Mark Fast and was still wearing her catwalk make-up, which I think looks great with her classic 'model off-duty' style...

I also noticed a recurring trend of maxi-length waistcoats or shirts over shorter layers. I like it, it's a great mid-season look, worn pretty darn well by this beauty....

And finally, just to doubley emphasise what I am officially declaring a new trend, here are two of them, taking all the colours and toning them down a shade or two...extra points for the matching hair colour...

Now, be sure to tell me when you've had your fill of Fashion Week and I'll get back to pounding the pavements in the East again...!

London Fashion Week street style - Georgia Frost

2010-09-20T10:37:00.015-05:00

I grabbed this shot after the Masha Ma show yesterday. In my not-down-with-the-kids ignorance, I had no idea who she was, only that she was wearing excellent trousers and my favourite shoes - creepers. She was also very friendly and, obviously, absolutely stunning. So it's no surprise she turned out to be (as I was informed today) model of the moment Georgia Frost. Only 20 years old, according to Wiki anyway, and already a veteran of Burberry, Vogue and many other big names. But even before I knew that, it was one of my favourite shots of the weekend....

Featured in Frock and Roll

Featured on Masha Ma

Aside from the gorgeousness of Georgia, today's LFW highlights include meeting the man without whom, probably, none of us would be here reading or writing this - The Sartorialist himself. Overriding impression is that, in a scrum of photographers, he seemed incredibly calm. Also enjoyed watching Jill charm Julia Roitfeld to the point where Julia asked Jill to look her up on Facebook. Swiftly following in the highlight stakes was afternoon tea with scones, cream and jam in the press lounge, whilst taking Kit, the Style Slicker's advice on how to sort out my (Olympus) camera - "get a Canon". Wise words.

London Fashion Week street style - Colour Pops

2010-09-19T13:17:00.014-05:00

Today was another tiring but exciting day at LFW, kicked off by the Masha Ma show at the Freemasons' hall - I'll be posting on that separately, it really blew me away and was particularly impressive that it was the debut show. The Mulberry show was the hot ticket, where Alexa and Olivia (of course) could be found front row - keep your eyes peeled for Adorngirl's video, she's captured the new collection perfectly. Today's other highlight was meeting the man behind the camera of the blog that pretty much inspired me to start one up - the Style Scout. It was great to see him in action, and he's a lovely guy too.

It would be hard to try and define the style at LFW, it's a little mix of everything, as described far better by Jill of Street Style London for her Next blog. But today I definitely noticed a theme, to stick to classic black, chuck in some amazing accessories - hats, glasses, belts and bags - and add just a splash of colour....

Blogger Elle of Oh Elle

Featured in Frock and Roll

Georgia Nash at London Fashion Week

2010-09-18T15:28:00.003-05:00

Wow. First trip ever to LFW today and what an experience. I expected to be standing around not having much to do, wondering what on earth was going on. But instead, I spent eight hours dashing from one place to the next, catching some amazing shows (Osman, Lako Bukia) and hanging out with Adorngirl (big thanks for the tickets!), and Abimarvel and meeting their fabulous friend, Krishna. As well as bumping into all my favourite blogging ladies.

I got loads of street style photos, as you'd expect, but for my first LFW post I wanted to introduce you to Georgia Nash. Exhibiting at Hanbury Hall this evening, on Styleeast's home turf, I was absolutely stunned by the beauty of her designs. Floaty chiffons, soft silks, fur and brocade details, floor length, like something a movie star might have worn in the 40s, with front-splits and sheer fabrics giving the occasional flash of leg and a modern twist to her retro designs.

This collection was gorgeous and by far the most stunning I'd seen all day. At first I was gutted about the blurring in some of the photos I took (caused by a] not knowing how to properly use my camera, and b] the twilight hour), but actually I've left them mostly unedited as I think the effects perfectly showcase the movement and glamour of Georgia's dresses. Check out her stalls at Hanbury Hall, Hanbury Street on Saturdays and Sundays, and keep your eye on this lady, she's going to be huge and I bet we'll all be queueing for tickets for her shows next year.....

A couple of style tips

2010-09-17T14:45:00.000-05:00

This couple are like a head-to-toe guide on how to do simple style. First, start with a striking hairdo. Wear an on-trend piece with a vintage twist (aran knits for her and aviator for him), keep the rest streamlined with a loose dress for girls and skinny trousers for boys. Then polish it all off with some excellent footwear! Top marks.

