Fashion Vault: Jennifer Rothwell

In Grainne Mahers' Fashion Vault we have a selection of scarves by Irish-based designer, Jennifer Rothwell. They range from £65 to £135 respectively.

Jennifer, herself has an extensive background in the fashion industry. She graduated with honours in 1995 from the National College of Art and Design, Dublin, Ireland. For her achievements, she was awarded with the 'Brown Thomas Designer Award' at Dublin Fashion week in 2007.

''New York born Dublin resident Jennifer Rothwell’s superb tailoring, innovative designs and beautifully cut feminine dresses caught the eye of Brown Thomas Buying Director Stephen Sealey and Head of Fashion Direction Shelly Corkery.”

— Brown Thomas, Dublin Fashion Week, 2007

Her designs themselves do not necessarily follow the trends, yet are beautiful and exquisite in rich colours.

Most recently her print collection inspired by Harry Clarke was featured in the Irish Times in 2015.

 

December 2015

Well it's that time of year again! December flies in and Belfast is ever busy for it with the Christmas holidays fast approaching! It feels as though all of Northern Ireland descends upon Belfast with the lure of the Christmas market, ever enticing people into the heart of the city. Traffic becomes a nightmare (particularly at weekends) so try to avoid at all costs if possible.

Late night shop openings I find are great as I work a 9 to 6 job currently. I loathe going out on my lunchbreak, as Victoria Square is just too crowded for my liking. As for Christmas itself, I'm pretty much sorted getting presents for everyone as I started ages ago in late September. Things that I may invest in are household decorations though - with my previous move in Easter buying decorations hasn't been the top of my list but I may start getting a few as I don't plan to move anytime in the near future.

Presents I found relatively easy to buy for this year. For my mum I got her a L'occitance Divine Gift Set. She always asks for testers of it and generally loves the brand, yet finds it hard to justify the amount of money it costs. For my dad, I got 2 big knitted jumpers. My dad is generally the most awkward to buy for - he never wants for anything really. I decided to get him clothes as it's the one thing he never buys for himself.

Many people say I'm hard to buy for - quite different to the contrary actually. Personally, I think I'm super easy to get for, as I'm quite girly so any of the staples would go down a treat - jewellery, perfume, spa gift sets, clothes, that kind of thing.

Being nostalgic, this year hasn't been so bad at all: I moved into a great house, got baptised, got a new job and booked a nice holiday away for next year. 2016 is shaping up nicely and it has not even started yet...

As for plans next year, I do intend to get a healthier work/life balance. Specifically, I want to become fitter by going to the gym a lot more regularly, training well and generally eating a lot better. So from the 1st of January I'm going to log it all in this blog (one way of trying to motivate myself and others is by focusing on it more this way via a public platform).

October/November 2015

This time of year is always a mad busy one in October and November, with a decline in one aspect of my working life at the end of November. In my ways I am glad to be finishing teaching on the 26th of November; time-wise it really is a struggle this year to get everything done with very little personal time. I find it's taking it's toll on some areas of my life and will be glad of a break (to say the least).

I had my birthday in mid-November. I'm a real big kid in some ways and always think I'll want a birthday cake no matter what age I'll be. This year instead of grabbing a quick, mediocre cake out of Tescos I decided to get one made personally by a baker who I couldn't recommend more! I got a lemon and raspberry cake slathered in pink buttercream, milk chocolate drip decorated with chocolate shards and gilded berries.

Long story short the cake didn't last long at all.



I find I'm settling more into my other workplace now and seem to finally be coming out of my shell. I always seem to find that a problem still; I'm quite quiet, shy and reserved in comparison to most people when I first meet new people. Most be an only child thing in some ways - I never had to vey for attention from my parents since I was the only child in the house. 'Shy, quiet, yet conscientious' were common phrases seen in school reports from an early age throughout my teenage years and even commented upon when I started my degree. Now, my job requires me to be outgoing, friendly and approachable. I'm getting there and find inner confidence is just going to be a work in progress for me.

Designer Handbags Over Highstreet

One thing that is a common factor when I work in retail is that my spending increases also. I guess many can relate to this problem and now that I'm in a luxury retail environment, I guess is a big factor to how I have changed my shopping habits.

Now I really see the investment and benefits of buying something designer instead of fast fashion. Everybody loves abit of shopping in Primark, New Look or H&M but now I've definitely cut down on what I will spend in stores such as those.

