Welcome to this weeks instalment of Amanda Zips It Up.
Last weekend was utterly glorious in the Balearics and I came back to an even more glorious day – FREEDOM DAY.
It kicked off with my hubby Judge Jules appearing on Good Morning Britain and Sky News discussing the fact that Nightclubs are now open and we were allowed to dance in large numbers. Happiness overload.
Later that day, Mi-Soul Radio hosted their long awaited ‘End Of Lockdown’ party at Boisdale Canary Wharf. It was magical to meet up with so many friends we hadn’t seen for months in the beautiful warm sunshine and boy did we all DANCE our arses off.
It has been a great week. Next Friday will be my last blog before taking August off to holiday with my family in the Balearics.
So enjoy this ‘penultimate’ issue and catch you again next week. x
My style icon and everyone’s fave supermodel Kate Moss is the new face of Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS underwear brand. Available in numerous colour ways, this oh so comfy range is made from a soft cotton-blend jersey and is lined in mesh for just the right amount of support.
The reality star and businesswoman, 40, confirmed the news on her Instagram page last Tuesday with a series of pictures of Mossy, 47, wearing items from the latest SKIMS collection.
It comes just weeks after they were spotted in Rome, with the pair seen at the Vatican together, along with Moss’s daughter Lila, 18.
Kardashian described Kate Moss as “THE fashion icon” as she unveiled the supermodel as the new face of her shapewear and loungewear brand.
“Introducing Kate Moss for @SKIMS,” she wrote on Instagram. “I first met @katemossagency in 2014 through Ricardo Tisci, and was instantly struck by her cheeky humour, authentic and classic beauty – we’ve been friends ever since.
“She is THE fashion icon, defining a whole generation of style and I am honoured to feature her as the new face of SKIMS this Summer!”
The photo shoot and campaign is deliberately stripped back, Kardashian says. “We wanted to keep the focus on Kate – she is a force in her own right with such a strong presence, so we kept the set and background neutral to make sure that really came through. It’s 100 per cent Kate being Kate – she’s the best in the business for a reason.”
The duo are believed to have met at Burberry Chief creative officer Tisci’s 40th birthday party in Ibiza in 2014. Five years later, they were also seen at a Miami Dior fashion show in December 2019.
Kardashian has previously spoken of how she is inspired by Moss’s style. Speaking in 2014, she said: “I love Kate Moss. “I love how she wears her winged eyeliner and her messy hair and how it looks so effortless but still put together. It looks beachy and messy at the same time; I love her glamour.”
It also looks like Kate has embraces a slightly fuller figure which is perfect for the Skims range. Kate models the ‘FITS EVERBODY’ range, which is the best selling collection designed with a buttery, molds to your body fabric that stretches to twice its size.
Kim also unearthed several selfies from behind the scenes of her shapewear brand’s ‘Outdoor Basics’ campaign shoot.
The 40-year-old mother-of-four – who boasts 340.7M social media followers – looked unrecognizable in her Instastoriesthanks to the bleached brows and blonde wig.
Hairstylist Jesus Guerrero coiffed Kim’s dark-rooted hairpiece while make-up artist Ariel Tejada fully-contoured her complexion.
SKIMS designed the undergarments, pajamas, and loungewear for Team USA’s female athletes for the Tokyo Olympic Games.
Kim was partially inspired by her stepfather – California gubernatorial candidate Caitlyn Jenner – who scored Olympic gold medals for decathlons in 1975 and 1976.
Going out plans are back, and if your footwear isn’t up to scratch – I have just the ticket.
Slippers may have been your footwear of choice for the last year or so, but now it’s time for something with a harder sole. And July is a major month for new sneaker drops.
From Vans x Palace, to Lego X Adidas, I have gathered the trainers worth investing in to take your sneaker collection to new heights, including covetable collaborations you will want ASAP.
These are set to be instant sell outs – so run, don’t walk.
LoveShackFancy x Superga
The weather may not always scream “summer” but your shoes should. This third collaboration from New York label LoveShackFancy and Italian footwear label Superga is just the antidote to summer showers with a vintage floral print in various colours. They are available for the whole family with women’s, men’s and kids.
Vans x Palace
Two powerhouses in the world of skateboarding have come together for their first ever collaboration. Vans’ Skate Authentic silhouette has been redesigned with a playful repeat pattern of Palace’s newest “employee” – Jeremy the Duck – in three colourways of salmon, black and white.
