NEWS| Phoebe English 'Fashion Mix' on SHOWstudio

Autumn/ Winter 'Merit Award' winner, Phoebe English has one again partnered with award-winning fashion platform, SHOWstudio; though this time, in a musical-capacity. Don't let that have you believe the CSM MA graduate has downed scissors and calico in favour of a career as a musician... the young designer has in fact just contributed to SHOWstudio's "Fashion Mix" project, in which industry creatives share the tracks that inspire, and enliven them- be it personally, or pertaining to work.

You can find English's "Fashion Mix" here, including the track from her Autumn/ Winter 'Merit Award' show. To see the collection in full, and read our review, click here.

NEWS| Kirsty Ward featured in TWENTY6

The jewellery of London based designer Kirsty Ward has been featured in the editorial of online fashion magazine, TWENTY6. With her creations taking unconventional structures with an emphasis on form, the A/W12 necklace is shot alongside pieces by Acne and Bora Aksu. A graduate of Womenswear at Central Saint Martins, the designer launched her label in 2010 and was named the Rising Star of 2011 by Elle.co.uk. Having also been featured alongside David Longshaw in the June issue of Retail Jeweller magazine, Ward has appeared on Maudezine, the blog of Longshaw's fabric mouse creation Maude.

By VFS Contributor Josh Walker

Images from TWENTY6 and Maudezine

NEWS| 'The Tautz Woman'- E. Tautz in Vogue

Back during Fashion Week in February, we spoke to model, and BFC ambassador, Laura Bailey about the Autumn/ Winter E. Tautz show; unsurprisingly Bailey- like us- "want[ed] everything in an extra, extra small!", and she wasn't the only one, either, with women claiming the knitwear pieces were top of their Winter wish-lists post-show.

We shared Bailey's comments with E. Tautz designer, Patrick Grant, and he had this to say:

"... I don't mind whether it's a guy, or a girl that wants it. I mean, ultimately, they're masculine pieces, but we sell knitwear to girls- we make small sizes- and we make bespoke for women in the shop."

... but what of a line dedicated to just women? Well, Grant's other half, jewellery designer Katie Hillier discussed the possibility- or more, the desire- for E. Tautz womenswear to come into fruition with British Vogue- details of which you can find online here.

Without seeming biased, we're keen to see this happen, but what do you think? Tweet us your thoughts @FashionScout, and check out the rest of our E. Tautz interview here.

NEWS| Raffaele Ascione in Papercut magazine

Raffaele Ascione’s Autumn/Winter pieces are becoming somewhat of editorial-regulars- having already been seen in POP, and Wonderland to name just a few.

This time, the VFS designer has had his work featured in a romantic, old Hollywood style shoot in Papercut magazine's June issue; his wide legged palazzo pants, and fire-brick red skirt showcasing the versatility of Ascione’s pieces.

You can check out the remaining shots on Papercut magazine’s website here.

ANNOUNCEMENT| It's social media o'clock at VFS HQ

Surely you know by now that you need to stay up to date with what our designers, past and present. are up to and what the latest VFS gossip is. In order to do so, make sure you follow us on all of these lovely jubbly social media platforms. 

We vow to give you insider information and exclusive photographs; and all we ask is that you follow us in return. Click on each image above to be linked to our page. 

By Cass Gowing, Editor. 

Twitter: @CassGowing

NEWS| TO BE FRANK SS12 review by Huffington Post and Idol Mag

Showcasing her Spring/Summer 2013 collection at the London Collections, menswear designer Frank Phillips kicked things off with a presentation celebrating simplicity and modernity with an array of bright colours.

The Ones To Watch designer sparked intrigue and praise from The Huffington Post as well as IDOL magazine, both commenting on her use of colour and unique story. A whimsical approach to the modern man’s wardrobe, IDOL Magazine took a closer look at nautical inspirations behind the collection which told the tale of Great Aunt Fifi. Using her heritage and remarkable story, Frank Phillips has picked up the elements that add nostalgia and charm to the clean-cut shapes of the collection. It’s this simplicity that The Huffington Post speaks of as pieces to be added to the staple wardrobe. A style that “tends to the sartorial need of the modern gentleman”, where a sense of utility is what is important. Whilst sock suspenders and primary colours have everyone charmed, as TOBEFRANK reminds us of the child within.

Read the Huffington Post and Idol articles. 

By Vanessa Omoregie

Images from above websites

NEWS| VFS as a platform for emerging talent

Vauxhall Fashion Scout prides itself as a platform serving to promote innovative, and emerging design talent to a global audience of press, buyers, and style leaders. Having provided a springboard for now-established, and successful designers, sibling-duo Felder Felder, Giorgian-born David Koma, and print pioneers, Christopher De Vos, and Peter Pilotto, we’re aware of the importance of guiding innovative design talent in the initial stages of their careers. 

