ON POINTE

Back in the 1920s, the Ballets Russes (or Russian Ballets) formed and revolutionised the world of dance. They toured with elaborate sets designed by revolutionary artists like Picasso and Leon Bakst, and scores composed by Strauss and Stravinksy. The latter's wild rhythms scandalised theatre-goers at the time and paved the way for a newer, more experimental form of dance that can still be seen in productions today.

Beginning September 25th, you can visit the V&A and take in Diaghilev and the Golden Age of the Ballets Russes, 1909 - 1929, which will explore the importance of the Ballet Russes and its continuing influence. Expect to see stunning costumes and outstanding backdrops that make up a real piece of performance history!

 

Images; Victoria and Albert Museum, London

TALKING WITH TOMMY

Since taking it upon himself to fly over to Paris during Fashion Week to snap fashion's great and good, photographer Tommy Ton has created one of the industry's must-read blogs, Jak and Jil, and found his work featured in the likes of Vogue and Elle. And as if those weren't fashion credentials enough, now he's been click-clicking away on our brand new Freedom at Topshop shoot! We caught up with him to find out what makes him tick. 

Where do you find style inspiration?

Recently, I've been finding a great deal of inspiration from looking at mood board blogs. Basically, blogs that consist of streams of photos and no text. The best example would be Jjjjound. I'm also a huge fan of Tumblr and looking at people's inspirations and collections of photos.

Sum up your style in three words...

Schizophrenic. Basic. Comfortable.

What's your AW10 wardrobe staple?

I've been buying a lot of chunky knit sweaters recently - I have this need for more and more sweaters! 

Where’s the best place in the world?

New York without a doubt! There's this frenetic energy that surges throughout the city constantly and there's always something to see and do at all times. 

And your favourite London/New York hotspots? 

I love dropping into Dover Street Market every time I'm in London. It's a must-stop destination for any fashion lovers.  And of course the Topshop flagship is where I stock up on so many basics. In NY, I love to eat. I always find myself eating at Ippudo, which has the best Japanese ramen noodles. I also love going to Barneys and Opening Ceremony to see the abundance of product. 

Your absolute favourite food?

It's hard to say because I love eating all different types of food but I guess I'd have to say it's a tie between Vietnamese/Thai. I can't help it, I'm Asian. 

And finally, complete this sentence: The very best feeling in the world is...

Doing something you absolutely love.

Check Topshop.com tomorrow to see his amazing snaps and click here shop the jewellery now!

GONE CLUBBING

Over the years London has earned its reputation not only as a major fashion capital, but as a place where style and self-expression reign supreme.

Nowhere has this been truer than in the city's pulsing nightlife, where fashion, art and music mix and mingle, resulting in some of the most outlandishly delightful ensembles we've ever seen. Luckily club nights like Boombox, Smash and Grab, Trash and Nag Nag Nag have had photographers on hand to capture these amazing looks, and now the best of those images are being pulled together in an exhibition called Noughtie Nightlife.

From September 9th - October 2nd Richmix will be hosting a selection of images that define the last decade of London's club scene. Expect to see crazy make-up and wigs galore, bright colours, glitter and a generous helping of je ne sais quoi.

Most of all, expect to leave inspired and ready to delve into your dressing-up box!

I AM SAD LEYLA

Everyone in Topshop HQ has had a rather large fashion crush on designer Hussein Chalayan for as long as we can remember. We love his beautiful dresses and immaculate tailoring, we salute his technological innovations and we find ourselves swept away by the stories behind his collections - his intertwining of society and art. 

So we were first in line when his collaboration opened at the Lisson Gallery. The installation, called I Am Sad Leyla (Üzgünüm Leyla) seeks to unearth the ideas and identities of art and clothing and will be accompanied by a film piece as well as a resounding Turkish soundtrack and Chalayan's flair for showmanship. It’s on until October 2nd and we have it in our diaries as an absolute must-see!

STUDY SESSION

Calling all students! It's the start of a new term and we've lined up loads of special treats to help you pass your style exams. You'll be able to study at Topshop.com with our handy on-site features and take a field trip to your nearest Student Shop, where you'll be greeted with exclusive discounts and amazing competitions. Kicking off at the end of September and coming to a Topshop near you, this is a brilliant chance to get your mitts on fashion's finest and have a great evening out. Check the site for more information and be sure to bag yourself an A* in style!