MEAT-FREE FASHION

Stella McCartney has teamed up with Morrissey to create a leather-free range of footwear.

The fashion designer and the singer - who are both vegetarians - are in the early stages of their collection but hope to launch the line next year.

Stella - daughter of Beatles legend Paul McCartney - said: "I'm working with Morrissey on a line of leather-free shoes which I'm really excited about. We are still in the early stages, but the shoes could be launched next year."

It was recently revealed Stella was in talks with Leona Lewis to launch an animal friendly fashion range.

The 'Happy' singer recently met with Stella - who shares similar views to Leona on the use of animal products in fashion - to discuss the possibility of her releasing her own branded products.

A friend claimed Leona had said: "I'm on a mission. I'd love to promote a line of non-leather bags and shoes that are affordable. I think more needs to be available and not so expensive.

"There's so much I want to do. I've always wanted to have my own fashion line, and that's something I want to focus on next year."

Vegetarian Leona, 24, doesn't wear suede, leather or other animal products and is public supporter of PETA, while Stella has been a long-time vegetarian.

MALE STYLE MANIFESTO

When people in men's fashion talk about change, they usually talk about little things. Fits, fabrics, finishes — you know, little things that, depending on whether you are familiar with the oeuvre of Martin Margiela, may or may not matter to you all that much. But the kind of change we're talking about here, it's something different. Because in case you haven't noticed, the world as we know it is ending — politically, culturally, and, oh yes, economically — and a new one is aborning. One that demands the kind of ballsy style that was familiar to our grandfathers but lost for a generation; one that calls for renewed efforts to make a statement and get the details just right; one that requires that we dress every day as if we were going to get hired or fired or handpicked from obscurity to become a vice-presidential candidate, because, hell, that's just the kind of world we're living in now.

Fashion has always been a state of mind — an attitude that expresses itself in the details of how a man gets dressed — and with the ground shifting daily, it's time for a change of mind. It's time to embrace a new ideal, a new approach to dressing, and a few guidelines (nine of 'em) that will deliver us from the wilderness, our senses of self and style stronger than ever. Let's get started.

FASHION COMMANDMENTS:

1: THOU SHALL SUIT YOURSELF.

The suit's got to fit. You'd think that a lot of men would know this, but judging by how a lot of American men choose to wear their suits, you'd be wrong. Quick test: The jacket should sit close enough on the body that you can just barely slide your hand inside beneath the breast pocket. If you can slide in a fist, it's at least a size too big.

2: WHEN IN DOUBT DOUBLE TAKE.

Respect the tie. Tuck in the shirt. Button the jacket. Get it right, all the time, every day, and for chrissakes, look in the mirror before you leave the house.

3: ALWAYS REMAIN SIMPLY STATED.

Make a statement with something. (Perhaps your socks.)

Something on your person should always make a statement, and that statement should preferably be "Go to hell." Say it with socks, with a tie, or with a great pair of pants, and say it often.

4: DEFINITELY GO OFF THE CUFF.
Mad Men killed the pocket square. Focus instead on showing just the right amount of shirt cuff (a half to one inch). This and a good watch or cuff links are all the flash you need.

5: KNOW THAT BLUE THE NEW HUE.

Navy blue, not black.We know black is easy, but navy blue is easier, more versatile, and looks better against every skin type. Plus, it doesn't look brown under fluorescent lights. (Black does.)

6: PROCEED WITH CAUTION.

Patterns: Mix. Don't match. It's only when you contrast the scale, texture, or color of different patterns that such combinations work.

7: MAKE THE COMMITMENT.

If you wear a tuxedo, wear a tuxedo.That means bow tie, cummerbund, and peak lapel. Everything else is negotiable, even the shoes.

8: THOU SHALL HAVE A LOOK THAT KILLS.

A great jacket lets you get away with anything. It elevates everything else you're wearing and opens all kinds of doors. Which is why you should always have one with you.

