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Introducing, Moschino Scott.

(The main man himself, image courtesy of emptylighthouse.com)

Our prayers were answered last week when we heard the fabulous Jeremy Scott has been named as the new Creative Director at Moschino!

The flamboyant American designer, recognised most famously for his collaborations with Adidas, his love of clashing colour and gangster wings whilst mixing futuristic elements with tribal sportswear, will succeed the current CD, Rossella Jardini with almost immediate effect.

(Adidas Originals by Jeremy Scott AW12, image courtesy of zimbo.com)

Having his designs described as “an example of low-brow culture transformed into high art” with comparisons to artist, Jeff Coons for his love of popular culture; JS may not have been the obvious choice to take over the institutionalised Italian brand. But for the past two seasons the mainline Moschino label has definitely taken on a more fun, tongue-firmly-in-cheek direction with constant themes running throughout the show (the teddy bear snood had KTZ written all over it) as well as the younger, flirtier Moschino Cheap and Chic, which for SS14 included flamingos as their key print (this is why they are our favourite). 

(Moschino SS14, image courtesy of fashion156.com)

It’s as if they knew Mr. Scott was coming on board, to slowly prep the long-time fans of the luxury design house to get ready- for his love of stimulating concepts and abstract designs are about to explode onto an Italian stretched fabric very soon- watch this space indeed!

Slasher vs Slut?

Means Girls hit the nail in the coffin when the voiceover from Lohan drawled, "In 'Girl World', Halloween is the one night a year when a girl can dress like a total slut and no other girl can say anything about it." For the 31st October brings a sudden panic to the female predicament- to dress like a hoe or a hag. Pick a side, nothing in between, that’s it… and forever we will know what kind of a girl you truly are.

We are not twelve years old anymore, do not go Trick or Treating (we hope) and don’t hang around with the 'cool' group of guys who carry fresh Tesco Value eggs in their trackie pockets with a Scream mask covering their bum fluff chin (again, hope.) So why should a bunny or a zombie bride be the only choice of character for a woman to have? This is not a feminism speech about empowerment, liberation and equality but….  a fashion crusade. Instead of cheap lyrca, scratchy acrylic wigs and floppy ears look toward textures to get the sinister juices flowing. Leather, fur, sheer, beading and velvets in a mix of rich hues, clustered jewellery, towering stilettos with a berry lip will set the tone nicely- making it easier that the ‘gothic’ trend always seem to be bang on the style radar this time of year. Funny that.

Taking elements of our favourite horror characters, such a Freddy Krueger in this divine tomato red checked woolly jumper, the Beetlejuice flavour high waisted trousers; bring out your phobia of spiders in the giant tarantula-esque grey fury number or choose the punky vision of tartan and PVC to bring a touch of North London horror to your attire, is a far more stylish way to go. 

But saying all this, let’s take a bet- how many people will be dressing up as Miley Cyrus this weekend? Well suppose it is a happy medium… 

Shop HALLOWEEN here<<<

On a ragga tip.

Snazzy 90’s pants are back. Draw in at the waist, loose on the leg, rolled up at the bottom with enough flavour to break out into the 1994 classic, “I like to move it”- cos we do, right?

With the Versace vibe of the black and white swirls partnered with the mesh tee, the multi-colour circus favourites or striped boating delights, there is a design to suit all tastes. As the weather drops and gusts prevail, there is no better way to stick two-fingers up at the Great British weather than with some funky-ass trews. Layer over with oversized knitwear and a vibrant beanie or carry through the 90’s zest with one of the many tantalising bombers now on offer at HOJ- it's time to get all boombastic!

“Woman you nice, sweet, energetic. Big ship on de ocean like a big Titanic, Woman.” Wow, Reel 2 Real, you really did change the music scene forever. 

SHOP 90's Pants NOW at HOJ<<<

(Image courtesy of mixmag.net)

Autumn, is that you?

Believe it or not, we are halfway through autumn. This mild, clammy (especially when running for the morning train with your newly-purchased fur insulation absorbing you) lukewarm presence that has followed October around like a clingy boyfriend, is set to leave us from today, as the clocks go back and temperatures drop- beloved knitwear, WE AM NOW READY FOR YOU!

Finally, the autumnal wardrobe can make a fabulous appearance. Cashmere capes, novelty sweaters, vintage fluff, full woollen skirts, sheepskin button-ups, cashmere crops, tweed delights and charcoal hues make a welcome return to the most stylish season of the year. The cold (not wet) does not need to mean emotionless dressing- by keeping it layered, accessorised and chunky- both with boots and scarves, will keep the look interesting, varied and rich in substance.

