STYLE YOURSELF RIGHT: A GUIDE TO DRESSING FOR UNI

Letting yourself go at University can be the easiest thing. If you're a party girl like me, you will more than likely spend the majority of your money on going out clothes, and not a lot on clothes to wear to lectures. This will mostly result in your turning up looking like got changed half asleep (which is actually true for most of the time).

But what I've learnt from my 1 and a half years at University is that you don't have to spend a lot of money or time on clothes to look fashionable. All it takes is buying a few investment pieces for the long-run, and knowing how to style them in order to make them look different on a daily basis.

I've found a few key items which I believe will be both stylish and practical, and will make for those long Uni days that you really can't be bothered to spend time on your outfit for...

1. A practical yet stylish jacket

If you're at a Northern University like me, you'll need a jacket from the start of Freshers Week until about the end of April. A good jacket can go very far though, and it'll become a statement piece within your wardrobe. The trick is to find something which is casual and not overly fussy. It should also be a neutral colour that'll pretty much go with everything you wear. I purchased a biker-style tweed jacket with a fluffy collar from Zara last September and I still wear it to the majority of my lectures a year on. Zara have beautiful high quality jackets for a very reasonable price. They are also cut well and look stylish with basically everything you wear. I've found one very similar to my AW'13 one that I believe would be perfect for University.

Mixed Wool Jacket- £59.99 Zara

2. A flattering jean

Jeans are a necessity for any University student that just really can't be bothered. But the key isn't a basic jean, it is a flattering one. Depending on your body shape you should always go with a style that comments your bust, waist and legs. This will definitely pay off in the long run as you will be able to style them with so many more things. For me, as my legs are the least flattering part of my body, skinny jeans just don't work for me. I best suit a high waisted 'MOM' jean as I have a long torso so the cinched waist compliments it (and also hides my legs a little more). However, if you have good legs, opting for a skinny or cropped jean will both compliment your figure. A dark wash or a black colour will be better for both winter and summer, as usually a bleach wash will only look better with pastel tones, so will be much harder to style in winter.

Black Mom Jeans- £40.00 Topshop

3. A sturdy black boot

Nothing will ever beat a good black boot. They go with EVERYTHING and they are so practical, meaning that you can wear them on even the coldest and iciest of days. If you're like me and want to have a more stylish boot, a chunky boot with a bit of a thick heel are always a good option. However, for practicality, a chelsea boot or a slim line ankle boot will look classically good. I purchased a chunky black pair from River Island a year ago and I still live in them, yes they have worn down quite a lot, but they were so good considering I only paid £40. Unfortunately my boot has been long out of stock for a while, but River Island have such a good selection and have brought a few out which are extremely similar to mine.

Black Chunky Sole Ankle Boots - £40 River Island

4. A slogan tee

If you are having one of those days when you feel like you just need to throw on a t-shirt and be done with it, nothing will be more effective than a quirky slogan one. Not only will it help promote your laid back attitude, but it will also look cute and will add a touch of style to your casual attire. I love nothing more than throwing on a plain white tee with a catchy slogan that reads 'DONUT TALK TO ME'. Its funny, cool and looks pretty chic with nice jeans and a jacket. 

House of Holland Slogan Tshirt- £20 ASOS

5. A bag that goes with EVERYTHING

Nothing is more frustrating then having to change your bag every 5 minutes because stuff doesn't fit or if it doesn't go with your outfit. This usually results in losing or forgetting things, or even being locked out of the library because you left your Student ID in your other bag (trust me, I've done that a few times...). I must admit, its not to everyones taste but I adore my Forever 21 black zip up backpack. Its cute, quirky, and fits everything in. It is my trusty University bag and I adore it. If you're not like me and would rather die then lug everything around on your back, I would definitely recommend a neutral leather (or leather look) handbag or shoulder bag. Something that you can carry with you everywhere is a necessity! (Just make sure it goes with your favourite jacket and shoe...)