Forever Free Pride Collection by PUMA in partnership with Cara Delevingne
In honour of Pride month, Cara Delevingne teamed up with Puma for a second collaboration. “I wanted to not only celebrate Pride month but also honour the strength of the community, specifically in regard to the mental health hurdles that the LGBTQIA+ community has faced,” explains the model-actress. The unisex collection is made up of tees, hoodies, bodysuits and leggings. Plus a footwear offering that reimagines the PUMA suede with rainbow embellishments. 20 per cent of the proceeds go to the Cara Delevingne Foundation to support LGBTQIA+ charities worldwide.
Blazer Low ‘77 Vintage BeTrue
Pride month may be officially over but Nike is showing that you can still spread the rainbow love with these Blazer Low with pastel pops of pink and a multi-coloured embroidered Swoosh. There’s a play on texture with the leather, suede and rubber sole.
Lego x Adidas Originals Superstar Shoe
Sneaker collectors are in for a real treat with this collaboration between LEGO and Adidas where you will be able to recreate the iconic Originals Superstar using the legendary bricks. They come complete with laces and shoe box for a realistic look as well as 17 additional pieces so you can customise the construction to your preference.
The range comes in the bold colours that the bricks are well known for in hues of black, green, blue, grey and red as well as this bold yellow design.
Casablanca x New Balance Athletics
The second drop from the killer combination of après-sport house Casablanca and New Balance comes a redesign of the 327 & 237 with the fashion label’s signature red monogram design. The hoes have a wedged heel and a play of texture combining suede, mesh and nylon.
Vans x Sandy Liang and Spongebob SquarePants
Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? The star of Vans’ latest shoe. The New York design Sandy Liang has brought her love of the cartoon sponge to a line of playful, nostalgia-inducing footwear in collaboration with the footwear specialists. You’ll spot elements from the hit children’s show likes the groovy floral appliques.
Vans with Liberty London Fabrics
The sartorial symbol of summer we didn’t know we needed, Vans has covered its classic shoes in iconic Liberty prints for a brighter and bolder look than the traditional colour blocking. The Old Skool silhouette is covered in a multi-coloured floral pattern or a patchwork floral-inspired paisley.
Puma Mayze
These are my faves – Puma have really delivered – the Mayze shoe takes a more XXL approach to its silhouette with a chunky sole and subtle pops of colour. While the shoe itself is not minimalistic, the colour palette is muted with pastel or black and white hues.
Good News x H&M
British footwear brand Good News has launched a line with high street hero H&M. The collection is made up of retro-inspired trainers with a huge nod to sustainability. The shoes are crafted from Banantex (fibre from banana plants) and Vegea (vegan grape leather). The unisex designs have a 70s colour palette with three styles and smaller sizes for little ones.
Converse x Carhartt Wip Chuck 70 Hi ICONS
Workwear label turned street style staple, Carhartt is lending its signature aesthetic to the iconic Converse Chuck 70 silhouette. There are two colourways for the All Stars that take inspiration from the recurring motifs in the brand’s collections; camo print and brown. Both are crafted with robust, durable fabrics in line with the brand’s DNA with subtle logo detailing and a cushioned OrthoLite insole for added comfort.
NIGHTCLUBS can officially open again – but we’ve almost forgotten what to wear!
At last we can get dressed up, get glamorous AND DANCE!
Heading on a night out with your best girlfriends requires your best look, so that you truly feel fantastic and ready for all of the inevitable group selfies
Of course, the inevitable ‘Love Island’ LBD from ASOS is always going to work, but what if you want prefer something a little more ‘dressed down’?
Girls…
Salmon Crop and Black Trousers
You simply can’t go wrong with a pair of fitted and tailored black trousers. They’re oh so versatile and incredibly comfortable too. For your girl’s night, choose a pair of tailored black trousers which are cuffed at the ankle. Team with a salmon coloured sleeveless cropped shirt and some strapped black heels. Add a matching salmon coloured lipstick.
Silk Camisole and High Waisted Jeans
High waisted jeans are incredibly flattering, nipping you in at the waist and showing off your curves. Start your outfit with a classic black pair of high waisted jeans. Add a silk camisole top in a gorgeous neutral colour. I like this mauve colour, plus add some classic high heels and a long duster coat for the ultimate and sophisticated fashion.
Leather Skirt or Shorts and Slogan Tee
A little leather skirt or leather shorts are wardrobe essentials for every girl. Pair your mini leather skirt with a classy slogan tee. I’m loving this red and black tee with a sassy slogan. Add your best pair of boho boots anda shock of red lipstick to create a look which will help you stand out from the crowd.
Boys…
Night Out Outfits FAQ
Which trousers should you wear to a club?
