ritacardosohenriques: September 2010

Beautiful illustrations

About a month ago I promised to write a post about local illustrator Naomi Hocking. I’ve been so busy the last few weeks shopping the new collections with clients that I’ve been bit rubbish at updating my blog. Today is the first day I’ve had in a while to tend to my blog and sort out general business stuff (newsletter – done, accounts – done!) So here you are, a little later than promised but worth the wait I hope.

I’ve known Naomi for about five years now, we both worked for John Lewis and have a love of mountain biking (although, strictly I can’t say that anymore as my poor bike has been rather neglected of late). I’ve always loved Nay’s illustrations, so when it came to choosing an illustrator for my new website who better to ask?!

Thanks to Naomi, my new site is now brimming with beautiful illustrations. I gave her a vague brief and she ran with it, I’m over the moon with what she’s done, for those of you who’ve not seen the site yet here are a few of my favourites.

Naomi studied illustration at Loughborough University, and then worked for various card companies before working for John Lewis.

“I paint and draw because I love it. I find the various forms of architecture around the world fascinating and I also enjoy the intense colours and textures of foods. Although I use the computer for my more intricate work, I like to do larger works on canvas as they allow more freedom of movement and a looser style.”

She already has a stockist for her cards and is currently designing a website to showcase all her work so watch this space!

Naomi’s work is for sale - both as originals and prints - and commissions are always welcome, so if you like what you see get in touch:

t: 0117 9020900

m: 07855 365543

e: naomi.hocking@googlemail.com

Thanks Nay x

Bristol fashion

I love this time of year, the fabulous new collections are firmly underway, and everything looks fresh and exciting. Now is the perfect time to source those all important items to bring your wardrobe shimmying into this season.

Bristol’s fashion is just getting stronger and stronger, in the words of Gok Wan: “Since the opening of Cabot Circus Bristol now boasts the best shopping in the South West with an amazing mix of high-street and designer brands. Bristol has a very unique style – it’s urban, edgy and cool.

There’s an abundance of mini trends this year like fur, maxi-skirts and my absolute favourite leopard print and Bristol has them all covered.

Many of my clients tell me that they find shopping overwhelming...they can’t find what they’re looking as there’s so much choice and so many trends. Events like the Fashion Weekender at Cabot Circus are the perfect way to discover what to wear this season, how to wear it and where to find it. This year the fabulous Gok Wan is hosting so don’t miss out!

To coincide with this I’ve picked some fab pieces from the stores in Cabot to help you to work the trends whether like a fashionista or find a simple way to update your look.

Gothic Chic

Textures are the thing here - leather, lace, sequins and velvet. Unleash your inner bad girl and embrace black.

Jacket form A/Wear, Skirt from French Connection, Lace bolero from Monsoon, Jacket form French Connection,Studded cuff from House of Fraser, top from Miss Selfridge.

Animal print

My favourite! Go full on with a print coat or tread more carefully in a pair of leopard shoes. Avoid too much though as you’ll end up looking like Bette Lynch!

Coat from French Connection, jacket from CC, watch from Accessorise, shoes from Next, full length coat from Biba

Millitary fashion

Strong lines, military detailing, utilityesqu accessories and lotsssssssssss of Khaki.

Bag from Miss Selfridge, Coat from H&M, House of fraser lifestyle shot, gloves from Next, shoes from Next,

Romantic bohemian.

Think floaty dresses and chunky knits – a real contrast in textures.

Fur gillet from Jane Norman, House of fraser lifestyle shots, dress from Monsoon fusion.

Classic camel,

This is a great year to invest in one of the wardrobe staples – a classic camel coat. Beware though, camel isn’t an easy colour to wear so make sure you find the right tone for your skin. If you’re not sure then consider camel trousers or a skirt and keep the colour away from your face.

Dress from Wallis, Belt from H&M, Coat from Wallis, trousers from Next, jacket from Next.