Black Utility Backpack- £35.00 ASOS

So they are just a few examples of my University fashion necessities. If you're just into first year or haven't started University yet, then feel free to use this guide to find the correct way to dress (or forever be struggling in the morning before your 9ams)....You have been warned!

THE POWER OF THE BLOGGER

When managing a fashion brand or business, celebrity endorsements are usually key in generating publicity for the product you are trying to sell. Nothing receives more attention on Instagram then celebrities taking 'selfies' in clothing then tagging the brand, which receives instant publicity and generates circulation. But nowadays when it comes to fashion, celebrities are often taking a back seat in depicting the new season trends, and it is now starting to rest entirely on the bloggers.

Blogging has only recently become a hugely popular aspect of the fashion industry. Nowadays the people behind the blogging industry have more of a stomping ground in the fashion world than anyone else. Since the development of Instagram, bloggers spend the majority of their days photographing themselves, the food they eat, the fashion shows they attend and the people they hang around with. There aesthetically pleasing Instagrams are gaining thousands of followers, which means that they can control the content they post in exchange for money for promotion. They are the endorsers that can make your company, the hardest thing is just finding one which will give you their time. 

All bloggers have different audiences, which means that it is essential that you choose the right one who will market your products in the right way. High-end products should usually be targeted to bloggers that model a lot of designer clothing on their websites and Instagrams. Susie Bubble for example, is one of the UK's most coveted fashion bloggers, she gets receives clothing from the biggest designers (like Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana and Meadham Kirchhoff just to name a few), and she is always FROW at every fashion show from every season. 

However, high street bloggers also receive large attention from followers, due to the affordable but stylish clothing that they wear. Sarah Ashcroft is one of the most recent bloggers that has received an enormous amount of popularity this year due to her wardrobe full of beautiful clothes that the majority of her followers can afford. She is also extremely active on her Instagram which is brilliant for people that admire her style, but don't tend to take time out to read her blog. Whether she even posts an outfit that has been endorsed on her blog rarely matters, as long as it's on her Instagram people will see it, and she will help to generate publicity. 

Designer blogger Susie Bubble vs. High Street blogger Sarah Ashcroft

Regardless of what fashion product you are trying to generate publicity for, there will always be a blogger out there that will be able to help you. They are a fashion PR's best friend, and they are a reliable source of circulation. Companies are now even hiring a 'Blogger Outreach', whose job is to simply scope the most popular fashion bloggers to send them free clothes! Crazy!

BLOGGERS RULE. Remember that...

ALEXANDER WANG X H&M LAUNCH: MY REVIEW

After reading an excessive amount of blog posts and articles online, I think it's very safe to say the Alexander Wang x H&M launch is possibly one of the most highly publicised and anticipated collaborations a high street store has ever done with a designer.

The designs were depicted as being a futuristic touch on neoprene and leather. From evening dresses to gym-wear, this collaboration combines both modernism and traditional monochrome garments that practically go with anything in your wardrobe. In an ideal world making a purchase from the collection would be completely simple, but we all know that wouldn't ever happen.

...And I think it's safe to say I was right. Conveniently I was very fortunate to be in London on the day of the launch, but I wouldn't be able to get to the Oxford Street store until around 5PM. I wasn't expecting much clothing to be left, but nothing really prepared me for how little there would be available. 

The first thing I found slightly bizarre was that the collaboration was placed on the top floor of the shop (baring in mind that the H&M on Oxford Street has FIVE floors). Upon entering the store I was a little confused as to where the collection was even placed. After wondering around every single section of H&M for about 20 minutes, I finally reached the top floor to a dazzle of flashing lights and a stack of matte black hangers (with very little clothing hanging off them). There was also pumping music and a small crowd of people hastily grabbing clothing in a desperation to purchase something. Shoe boxes were being tossed around in the attempt to see whose feet could squeeze into a pair of size 3 leather sliders, and were then being thrown back to the shop assistants if they didn't. I think it's safe to say it was absolute mayhem. And to reiterate, this was at FIVE O'CLOCK at night.