We touched-base with recent alumni, and current VFS designers to find out what they’ve gained from their Freemasons showcase, and to show what future creatives can gain from applying to show with us, at Vauxhall Fashion Scout.

• "The biggest challenge I find for a new designer is to have supportive platforms to show to an interested audience.  Bodies such as VFS help link the creation to the market.  I am also extremely grateful for these forms of exposure because it drives me and my work. " Chloe Award winner, Steven Tai

• "They’re been super supportive. They’ve actually been contacting me since my BA- which was in 2008- and since then, they’re been at my back, and been absolutely amazing so far. I recommend any designers work with them."- Fashion Fringe semi-finalist, Raffaele Ascione

• "I honestly wouldn't be here without Vauxhall [Fashion Scout]. To have have been lucky enough to showcase as part of House of Evolution last time, then for VFS to have selected me to come back to show my own collection, it really makes you feel like you have people that really support you."- MATH's Shahzad Mohaydin

• "There’s modern, then there’s the quirky, and the avant-garde and Vauxhall Fashion Scout understand all these personalities, and manage to make them all work together in one showcase.”- T. Lipop

• "A great platform for emerging young designers... it's given me great support and the Merit Award has helped kick start my career."- Merit Award Winner, Georgia Hardinge

• "I don’t think I’d be here if it wasn’t for Vauxhall Fashion Scout. It was such a good experience, and so many doors have opened because of that show. Also, the support after- being able to talk about the production, and sales, and being advised on what to do next. VFS have been really, really, really supportive."- One to Watch, Joseph Turvey

To keep up-to-date on news of application openings, and what our designers are doing next, follow us on Twitter (@FashionScout), and be the first to hear news of fashion's future.

NEWS| Portland Magazine's LCM summary featuring Baartmans & Siegel

On Sunday 17^th June, the three day London Collections: Men drew to a close. PORT magazine have rounded up the event with a video which features a good look at the work of Baartmans & Siegel. Designers Wouter Baartmans and Amber Siegel talk through their S/S13 marine inspired nostalgic collection, describing it as a playful, tropical escape which is “romantic but with a very accessible masculine edge.” The video also features the work of Lou Dalton and Margaret Howell as well as a look into British tailoring on Savile Row.

By VFS contributor Josh Walker

Images from Portland Magazine

NEWS| Georgia Hardinge featured in Vogue

Who caught a glimpse of Vauxhall Fashion Scout's designer Georgia Hardinge in July's Vogue? Her tweed shorts, from SS12, were featured in their 'Urban Angel' trend piece. Vogue states that this look is heavily focused on 'sleek silhouettes, cool metallics and graphic prints' so naturally GH was picked up for this piece. 

Whilst we're talking about Ms Hardinge, why not view this video of the Wolf and Badger Dover Street launch party which features an interview with the designer herself. 

By Cass Gowing, Editor

Follow her on Twitter @CassGowing

Images from Vogue and Fashion One

NEWS| Manuela Dack in Vogue Italia

Manuela Dack is a designer already accustomed to having her name and work appearing in the press since her graduation from Middlesex University. This time, it's the June issue of Vogue Italia that's included her work. After visiting the VFS Paris showroom last season, Dack's beaded swimsuit caught the eye of illustrator Lele Acquarone and she has featured the piece in her Vogue Italia scrapbook pages accompanied by a beautiful illustration. With Acquarone encouraging Dack “to produce something equally as whimsical (and unwearable) for this season.” we look forward to what the future holds.

By VFS Contributor Josh Walker

Images from Vogue Italia

NEWS| Nova Chiu featured in Papercut Magazine

What better way to feature Vauxhall Fashion Scout designer Nova Chiu than in an editorial that focuses on electric prints and textiles. The designs, which are integrally inspired by ancient Chinese cultures, are a focus point of the above editorial in online digital magazine Papercut.

Nova Chiu, a LCF graduate, who wowed audiences as part of our One's To Watch AW12 showcase can be guaranteed to steal the limelight with her colourful, multicoloured and textured designs. Executed with modern lines and silhouettes means that every Nova Chiu collection screams bold, high fashion looks.

Her designs in the editorial include the polychromatic print skirt (top right) and texturised dress (worn underneath, bottom right). Nova Chiu's pieces are shown alongside designers Jayne Pierson, Malene Oddershede Bach and Eudon Choi.

View the whole editorial here.

Cass Gowing, VFS Blog Editor

Follow her on Twitter @CassGowing

Images from Papercut Magazine

Photography by Shuhei Shine, Makeup by Yae Seno, Hair by Atsushi Takita, Styling by Alexandra Saushkina, Modelling by Aiste.

