STYLE INSPIRATION: Marina Diamandis

Oh my god, you look just like Shakira
No no, you’re Catherine Zeta
Actually, my name’s MARINA 

When Marina Lambrini (really) Diamandis was asked to describe her style in three words she choose 'vintage, cheerleader and cartoon'.  Novateur hearts both her style and music in equal measures so it is only right she is our next Style Icon.

I first noticed Marina when she popped up on MTV writhing in sequins, stars and stripes and singing about teens, queens and all things Hollywood: off went my Americana alarm. The added bonus with this (it turned out Welsh-Greek) beauty was that aside from the visual treat the video offered, it was actually a great song. Think glitter pop-rock meets new wave disco, a little Debbie Harry, a twist of Madonna and there you have  it. However, Marina is no carbon copy. What sets her apart from the crowd is the main Diamandis trait which is at the core of the music; her wonderful operatic voice. Her tendency to be anti-celebrity is also more than appealing as well as the fact she actually really really does care about her fans. ‘The Diamonds’ of her stage name does, after all, refer to her loyal and ever growing following and she has even been known to have a fan photo as her Facebook fan page profile picture.

After the release of the album delightfully entitled, The Family Jewels, success followed and so did a string of bubblegum tour get-ups with Marina all neon lips and Liz Taylor brows standing in the spotlight, her thick black mane playing in the wind machine. The album (and outfits) have given Marina world-wide fame.

I was lucky enough to catch her last summer at the super sunny Reading Festival along with a legion of other ‘Diamonds’ all faithfully packed into a tent to catch a glimpse and to, well, have a dance. She did not disappoint.

Marina is currently finishing her new album and sporting a choppy bob and I, for one, cannot wait to see what is next. So, to remind you of past galore, here are Novateur's favourite MD looks; think Mickey Mouse meets Wednesday Addams...in a neon paint fight.

 The singles included some pretty cool artwork too...

For more infomation on MATD visit www.marinaandthediamonds.com/ 
You can follow Marina on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/marinasdiamonds

Images: Online at Vogue, Look Magazine, Elle and Wikipedia

Accessorising with Meg Mathews

The moment I walked into the scarf room last year at Liberty an array of beautiful prints caught my eye. I found myself bypassing the McQueen’s and heading straight over to this lovely display of silk scarves. The designer it turned out, was none other than original rock chick come yummy mummy turned print designer; Meg Mathews. 

After the success of her gorgeous printed wallpaper Ms Mathews created her own range of luxurious scarves. Each are made in the UK with 100% silk and feature her own signature Russian Doll design. After the overload of skull scarves it's refreshing to see a new design.

Scarves really can make an outfit. There is nothing more stylish than a great pair of jeans paired with a basic top and customised with a statement scarf. As Meg say’s ‘I have always loved scarves, I love the way they can make an outfit and add personality to what you are wearing, they are versatile, exciting and definitely on trend’.

See below for my pick of the best. Wear all year long conventionally, as a head scarf or accessorise your swimsuit on the beach this summer. I’m heading to St Tropez in June and one of these will look just perfect teamed with my new crochet bikini.

Enjoy…

 

Meg's scarves are available to buy at www.liberty.co.uk 
For more information on Meg visit www.megmathews.co.uk 
You can also follow her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/MegMathews

Images courtesy of Meg Mathews

Twenty8Twelve SS11

To continue my love

of all things Sienna…

But seriously, these clothes really are great.

The collection; bursts of colour, staple basics and great tailoring. Twenty8Twelve SS11 samples trends but remain true to the brand ethic; these clothes are completely accessible and very wearable. For the summer collection think tailored shorts and skirts, well cut sundresses, lux fabrics and great prints....all mixed up with their trademark denim. Just the right amount of rock-chick mixed with bohemian romance and laid back chic. These well cut pieces have great attention to detail and are worth investing in, I would happily wear summer after summer. Very unpretentious and seriously cool...

Images & stockist: http://www.twenty8twelve.com/