I hastily started to search for any items left that I could potentially see myself in, but unless you count a pair of leather slacks, there wasn't really anything left that is both wearable and affordable. Saying this though, I was incredibly impressed by the quality of the clothes considering how it was a high street collaboration.  The leather used for the trousers felt incredibly sturdy, and the gym tops were a high-tech breathable fabric that absorbs moisture, which is quite impressive considering they only cost £25. 

So all in all what was my opinion? I have to admit that I did enjoy being able to see the clothes up in person, and if it wasn't for the fact that I couldn't get to Oxford St. before 5PM, I would have love to have gone earlier and at least tried to purchase the 'WANG' jumper or crop top. But saying this, collaborations come and go, I'm sure there will be another one in a couple of months that will knock the Alexander Wang collaboration out the park, so until then enjoy your gym wear, leather and neoprene essentials, I am sure you will look fabulous in them.

WORK EXPERIENCE ROUND 2

Over summer I not only had the fortune of working for a PR agency for a week, but following that I also had the most fabulous opportunity to intern for two months with Eddie Handmade- a leather label that provides high-end work wear accessories.

I have wanted to work in fashion for as long as I can remember. But as everyone knows getting into the industry is basically impossible, and the jobs are extremely competitive. Luckily whilst scrolling through the Lincoln University job shop, I came across a two month internship opportunity for a 'Fashion Marketing Assistant'. Reading through the job description I was instantly excited and quickly applied. Although I am studying Public Relations, I do have some knowledge of fashion marketing and my business and textiles A Levels came in handy when writing about my experience in my cover letter. In order to show my engaging and socially active mind, I posted links to my blog and tumblr, (which apparently proved that I had good fashion knowledge, and was what got me the job!). 

After informing them of my degree and what I wanted to get out of it, the position quickly changed to Public Relations and Marketing Assistant, which was absolutely perfect for me!

So here I was, interning as a PR for a real life working business. My mind was blown. I was so excited to finally be getting my foot in the door of a competitive industry, and I was determined to do the job right. 

So from Monday to Wednesday every week for two months, I would travel an hour and a half to Sleaford every morning (I woke up at half 6 and arrived home at 7PM), and I would spend my hours tweeting and facebook'ing, writing press releases, drafting product descriptions and contacting the media, bloggers and journalists. To me, doing all of those things everyday was a dream. The job was 100% worth the long hours, to be able to wake up every morning doing something which I want to make a career out of was something I could never complain about. 

The job wasn't just office work, I also assisted on photo shoots (which I wrote a blog post for their website about). And I also travelled to London to attend a trade show, which was one of the best fashion experiences I have ever had. Truly amazing. 

The final feature campaign photo for Eddie Handmade SS'15 (the photo shoot I assisted on!) 

My advice to anyone wanting to get into a competitive industry is definitely doing tons of work experience. And how do you get these? RESEARCH. Check local companies near to you, check your Uni jobshop (like I did) and apply apply apply. Having a jam-packed CV after you graduate will look so impressive to employers, and will help you to stand out against other applicants wanting the same potential grad job.

My work experience at Eddie Handmade was definitely my biggest achievement to date. I feel very fortunate to have had this opportunity. I gained amazing contacts, and I worked with incredible people who have had years of experience in the fashion industry. 

I'll end this blog post with the article I wrote for their website. 

And remember, experience never fails to impress.

WORK EXPERIENCE ROUND 1

Having just finished my first year as a Public Relations student, I was eager to gain some real work experience this summer. As I am doing an industry-based degree, my lecturers could not stress enough how important work experience is. Building up your CV so that you look employable by the end of third year is crucial. A jam-packed resumé not only looks impressive, but will also make you stand out against other job seekers when applying for those savvy PR jobs that everybody wants.

I managed to secure a weeks work experience placement with BCS Agency- a Nottingham-based PR firm with a whole host of clients- Topps Tiles, Häfele UK, Stop the FOBTs (just to name a few).
My first day was nerve-wracking to say the least. It's such an overwhelming experience being thrown into PR when you've spent a year simply studying the profession, and not working in it. But I was with a good agency who took brilliant care of me, and made me feel right at home from the get go.

