Blokecore: The men’s fashion trend throwing it back to Britpop’s heyday

Blokecore is essentially ‘dress like you’re a football thug from 1997’, but call it fashion.

The term BLOKE doesn’t have an exact definition, but it conjures images of a “man’s man”; the type who loves football, spends his time at the pub, and oozes testosterone.

Whilst blokey behaviour has been associated with misogyny and hooliganism, over the years a new generation of fashion-forward males are endeavouring to bring the aesthetic back to the fore.

Blokecore is a style that’s become popular recently with Gen Z and Millennial TikTokers, mirroring the womenswear trend cycle with a distinctive 90s/00s feel.

The aesthetic is set to be big this year, with inspiration coming from Britpop icons like Damon Albarn and Noel Gallagher, as well as middle-aged geezers who haven’t changed their style since before Gazza.

To get a feel for what blokecore is all about, think back to a time when wearing a Union Jack was a nod to The Spice Girls rather than Brexit.

Baddiel and Skinner’s Three Lions is on near-constant repeat on the radio, while the TV guide is packed with sitcoms like Men Behaving Badly. You don’t have a mobile phone, so you put on your best replica football top and head to your local in the hope your mates are there.

Blokecore is non-craft lager, t-shirts and well-worn jeans, Adidas Samba trainers, Calvin Klein cologne, and mugs of sugary builder’s tea with The Jam on in the background. It’s a simple aesthetic, with comfort and wearability at its heart.

Brands to look out for to work the trend include Pretty Green and Fred Perry, and sportswear labels like Adidas and Nike are always great for staples.

Try charity shops and vintage retailers, too. As a general rule, if you can imagine it being worn by Gav Shipman in Gavin and Stacey, it’s blokecore.

Lad culture dressing embraces ‘working class masculinity in a tongue-in-cheek way’ while pushing back against the ‘increasing gender fluidity of modern menswear’.

In a world where soccer and fashion are becoming gentrified at an equal pace, that’s something we can get behind.

They’re the nation’s favourite bra retailer, selling 45 bras every minute, but this season Marks & Spencer is having a go at lifting another part of the female anatomy. The store is launching knickers with built-in padding to give our backsides a bit of oomph.

‘We’re doing for bums what we’ve done for boobs for years’ they say.

M&S hails its new £15 knickers with built-in padding to give backsides oomph and create an ample-bottomed curvy silhouette

They will be available from May in 35 stores and online, at £15 a pair. They are designed with two removable convex pads that sit atop the wearer’s buttocks to create a curvy silhouette.

“We’ve had requests from both UK and international customers”, says M&S’s Ms Jenkinson, who calls the pants the ‘BBS’ – bum-boosting shorts.

The popularity of bigger rears is, in part, a result of the Kim Kardashian effect.

The ample-bottomed US reality TV star has helped shift the female body ideal away from the petite posteriors of the nineties and noughties towards an hourglass look. And plenty of women are willing to go to extreme lengths to get it.

In 2021, nearly 400,000 women worldwide had Brazilian Butt Lift surgery, which takes fat from elsewhere in the body and pumps it into the bottom. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery this is a 20 per cent rise on 2017, despite it costing more than £7,500 and having the highest mortality rate of any cosmetic surgery.

While your average M&S customer might not go to the lengths of having surgery, they may still want a more curvaceous behind. 

However, the store can’t claim to be the first to stock this ingenious pant solution. Ms Kardashian’s underwear label Skims currently offers padded pants, as does the shapewear brand Spanx.

Futuristic bag made out of ‘99% air’ debuts at Paris Fashion Week

A futuristic handbag that’s almost lighter than air – made from a unique nanomaterial that’s the lightest solid on planet Earth – hit the runway at PFW.

The Coperni Air Swipe bag is fashioned from aerogel. This substance, created by NASA and used by the space agency to collect stardust, comprises ‘99% air and 1% glass’ but is a thousand times less dense than glass.

Although it’s delicate to look at – resembling a cloud – silica aerogel is surprisingly robust. Not only can it withstand temperatures of up to 1200°F, it’s able to bear a pressure of 4,000 times its own weight; an extremely portable 33 grams.

Essentially, while the Air Swipe might look like a flimsy puff of smoke, it won’t fall apart when carrying your lipstick, phone and keys on a night out.

Unfortunately, however, it’s unlikely to become available for purchase any time soon – at least not for us mere mortals. You can purchase one of the label’s original Swipe bags (made from leather) for around £600.