I'll be starting my first ever London Fashion Week experience tomorrow. If you're down there, look out for me - I'll be the one with a camera, looking completely lost and stumbling around in inappropriate footwear (along with everyone else, I'm sure!)

Shoe heaven

2010-09-15T16:37:00.006-05:00

I turned up at the Bertie blogger event and my first comment to the girl on the door was "it's very busy in here", to which she responded, "it's the free shoes I think". Free shoes you say, free shoes?! As if it isn't incentive enough to hang out in the gorgeous new Bertie shop with lovely bloggers from Style Slicker, Jazzabelle's Diary, Platform Princess and The F Blog , then imagine a heaven in which you can try on a succession of gorgeous footwear and then be told you can, you know, just HAVE some. Whilst eating cola bottles and pork pies.

There's something for everyone in Bertie this season - whether you're a brogues girl or a cosy boots girl. I opted for something very un-me, black wedge-heeled chelsea boots, that I'll be risking pain and injury in wearing for pretty much all of fashion week. Thanks Bertie, you lovely and generous lot. Girls, get your skates on and get down there to check out the full collection...

Hey, doll

2010-09-13T16:35:00.001-05:00

This photo pretty much speaks for itself - the pairing of clogs and socks, the legs that can carry off those high-waisted jodphurs, all topped off with a sweet short shirt and doll-like hair and make-up. A real stand out look on a street full of stylish people. How much do you wish you'd bought those Topshop clogs now?

Creepin'

2010-09-08T09:11:00.017-05:00

I took this shot about 10 days ago and have been saving it for the right moment. Earlier today, I was thinking how I wish I'd taken a close up of the leopard print brothel creeper shoes she's wearing - they are, for want of a better word, amazing. And then, this afternoon, I passed this girl again on Cheshire Street while I was on a major mission to find myself a 70s car coat (which is another story). I don't know why I didn't stop her for another photo, maybe because she was with someone (I don't like to intrude) or maybe because I was too focused on my task, but I instantly regretted the missed opportunity. Today I glimpsed she was wearing the same shoes with what looked like a below-the-knee length jersey skirt, another great casual and relaxed look but with real street smarts. I want her shoes, and I want her style.

Featured in Frock and Roll

Just a quick edit to say that my Styleeast Vintage Ebay shop has now launched, selling lots of my lovely vintage things that I'm sad to part with but hope will go to a nice new home (and free up some wardrobe space for the next lot). See the link on the right sidebar...happy shopping! Oh and those looking for the leather aviator that I promised would be for sale, sorry to say it sold within 20 minutes so is no longer available!

Bring on the tights

2010-09-06T09:34:00.002-05:00

Wearing of tights at this time of year is tricky, you don't want to seem like a summer party pooper and get the black opaques out too early. This girl, pictured (of course) on Brick Lane, has got the perfect solution. White tights! Somehow summery and practical all at once. And paired to perfection with a cute pastel cardi, the whole look kept firmly on the right side of twee thanks to the black details, a clashing tan satchel and undone hair. Cute as a button.

Oh and while you're here, might you be so kind as to leave some nice words for my entry on Vogue's Street Chic shortlist, HERE? I'd be most grateful, especially given the competition I'm up against!

Peachy keen

2010-09-02T05:44:00.008-05:00

This is one of my favourite looks to date, I love the contrast of the sweet peach colours and 60s styling with the tattoos and fiery hair (which seems to be the colour de jour, see also here).

Also this week, I've been interviewed by one of my favourite independent magazines, Don't Panic. You can read the article here, which , along with what I'm now calling (still in bewilderment) "the Vogue thing" has effectively ended any hope of continued anonymity. Oh well! Thanks must go to the lovely Jill of Street Style London for putting Don't Panic in touch with me.

Styleeast on Vogue street chic shortlist (yes, VOGUE!)

2010-08-29T12:11:00.017-05:00

I am thrilled, shocked and amazed to announce that Styleeast is on the shortlist for the Vogue street chic blogger competition. Ok, so there's a lot of people on there and they're all AMAZING, but it's still almost too exciting for words. If you feel inclined, head on over there and check out my photos HERE , perhaps even leave a little comment if you like what you see.

