Capes: A Few Thoughts

The 'must-have' look for the new year?

When browsing the post-Christmas sales in my hometown, I came across a few mannequins in Topshop sporting capes. Now, I don't know if capes have been the new trend for a while (though they probably have, and I've just been too ignorant of ladies' fashion recently to have noticed them earlier), but this is definitely the first time they've caught my eye.

So what do I think of them? Well, it should firstly be noted that - as evident from the title - this is not a review. It would be imprudent of me to properly judge such an item when I've had no one try any on. However, from what I saw in Topshop, ladies' capes look so chic. Although probably not as warm as actual coats, they're certainly a lighter alternative and come in a sufficient variety of styles and colours. 

But after finding these capes, two questions popped into my head: Will fashion retailers one day stock equally stylish capes for men? And will an emergence of capes eventually lead to a future appearance of cloaks on the high street? In my opinion, it's worth discussing.

Westfield Shopping Centre, London: A Review

Possibly a shopper's paradise...

My first impression of the Westfield Shopping Centre was that it was big. Very big. And that was just by looking at the interactive map on the web. When I actually found myself wandering past its numerous stores, only then did I realise how huge the complex is. Though it must be said that size isn't the only aspect in which it has merit. This is one amazing place to do your Christmas shopping.

Dusting off the snow, I entered the shopping centre via 'The Village', where shoppers with deeper pockets can buy from a selection of designer stores - including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Fred Perry - and sip on a casual drink at a champagne bar. Of course, I didn't buy any items from here, though the various selections of designer bags are always pleasing enough to just admire.

  Thankfully, in the rest of the centre, there are a great number of more affordable and recognisable high street stores, such as New Look, Schuh, Uniqlo and Superdry. These I browsed in and purchased from with much pleasure, with most having more items to choose from due to their larger sizes. Christmas shopping here was easy.

However, if you're looking for a really cheap deal, don't expect to find one unless there's a sale. You won't find a Primark in Westfield, which to some extent can be a little annoying. I, for example, wanted to purchase one or two pairs of cheap jeans, but alas, I could not. Nonetheless, this did not matter much, since the many other stores kept me otherwise entertained.

And for when you're feeling rather peckish after a round of browsing and buying, there are plenty of restaurants and food outlets to choose from - some widely recognised, others I believe to be exclusive to Westfield. However, just make sure you get a seat beforehand, otherwise you'll be doing laps with a heavy tray of food and your many bags of shopping. Trust me - it's not pleasant.

But all in all, Westfield Shopping Centre is by far one of the best shopping experiences I have had thus far. And if you're still in need of doing some Christmas shopping, I would certainly recommend visiting, because in its massive complex, you're bound to find the right gift for someone this festive season.

(For further information, visit the Westfield website)

University Branded Clothing: A Review

A statement of pride over a statement of style

University branded clothing and accessories... Not exactly the height of fashion, to be fair. Then again, such clothing isn't about being fashionable - more about student identity and university pride. 

With the university's name or logo stitched into the material, university clothing is almost - in a way - uniform. Not that everyone has to wear it, mind you. I, for example, have yet to purchase any BU branded clothing from the Student Union shop (see right).

But many students have done. And the logo or university name... It's a label. Not a designer label expressing they can afford the priciest clothes on offer, but a label expressing a belonging with that particular university or college.

The university hoodie, for instance, albeit the most expensive choice, is the most popular when it comes to university clothing - probably because it's so practical in keeping students warm when the weather turns chilly. But regardless of the weather, a university hoodie - or any university branded clothing for that matter - screams to the world where a person studies or has studied, thus giving a glimpse into their identity and conveying a sense of pride in their uni.

So in essence, university branded clothing is more a statement of pride than a statement of fashion. I'm not saying uni clothing can't be made to look amazing in an outfit - I'll probably find someone on campus one day who'll do just that. But in all fairness, the important message it expresses isn't that you look fabulous in your hoodie, but rather you feel fabulous attending your uni.

Anime Club, Bournemouth University

I said I'd take photos of amazing fancy dress, so here we are... Bournemouth 

University Anime Club, dressed up in a bid to gather extra members. The two 

individuals on the left have particularly awesome costumes, in my opinion. And

in case you're wondering, members don't have to dress up like this all the time.

(For more information, visit their official Facebook page)

On campus, Bournemouth University

A thick knitted cable dress and a faux fur coat may make this outfit appear
somewhat top-heavy, but when applied correctly, top-heavy arrangements such
as this can be particularly stylish. However, what makes Anushka's outfit really
stand out for me is the grey trilby perched on her head and her long dark hair
flowing from beneath it. Even the smallest details can make a big difference.