Welcome to this week’s instalment of Amanda Zips It Up and the hottest trend week is this:

Bag Charms Are Back: this Noughties Accessory Has Returned – And they are mentally expensive!

First of all, just look at the price of the new Balenciaga Rodeo Large Handbag in black! They have used smooth calfskin with charms with aged-silver hardware is in several looks of Balenciaga Summer 24 Collection.

But even crazier is the price of the charms!

The accessories for your bag will set you back anything from £100 to £500! No surprise that this has taken centre stage on TikTok pages and on the catwalk

If you can’t afford the real thing then the Birkin tote (or anything similar) is acceptable and the Anya Hindmarch polo charm is still expensive at £150, but will become a cult classic.

Plus – what seems to be the MUST-HAVE garment for this Spring – as seen on everyone from Victoria Beckham to Snoop Dog? Even I’m wearing them… it’s the Red Flared 70s Adidas tracksuit bottoms teamed with a black blazer or simple black polo-neck. Get yours at ASOS – Green are also coming in a close second.

What makes British hearts flutter with desire?

Drumroll, please – it’s the Essex accent! Yes, you read that right.

The Essex accent has been crowned the ‘most attractive’ in the UK.

Move over, sultry Scots, idiosyncratic Irish and charming Cockneys; it seems the allure of TOWIE’S wit and Essex slang has cast a spell on the nation.

Shedding light on this shocking revelation, were audiologists at The Hearing Care Partnership, interviewed by a UK based Radio Station, who had used their experience and expertise with patients.

He exclaims: “renowned for being one of the most recognisable in the UK, the Essex accent takes the top spot for being the most desired accent, with a one-month search increase of 59%”.

“This could be attributed to the fact that the accent has been hugely popularised by reality TV shows like The Only Way Is Essex, known for its witty one-liners and charming Essex slang.”

The Geordie accent snags second place in the rankings, proving that nothing warms the heart like a bit of Geordie charm.

Following closely at number three is the West Country accent, making us wonder if the West Country knows its appeal stretches beyond rolling hills and cider orchards.

Sorry, Northerners; it looks like this time southern charm has won the day.

Interestingly, Irish accents find themselves in a modest sixth position, while Scottish and Yorkshire accents find themselves at the bottom of the desire list. 

Whether it’s the cheeky banter or the infectious Essex slang, the southern charm has certainly cast a spell over the nation.

Whether subtle or strong, an accent is something that everyone has. It plays a significant role in the way we articulate ourselves, communicate, and connect to those around us.

The tonality, pitch, and pace of speech can change how we feel. So no wonder we are drawn to different accents.

Full list of the ‘most desired’ accents in the UK

1. Essex
2. Geordie
3. West Country
4. Scouse
5. Welsh
6. Irish
7. Brummie
8. Cockney
9. Scottish
10. Yorkshire

Let’s explore current lingerie offerings, not the every day but the exemplars of the form.

Lingerie, such an evocative word in itself, onomatopoeic in form; so sensuous and full of promise. Not dissimilar to how wearing these saucy ensembles should have you feeling.

Feast your eyes on said exquisite numbers then leave this article open to make some very unsubtle hints! With Valentine’s day upon us it is an opportune time to indulge in some new intimate apparel. Everyone is a winner here…

Honey Birdette is a risque neophyte compared to stalwarts Agent Provacateur and Coco De Mer in the naughty, luxe undies game. It has injected a deviant, decadent edge to our underlayers. You will find sets with faux leather trims, bondage attire, signature rose gold fastenings and my own personal favourite the playful Lyla Baby Doll. Also stylish equipment to accompany this kind of adult fun- guaranteed not to disappoint. An absolute must for the bedroom is this bondage set. A perfect lightcore introduction to the world of restraint. £60 upwards

Coco De Mer is pulling out all the stops with its refined bodies so if you prefer a one piece this is your go to. These can also be worn under a blazer; underwear as outerwear. The Hikaru range is inspired by Japanese bondage culture. Currently heavily discounted on Net a Porter. Approx €100.

Christopher Kane’s More Joy range is a way of wearing your heart on your sleeve so to speak. Subliminal messages they are not! Tease coquettishly with a geisha like fan or simply adorn an emblazoned item expressing your desires. Starts at £30

Last but by no means least the ‘Aer’ deserves a special mention. Take yourself to new orgasmic highs with this suction toy. Designed to mimic the sensation of oral pleasures; Oh Yes Please. Comes beautifully packaged in tie dye silk so even satisfying to your inner fashionista. The ultimate self love indulgence.

