Fabfrocks reviews: Audrey Hepburn: International Cover Girl

You can have no idea how delighted I was when this book landed on my doorstep; the cover promises that there will be magic inside, and it doesn't disapoint!
The book contains over 600 pictures of Audrey Hepburn, some of them previously unseen, and the whole asthetic of it is fab; a sturdy heavy hardback frame, a candy pink cover covered in pictures of the lady herself, offering a glimpse of what's inside. It's a must have for not only die-hard Audrey fans, but I would say photography and movie fans too: the images span each decade of her entire career.
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I expected this to be a picture book, and whilst that is what it primarily is, the content and background story to each picture is just as fascinating. You are taken on a journey through Audrey's extraordinary life from the very beginning and given an insight into both her life and the career she had chosen; it is explained why she was chosen for certain roles, when her control of the images used to present her was tightened, and most fascinatingly, her relationship with Givenchy, who was responsible for creating the majority of her most famous costumes. There is also a brief chapter on her life in Holland during WWII which is inspiring and thought provoking. Although I admire her, I wouldn't consider myself an Audrey Hepburn fan, so it was also interesting for me to read about her husbands, family and relationships.
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Even if you aren't a fan of Audrey Hepburn as an actress, the pictures in this book show her to be a fabulous model capable of taking the most breathtaking photos. But this book is so much more than just a coffee table book, provided you are a fan of biography. Which, luckily, I am!
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I was delighted to find that not only was the book beautifully produced (which I had expected) it was also, and more importantly, a fascinating read. This is Scott Brizel's first book, but if he choose to write another biography of Audrey or anyone else (preferably in paper back so I can read it on the tube if you see this Scott) then I would certainly be picking it up.
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Love, Tor xx

H! by Henry Holland launch party

Tonight was the launch party of the H! by Henry Holland collection for Debenhams, so naturally I toddled down to check it out. My first thought on viewing the collection was that it wasn't quite what I was expecting; not as bold and brash as Henry's usual style. All the trademarks were there - polka dots, floral, tartan - but in a more understated, some might say more wearable, way.

The range is made up of 80 womenswear separates and a 150 piece collection of accessories and swimwear. Pieces that I especially enjoyed were the yellow floral dress, the neon colour block shoes, and the retro looking, casio-inspired, 2 tone watch. The tartan suit certainly had high impact in a light, almost pajama cotton, fabric, and was most representative of what I was expecting from the collection. Worn as separates, I thought both pieces had great potential. Lots of the pieces seemed inspired by other 80s brands - the ray ban style sunglasses for example.
Someone at the party told me that two of Henry's influences for the collection were "Clueless" and "My so called life". Viewed in this light the heavily 80s inspired collection made loads more sense!

As well as a chance to view the clothes, the evening was also a party. Fellow bloggers Style PA, Miggy and Disney Roller girl were all there and I also spotted Hilary Alexander in the crowd. Of course, Henry himself was the star attraction and I was disappointed not to have a chance to take his photo for you. The canopes were plentiful, as was the wine, and the goody bag contained the H! magazine baguette clutch; hoping to use that over the party season!

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All in all a good night was had! Unfortunately though if you're looking at any of these pieces and wishing they were yours, you'll have to wait: The collection doesn't launch until February next year. But don't worry - i'll remind you nearer the time and we can hit the shops!

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Love, Tor xx

Swim in it for charity!

Sometimes more interesting than what people do is how they go about doing them. For me, the thought process of a designer is just as inspiring as the final designs he or she produces. You can appreciate the design more when you see where it started and where influences were taken from. I hope this explains my fascination with the boards I am going to show you for today's post.


Cult British fashion label PPQ have designed a range of one off exclusive swimming caps in collaboration with the Schweppes Abbey-Well 'Get Britian Schwimming' campaign. The campaign aims to get more people swimming. Now I like to swim (its the only exercise I get if i'm honest!) but I would see these hats at the wedding before I would see them ruined in a swimming pool!






As you can see, PPQ used British heritage as the design influence for their pieces. The four caps channel four distinct British fashion traditions- Punk, 50's Britain , Rockabilly and Royal.

But because i'm a tease i'm not going to show you the final designs, but you can view then on eBay where they are now available to buy - it is, after all, for charity! Now i'm going to watch Xfactor and eat a roast dinner - enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Love, Tor xx