9: THERE IS ALWAYS ROOM FOR SLACKERS.

This is how long your trousers should be. The length of your trousers is everything. A half inch too long and you're instantly disreputable; a half inch too short and you're laughable. A one-inch kink in the front crease and you, my friend, are golden.

10: A NOSE KNOWS BEST.

When it comes to cologne, a mist is better than a musk. Identify your signature scent and know what works with your body's chemistry. Are you a woodsy? floral? clean? or spicy guy? Not sure what will work, next time you are at the department store, take your time to stop and smell the COLOGNES and ask for trials.  

BACK TO BASICS (MEN)

Listen up guys, this is dressing 101. We are going to cover the basics like what every man should have in his closet. You don't want to be caught off guard when certain situations arise be it a wedding, a first date or just a ballgame.

Men's wardrobe essentials are basics that every man should have in his closet. The advice provided gives every guy the essentials he needs for a practical and functional wardrobe that will carry him though many different occasions.

Where to Start?
According to the fashion world, when it comes to building a functional wardrobe, the first thing a guy must do is assess his lifestyle. Does he need to wear a suit every day? If so, then he will need several suits. Is he in a more casual setting at work? If so, then perhaps he needs more khakis or jeans than trousers or suits. No matter what his particular situation though, there are things every man should have in his wardrobe.

Men's Wardrobe Essentials

1. A suit (navy or gray)
- Even if you only need a suit a couple of times a year, you're glad to have it on hand when those occasions arise. Navy or gray suits are classic and neutral and can be dressed up or down. You can even wear the blazer with khakis or jeans. This is an item worth spending some money on.
2. Black shoes and belt
- These can be worn with khakis, jeans and your suit. This is an essential combo. Before buying brown, get black. I think you will find you get more mileage out of them, especially when attending more formal or evening functions.
3. White dress shirt (good for day and night occasions)
- White dress shirts look good on just about everybody. They look sharp and are versatile but should not to be worn as a casual shirt.
4. Solid tie - Solid ties are easy and versatile. If solid isn't your thing, try a classic diagonal stripe. Having several tie patterns on hand will ensure you are prepared for interviews, weddings and evening events.
5. Blue blazer - A blue blazer is good for all year round and easily coordinates with khakis and other items. If that bores you, try a tweed sport coat but also keep in mind that tweed is really only useful in fall and winter. Either way a blazer or tweed sport coat holds a look together.
6. Khakis and jeans
- No explanation necessary here. Jeans are a staple of the American wardrobe. Khakis are the same.
7. Overcoat
- An overcoat doesn't necessarily mean a long coat. It also means 3/4-length or car coat length. This item really finishes an outfit and can be worn with everything including jeans. And everyone needs a coat in winter, right? Well, maybe not if you live in places like Phoenix or San Diego.
8. Briefcase
- A briefcase does not necessarily mean a hard case. It can be soft, or messenger bag style. In a man is has to carry files and other documents, this is an essential.
9. Athletic wear
- Even for non-athletic types, athletic wear is great for those lazy Sundays and dashes to the convenience store at wee hours of the morning.
10. Casual shirt - A casual shirt such as a polo or button down is a must have to wear with jeans or other casual pants.
11. Deconstructed suit - A deconstructed suit is great because it has a relaxed look but is pulled together. Also, the pants and blazer can be worn separately)

A word of advice: start simple and expand according to lifestyle. Classics don't mean boring.

Bargains Shopping Tips
There is only one thing to say - buy on sale! After Christmas or season’s end sales are best. But don't buy something just because it is on sale or is a great deal. It should be something you would want to wear anyway and coordinates with your wardrobe. Also, if you find something on sale that may not have a perfect fit, don't be shy about taking it to a tailor. Buy comfortable clothes that make you feel confident and fit your style.

BACK TO BASICS (WOMEN)

Wardrobe Basics - Items Every Women should have?