And while you're there, pop in on Nicole Trundle of The Power of Beauty's entry (which includes a photo of none other than yours truly) and wish her luck too.

Featured in Frock and Roll

Blooming lovely

2010-08-28T17:44:00.003-05:00

The trouser trend is still dominating, and it comes in pretty handy in this inbetween weather. This girl in her gorgeous vintage florals didn't want me snapping her with her can of Irn Bru, but I think it just adds to the charm (or maybe it's just because I'm Scottish)....

Featured in Frock and Roll

Three times two

2010-08-23T13:33:00.010-05:00

Streetstyle - or should that be yard style - from Sunday's bloggers' yard sale. More of which later...

Featured in Frock and Roll

The very lovely Hannah and James - Hannah from His and Hers Daily Stylings . Stay tuned for more news of his t-shirts and her pants (all will be explained, I promise)

Featured in Don't Panic magazine

My new favourite self-style blogger, Alice of Alice Point and her sister in lustworthy baseball jacket

I am reliably informed by my helpful readers that this stylish lady is from Frou Frou - another great self-style discovery. Men take note and maybe you too can look this good sockless and in a necktie.

Introducing...Frock and Roll

2010-08-21T04:37:00.003-05:00

I have exciting news! I'm going international. Well, sort of. The lovely Kat of Frock and Roll has invited Styleeast to collaborate on the streetstyle section of the magazine. And to kick off this exciting venture, I did my first ever interview which you'll be able to read HERE (featuring photos of me by Polka Dot and Platform Princess) . I am thrilled to be asked to do this, the magazine is absolutely of an ethos I can buy into - groundbreaking fashion, design and music with an aesthetic that, despite being based in Vienna, is very 'London'. Not to mention the support I have for projects which seek to draw on the talents of a wide range of contributors, writers, musicians and photographers, and bring them to The People (that's you lot, btw!).

But that's enough from me, let's hear from editor in chief, Kat (pictured):

Styleeast: Introduce Frock and Roll to readers...

Frock and Roll is all about Sex, Drugs, and Frock and Roll... and Groupies. Lots of them!

What is the inspiration behind the magazine?
The inspiration behind it is to give smaller designers and artists some space as well as talented writers from all over the world. I worked for a couple of online magazines before but something has always been missing. So I just thought: 'Just start your own then.'

What type of people do you expect will read Frock and Roll?
People who are not only reading online ‘fashion and music’ magazines but also read newspapers, classical books, listen to cool music and well basically are cool (ha-ha), NAH, I just hope they will get inspired, enjoy reading and leave some constructive feed back!

streetstyle from www.frock-and-roll.com

And what do you think sets it apart from other magazines that also feature style and music?
I guess because we try to support people who haven’t reached their inspirational peak yet and because we try to give everyone ‘punch in the arm’ to start their own thing.

Do you think the future of cultural publications is online?
I think that it is, now the I-Pad is developed I even think there might be room again for paid online magazines, even though I think this is more the case for bigger newspapers and magazines. But there’ll always be room for printed magazines and newspapers – what’s better than reading a newspaper with a cuppa in your hand?

Do you write all the features yourself and, if not, how have you found contributors to the magazine?
At the minute I write most of it and my boyfriend takes most of the photography aspect of things, we always give Do-It-Yourselfers space, and soon we'll have someone contributing vegetarian recipes. Living the way of Frock and Roll requires healthy food!

streetstyle from www.frock-and-roll.com

What are your own favourite reads?

I always find it hard to find magazines, I mostly read German music magazines they are a better quality than the English ones such as NME. But I also read NME in my favourite cafe, they have one there for free. I don't read Vogue - I find it a waste of space, I'm not interested in only looking at ads and pay 10 Euros for it (in Austria). And I don't find any inspiration in it either. I read Nylon, which maybe is a bit cliché but it seems to cover most of the stuff I'm interested in for. I read a couple of blogs, all my favourites are English. And I read books if I have time though the last book I had to read was because of UNI ‘Bloody’ Hamlet (I didn't get until the end). I also read the sun online for the daily chitchat - it's like the Austrian ‘Heute’.

Tell us what to expect from Frock and Roll over the next few months

I hope Frock and Roll gained lots of loyal readers and more lovely people who contribute, ‘SO IF YOU’RE READING THIS, GET OFF YOUR ASS!’