For example, I can outrightly say I will always go for a designer/higher end handbag now. The difference in quality is astounding. Sofar, this year I have invested in two Mulberry bags and one Alexander McQueen (hopefully will be adding Valentino to the list before the year is out, so definitely watch out on this space)! Granted, I give my current Italian-brand 'Coccinelle' handbag alot of abuse by overloading it and generally flinging it about; but I expected more of it when I purchased my second one. I was super careful with it on my first outing (as my other bag had ribbing that became damaged easily). Nevertheless, the ribbing came off completely at the bottom corners of the bag. Beyond horrified as the bag was around £250/300.

I've found the bags that I have purchased (which are designer) general wear and tear is not really an issue and that if treated well, should last for years to come. Granted, the price points are significantly higher but now I generally can justify it. I'd prefer if a bag which I rely heavily upon will last than having a disaster such as a strap to snap.

Most designer bags can be easily fixed when they are within warranty (always good to double check though as each designer/company differs with their policies).

August/September 2015

The past few months have been a regular rhythm of work interspersed with more work. It's all been good though and I feel as if I have settled into my retail job comfortably.

I started my degree placement mid-September with a local milliner and am enjoying putting my retail experience into practice with my degree placement. When deciding whether to do a degree placement or not I was somewhat torn - timewise and financially can it be worth it? I decided I thought it was after talking it through with several people. At the end of the day, experience in the work industry is expected and taking a whole year out to focus on that will help achieve that level of experience; alongside learning new skills.

Luckily, my placement is flexible timewise so I can work quite alot. Also, my placement is in Belfast City Centre (which I'm in every day) so is really helpful geographically. At the moment Grainne is still settling in to her new premise so even little tasks such as painting a piece of furntiture or sorting the stockroom can be a great help.

June/July 2015

It's been good to get a slight break off for a  few weeks since I've finished second year of my Fashion Management degree. I have only one unit to resit (sewing). I'm not overly surprised - I never really took to the subject and really struggled with remembering the steps and doing well with basic sewing techniques. Although I did not pass this unit; I'm happy with how I did. I did everything by myself and tried my best. I have a written piece I have to submit by mid-August so I have ample time to complete this task.

I took a jump career-wise and applied for a job more related to the field of my degree. Surprisingly, the day of my interview I got the call back with the offer of the job, which I have not accepted. It took about a month roughly to get the paperwork sorted with HR.

I had my first day two weeks ago and have been really enjoying it. It's been a good change as I've got to meet new people with similar interests and is a stable job with plenty of overtime. Plus there's other perks too such a staff discount etc...

I couldn't be happier at present as work seems to be really taking off and hard work is starting to pay off.

May/June 2015

Thankfully have finished second year of my fashion degree (for the most part) after my second go at it. This year academically was summed up by a great quote I found the other day 'a year in university is like a Boojum - it starts off promising, but by the end your just trying to keep it from falling apart'.

Practically, my fashion skills for this course (Pattern Making and Sewing) are my weaker areas compared to an academic piece of writing. Therefore I'll probably have to come in in my own time and try to salvage what I have done. That'll be interesting; when I work unsupervised it usually ends up a pure shambles. I could possibly salvage my top but would need to completely redo my skirt (it just is that bad.

I've decided to take advantage of a placement year; I don't think many others in my second year class are availing of this opportunity. Completely understandable too. Many placements are unpaid or may just cover travel. An obvious drawback for alot of people. However I've decided it's still a worthwhile opportunity - many jobs insist on a level or amount of experience and this is one way to gain it and hopefully get a great reference as well!

I think it will help give me time to prepare for final year as well - I seriously need to learn how to Harvard Reference with a dissertation looming in front of me...

April/May 2015

Finally all moved in what seems like a very long two/three weeks. I've said it once before, I'll say it again not moving again. Hahaha.

Of course moving with all intents and purposes was a nightmare. The van man was anything but pleasant and was beyond late. Wasn't impressed at all. Thankfully, all is moved now though I have no idea were anything is or could be.

My immune system is already kicking me when I am down with a throat/flu virus and with final assignments creeping up and roughly only 3 weeks to go before I finish second year it literally could't happen at a worse time. Although in saying that I can still function, just not talk much...

Struggling through by the skin of my teeth it seems but I'm getting a lot further than I got last year (I think so anyway). Wouldn't recommend anyone to move during Easter, it takes over everything and I got very little assignments done. Probably not going to get Stellar results due to this...

March/April 2015

With April fast approaching I'm wondering where this year has went. A lot of change is happening and I'm super excited to be beginning a new chapter. No I'm not pregnant or anything mad like that (I can barely look after myself never mind a child). I'm just moving.