Weather you are just starting out in this world and need to put a foundation wardrobe in place or if you are giving your wardrobe a refresher here are some wardrobe ideas to help you get started. Two pairs of dark slacks - either black or navy blue. Go with a slim cut in a wool crepe or a seasonless cotton.
One pair of dark slacks for the evening with a fuller cut. These can be a fabric that drapes either a light wool or jersey mix.
Two pairs of jeans -one hemmed for heels and the other hemmed for flats. Jeans that are hemmed for heels you should see just the toe box.
Three skirts - a pencil skirt, a A-line skirt which incidentally looks good on all body types and a skirt in a neutral fabric so you can mix and match with others items like tweed, wool or boucle.
Shirts - A white button front shirt and a few t-shirts.
Three sweaters - The fabric should be a lightweight, merino or cashmere.

• One should be black and match your black trousers.
• The second one should be more neutral like off-white, camel or taupe.
• The third sweater should just simple be a sweater that you love and feel great in. Nothing too dressy - one you can wear to the office and with jeans.

Two Jackets

• A tailored jacket that matches your black pants.
• A sporty leather jacket

Three coats

• A classic trench coat or raincoat with a zip -out wool liner for multiple seasons.
• A knee-length transition coat that works for day and night.
• A winter coat in a wool or cashmere blend or if you live in a warmer climate try tropical wool.

Dress

• A little black dress

Three Bags

• A classic leather style with clean lines that works for everything.
• A catch all fun tote bag
• A envelope shaped, bracelet style for the evening.

Shoes (5 pairs)

• A pair of black pumps 2.5-3.5 inch heel in a the current style.
• A evening shoe with a close toe in a black satin.
• A pair of tall black boots
• Bad-weather boots
• A pair of sneakers or tennis shoes.

TOP 10 VICTORIA SECRET ANGELS

Top Ten Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Models

Who will wear the crown along with the lingerie?

Miranda Kerr walks the runway during the 2009 Victoria's Secret fashion show at The Armory on November 19, 2009. - WireImage

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Victoria's Secret Casting Calls Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2009