NEWS| Myrza de Muynck in Because Magazine

Myrza de Muynck, the recent Central Saint Martin’s graduate and VFS 'One To Watch' continues to turn heads with her reimagining of eighties staple; the shell suit. Previously featured in TANK, and now Because magazine, the young designer’s knack for transforming ubiquitous 80s and 90s "looks" is being recognised for being at the forefront of the shell suit's reinvention.

The guys over at Because visited Myrza at her studio to take a closer look at the inspirations and ideas behind the designs.

Speaking of her unique juxtaposition between luxe 1920s embroidery, and the 90s “trashy” sportswear aesthetic, Because highlights Myrza’s talent for effortlessly marrying the two opposed images to produce a feminine, streetwise "cool".

Her designs call upon many influences from her upbringing in Holland; her grandmother’s style; and relationships with friends. The video takes you into the studio and gives you a more personal perspective of the work of this exciting young designer.

For the video, and more images click here.
Text by Vanessa Omoregie (@wewearblack)

COLLECTIONS| Joseph Turvey SS13

“One-to-Watch” Joseph Turvey is fresh out of uni- having shown his MA just back in February- but four months on, and the LCF grad is already presenting a follow-up collection, premiering his Spring/ Summer '13 at this weekend’s London Collections: Men.

Inspired by “amidst-the-action” Attenborough, Turvey’s SS'13 is heavy on the foliage: jungle vines, and florals from the ankle-up, with magenta-blossom motif suits, and drip-tip-leaf print “dad shirts”- though markedly cooler than your “Dad”'s weekend get-up.

Turvey’s tropic-tree influence is more deep-rooted in his Spring/Summer than the conspicuous prints, though- with the jungle’s silk-greenery reflected in fern-green silk-printed shirts; the face of his-signature illustrated-boy staring back at you from the centre.
It’s also in the interjecting darker lace-knit co-ords that you come to understand there’s more to this young designer than currently understood. Turvey's less reliant on vivid colour than you might initially assume, and conceptually, explores more than is-obvious- with the jungle-green weft-knit two-piece bringing to mind a sense of entrapment; a darker facet to the theme; an insight into how he might grow as a designer.

Ultimately, Joe- in manner of design, and person- is vibrant, and whimsical, and- on the whole- a lot of fun, so “colourful”, and “sat-sitting-in-a-garland befriending chimps” is the predominant image you might leave smiling to yourself with- it’s just not the only one. Especially when you’re reminded that the tech-smart knits, and heat-reacting hibiscus is the work of a new-graduate, just two collections in…
See the collection in full here.

Images and text, Sara McAlpine (sara_mcalpine)

NEWS| LONDON show ROOMS MEN featuring Baartmans & Siegel and E.Tautz

Image from Baartman & Siegel's AW12 showcase at VFS Freemason's Hall, by Alina Negoita

Two of Vauxhall Fashion Scout's designers will be showcasing their designs at BFC's London Show Rooms Men in Paris. The four day showcase, which takes place Saturday 30th June – Tuesday 3rd July at Le Loft, Paris, is designed to present London's leading menswear design talents and their SS13 collection. The BFC aim for this event to 'increase their [the designers's] media presence and develop their businesses internationally". 

Baartmans & Siegel and E.Tautz have been selected to showcase their designs alongside the following designers Agi & Sam, Bernstock Speirs, Caseley Hayford, Christopher Raeburn, Christopher Shannon, James Long, Junky Styling, KTZ, Lee Roach, Lou Dalton, Martine Rose, Matthew Miller, Mr. Start, Omar Kashoura, Shaun Samson, Sibling and William Richard Green.

For more information visit www.britishfashioncouncil.com/londonshowroomsmen

By Editor Cass Gowing

Follow her on Twitter @CassGowing

NEWS| Florence Welch in Autumn/Winter Georgia Hardinge

Florence Welch opted for another Vauxhall Fashion Scout designer to wear at the pre-London Collections Mr. Porter party last weekend- this time seen sporting former Merit Award winner, Georgia Hardinge's Autumn/Winter for the "dress in your best" event.

Having also been seen in VFS's Inbar Spector's latest work, Miss Welch- along with stylist Aldene Johnson- are proving pioneers of emerging design talent, and we look forward to seeing who she wears next.

To see the official video for Florence and the Machine's 'Spectrum' featuring Spector's work click here. Let us know what you think via Twitter, @FashionScout.

COLLECTIONS| Baartmans and Siegel SS13

“Refined menswear, incorporating classic cuts… designed for today’s modern gent” was the official spin on “Ones to Watch”, Baartmans and Siegel’s Spring/Summer collection; though that's selling it a bit short. There's more depth to the “Baartmans man” than that, be it through the textured tiers of “broken shell” paillettes, against smooth pistachio silks; or on a more literal plane, by way of the Cuban shore-side influence referenced by the Dutch-English duo.

