EMMA COOK'S NEW COLLECTION

With Emma Cook's capsule collection set to land today, we asked her to show us round her studio. Anyone else after a Clarke's & Anchor's thread box: Just imagine it filled with accessories!

My studio's in Dalston and I love it because I share the floor with my friends Peter Jensen (fashion designer) and Shona Heath (set designer). Me and Shona used to share a studio space, but her props got out of hand so she's now in the room next door! My studio is really cluttered as we have been here for 8 years and done 16 shows out of this room! It's nice to have Peter next door, we share the same stresses and we help each other out. The ceramic head with the flowers painted on it is one of my favourite things - Shona gave it to me and I really love it. The perfume bottles are part of a collection of vintage AVON bottles that I have and the white painted lady with the drawings on the head is a mannequin that my friend Julie Verhoeven gave to me.

YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED

Here are the answers you’ve all been waiting for - our Style Advisor’s answer your blog questions. For more style tips you’ll have to wait for the AW09 Fanzine to launch early September!

Q. Hey Topshop! What I want to know is how on earth you get these thigh-high boots on?!  I tried for about 15 minutes instore yesterday, with a fair few chuckling onlookers!  Any tips?  Also, will those beautiful, lace up peep-toe boots be coming back in stock?  Thanks!
Posted by: Scarlet | July 16, 2009 at 10:53 AM

A.

A. We know they’re not easy sometimes, especially if you're in a hurry! If you're having boot issues we'd suggest lying down and taking your time! As for the Aaliyah boot, they’re back instore and online now!

Q. Hi there, I'd like to know the best way to achieve the British heritage look (desert boots, loafers, blazers, duffels, etc) without looking too manly!  It’s a look I absolutely adore, but just want to perfect.
Posted by: jessiemarie | July 16, 2009 at 03:08 PM


A. Masculine influences are still key for AW09, but if you’re worried about looking like one of the boys, add a floral print. A pretty vintage dress teamed with a blazer will sweeten the look.


Q. Are blazers still going to be big in AW09?
Posted by: Eluned Mitchell | July 16, 2009 at 03:08 PM


A. It's definitely still the season of the blazer!  But for AW09 structured shoulders bring the style bang-up-to-date. Think 80s power dressing, voluminous tops and nipped-waists.  Pair a strong-shouldered jacket with a body-con dress and a pair of killer heels.


Q. Hi Topshop, How can you make a plain top and a plain cardigan look more interesting and fashionable?  I have loads of both of them, and do accessorise with necklaces, etc, but still sometimes get quite bored with the overall look.
Posted by: Charlotte Perry | July 16, 2009 at 03:13 PM


A. Never underestimate the power of a well-placed belt! Slung around the waist, a patterned style will liven-up any outfit. Or, simply add a pair of printed tights to jazz up an otherwise monotone ensemble!

Q. Hi Topshop, What’s 'in' for AW09?  Also, how can I wear VERY bright floral tights (from Topshop, might I add) without looking stupid? 

Posted by: claudia | July 16, 2009 at 03:14 PM

A.

A. AW09 is all about sparkle, volume and luxury.  Look out for head-to-toe sequins, angular shoulder pads on jackets and tops and supple leather boots. And your floral tights will look perfect with a simple black body-con dress. Chic new season style!

Q. Hi Topshop! How can I keep my feet comfy and cosy without resorting to something hideous? Something flat or with a low heel, please.
Posted by: Lily | July 16, 2009 at 03:27 PM

A.

A. Ah, the traditional new season dilemma.  Go for the essential shoe boot; they’re ludicrously comfortable and so completely versatile that you’ll have no problem working them into your winter wardrobe.

Q. Hi Topshop, I bought a layered leopard print skirt and I am trying to find a top to go with it.  I am size 6/8.  Can you suggest something?
Posted by: tasha | July 16, 2009 at 03:30 PM

A.

A. We love a bit of leopard print! Pair with a plain body to balance out the proportion, and pop-on a blazer to add a little structure to the look.
 
Q. Hi, I'm starting university in September so will be on a low budget!  Any key pieces I should get for AW09 that could go with loads?
Posted by: Kate Atherton | July 16, 2009 at 03:33 PM


A. Absolutely! There are so many key pieces we’re drooling over but there are a few essentials that will add new season sparkle to your look. Grab a body-con dress, a pair of embellished hareem trousers - the must-have piece for AW09 – and a furry coat and you’ll be set to start Uni in style.

Behind-the-scenes at the AW09 shoot

LOVED UP

We loved, loved, Lovebox!  And not just for the music and the incredible atmosphere - the ladies of London did us proud with their effortless festival looks. It was all about bare legs, ankle boots, mini denim and a whole lot of attitude! Here are a few of our favourite looks...

Boy Genius: Simon Foxton

What do you get when you cross half naked men with ground-breaking styling and beautiful photography? Why, Simon Foxton of course! The style-master is having a collection of his work - When You're a Boy - shown right now at the Photographers' Gallery and we love love love him! Expect high fashion, complex poses and hints of homoeroticism, along with a bucket load of classic images and the sort of intuition that changed and defined eras. If looking at intelligent, witty and evocative images is your sort of thing then get on in and have a gander. It's open until October 4th so we'll see you down there... probably more than once!