Highlights of Style Birmingham Live AW13

Town Hall in Central Birmingham was filled with fashion lovers on September 28, 2013; all eagerly awaiting to see the latest trends from British based designers at Style Birmingham Live AW13.

With the Autumn/Winter 2013 season officially kicked off, Gok Wan’s former stylist sidekick, Brix Smith-Start, made an appearance to do a fashion Q&A with the audience and divulge her top tips for staying trendy this season.

The show was supported by Cancer Research UK, where spectators could appreciate the special edition pink Rolls-Royce Ghost and give donations to the charity.

The audience began the day with goody bags filled with money-off vouchers, conditioning treatments, and quirky gifts such as mini Harvey Nichols pots of strawberry jam.

VIP ticket holders also received money to spend in the Birmingham Selfridges store.

Style guru, Brix Smith-Start answered the audience’s fashion questions and even presented her own style guide, which featured items such as a beautifully cut blazer, killer heels and a classic LBD (Little Black Dress).

The three fashion-trend-favourites picked by Brix were: the classic monochromatic look, which is suitable for any age or shape. Her favourite from the show included an Alison & Olivia black lace and leather dress from the Selfridges collection due to its timeless appeal. Lace is big right now, and is perfect for adding femininity to any outfit.

Bright, bold colours are a must for this winter season, with red cotton coats, pink cashmere jumpers and electric blues. When discussing colour, Brix says: “I cannot state enough how important colour is. Colour can lift your spirits and change your attitude to life.”

She showed her love for the British fashion industry by saying: “British fashion is the most creative, this is where creative seeds are planted and it blossoms to other places.”

The much-anticipated show featured Britain’s Next Top Model Series 9 winner, Lauren Lambert donning beautifully crafted ensembles.

The Harvey Nichols collection displayed stark colour blocking and statement prints on monochromatic blacks and whites. The contrast is perfect for any season and shape, including men.

Whether it’s rose, pastel pink or magenta, pink is definitely something needed in your autumn wardrobe. Layer your outfit with block colours of shocking and soft pinks to create a feminine tone. Men can wear pink too! Pair pinks with different shades of greys to compliment any skin tone.

The British urban market has swiftly grown, and this season the 1980’s boyish silhouette is one to watch. Paired with anything tartan, beanies, scarfs, and backpacks completed the urban look on the catwalk.

A checkered Jack & Jones flannel shirt, with camel coloured beanies and USC brown Timberland’s can be rocked anywhere for men.

Biker chic is also a trend that has peaked during the winter period. Mix it up with electric blues and studded leather for a more daytime look. Knitted and textured sweaters are also a favourite for the cold winter days, paired with fitted leather trousers, and mesh necklines.

Selfridges sport the greatest collection for the futuristic punk look; with unique statement pieces, which will ensure you stay edgy this season.

Many British Asians came to scope out the catwalk; one in particular looked super trendy in a collared denim shirt with a gold textured jumper, paired with a sharp cut red blazer, jeweled statement necklace and studded transparent heels.

When asked about her fashion style, Indian Mariam Alam, 17, said: “My personal style is usually things other people wouldn’t wear, like bold prints.”

The question has always been asked whether being from an ethnic background hinders the fashion choices that women in particular make. However, Mariam insisted:

“I don’t believe being from an Indian or Asian background affects your fashion choices, I would still wear what I want.”

Fashion fanatic, Serina Younis, 20, additionally added: “There is so much choice out there, if you feel you can’t wear something like crop tops, you can opt for another style which is just as trendy like a blazer.”

Overall, the day was a celebration of Britain and Birmingham, with the entire city centre playing a part in Style Birmingham Live AW13. Mollie King from the sensational girl group The Saturdays presented the fashion show ‘Ten’ inside the Bullring, to celebrate the Bullring’s 10th Birthday.

Both Style Birmingham Live AW13 and the ‘Ten’ fashion show gave a mixture of looks, which can appeal to everyone. High-street stores such as New Look, Bank and Marks & Spencer all have the trendy silhouettes from the designer runways, and so looking good can most definitely fit into your budget!