You can either choose jeans, chinos or trousers, depending on where you are going. Skinny Jeans (but not too skinny) are ideal for clubs with a more casual style, while smarter trousers are best for formal settings. These can still look relaxed if they have a ‘checked pattern’ a la ZARA Men. If unsure of what to wear, simple old school chinos are always a safe choice. Make sure they’re baggy and rolled up at the ankle. Team with your Nikes. Think skater chic.
What accessories are appropriate for clubbing?
Keep your accessories minimal. Select a great watch to add interest to your outfit. If you plan on tucking in your shirt, choose a nice belt. Chunky bracelets are always cool and give a Balearic vibe.
What should I avoid wearing at a club?
Clubs usually have dress codes so make sure you follow them before heading out. Wearing flip-flops or singlets are usually no-nos, but it depends on the venue. Blazers look terrible (ageing) and carrying any form of bag just looks wrong too. No bling chains or sovereign rings and definitely no HATS! NO RIPPED JEANS EITHER!
So we lost to Italy at the Euros but we did amazingly well to get to the finals as far as I’m concerned. To console myself, I’ve been catching up with my guilty pleasure instead – Love Island – purely for fashion reasons, obviously.
As the Islanders try to attract the eye of their on-show admirers, we’re all scrutinising their sartorial choices. And now it’s easier than ever to find the pieces that took your fancy. If you’re looking to steal a slice of the Islanders’ style, I’ve listed the best outfits below.
I Saw It First are sponsoring Love Island’s First Look, where viewers will be able to get a sneak peak of the day’s episode. Shoppers can snap up favourite items from the Love Island Hub, including homeware, outfits featured on the show, and of course, swimwear.
Here are some of the best outfits I’ve spotted over the last week on the show.
Faye’s Racer Neck Top
We’re obsessed. This sage green racer is the perfect “night out” top, and can be easily dressed up or down.
Sage Rib Racer Neck Flossing Detail Sleeveless Crop Top, £12, I Saw It First
Kaz’s Stone Co-Ord
This stand-out co-ord is under £30, with a fabulous ring front bandeau top, and flares in a flattering stone shade.
Stone Double Layer Ring Front Bandeau Top, £10, I Saw It First
Stone Ruched Front Flared Trousers, £15, I Saw It First
Sharon’s Red Dress
This gorgeous red dress is £30 and is perfect for your first night out after Freedom Day.
Red High Neck Ruched Back Satin Mini Dress, £30, I Saw It First
Sharon’s Tie Dye Midi Dress
Sharon’s super flattering cowl neck dress is as great for holidays as it is for trips to the pub.
Multi Petite Woven Tie Dye Cowl Neck Strappy Midi Dress, £28, I Saw It First
Chloe’s White Shirt Dress
This gorgeous Shirt Dress can be dressed up or down, and is great for warm summer nights – plus it’s under £30.
White Belted Oversized Shirt Dress, £28, I Saw It First
It’s about to get hot hot hot and not only is it swimwear season, it’s also Freedom day on Monday, meaning late nights, hangovers and a more unhealthy lifestyle. We know certain superfoods can not only help us to lose weight but also help combat those unhealthy ‘episodes’ we have coming up with the opening of nighclubs and festivals.
Summer also shines a spotlight on sun damage, which burns brighter today than ever before. We know ever more about the harmful effects of the sun, and thankfully we have more information and available products to help us fight back.
Of course, keeping out of the sun, covering up exposed skin and wearing a good sunscreen are your best bets for protecting yourself against harmful rays, but there is one line of defence you could be forgetting: your shopping trolley.
Here’s what you should be buying this summer to stay healthy, happy and safe.
1. Sweet Potatoes
Cancer-causing compounds called free radicals are the enemy when it comes to sun damage, harming not only skin cells but also cells inside the body. One of the best ways to help your body fend off free radicals is by consuming a variety of anti-oxidant-rich foods. An antioxidant is any chemical that can neutralize free radicals, turning them from unstable particles that damage healthy cells into stable particles that are essentially harmless. One of the major antioxidants is beta-carotene. Sweet potatoes are packed to the brim with beta-carotene, so chow down this summer.
2. Green Tea
Green tea is often applauded for its ability to rev up your metabolism, but it’s also a powerful skin food. Green tea contains a high concentration of catechins, which boast anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and antioxidant effects that fight off free radicals from the sun. It also contains polyphenols, plant compounds that some studies suggest may be effective in preventing cancer because they limit the blood supply to different areas where cancer can develop. Carrillo explains, “Shy away from bottled, processed teas because the polyphenol count changes once it’s been on the shelf—it’s lower,” warns Carrillo. “Brew fresh tea instead.”
