Even though this time of year means the final bank holiday is over, the nights are drawing in and the summer is coming to a close, September is definitely my favourite time of year.
It’s the biggest month in the fashion calendar whether you’re in New York, London or Leeds. You may have seen the award-winning documentary ‘The September Issue’ on TV last week staring the altogether terrifying Vogue editor Anna Wintour. Watching the mayhem unleash at Vogue towers demonstrates just why it’s their biggest issue of the year and why this issue’s release is much anticipated by fashionistas across the globe. The trends for the next 12 months are laid bare and everyone, especially retailers are poised to stock their shelves with the hottest looks.
Realistically, not everyone can afford the Louis Vitton, Marc Jacobs and Gucci fatigues that are splashed all over the pages of Vogue (although, if you’re feeling flush, all of these names are available in this here city of Leeds). The trick is to flick through Vogue or Grazia and find similar pieces on the high street or at the myriad independent boutiques around town.
Always hot on the killer heels of the catwalk, Topshop have a trend guide here including the hotly tipped tartan and tweed look. And the ASOS blog lists new must-have trends such as Camel coats, Pussy-bow blouses and leopard print.
These are all revivals of previous trends, so vintage and second hand are definitely options . There seems to be a lot of vintage shops popping up all over Leeds at the moment, particulalry in the new shopping hot spot Birds Yard. The Leeds Retail Therapy Awards have noticed this, so we’ve added the brand new category for Best Vintage to celebrate the arrival of new stores this year.
So, if you find a little oasis of vintage wonderment, please do spread the love and vote for them.
Don’t forget, there’s a vintage fair at Leeds University Union on 31st October (spooky). Plenty of bargains to be had particularly if you’re a student.
Good luck hunting and happy new warbrobe!
Annie