95 Euros.

Happy Valentine’s Day.

Chanelle x

‘Hate-wear’ and ‘Sad-wear’ are fashion’s new names for lockdown dressing.

With online sales booming but retail in sharp decline, the pandemic has changed shopping forever. Practical, comfortable items, suitable for a lifestyle of working from home and occasional trips outside, are at the top of the wish list. Brands such as UGGS, CROCS and even trousers with elasticated waistbands have seen rising sales. But with many of us suffering from lockdown blues, the way we feel about (and describe) our clothes has altered too.

Last week, two new expressions were coined to describe new attitudes to fashion; encapsulating the stresses and mundanity of lockdown, but also the changing relationship that we have with our clothes.

 “Hate-wear” refers to clothes that are neither stylish nor particularly comfortable, yet constantly in rotation – items worn for their utility rather than their style.

Not knowing how to dress is the least of anyone’s problems at the moment, but we (mostly) still have to put on clothes. For those of us who now work from home, it has resulted in some odd choices.

Examples of “Hate-wear” include a sweater with holes, jogging bottoms in the wrong size and a jumper worn so regularly it suddenly becomes a symbol of stress and sadness. Matt Hancock’s zipped gilet, worn during visits to Covid vaccination centres, has become a sartorial symbol of “stress and sadness”.

Meanwhile, the term “Sad-wear” is a collective term for clothes that make us feel better when we’re sad, specifically born out of the hell of lockdown.

The list of “comfort-blanket” clothing includes pyjamas, hoodies and, of course, jogging bottoms (ideally with a matching hoodie). But it could, equally, encompass something unexpected or luxurious, depending on how it makes the wearer feel.

Celebrities ‘rocking’ this trend include Harry Styles who was photographed in a dressing gown and since then, Marks & Spencer have reported a fivefold increase in nightwear sales over the pandemic period. Justin Bieber was seen in an unflattering sweatshirt and Jared Leto in a filthy old beanie. 

 Basically “Sad-wear” means a stupid hat or novelty jumper or even a pair of joggers that feel great, but are laughably unflattering, 

Welcome to the end of January, HURRAH!

As we near the end of this month and continue with the lockdown, we remain as positive as possible, looking at ways of maintaining fashion from home.

There isn’t too much to look forward to in February except for the 14th which is of course Valentines Day. As we’re in lockdown, we can’t really go out for a romantic evening but we can stay in, eat, drink and watch a movie.

But what are the top 10 Valentine movies of all time?

10. Ghost

9. Pride & Prejudice

8. Pretty Woman

7. Blue Valentine

6. Love Actually

5. Brokeback Mountain

4. The Notebook

3. Titanic

2. Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind

1. Casablanca

This week, my co-ed Chanelle has compilled an awesome Valentine Gift Guide for him and her, lots of lovely ideas.

In my vlog this week, I show you the latest costume rings I have found from the Vivienne Westwood website, which is something fun to look at during those zoom calls.

Enjoy. x

Valentine’s Day is on the horizon folks; Let’s indulge our inner romantic. Even if your standard take is that it is commercial schmaltz, this is the year to throw that shade aside and relish in love. We could all do with being reminded of our specialness, and quite how cherished we are. So, let’s up the ante!

The gifts I have selected are unisex and surely pleasing for all. In some instances, providing a moment to remember, in others a keepsake to treasure.

So please indulge, enjoy and make someone feel utterly sublime in the process. Let’s spread

                                                                   L-O-V-E.

Silver Fortune Cookies

Who doesn’t adore opening a fortune cookie full stop? Here we upgrade to the next level, presenting a silver object d artè Cookie with our own hand-written message enclosed. So thoughtful, beautiful and packaged in its own takeaway box for an added bit of kitsch.

$25.00 from Coming Soon

Hot Choc Bombs

A little indulgence liked by all surely. These bombs only require warm milk added to ensure a sumptuous, decadent drink. The array of flavours available is astounding (Salted Caramel for me please) and chocolate is a pre-requisite on Valentine’s Day of course.

Etsy.com £3.16 upwards

Darcie Olley Personalised Portrait

This immensely talented young lady is an illustrator lauded by Paul Smith none the less. As well as selling her own designs she will personalise a work for you in her own inimitable style. Please see my darling family portrait that she produced; we are all delighted with it. Such a unique eye. It could be you and your partner, dog, child. your call, her magic.