Grab you mate, (fiancé!) or man’s best friend and take a wander around your local… park that is and enjoy the vision of rustic burnt oranges, the scent of burning wood as your next door neighbour sets your fence alight again and the crunch from serenity as you take a slip on something lurking submissively below the leaf carpet…. sometimes the simplest things in life are the most fulfilling.

Shop the Autumn Trend NOW at HOJ<<<

Made in Chelsea.

It's back. What Monday evenings have been sorely missing and the reason why our Tuesday mornings at work in the kitchen, have been eerily quiet. Three words; Made in Chelsea!

Whether you are team Lucy or Louise, love or loathe Spencer, think Jamie's hand gestures are cute or the worse thing to come out of the McVitie legacy or couldn't give a flying toss, there's no getting away from the e4 ‘reality’ TV show.

From the name-dropping, bar-hopping, bed-bouncing, ra-deee-da sex scandals; they are the young, rich and incestuous wearing only the latest labels. Vintage prints, fur stoles, large totes balanced on the forearm, felt fedoras, luxurious cashmere and leather jackets thrown casually over the shoulder (the latter for when they show us they can do indie too whilst swigging pony-neck beers in a very grimy, yet perfectly clean live music bar in Primrose Hill.) Drama, awkward silences, beautifully expensive gold stacked rings, glossy tonged hair and Cheska stirring it all together- this show has it all!

See they are just like us. (Apart from Phoebe. Not sure what stone she crawled out from...) 

Shop Chelsea Style at HOJ now!

Good things come in 3's

What do they say again- three's a crowd? Well, here at HOJ we don't think so, in fact we think it's best to do it three-way. For not only do we have one sublime black jacket but THREE bobby dazzlers! From the beaded trophy style, the caged cropped number (major swoon) or the fail-safe glitter statement- it's a sight to make your eyes POP in utter amazement.

The statement jacket is the simplest way of jazzing up any outfit. From work to a dinner date, clubbing East to cocktails West; there is a style for every occasion. By adding interest with detail and intricacy will make you stand alone from the stale-black-jacket-gang that is normally associated with such wearer. Mixing and immersing different fabrics, textures and shine together will give a whole new dynamic to an outfit. Basically, the moral of this blog being; never underestimate a black jacket!

SHOP NOW at HOJ

What a Menace.

Dennis the Menace- there have been stranger inspirations to come out of fashion. (Mrs. Doubtfire’s kitten heel with skin colour tights spring to mind) but come the cold, foggy autumnal days- striped jumpers, capes and ponchos will be your saving stylish grace. 

With the Bastille-esque spikey barnet, full brow and battered pair of lace-up boots - it appears 2013 is the year of the Dennis. There is nothing more satisfying than pulling over a comfy oversized knitted number; even better if holed at the sleeve, in these bitter months leading up to the festive season- but if you want that 'worn' feeling without the effort, then HOJ is the choice for you.

With Halloween creeping up, you will be well in vogue with the Freddy Krueger reference also. Add a fedora and you may as well but up on the catwalk, strutting it for Hedi Slimane at Saint Laurent. Just remember the melting face look is not and will never be, hot right now. 

Shop the Menace look NOW at HOJ<<<

"Oh man, I luuuurve the cake!"

(Image courtesy of cookiescakesandbakes.wordpress.com)

The Great British Bake Off. Say no more. The whole country has gone multi-seed mental for Mary Berry and her macaroon infused innuendos- and even for old pervy Paul.  Now in its fourth series, the BBC2 show has become a national phenomenon and golden crusted treasure; staying in is the new going out, for baking has overtaken twirking as our favourite pastime. (Mary over Miley any day of the week, not just on a Tuesday.)

And what could you possibly wear to sit down and gorge yourself on a selection of scones, pastries and pies… a tea dress of course! Hardened up with a graphic print and black biker boots, the look has come a long way since Kate Nash, circa 2007. Less pastle, more vibrant and not just for the indie Cindy’s with the Lego haircut- for now we can all sling over a battered leather jacket and pop in a pair of chunky gold hoops without being judged- baked or not.

So sit back, put the kettle on, turn off the oven and let the brutal comments from the judges on the remaining contestants, apple strudel commence. X Factor who? 

Shop TEA now at HOJ! 

Totally rave, yah!

(Images courtesy of style.com)

Whatever you think of Henry Holland and his ‘posse’ (Pixie, Grimy, Alexa and Harry… say no more) you got to hand it to him, his AW13 collection was perhaps his best yet. This was mainly due to the cocktail glass motif that was weaved in throughout (the drop earrings and embroidered denims were sublime) and perhaps less the term ‘Rave Nana’ that was coined as the inspiration behind it.

However, the mix of abstract prints, fun knitwear, garish colours and punchy jewelled fabrics was something that could not be denied; the boy done good. With the term ‘Rave Nana’ being referenced to describe either a granddaughter raiding the wardrobe of an OAP in 1989 before trippin' to an acid house rave or the female in question, literally being a pill popping, eighty-eight year old. Either way, get involved!