My first day was very basic as I was being introduced to my surroundings and getting to know the team. Most of the work I completed over the week was research based- which included helping my fellow co-workers out with research for articles, press releases and social media. This was something I love doing anyway, throw me into a research task and I will happily trawl through the internet gathering millions of sources and displaying them in a pretty format on Microsoft Word. No problem. On the first day I sat at my very own desk, devouring my list of mini projects to do over the week and drinking endless cups of tea (which were MADE FOR ME. Can you believe I actually didn't have to just make cups of tea for people all week? Brilliant!) I had a swell first day and I felt positive for the rest of the week.

I suppose you think that because I am starting a next paragraph I am probably going to section off each day with endless minor details and bore you all to death (don't worry, I will definitely not do that!) Instead I will just say that I had a fabulous time at BCS agency, the people were wonderful and so helpful to the annoying 19 year old PR student (me). I got to learn tremendous things which I will cherish and apply drastically to my degree. I also learnt so many valuable PR skills (such as writing Twitter and Facebook schedules, assisting and briefing a photoshoot, the importance of clients and contacts, using Gorkana and writing the perfect press release to name a few...).

We ended the week with a well-earned alcoholic beverage and a toast to my future (which guiltily made me tear up a little...I have no shame...)

Next stop- my two month internship with an amazing leather accessories company. (Its probably too early to name names but I will be their 'Fashion Promotions & Marketing assistant' for the next 2 months.) This is one of the best jobs I have ever been offered and I simply cannot wait for it.

THE TRUTHS OF TUMBLR

         Tumblr. Just the word can confuse people. What most people will want to know is 'what actually is this form of 'social media' and how can I use it to my advantage?'
         The people of my generation consider it to be a website designed for 'the indie culture', used so that they can endlessly reblog photos of skinny girls smoking joints and flaunting their ribcages. Its fair to say that most people do use it for this (or to write fan fiction and dedicate a whole page to Harry Styles's legs...you may laugh, but people really do)...
        But what does Tumblr mean to the people who have it? Is it a form of expression, or just a pointless blogosphere that lacks originality and content? Because lets face it, anyone can follow a vast amount of people, scroll through a timeline full of photos, and reblog the best pictures to their own account.
        As someone whose had a tumblr account for around 3 years, I'm going to be honest and say that I have no idea why I have it. All I'm basically doing on it is reblogging things I like, and pawning them off as my own on my 'grungey pink' account. Its such a pointless creation, but I'm not lying to you when I say that I'M ADDICTED TO IT.
       Yes, I, Lucinda Marshall, am addicted to endless scrolling and reblogging. I'm addicted to it that much I go on it most days and I sit there for hours on end, re-posting pictures I find cool, inspiring and pretty. It's actually laughable how much I love it. You may think I'm crazy, but I really don't care. Me and my Tumblr share a beautiful friendship, so laugh all you want.
      People use Tumblr for many things, whether its to reblog photos, write articles or just to gaze at pictures of Harry Styles and Matty Healy (which I do admittedly...sometimes...). But what I tend to forget about Tumblr is that it is one of the most inspirational things I own (and it pretty much got me through textile A Level, due to the hefty amount of creative fashion images I found on there).
      Going on Tumblr is for me, a way of venting my self-expression through the form of photos. I collect sources from the images and outfits, and use that as a way of always keeping up and current with the latest trends, and finding things to write about.
       I also consider it to be an art-form, one which people can share their artwork or creative images and watch them get re-blogged by thousands of people. It fuels the artistic work and can encourage up and coming creative people to start inspiring others. And that is the sheer beauty of Tumblr, inspiring people.
      Whilst I may love it, many of you may completely disagree, and thats absolutely fine. Not everybody can get inspiration from a few photos mashed up into a collage, and thats okay. To each their own I guess.
      But if you love it, go and check out mine and let me know what you think. It would brighten my day if I knew that I inspired at least one person!
      Also comment below with your thoughts on Tumblr, I'd love to know what you think!

http://hollywood-fantasy.tumblr.com

10 SUMMER ALBUMS OF 2014

      As the weather warms up here in the UK, I am generally becoming much happier. I feel so much more productive when I am doing things in the sun (whether it's applying for placements, revising or just generally 'vegging' out). But of course, the summery weather cannot come without a fantastic backing track of tunes.
      As a lover of indie-rock (and a few other genres), I have compiled together my favourite albums that I'll be spending my summer listening to. I've also taken note of my favourite songs and where you can catch the artists this summer. So check them out, give them a listen and let me know what you think...