Charlie Toft,  Nov 30, 2009 Enough about New Moon -- this is the week for the guys to drool a little. It's time for the airing of the annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show (CBS, Tuesday 10 p.m.), which was held a couple of weeks ago. While the Black Eyed Peas were in attendance doing their thing (wherever there are cameras, the Peas will never be far away), the show is all about the models, both the veterans who helped make Victoria's Secret the biggest name in underwear and the up-and-comers who will be the dominant supermodels of the coming decade.
Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2009
Here's a highly scientific ranking of the top models in this year's fashion show. This list was compiled taking into consideration factors such as long and faithful service to the Victoria's Secret brand, celebrity achievement outside the runway, efforts made towards furthering world peace, and that intangible something called "the author really thinks she's hot."
10. Behati Prinsloo: Just out of her teens, this Namibian is a bigger name in Europe right now than in the States, but her association with Victoria's Secret is beginning to change that. She reminds me a little of Kate Moss -- and who wouldn't like a Kate Moss who can also fill out a bikini? The future looks bright for her.
9. Selita Ebanks: She's been on the fringe of truly massive fame for a few years now. Ebanks was once engaged to Nick Cannon, who ended up marrying someone much more famous instead. Now, she has apparently been cast in the coming season of The Apprentice, and reality shows are typically the province of retired or semi-retired models. She may have peaked, but it's been a fine peak.
8. Maryna Linchuk: How many thongs could a Linchuk chuck if a Linchuk could chuck thongs? This Byelorussian blonde has a slightly imperious look that may keep her from catching on as a massive star, but she took on greater prominence in this year's fashion show, so we're keeping our eyes on her. And speaking of eyes, Linchuk's baby blues are a sight to behold.
7. Doutzen Kroes: I'm not quite sure I get this girl. She works constantly, but there seems to be a lack of a distinct image here. Even when you consider her most prominent feature, her lips, Kroes is overshadowed by the likes of Karolina Kurkova. Victoria's Secret is a small part of what she does, so she'll be fine even if she proves too boring for the company in the long run.
6. Candice Swanepoel: The young South African is part of the new group of Victoria's Secret Angels, and word is that she truly earned her wings in this year's show. There's no one involved with Victoria's Secret who has a bad body, but Swanepoel's claim to fame (at least it will be once she's truly famous) is her face -- she is so pretty as to make her body almost irrelevant.
5. Ana Beatriz Barros: Barros has been associated with Victoria's Secret for most of the last decade, but even after all this time, there's something a bit unapproachable about her, almost as if she was royalty who was lowering herself to model for us. She may need a good tabloid scandal to get to the next level, but her current level is still mighty fine.
4. Marisa Miller: Her claim to fame at this level is that she brings a different look to the Victoria's Secret stage. Shorter and much curvier than a high fashion model, Miller transitioned from cheesecake stuff to the big time, and is still increasing in prominence at an age where most models are beginning to think about what comes next. She's the only Victoria's Secret Angel who is better known for her Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue appearances, which just goes to prove her versatility.
3. Alessandra Ambrosio: How do the Brazilians do it? There's not much of a gap between Ambrosio and her countrywoman Barros, but while Barros is more classically pretty, Ambrosio is ridiculously sultry. The woman was born to wear a swimsuit, but she's awfully strong in the lingerie area as well. Ambrosio is finishing up a full decade with Victoria's Secret; may her bra wave high during the 2010s as well.
2. Heidi Klum: Ambrosio won plaudits for returning to the fashion show in 2008 three months after having a baby, but Klum's feat this year -- coming back only six weeks after having a fourth child at age 36, and without having returned to her typical weight -- is an act of heroism they will be talking about forevermore wherever models gather to throw up. She is speeding toward the emeritus phase of her career, but Klum, like Christie Brinkley and Elle MacPherson before her, is a permanent fixture in lingerie lore.
1. Miranda Kerr: The stars have aligned for Kerr to take her place atop the modeling world. She has an approachable look. She has an adorable accent. She manages to come across as the girl next door even when she's strutting in a thong that provides almost complete rear exposure. She also has a dopey boyfriend in Orlando Bloom, so things aren't perfect. But she's as close as we're going to come in 2009.

ZAC IS RIGHT ON TARGET!

Zac Posen joins Target's Go International brand

Joining a growing list of fashion's big names is Zac Posen, who has been revealed as Target's next guest designer. Posen will create a range for Target's Go International division (not to be confused with its Designer Collaborations brand). His range will hit stores in the US and online from 25th April.
Of course, Zac is no stranger to working with the retailer. He collaborated with Target Australia on a range of party dresses, which he unveiled at the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival in March last year.
Leading the European pack, Jean Paul Gaultier was also recently announced as Target's latest Designer Collaborations talent. He will launch his collection on 7th March. Two more reasons to move to America.

GET TO KNOW: JEROME C. ROUSSEAU

A hot new designer to watch!

Jerome C. Rosseau,  31 year old French Canadian shoe designer is currently the hottest thing in designer shoes.
With nightlife, modern art and European design as inspirations, Jerome’s creations have a distinct and unique style that can be described as seductive, edgy and very now. With a meticulous eye for detail and a one-of-a-kind aesthetic, Jerome’s stand-out shoes are a hit with some of the Hollywood’s most stylish. Katie Holmes, Charlize Theron and Drew Barrymore are fans.

Having studied in London’s Cordwainer’s college, where fellow shoe maven Jimmy Choo hails, Jerome is learned in the art of footwear design. He has honed his design sensibilities and skills working alongside big names like Matthew Williamson, Isabella Fiore, John Richmond and John Rocha over the last 10 years.