This look is all about sticking to the traditional ‘grandma’ shape of pussy-bow blouses, balloon shoulders, sensible sweaters and full skirts but then puking over it with neon orange, swirls, vintage prints and hi-shine. Chuck a parka over and you're good to go. But just remember; Sunday lunch with your family the next day… and make sure your Nan's not left behind on the M62.
 
Shop Grandma Chic NOW at HOJ!

Show a bit of skin...

(Image courtesy of dailymail.co.uk)

As the nights draw in and the temperature (apparently) drops, it’s time for your second skin to come out of hibernation and snuggle itself down over your bare torso. From the warm hues of the leopard and tiger print to its cold, heartless enemy, the reptile scale- the skin in general is having its style moment.

Thanks to Bet Lynch, Kat Slater and those D&G guys for keeping the spirit of the leopard alive and not kicking anymore. Being the easiest print to wear with a furry overcoat number, spiked ankle boots or on a handsome bag, it is a print that never fades. A tad tacky, a little cheap and a lot fabulous, it will keep you hot as Lynch’s fag this season. Tiger is saucy, zebra is a bit of alright too whilst all look marvellous with a bright rep lippy. And remember; animal print will never go out of fashion as the leopard simply never changes its spots.... or so they say.

Shop ANIMAL PRINT now at HOJ<<<

Nighthawk.

Forget the onesie (please god, let’s forget the onesie) for now it is all about the nightshirt making an appearance from the dark realms of your bedroom to the acceptable antics of day!

Who would have thought it; Michael Darling from Peter Pan being the inspiration behind the look? However, to make it fashion savvy enough to wear other than Christmas morning with your family (who are supposed to love you whatever you  look like) it must tick three specific boxes; be checked, knee length and buttoned all the way to the top- anything else would be well below par. So thank god HOJ has it all sewn up eh! In a variety of colour to match every laced boot and beanie in your wardrobe, the nightshirt is the item of the week. 

Now next up, long johns.... 

Shop the Nighthawk look NOW

Steal her Style: Lily Collins.

(Image courtesy of huffingtonpost.com)

When Lily Collins rocked up at the Givenchy SS14 show on Sunday during Paris Fashion Week, there was a gasp from the FROW. For not only was she rocking this seasons cult Bambi jumper from the design house themselves, but she seemed to forgotten her trousers. With enough porcelain skin on show to appear sexy without going down the Katie Price route, it was finished off perfectly with a pair of simple ankle strappies and the lustful matching Givenchy purse; the look screamed, “This is my moment.”

The British actress let the neoprene print do the talking, and if like us you haven’t got £750 lying about going spare, then the HOJ bright graphic jumpers that have just dropped in store, are the ones for you. Starting at £30, they are the perfect pullover taking you from day to evening in a knitted tug. 

Perhaps not brave enough to just go out in your undies, then match your statement sweater with the incredibly priced, H&M pleather skirt and studded box clutch from Topshop, before strapping up with these monochrome Asos beauties. Finish with a wet look gel if you dare and pout those lips up with the ‘Paramount’ rich berry lipstick from Mac- we like to call it, Vixen Vibes. 

This look is FROW class- simple yet extremely effective. Kim Kardashian, take note… 

Shop at HOJ now!

(Image courtesy of dailymail.co.uk) 

Guest Blogger Sian O'Donnell tells us about her Style Crush: Paloma Faith.

(Image courtesy of wkrq.com)

I adore this woman for three reasons: she loves Ashish. She rocks a pom pom like no other. She has amazing red hair (she’s basically an improved version of me). Paloma, I think I’m in love!
Seeing her perform at Shepherds Bush Empire in 2010 is when I first fell for her. Evolving in front of our eyes like a tropical bird, not only can this lady belt out a tune but she has enough chat, charisma and charm to keep you hooked from the start. (Her cover of Akon’s, ‘Sexy Chick’ was utterly hypnotising.) Yet it is her statement in fashion which speaks volumes. Without looking too try hard or contrived, Ms. Faith can pull off a look with the flick of a roller and as Louis Walsh would say, “Really make it her own”.

(Image courtesy of telegraph.co.uk)

Her background at Central Saint Martins, working in Agent Provocateur, as a burlesque performer and magicians assistant has helped channel her retro sound and look, yet with enough pure- bred Hackney vibe thrown in to not look like another ‘vintage’ Shoreditch t***.

From being a constant figure on the FROW at all major fashion weeks, performing at Bestival, appearing on political shows or being dressed head-to-toe in next season D&G, the jazz-husked singer and actress takes it all in her stride. Never appearing to take herself too seriously, she rocks a headpiece like no other, giving Anna Dello Russo a serious run for her money.