Very spontaneous, granted but very exciting and somewhat terrifying at the same time. The new house is much bigger and offers a lot more compared to what I have at the moment. So it's car trip after car trip trying to lug my belongings over to the new place all the while trying to juggle redecorating (definitely needs a refresh and tidy up). All in all, we'll most likely be in Easter weekend.

As for work it's ebbing at the moment; I am very busy with some potential new clients to begin shortly. Have to admit with everyone being off for Easter break it can throw lessons in to some disarray which can be slightly irritating as I do need some time off for myself; especially with moving...

However I am taking Thursday off to see my family and go to the orthodontics which I'm really looking forward to. I haven't seen them in ages. I also have reduced work time this Saturday and all of Sunday and Monday off.

History of the Shift Dress

The history of the shift dress can be traced back to the 1920’s from the trend of the popular flapper dresses. Dresses of that time period had a simple, defined shape, a loose fit and very little waist definition. This is a contrast to earlier dresses and restrictive styles such as the corset. In the 1920’s flappers wore them with more embellishments such as layers of fringing and beading. Forty years later in the 1960’s, the dresses were given bright, floral prints.

Twenty years after this fabric experimentation began with a jersey fabric and a layering style with a shirt used as an undergarment (this then became termed as a jumper). In the 1990’s the shift dress returned again and became a staple in the working female wardrobe as a business wear piece. From 2000 onwards to the present day the shift dress has become mainstream and is seen as a classic piece updated through trends and seen on the catwalk for many consecutive seasons (both Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter).

The earliest classic knee length shift dresses were introduced in 1957 by designers Cristobal Balenciaga and Hubert de Givenchy in their Parisian collections. Three years later in 1960, fashion designer Lilly Pulitzer designed a print shift dress; further promoting the style. Apparently, Lily (who owned a juice bar) created the dress to hide juice stains on her clothes. She then sold her signature 1960’s shift dress and named it the ‘Lily’. A year later Lily had closed down her juice bar and was selling her dresses full time. Trendsetting of the shift dress involved many influential people including Audrey Hepburn, Twiggy, Jackie Kennedy and more recently, Michelle Obama.

The effect of the shift dress in culture and history was significant. The shift dress was seen as a youthful, modern dress which redefined the female shape; which then resulted in the shift dress becoming a symbol of the sexual revolution. The shift dress was both stylish, yet practical for everyday-wear. Named the shift dress as a result of the ‘shift’ in culture.

The shift dress is a usually short dress, with a straight silhouette. The dress is typically sleeveless, the neckline high but contrasts with a short hemline.  

 

February/March 2015

How did you spend your half term? Mine went nowhere even near to plan.

I spent the majority of my half term working (the joys). It seemed that even though I was off class it felt busier than ever. I started new clients and met new people. Overall, quite positive work-wise. I even got to see my mum and dad (who I hadn't seen since last year).

As for assignments, not that great admittedly. I didn't get to Kilroot. However, did manage to rummage around in the Spinning Wheel and Sew and Sew in town for fabric samples. I got a nice plain navy fabric from the Spinning Wheel to add to my scrapbook.

I think even though we're back from our half term break off we're already counting down the days until we are off again. I feel as if I need a holiday away, but know that won't be the case for many months at least. Assignments are due in April or May so not long to go until I am off again!

I am so glad the way things in university have went this year and that I have continued to progress even though life can be mad at times. This year (second year) I get the opportunity to either do a placement year or continue by beginning my final year. I would love the chance to do a placement and went for an interview this week. Most nerve-wrecking thing I've done in awhile.

Fingers crossed I got it!

Elizabeth

xxx

January/February 2015

Literally hate this time of year. I hate cold, rainy, chilly weather and the past few weeks it has been just that. It makes getting out of bed in the morning utterly miserable to do and to walk even to the gym around the corner the most hateful of walks. I find this time of year the hardest both mentally and physically.

Have been back to class since the second week of January (we don't get off most of January like other universities) but it's not long until we're off again for half-term break (the week of Valentine's Day). Today I'm currently off as they have staff training and even more surprisingly even have work off as well. Off course I took full advantage and slept until a little after 12 midday and am not long up.

My plans for my week off? An action packed week of work, assignments, errands and activities! Not really a week off in essence but I go a little bit mad having nothing to do...I plan to go to Kilroot for some fabric browsing/shopping. Apparently, it has a great selection and it will be the perfect place to get fabric sample for my second term sketchbook. This term we are focusing on a menswear project; somewhat out of my comfort zone but will be a good experience (fingers crossed for the sewing part)!