3. Sunflower Seeds
These crunchy little seeds contain the powerful antioxidant vitamin E. 30g of hulled sunflower seeds contain about 10mg of vitamin E, which is about two-thirds of your recommended daily intake. Sprinkle over salads, mix into oatmeal, or eat by the handful. It’s best to get your dose of vitamin E from whole foods, versus supplements, to reap the most benefits. Other potent sources include nuts, eggs, green leafy vegetables, avocados, and whole grains.
4. Tomatoes
Lycopene is another important antioxidant to have in your diet regularly, especially during the summer, and tomatoes are one of the best sources. As a rule of thumb, the redder the tomato, the more lycopene it contains. Additionally, lycopene is more easily absorbed by your body when the tomatoes have been cooked, so reach for tomato paste, juice, soups, and sauces pre a beach day. Research presented at the Royal Society of Medicine in London found that consuming tomato paste significantly enhanced the skin’s ability to protect itself from harmful UV rays, and also helped reduce redness from sun damage. If you can only eat so many tomatoes in a week, Carrillo suggests watermelon as another great source of lycopene.
5. Salmon
While antioxidant-rich foods are central to protecting your skin against the sun, it’s also important to consume healthy fats. “Foods like salmon, tuna, walnuts, and flaxseed are all good sources of omega-3s and will help maintain that healthy layer of fat underneath the skin and thus prevent skin damage and aging,” says Carrillo.
6. Asparagus
Asparagus is another great source of vitamin E—who knew? The green stalks are one of the most effective foods when it comes to neutralizing cell-damaging free radicals.
7. Water
Water, water, and more water. The sun dehydrates you, and dehydrated skin is more sensitive and prone to damage. “Your body is mostly water, so by staying hydrated, you’re making your skin healthier,” explains Carrillo. “It’s going to prevent loss of moisture, which makes skin wrinkly. Good hydration is essential.”
H&M has launched a pop-art menswear collection featuring prints by American artist Keith Haring – perfect for that first “end of lockdown” party on Freedom Day.
The Keith Haring x H&M streetwear collection includes men’s hoodies, T-shirts, an oversized denim jacket and shorts, all featuring the artist’s most recognisable artworks.
Haring’s iconic cartoonish illustrations can also be seen across apparel and accessories, including a reversible bucket hat, a shoulder bag, and trainers, as well as underwear and socks.
To celebrate the collection, H&M worked with photographer Theo Wenner and two upcoming New York-based artists. The campaign was shot on location at the famous ‘Crack is Wack’ mural in East Harlem, a landmark along New York’s FDR Drive.
The menswear collection is available on HM.com with prices ranging from £2.99 to £39.99
In other Haring news, British footwear brand Dr. Martens has also unveiled a new collaboration with the socio-political artist. This follows the recent success of Converse X Keith Haring basketball boots.
Haring’s recognisable cartoonish illustrations have been printed onto two original Dr. Martens silhouettes, the 1460 boot for adults and kids and the 1461 shoe, all detailed with two bright character lace charms.
The 1460 boot is enhanced with black graphic detailing across the upper and features a strip of Haring’s bold, colourful figures graphic on the heel. While the black kids 1460 boot is printed with his classic bat graphic and features a cartoon dog on the lace charm and an illustrated sock liner.
Completing the collaboration are two 1461 shoes decorated with his staple designs. The first a nod to his ‘angelic baby’ designs with white colouring and the second is an all-over print featuring Haring’s iconic characters.
The Coverse X Keith Haring collection has been a huge success as seen at ASOS, Office, Offspring and Sole Supplier – all around the £75 price mark. Check out the cool tees too.
Welcome to this SUPER HAPPY installment of Amanda Zips It Up.
We’re on top of the world right now as the end of Lockdown is imminent, Summer is here and we’re through to the Euros Final this weekend.
Lat weekend I made a trip down to Leigh-On-Sea to visit my friend Nicole at Left Bank Six. She has an incredible range of fabulousness in the shop right now – all boho chic and rock chick vibes – including this STARMAN CAPE which oozes Ziggy Stardust Bowie feels.
And on the Ibiza Balearic tip, these incredible bags have literally just landed. They arrived from India and we couldn’t wait for you to see them.
Check out the animal print, the black and gold and the turquoise, pink and gold. They are so incredible. Bags for life and for the mantle piece.
Really roomy too so you can take them away for wekends as well. Contact Nicole at LEFT BANK SIX on FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM for prices and delivery.
I’m getting ready for my first summer jaunt to the Balearics next weekend. It’s time to start packing and I’m starting from the ground up…. with Summer footwear.
