Waterfall Leather Lust

It's coming to that time of year again when the stores are starting to fill with knits and coats, snoods and boots - summer '11 is well and truly over!

Already, I have my heart set on a few pieces. One such item on my wish-list is this beautifully crafted luxe washed-leather Rick Owen's black biker waterfall jacket. 'Ain't it a beaut! The label has an air of edgy sophistication, which is right up my street. The only downer is that to get my paws on one of these would set me back a staggering £1'320, and that really brings a tear to my eye. No doubt it would be an investment piece though - I live in my old Topshop leather.

To make matters worse, Freja Beha Erichsen, one of my favourite models and girl crush, already has this as a statement piece...

Fear not - I have found a Zara alternative for £139. It's not exactly washed or worn leather, so it might have to take a few beatings before it looks half as good as the Rick Owens creation, but at the fraction of the price I suppose you can't argue. 

I spy: Mary Katrantzou

Anyone who knows me would know I absolutely love Mary Katranzou!

For her autumn winter 2010 collection, she took inspiration from 18^th century portraiture, with particular focus on Madame de Pompadour and the paintings of Fragonard and Nattier. Incorporating her signature trompe l’oeil prints, Katrantzou managed to translate the fanciful and romantic elements of historical costume for the 21st century woman. An eccentric collection of asymmetrical cuts, layered graphics of regency jewels, brooches and pearls with plentiful ruffles of tulle and adorned with chandelier inspired necklaces and bracelets. This fragmentation of what women used to wear in the 1700’s is also imposed in the sophisticated palette of antiqued gold, fragrant greens, amber and sheer greys.

Rosamund Pike recently wore a dress from Katranzou's AW10 collection to the Made In Dagenham film première in London's Leicester Square. I just think it is absolutely gorgeous!

Claudia Schiffer was also clad in a Mary Katrantzou creation for the British Fashion Awards earlier this month. Love!