Her latest album may not be up there with, “Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful” but who really cares- I could spend all day perving over her photos on instagram and still have time for more. Infatuated? You bet.  

It's just, a little crush...

(Images courtesy of style.com) 

From all the daily requests you get on Facebook, it would be near impossible not to be aware of the phenomenon that is, Candy Crush!

Nope, thankfully not the game (seriously, get a life people) but the sweet-as-chocolate-boy hue that graced the AW13 catwalk. With the fashion pack moving on from candyfloss hair (when that bird from X Factor requested ‘pink’ to her hairdresser, you knew it was well and truly done) and has since moved on to become the colour of choice to wear.

We are talking sickly sweet, make the boys wink, PINK! Seen at Moschino Cheap & Chic, Miu Miu, Jonathan Saunders and Carven (that satin ruched number I need, no NEED) is all about femininity with a kick- smashing it,  full on, Chloe Moretz style. From tailored suits with punky-trimmed black and platform creepers, figure hugging and scowling, fluffy and fetish and witchy polka dot- it is the colour in which everyone can find a shade that suits.  

And if you can’t, well I’ll join the masses on the morning commute and crush some serious candy.

Shop CANDY at HOJ now! 

Prada, Prada, Prada!

Having immersed ourselves fully within LFW and all the incredible designers that have exploded onto the cobbles, in and around Somerset House to make London, yet again the most exciting of the fashion week’s… we nearly forgot about our favourite designer of ALL time- Prada!

Miuccia Prada you are the ultimate Fairy Godmother. Just when we let you slip from our mind for a millisecond, you deliver, in outstanding fashion.  The punchy, vibrant use of primary colour, the pop art imprinted onto fun fur coats, the embellishment, the sporty knitted tube socks, the ladylike handbags, the bejeweled bras over structured outerwear- it was a complete mouth to the floor moment. Milan was suddenly in the limelight again and it was all down to you. 

(images courtesy of style.com)

With the minimal-faced models strutting down the catwalk like a fierce Sicilian gang; nothing or no-one will be safe from the ultimate control they will have over the fashion world come SS14. Miuccia- sod the pumpkin and Prince, can I have that canary fur number and decorated emerald dress with the Twiggy-esque face sprawled across it. I promise (maybe) to have it back my midnight! 

SHOP graphic prints NOW at HOJ!

"He who dares Rodney, he who dares... "

It's hard to believe but it seems Del Boy really is the style icon of choice for this week’s hottest coats! Be it the original, understated champion, ‘The Sheepskin’, the furry and black ‘Panther’ or the print straight out of Trotters Independent Traders,‘The Faux Burbs’. He may be well known for his sovereign rings, flat cap, roll necks and cigars- which we agree, won’t exactly make it onto the catwalk, yet his choice of coats? Pffft, a completely different story!

Camel is the shade of the season; mix it with a hefty vintage and warm sheepskin, a honey-coated fur trim and a cropped suede number and you have yourself an absolute WINNER! The idea is take to take elements of our favourite South Londoner and tweak him into shape with faux fox fur stoles, chunky laced boots and a rich lippy to make it Nelson Mandela House-worthy. Well, Peckham is all the rage at the moment…

Shop the NEW SEASON coats NOW- Mange Tout!  

Introducing, Kane and the Camo.

(Images courtesy of style.com)

Gwen Stefani may have sung about clearing out Vivienne Westwood in a Galliano gown in 2004, but it’s safe to say in 2013, it is all about Christopher Kane.

If Christopher Bailey and his Burberry brigade are the hottest ticket in town when it comes to LFW (by ‘hot’ we mean Harry Styles and Suki-whatsherface…) then Christopher Kane is his younger, ballsier brother who is about to take the trench right of his back. Having been compared to Gianni Verace by Donatella (who he partnered with for Versus) his beautifully cut designs have enough guts and intrigue to keep the younger fashion pack happy and unconditionally supportive. With the Scot selling 51% of his stake in the brand to luxury holding company Kering, who also represent Stella McCartney, Gucci and Saint Laurent, simply means the world is now officially his pearly oyster

And this is why we love him. For AW13 Kane has single-handedly brought back the camo print in a BIG way. Forget the Destiny’s Child two-piece or All Saints’ combats of synthetic style from the 90’s – banish it from your mind- this time around it is about LUXE. Wear the print with a knitted sweater, a fur jacket and a pair of heels to bring the glam into cam. But if the print still brings back too many awful memories of dancing around your bedroom to the Vengaboys, then simply pick up the khaki hue and blend it in with metallics and denim. It really is the trend of the season. Trust.

Shop at House of Jam NOW.