For more fun-filled personal time I plan to go to the Museum in Botanic; I haven't been in months and heard there are some new exhibit installations. I also plan to get to the gym on a daily basis; my diets went to hell and my sweet tooth seems to be over-ruling at the moment. All main meals are actually quite healthy (despite the odd pizza); it's snacks and what I'm drinking that is my downfall at the moment.

As for considering a work placement year for my course, I'm left undecided. I'm finding it somewhat difficult for somewhere that is not solely orientated on sewing (I would not have the patience for it and it's not what I'm considering as a career for the future). Jimmy (our career advisor overseer for this year) gave us a brief talk yesterday and I ended up contacting a few people immediately who interested me; fingers crossed!

Getting Fit For The Lazy and Un-coordinated

Anyone that knows me a long time would not associate me with being in any way sporty. Ever. I was the girl that hated P.E class in school and always felt below average when it came to it. When I left school I never did any physical activity until I joined a ballet class for a short time when I was 20 years old (and unfortunately does not run anymore). Even joining that class was a big milestone.

It came to the point in 2014 when I became very unhappy with the way I looked and a severe onset of depression/anxiety that I made the plunge to join the gym; I simply had to do something. I joined a local DW gym. Mainly locality was something I needed; if it was miles away there are more excuses not to go. I wanted something different too - I hate running so a cardio based gym was not asthmatic little for me.

I booked in for a gym induction and was pleasantly surprised by what they offered. A £30 monthly membership for students, which is open to me 6.30am-10pm weekdays and 8am-8pm on weekends. The cost has suit me perfectly; I would have easily spent that money on a big takeaway splurge instead. Also the opening time availability; as I have previously mentioned working for myself can mean I have a crazy schedule, so flexibility is required to when I can actually go. DW also boasts a steam room, swimming pool and jacuzzi (bliss after a heavy training session!) The staff are pretty friendly too.

The big question is 'Do you get a personal trainer?'
Personally, I did at the start and absolutely hated it; we didn't have much in common and felt I could train by myself more effectively independently. It wasn't for me; but if you get a good PT it can make all the difference. I guess it depends on your own motivation.

Since my first and last disastrous PT session, I've trained by myself; not easy at the start, granted that, but it does take time. I've found watching other gym members an invaluable way to learn (look at their, posture, stance, how they hold a weight) and try it yourself!

It will be a year in April that I'll be part of DW gym and honestly it has been a great decision. I've found the gym picks my mood up even on my worst days and looking a year back can say I've come a good way from it.

Of course, like most people diet is the big struggle. My sweet tooth overrules me and I am finding it hard to substitute fruit for chocolate (it's just not the same!) Diet Is a long-term factor that I think I'll have to work on for awhile.

2015

Hard to believe it's a new year! As usual all the cliched resolutions have been made...

It took me until April last year until I eventually joined the gym; but I did and it's definitely one of the best decisions I made in 2014. This year I plan to tone up and build my strength up even more; I'm lifting more than I would ever have dreamed possible and want to continue progressing! I also want to increase my level of flexibility; it'll help with my weight training. 

Another resolution is to stop procrastinating so much. Be it assignments, housework, walking the dog on a rainy day. Usually if you do something when you are supposed to, it makes life easier (especially in the case of assignments!)

I'm trying to eat better too. I've crash dieted before and all it does is make you insanely miserable. Sofar I have cut out all carbs (such a pasta, rice potatoes etc) and replaced them with leafy greens. I actually prefer wild rocket and watercress to spinach so would eat more of that currently. No fizzy juice or my beloved Fanta, tea or coffee. I've replaced this mainly with either water or milk or the odd diluted juice. I've cut out all chocolate, curries, crisps too. Basically if it's not vegetables or fruit, eggs or meat I'm not eating it.

The aftereffects of all this? Some hunger, at times. Mainly due to my job and university, my eating patterns are not regular, but I have started eating a regular breakfast. Temptation is big; a lot of people I work for offer coffee/tea and usually biscuits. I'm just saying no thanks or ask for water instead. As for temptation when I'm out and about, I just have to quickly walk past.

Sofar so good.

As for assignments it's the first day back and it's been alright. Patterns assignment is in this Friday, so a busy week ahead. Marketing deadline has been rescheduled as our tutor was away in Australia for nearly three weeks so that's a relief. Sewing isn't going great as I'm such a slow learner/doer but I'll get there; at some point ha.