I have been sent these incredible ‘Rock Chick’ electric blue suede wedges , which are so light and flattering – they are perfect for summer. Very Debbie Harry. Plus these gorgeous black fur EMU slides, which feel like HEAVEN as well as the ultimate DISCO Haviannas for those Balearic beaches. I am utterly bowled over by them all and they’re going straight into my case.
It’s also the SUMMER SALE at my favourite shoe boutique – Vanessa London, an absolute utopia of designer shoes and accessories (online too) established by Designer Vanessa Townsend.
This nirvana of footwear is nestled in the bustling town of old Leigh-on-Sea, just around the corner from my favourite clothing boutique – Left Bank Six.
Vanessa London is a luxury British shoe and accessories brand founded by Vanessa Townshend in 2008. She stocks sizes UK 2-9 including ballerinas, brogues, loafers, sandals, boots, wedding & prom shoes.
Owner and Founder, Vanessa also offers a bespoke shoe design service and has her own collections under her private label VANESSA LONDON.
The Wedges and Shoe Boots – by Vanessa Townshend
As well as her own designs, Vanessa also stocks Alpe, Ash, Emu, Karma of Charme and my Ibiza faves – Haviannas.
I’m swaying towards the Karma of Charme boots and bags as a little belated birthday gift to myself as there is 25% of that range. This brand is SO IBIZA.
I have ordered the EMU sheepskin slippers in black which I will wear CONSTANTLY – they look super dreamy.
Here are a few of Vanessa’s beautiful new wedges and shoe boots which have recently just arrived and perfect for your summer wardrobe.
Most stylish Footballers On The Planet in 2020/2021
David Beckham
David Beckham is a style icon who seems to get better with age. The 46 year old former English footballer has a unique taste of fashion which is adored and followed by many around the world. Along with his signature hairstyle, Beckham’s items of clothing have always been in great demand. So, there is no shock that his capsule collection at H&M has been a success. He is also a successful underwear model as he has been labelled the best underwear model in the world by ace designer Tommy Hilfiger. Beckham is very experimental as far as his everyday look is concerned.
Cristiano Ronaldo – Juventus
Cristiano Ronaldo – the winking Portuguese goal-scoring machine – is regarded as one of the best footballers of all time. With the current net worth £100 million, he often spotted in the most expensive designer outfits and accessories. While t-shirts, street jackets and skinny jeans are all too common in his walk-in wardrobe apartment, Ronaldo occasionally dons a smart casual designer suit.
Lionel Messi – FC Barcelona
Lionel Messi, the master of the game, is one of the greatest footballers of all time, if not the greatest. The 34 year old Argentinian football player plays for both the Argentina national team and Barcelona. He may not be the most stylish footballer, but he is fashionable enough to catch the attention of plenty of ladies. The living football legend has his own premium lifestyle brand – and taking a look at his trademark collection, available online from the Messi Store, is thoroughly recommended.
Neymar Jr. – Paris Saint Germain
Playing for the Brazil national team as well as Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar Jr is recognised worldwide as one of the best players in the world. The Brazilian star footballer is undoubtedly a fashion icon too. Though he is into all sorts of fancy, designer and branded clothes, he seems to be particularly interested in Louis Vuitton and Balmain. He is not shy of wearing high-priced garms to match his ever-changing hairstyle.
Sergio Ramos – Real Madrid
Known for his aggression in the field, Sergio Ramos has just finished a lengthy spell as captain of Real Madrid and the national team of Spain. Earlier in his football career, Ramos was not as stylish as he appears nowadays – his sense of fashion has developed with his age. Unlike some football players who opt for flashy streetwear, Ramos has always been a man of class and elegance. Sergio knows exactly how to dress in public and often spotted in Hugo Boss, Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana. Fur coats, associated with the Italian mafia, are also a part of Ramos stylish look.
Paul Pogba – Manchester United – MY WINNER
French international Paul Pogba is frequently compared to David Beckham in the style stakes. He always catches the eyes of the media. His individual look features his constantly changing hairstyles and renowned clothes brands like Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Supreme x Louis Vuitton, Givenchy and Yeezy.
Hector Bellerin – Arsenal
Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin’s strong sense of fashion has caused him to follow the path of a supermodel while playing football. He walked the catwalk at Virgil Abloh’s debut 2018 runway show for Louis Vuitton in Paris. This Spanish footballer is an admirer of well-recognised fashion designer Raf Simons and a lover of fashion Balenciaga, Off-White, Fear of God and KidSuper. Hector loves a loose-fitting shirt and jacket plus slim-fitting jeans which are cropped a bit above the ankle.