£36.00

In true Valentine’s spirit, Darcie has offered all readers 10% off her Portraits during the month of Feb, use code : AMANDA10

Solid Copper Photo Print

Have a special moment framed in a unique, decidedly retro way. My husband absolutely adores his, and it takes pride of place bedside. A personalised message can be inscribed too.

Not seen on the high street £25.00

Letters to my Love

How immensely touching would it be to receive 12 letters from your loved one?! No one could be failed to be blown away by such a gesture. Draw on your hidden wordsmith nature and start penning meaningful missives. Be sure to seal them with a Loving Kiss.

£12.99 amazon

” Cheese Box of Love”

Staying in has never looked nor tasted so appealing with one of Grape & Figs grazing boxes. Including three cheeses (Brie, Goats & Blue), cured meats, antipasti, fresh & dried fruit, nuts, garnishes and crackers. Vegan wine and stunning hand-tied blooms can be added. What more could you need for a romantic Valentine’s night in?

Grape & Fig starts from £45.00

Honey Birdette Massage Candles

On a slightly saucier vein, there are seven different scents of these exquisite massage candles to sample. These are not your average candle by any stretch. Use to fragrance the room, perfume the bath and also for some erotic wax play.

Honey Birdette £20-40

Wishing you all a Happy and Playful Valentine’s Day.

Chanelle Clark Bruccoleri

For the last year or two, there’s been a constant stream of tie-dye in fashion magazines, on all fashion social media platforms and especially my Insta.

I especially love Hailey Beiber and Dua Lipa here.

As we’re all locked down for what seems like an eternity, I thought it would be a nice idea to talk about how to DIY tie – dye.

Of course, you can buy pre-made tie-dye items on net, but let’s be honest, it’s way cooler to make your own. And more sustainable, especially if you’re giving new life to a ratty old t-shirt. Plus, it’s a fun (and cheap) way to spend a day that doesn’t involve another walk around the park.

You can dye bed sheets, underwear, socks, hoodies – almost anything really, with these techniques. Remember, it is recommended to dye natural fabrics like cotton or linen, as synthetic fabrics like polyester may not take the dye as well. Once you start, you might find yourself hunting for all your white items to dye.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to tie-dye your clothes at home.

You’ll Need:

• A selection of coloured fabric dyes – I suggest DYLON Hand Dyes.
• A clean white cotton or linen shirt (could be any white item, but synthetic fabrics like polyester may not “take” dye as well as natural fabrics)
• 250g of ordinary salt
• Measuring jug (glass won’t stain)
• Large rubber bands (hair elastics work fine too, in a pinch)
• Rubber gloves
• Recycled plastic bottles (ideally one for each dye colour – squeeze spouts give you more control when applying the dye)
• Bin bags to protect your surfaces

Getting started

1. Wet the clean shirt, squeeze out excess water, and leave damp
2. Put on rubber gloves to protect your hands (and manicure) from staining. Protect your surfaces with an old towel or plastic bags
3. Choose colours carefully. (Different shades of the same colour always work well– like Dylon’s Vintage Blue and Paradise Blue. Or, try complementary colours, like Intense Violet and Passion Pink.)
4. Dissolve the dye in 500ml of warm water in the measuring jug
5. Mix in 250g (4tbsp) of salt and stir well
6. Pour the mixture into a plastic bottle for easy dye application
7. Repeat the dye and salt mixture if adding additional colours
8. Choose your pattern technique
9. Gather a two-inch section of the shirt, and tie off tightly with a rubber band. Then, add another rubber band a couple of inches further down.
10. You can place a single bullseye splodge in the centre of the shirt, adding bands periodically, or do a couple at random, off-centre, like I did above. The tighter you tie the rubber band around the shirt, the cleaner your white spaces will look.
11. Pour a different colour of dye onto each section of the shirt.

Final steps

Rinse the measuring jug clean, and rest the bound shirt in it

Leave shirt to sit for a minimum of one hour to allow the dye to seep into the fabric

Without untying fabric, rinse in cold water until the water runs clear, then untie and wash in warm water

Hang to dry – make sure it is away from direct sunlight

Now you can enjoy wearing your one-of-a-kind creation. Be prepared for lots of compliments, and for everyone to ask you if you can teach them how to do it.