1. The 1975 // The 1975

The bands self-titled album was released last year and was an instant no.1 success. For me I feel that their music is so eclectic. They DEFINITELY do not stick to just one genre, which is, in a way, so darn refreshing. 

Every track from the album feels like it should be featured in a John Hughes film. The realism in the lyrics practically ejects the life of a teenager (along with quirky beats and the occasional saxophone). TOP TIP: if you purchase this album make sure to check out the deluxe version, which features (in total) 39 tracks. (And some amazing songs from their EP's (Head.Cars.Bending, So Far (its alright), Anobrain, and Me are amongst my favourites)).

Favourite Tracks: Chocolate, Settle Down, She Way Out, Sex. 

Catch them at: Reading and Leeds, Isle of Wight, Glastonbury and T in the Park.

2. Peace // In Love 

Peace are set to be massive this year. Their indie-rock jams have a very Vampire Weekend / Foals feel to them, and their music gives off such festival vibes. The bank describe their sound as "dark melodic indie-techno", but to me it has quite a 'light rock' feel. If you're a Made in Chelsea fan you may have also seen them appear in a recent episode (if you didn't notice you'll still recognise some of the tracks). After their album hit early last year, they've been non-stop touring (and you can catch them at some of this years big festivals).

Favourite Tracks: Wraith, Bloodshake, Lovesick, Delicious 

Catch them at: Reading and Leeds, Truck Festival, Isle of Wight and RedFest.

3. Imagine Dragons // Night Visions

I've only recently got into Imagine Dragons. I was never convinced originally, as I used to base them on their singles (which can I say, DO NOT do the album justice). I felt they were a little bit cliche, and their song 'radioactive' definitely got overplayed on the radio. 

However, after recently listening to their album track-by-track on Spotify, I have totally turned, and I am now a MASSIVE fan of the alternative rock band (who are actually from Las Vegas...if you didn't know). 

Billboard have named Imagine Dragons as the "Best Breakthrough Band of 2013" (so they are definitely ones to watch!) 

Luckily for me, they are exclusively performing to just Reading and Leeds Festival in the UK this year. (Which is great for people (like myself) who have a ticket!) I am so excited to see them, so if you are off to this fest too, do some prep and go check these guys out now.

Favourite Tracks: Tiptoe, Amsterdam, Underdog, Cha-Ching (Till We Grow Older), Working Man

Catch them at: Reading and Leeds

4. Little Comets // In Search of the Elusive Little Comets

Possibly one of my favourite bands of all time. Although they have released other material since this 2011 album (Life is Elsewhere was released in 2012, and their new album is soon to be released this year), nothing will compare to the beauty of 'In Search of the Elusive Little Comets'.

I saw these guys back in 2012 at YNot festival, and again this February on their UK tour. I love love love this band and if you like indie music with a injection of quirk, I seriously suggest you check these guys out!

Favourite Tracks: Tricolour, Lost Time, Dancing Song, Mathilda

Catch them at: Lainfest, TruckFest, YNot Festival and FireFly Festival

5. King Charles // LoveBlood

Because I am very into bands, I never usually take to solo-artists very well (especially male ones), as sometimes I feel they can lack originality. However, this is definitely not the case for King Charles, whose romantic, yet very 'hippy' genre of music is not only beautiful, but incredibly fun. (and his mane of hair and vintage wardrobe makes him look like he just walked out of an Emily Bronte novel).

