DIY Knit and Stitch

These days the likes of Cameron Diaz and Julia Roberts like nothing more than to get creative with a bit of knitting and dressmaking. Doing-it-yourself is on the up. Wool specialists – Rowan have launched a new range of yarns for customisation dabblers. The R2 collection, called Rag, Print and Paper is aimed at the dressmaking novice and is all about updating and experimenting with existing garments. There’s also an accompanying bi-annual R2 magazine featuring ‘fashion recipes’ and inspiration, out goes the dowdy yesteryear look and in comes fresh and quirky ideas and images. John Lewis (020 7629 7711) and Peter Jones are currently hosting a series of home-craft clinics. John Lewis on Oxford Street has four free knitting classes a week, ranging from beginners to professional, additional specialized classes cost from £10 – £40. R2 are also heading in-store with a series of workshops, this Saturday 22nd May it’s the turn of Peter Jones. (020 7730 3434)

Ruffo Research Back on Track

Ruffo Research is back in business after a one-year absence. The label was suspended last year due to difficult market conditions. The Ruffo Research project offers a two-season contract to gifted up-and-coming designers, headhunted and found by the company’s talent scouts. The privileged designer then gets hands-on experience in creating collections in leather and suede for both men and women. Previous designers that have been fortunate enough to land a Ruffo Research contract include; Sophia Kokosalaki, Haider Ackermann, Alexandre Mathieu, Veronique Branquinho, Antonio Berardi and Raf Simons. Next up is Riccardo Tisci, a former Coccapani designer, Tisci has also worked with Justin Oh, Berardi and Missoni. Described as a “quality designer and highly motivated” Tisci has signed a three-year contract with Ruffo, rather than the regular two-season deal. Another change for the brand will be the introduction of fabrics and eveningwear, the focus, however, will remain on leather and suede. 

More Vintage Mania

It seems we can’t get enough of vintage mania in this city. This Sunday 23rd May pop over to Lavender Hill for bi-monthly Battersea Vintage Fair. There’s jewellery, accessories, shoes, textiles and books ranging from the early 1800’s to the 1970’s. Founded by fashion graduates Anita Bott and Michelle Luk, the pair search high and low for the very best vintage pieces. This weekend the fair is set to be a bit special with the celebration of its first anniversary. Battersea Vintage Fair, Sunday 23rd May, from 9.30am – 4.30pm @ Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, London SW11.

Harrods Up For A Fashion Revamp

Harrods is keen to freshen up it image, especially in the fashion department. Criticised for being old-fashioned and stale, Harrods hopes that their new creative director – Susanne Tide-Frater will help build up the stores kudos. Tide-Frater is well known on the fashion scene and has spent the last seven years as a top fashion buyer at Selfridges. Her new role at Harrods will see her working closely with the buying and marketing divisions and is due to commence from September 1st.

Hello Boys! 10 Years On

Who can forget the Hello Boys! Wonderbra Ad campaign that brought model – Eva Herzigova into the spotlight? Well, believe it or not, that was 10 years ago and Wonderbra is celebrating with a special May offer; the brand is going back in time offering products at 1994 prices. The promotion runs until the end of May where all items in the Wonderbra range are reduced by £6-.  (For your nearest stockist call: 0500 362430)