Chanel SS09
Welcome to our third fashion faceoff here at FemaleFirst, where we pit two big designer names against each other, to see who comes out on top in the fashion stakes.
This week we're looking at an absolute classic and a quirky young designer, who is finally getting the recognition she deserves, so who will come out on top?
Well, lets start with Chanel, who are ultimately the epitome of girly chic, and with Karl Lagerfeld at the helm they can do no wrong in our eyes.
Every season they churn out classic Chanel tweed suits, and yet it still manages to look fresh and inventive, even making other brands look second-class next to it.
Yes, we'll admit that we're nuts about this brand and their iconic quilted clutch bags, and it seems the celebs are too, as a record number of them have been spotted with some Chanel arm candy recently.
Even WAGS and Z-listers have cottoned onto the fact that owning a piece of Chanel practically makes you fashion royalty, but it all depends on how you wear it, as fakers can be easily spotted in their velour tracksuits, complete with orange faces.
Very few can pull of Chanel with elegance, but those that do- Sarah Jessica Parker, for example, look stunning and effortlessly chic, almost like the suit was made to be worn by them.
We loved Chanel's SS09 collection, which introduced yet more funky accessories to the brand, and showed us a new take on their AW08 two-tone tights, which have been a huge hit so far this season.
Their AW09 collection was also very strong, as Lagerfeld injected monochrome back into brand, giving us some pieces that were just made to be shown on the world catwalk stage.
Our only minus point is that they have signed Lily Allen to front their new handbag campaign, which we're not entirely sure was a stellar style choice, but we'll reserve judgement until we see the pics. Who knows, Miss Allen may surprise us!
Onto our second contender and what a designer she is! Luella Bartley currently holds the title of 'Designer of the Year' and has a celeb following so long we just don't have time to list them all!
Luella SS09
Keira Knightley, Kate Moss and Nicola Roberts are just some of the fashionable celebs who champion her range and we can see why. Whereas Chanel go for sophisticated chic, Luella goes for girly glamour.
Her clothes are playful, youthful and fun, yet share the same sort of vintage values that Chanel works into their lines each season.
Luella's ditzy prints have become her signature and with her SS09 collection hailed as one of her strongest to date, we think she's well on her way to achieving global success.
We liked her AW09 collection too, although felt it wasn't as polished as previous offerings from the designer.
If we had to pick a fave collection however, it would definitely be her 'Year Of The Witch' AW08 range, which ultimately kick started the massive dark romance trend last season.
So what's the verdict? Well, this is our closest call to date, but we think the honour has to go to Luella. Just.
We have her to thank for crimped hair and coloured tights last season, and ditzy florals and 40s glamour this season, so ultimately she has the fashion edge this week.
FemaleFirst- Laura Terry
Tagged in Chanel