Styleeast - Illustrated

2010-08-16T15:00:00.013-05:00

I commented the other day on some gorgeous illustrations posted by Style Slicker and imagine my surprise when I received an email this morning from the illustrator, Victoria Riches - a student at Kingston - with some drawings she'd done of my photos. To say this was a lovely surprise is an understatement, I'm seriously touched that someone has taken the time to do this, and I adore the illustrations. Clearly a very talented girl - check out Vic's photostream here or catch her (and me!) at the Blogger Yard Sale on Sunday (23a Benwell Rd, N7). And please leave a comment to show your appreciation for the artist...

The first two pictures are of little ol' me and the last is Jill, aka Polka Dot of Street Style London .

A leopard never changes its spots

2010-08-10T14:54:00.001-05:00

Some people I encounter on my Saturday strolls round east London are purposely dressed to the nines, perhaps hoping to be photographed. And others clearly just have natural flair and a don't-give-a-toss attitude, like this leopard lady. Great wide-legged jumpsuit, good accessorising and there's something a bit Gaga about that hair....

Styleeast is going camping

2010-08-05T15:28:00.002-05:00

I'm off to the countryside for a couple of days. But in the meantime I'll leave you with this very stylish city outfit. I love the contrast between tough loafers and socks, and light, pretty dress. There's no doubt it's being worn with attitude too. Great look....

People like these

2010-07-30T16:24:00.002-05:00

It's photos like this and friendly, uniquely stylish, beautiful people like this couple that keep me going with this blog. Their look and this environment pretty much sum up all that's great with my blogging stomping ground. For those of you who've never been, you should come visit, get a cup of tea, sit on the pavement and people-watch...

Pretty in pleats

2010-07-26T14:11:00.001-05:00

I love this look; it's a bit ladylike, a bit Victoriana, but very pretty and the red hair and lips keep it on the right side of prim. Perfect for strolling around on another of those weird London is-it-hot-or-is-it-not days...

Hair and now

2010-07-15T18:05:00.003-05:00

It's hard to capture personality in a quick snapshot on the street. But if this girl's outfit and pose didn't say 'fun' and 'cute' to you, her hairdo certainly would. One of my favourites so far....

Featured in VOGUE.com

New ways with denim (part 1)

2010-07-13T16:24:00.002-05:00

You may have noticed, everyone is wearing denim this summer. It's not often you see it done differently so I liked how this girl had got her denim fix from a little wasitcoat instead of going down the shorts route. But most of all I love its pairing with this gorgeous skirt. There are lots of maxi dresses around but not many skirts and I loved the slightly hippy, slightly boho look here, kept modern with the casual topknot and that trusty denim...

Styleeast goes to the seaside

2010-07-11T09:11:00.000-05:00

Beach: Brighton

Fish and Chips: Harry Ramsden

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik

Black and white and hot all over

2010-07-09T12:01:00.001-05:00

Summer looks in black or white...which is your favourite?

Candy stripes

2010-07-04T06:04:00.003-05:00

How lovely and summery is this pink candy-striped dress? When I stopped this girl she told me she'd bought it only 5 minutes before. I wonder what she was wearing before changing, and whether it was the heat that drove her to her new purchase. But anyway, I love the way she's paired the dress with brown ankle boots, making it slightly less cutesy and more cool - exactly what's needed in this weather...

Waisted

2010-07-01T16:55:00.003-05:00

I'm a bit in love with these super high-waisted Zara trousers. I've got them in green but I have been lusting after the navy ones lately. I wonder if this girl has been reading Jackie, the Platform Princess's blog or if they're just coincientally and equally stylish? In any case, she's definitely given the look her own twist and gone for brogues over heels, paired with big glasses and bright fuschia lipstick...

The hills are alive....

2010-06-26T04:16:00.003-05:00

I'll explain the title in a minute. Clearly there are no hills on Brick Lane or, possibly, in East London. In fact I can't remember the last time I climbed a hill. But, look! How adorable is this girl? In a fairly simple little outfit but with very interesting proportions, the building blocks of great style.. And, wait for it....she made this skirt herself....from a pair of vintage CURTAINS (you see where this is going now). Gorgeous....

Featured in VOGUE.com

And no, I can't, I just can't resist.................play clothes made from CURTAINS!