It’s the easy, “summer cool” of Cuban island life that you see translated in the pair’s refined, lightweight tailoring, and crisp-Swiss cottons; the grill-rift bottoms, and open-stitch knits adding to the airy nonchalance of the Baartmans boy- the sort of boy you’d watch breezing by poolside cabanas, between sips of your Rum Collins (where Wouter and Amber had us at look six).

Relaxed, and “comfortably cool”, subtlety breezes through the collection; neon-marl jersey bottoms, and pearlescent sheen shorts, daring in the detail, but downplayed for daily wear.
However, enter Baartmans and Siegel’s established design persona- infusing classicism by form; modernity by finish- and you have the bolder pieces that both make the collection, and allow for the Baartmans "boy" to become man. 

Deconstructed nappa leathers, and opalescent, embossed-croc suits finished their Spring/Summer, showing that Baartmans and Siegel permit, and provide leverage to either elevate, or reign-in classicism, and modernity respectively; correspondent to how brave you're willing to be. 


We don't expect you to head out, and grab a coffee in head-to-toe mock-croc, but a little broidery anglaise 'n' sparkle isn't going to scare the barista off...

NEWS| E.Tautz's Patrick Grant interviewed by GQ

Ahead of showcasing the Spring/Summer "E.Tautz man" at this weekend's London Collections, Saville Row-trained head designer, Patrick Grant got talking to GQ online about what has him cackling over next season, London's curry one-upmanship, and a seventies style-tip for the "modern" man. 

It appears Mr. Grant is as diverting as he is dapper; click here to have your evening laugh covered, and give us your answers to GQ's questions over on Twitter (@FashionScout).

COLLECTION| E.Tautz showcases SS13 designs at London Collections

Images from Now Fashion 

Vauxhall Fashion Scout menswear designer E.Tautz showcased their SS13 collection on Saturday morning as part of London Collections: Men. The catwalk took place at the Wapping Wall location as part of the first Men's Fashion Week, hosted by BFC. The Spring/Summer 2013 line, which was inspired by British explorer and all-round gent Wilfred Thesiger, saw a more relaxed ready to wear collection come from Patrick Grant, the designer behind E.Tautz. 

A plethora of bright block colours were portrayed in a mixture of pleated shorts, tailored trousers, loose kaftans, crisp shirts and double breasted suits. Whilst the Thesiger print homage (customised with bright sunglasses) showed a more playful side to E.Tautz. 

Read Vogue UK’s report of the show here.

Cass Gowing, Editor

Follow her on Twitter @CassGowing

COLLECTION| TOBEFRANK SS13

Opening London’s first showcase with just the boys in mind, VFS 'One-to-Watch', TOBEFRANK kicked off London Collections: Men with a pop-blocked, primary-coloured Spring/ Summer collection.

TOBEFRANK, a British menswear brand- heavy on the British- pushed heritage home from the ground-up; from the collection’s home-based construction, to the memories TBF’s pillar-box reds, and fisherman-mac yellows brought to forefront of those watching.

The live installation- with models lined, awaiting hair and make-up touch-ups, being redressed, and patted down on-loop- showcased head-to-toe looks in blocked-primary colour; contrast-collar snap-button polos, and bright circle, cut-out shirts pushing modernity through the collections traditionally conceived construction.

There’s a “red, blue, yellow; triangle, circle, square” simplicity in TOBEFRANK’s Spring/Summer looks that takes you back to your early-days, stacking Mega-Bloks pre-nursery- which is essentially what TBF’s Frances “Frank” Phillips has grounded the collection in: a look back in order to look forward; a look at home-grown hertitage, and using it to build something new; modern. 

Just what the TOBEFRANK man is- bright, bold and modern- whilst paying homage to his roots. Think "cheeky charmer", who- at the end of the day- will always make time for a cuppa over a story with Gran. Nice lad; we think you'll like him. #VFS

Images and text- Sara McAlpine (@sara_mcalpine)

NEWS| Manuela Dack featured in Style Bubble 'Still Got Underwater Love'

One of our favourite bloggers and known fan of the best emerging designers, Susie Bubble has featured Manuela Dack on her blog, Style Bubble. If you're a lover of the underwater style, then look no further than Dack's S/ S collection. Having grown up on the picturesque island Grand Cayman in the Caribbean, it's a clear inspiration for the collection. Being a designer who's constantly focused on quality and craftsmanship, this collection is just that. Layered skirts and subtle, delicate beading combine to create something both tranquil and striking. With sting-ray leather and discreet embroideries of various ocean-dwellers, prepare to take a plunge into the collection of a truly innovative and detail-led designer. Read the full article here. 

By Josh Walker

Follow him on Twitter @josh_walker_
Images from Style Bubble