Despite the fact that King Charles has been very 'under the radar' since releasing the album in 2012, he is still performing at some of this years festivals, including the massive Reading and Leeds (so I am PRAYING for some new material to be showcased then...). Lets hope for a new album soon.

Favourite Tracks: LoveBlood, Lady Percy, Beating Hearts, Ivory Road, Love Lust.

Catch him at: The Secret Garden Party, Standon Calling, Gold Coast Ocean Festival and Reading and Leeds.

6. Lucy Rose // Like I Used To

Whilst writing this list, its occurred to me I haven't featured any female artists (apologies!). For me, Lucy Rose has an absolutely stunning voice, and her acoustic tracks are beautiful to listen to in the sunshine (or have as a backing track to watch the sun set...bliss).

She released this album in 2012, and has been doing the festival-circuit for many years. (I caught her at YNot back in 2012). Although there is no sign of a new album just yet, she is doing a few festivals this year, and supporting Counting Crows on their November tour. So you can catch her then!

Favourite Tracks: Night Bus, Don't You Worry, Bikes, Scar, All I've Got

Catch her at: Glastonbury, British Summer Time and Exchange Festival

7. Bombay Bicycle Club // So Long, See You Tomorrow

Bombay's fourth studio album is not my most favourite of all their albums, but no doubt screams SUMMER the most (in my opinion anyway...).

This album feels so exotic, but still oozes the eclectic cohesiveness that the band traditionally have. Some of the songs feature guest vocals sung by Rae Morris and LUCY ROSE? (Apparently her voice has been a regular feature on their albums- (I had no idea??)).The mash up of different sounds and beats really bring the music to life, and this album is a perfect backing track to lazy days in the sunshine. 

Although we had to wait 3 years for this new album, it's fair to say that Bombay Bicycle Club are certainly not short of material. I have heard they are spectacular live, so I am very much looking forward to seeing them! 

Favourite Tracks: Overdone, Luna, It's Alright Now, Feel

Catch them at: Glastonbury, T in the Park, Latitude and Reading and Leeds

8. The Kooks // Inside In / Inside Out

Who doesn't love a good vintage album? Although this was released back in 2006, the fact they are appearing at Reading has helped me rekindle my love for The Kooks and their rocky pop 'Brighton-Beach' songs. 

They've recently released their EP Down, and I must say it isn't my favourite. However, I am very much looking forward to their new album Listen, because let's face it, knowing The Kooks it'll be bloody great. I cannot wait to jump around to them at Reading (beer in hand), and rock out to some of their classic tunes (and maybe some banging new ones).

Favourite Tracks: Naive, Seaside, She Moves In Her Own Way, Ooh La

Catch them at: Reading and Leeds

9. Crystal Fighters // Cave Rave 

SUCH A SUMMER ALBUM. I can't help but smile when I listen to this 5 piece alternative dance band. Every song brings a different sort of high-spirited, jerky, jump around vibe, and I can't help but love them. 

Although I won't be seeing them at any of the festivals I am attending this year (still so disappointed they are not on the RandL lineup *sob*) I will nevertheless be endlessly listening to them in my back garden (and praying I'll see them next summer)...

Favourite Tracks: Are We One, Love Natural, La Calling, You & I

Catch them at: Glastonbury, Lovebox

10. Vampire Weekend // Contra 

This is definitely my favourite Vampire Weekend album (and one which most ejects the best 'summer vibes'?...in my opinion anyway).

I love love love Vampire Weekend and their Americanised version of an indie rock band. Their tunes have a sort of 'jingle' to them, and you feel so relaxed and fulfilled listening to their album. You cant help but sway your head to their cute and capturing tunes. I am certainly looking forward to seeing them at Reading (another band thats exclusive to RandL this year). Go check 'em.

Favourite Tracks: White Sky, Holiday, Giving Up The Gun, Cousins

Catch them at: Reading and Leeds

     I hope you listen to some of these albums, comment below the bands you've most enjoyed, or any suggestions of anything else I should be listening to this summer? I want to hear YOUR favourite summer albums! I have so many more artists I want to blog about, so stay tuned for some more music posts!

     Enjoy!