(Apologies to all who have never seen this movie and are therefore utterly baffled)

All that glitters

2010-06-23T15:47:00.004-05:00

It's a brave style choice to go out wearing head to toe gold, but I think this girl is pulling it off, thanks to the different shades and textures paired with the moccasin boots and that floppy fringe. It's true that all that glitters is not gold, but this look is certainly fashion gold (oh dear, sorry!)

With extra icing, please

2010-06-21T13:28:00.002-05:00

Oh my, oh my, how I love this look. The lines created by the headband, neckline, waistband, lace detail on the skirt and ankle straps combine to form an outfit like a delicious layered vintage cake. It's so pretty. Perfection with a cherry on top...

Featured in VOGUE.com

Rainy days and Mondays always get me down

2010-06-20T05:35:00.003-05:00

It's official - street style spotting is impossible in the rain. Not only do all the stylish people apparently stay at home, but have you ever tried taking photos whilst holding an umbrella, a bag and trying to hand over business cards? But anyway, this girl saved my day yesterday. I'd just given up and was heading home when I passed her and she's so super stylish that it more than makes up for it being the only shot of the day! I was drawn to her talent at putting together an outfit with rather a lot going on and making it look nonchalant, but then when I looked later I spotted some more interesting details - the sports socks, the folky pattern on the cuffs, and the furry collar, not to mention those covetable oversize glasses. A little spot of sunshine in my rainy day.

Don't let idiots ruin your day

2010-06-19T14:26:00.002-05:00

You may remember Nicole of The Power of Beauty , from not only the recent blogger meet-up but our own first encounter when she snapped me at Spitalfields for her street style blog . Well, congratulations to Nicole for recently completing her uni course and producing a fantastic end-of-year project - seven street style books, one for each area of London, each containing their own unique blend of local style and all beautifully designed, though you'll have to take my word for it on two of them, as somone had stolen them before I got there! I popped along to see Nicole at her exhibition on Brick Lane the other week, to check out her books as well as the other weird and wonderful projects on display. There is clearly a lot of talent, and some vivid imaginations, graduating this year. Nicole is shortly to be leaving London but I hope she'll be back soon, for more blogger meet-ups and to continue with her keen eye for a street spot!

Looking like she should be appearing in her own style books, in turban and long lace skirt over leggings....

Some of Nicole's books...

And a few highlights from the other exhibitions....

Luck be a lady

2010-06-18T06:14:00.002-05:00

Let's put to one side for a minute my major hair envy over these two girls and focus instead on their lovely outfits, showing us exactly how to wear the emerging ladylike below-the-knee length trend, with great colours and faultless accessorising. Perfect.

Featured in VOGUE.com

A "Rare" treat

2010-06-17T06:04:00.001-05:00

Thank you to the lovely people at Rare for inviting me along to their recent press day, to get a sneak preview of their A/W 2010 collection and to spoil us rotten with mojitos and mini fish n chips at Soho House. Not to mention the goody bag, complete with gorgeous white lace dress . As well as viewing some stunning pieces and kicking off my A/W fantasy shopping list, it was a great opportunity to hang out with some fellow bloggers, including the Platform Princess, and meet for the first time the lovely Adorngirl , the frighteningly young but fabulous Unicorn + Tee and the dashing gent from Dash Empire . And lots of other lovely non-bloggers too.

The venue was perfect for showcasing the dreamy, soft paletted collection, full of nude textured layers, shoulder detailing and ruffles. But with some pieces paired with an edgy black bodice or dark contrast stitching, there was something for everyone. Thanks for looking after us Rare, I think you'll probably sell half the collection to the bloggers when it comes out in September!

http://www.rarefashion.co.uk/

Fashion maths

2010-06-14T10:19:00.002-05:00

You may notice styleeast is looking a bit different. I'm playing around with the new blogspot templates and am likely to change my mind every five minutes, as I'm prone to, before settling eventually on an exciting and appropriate new look for my little blog. But in the meantime, here's another street style spot from last weekend. Jazzy high-waisters (if anyone knows where they're from, please let me know!) + a little vest + some Ray Bans standing by for when the clouds part = a perfect outfit, simple and casual but striking nonetheless. Oh and is that a Louis Vuitton I spy? In which case, multiply the fashion points by ten...