shadestation lifestyle section

Dolce and Gabbana The Sicillian Masters of Fashion

March 1, 2011
Posted by sarah

Kylie_Minogue_Les_Folies_Tour_01

Dolce and Gabbana Sunglasses

Those Sicilian boys have some friends in high places. Not content with setting the world alight with their fashion threads, Dolce and Gabbana are fierce collaborators with some of Pop’s greatest stars.

In her biggest tour to date the ‘Aphrodite – Les Folies’ World Tour, Kylie Minogue has teamed up with D&G to design all her costumes. With Greek mythology as the inspiration, the Sicilian duo have created a mythical tour wardrobe fit for a (pop) princess. In addition to their work with the diminutive Aussie singer, they also joined forces with the Queen of pop, Madonna, last year to create a line of stunning D&G sunglasses. The designers have been friends with Madonna since the early Nineties, when they created all the costumes for her ‘Girlie Show Tour’ – however this is the first time Madonna has become involved in their creative process. Their collaborative line of sunnies are called MDG sunglasses and have been received well by both the critics and the public. The MDG range for D&G is a sophisticated collection of largely oversized sunglasses in varying prints and shapes, which wouldn’t look out of place on the riviera… or the Milanese catwalk….

Coming on to the Milanese catwalk – The Fashion Week spectacle has now seamlessly moved on to Milan and over the next few days the very best of Italian designers will be strutting their stuff at Milan Fashion Week. Naturally Dolce & Gabbana will be there along with the likes of Armani, Gucci, Maxmara, Prada and Versace to name a few.

D&G are showing on Sunday ahead of the 2011 Oscars Ceremony. It’s always a closely guarded secret which designers are dressing which stars for the red carpet at the Oscars, but there are sure to be a few D&G dresses on the night. D&G has always been synonymous with a laid back sexy kind of design, but they can really rev it up for the red carpet. Halle Berry is a big fan of D&G, as are Jennifer Aniston and Anne Hathaway. However it remains to be seen whether the designer duo have collaborated with any Hollywood stars for this years Academy Awards… watch this space!

The Striking New Watches by D&G

December 1, 2010
Posted by Laura

D&G Watch: Navajo Ext

D&G Watches-New Watch Styles

If you love designer style but you also like to go for something a little different from the norm, then a D&G watch could be just the accessory you’re looking for. Sleek, eclectic, vibrant and unique are a few words to describe the latest range of D&G watches and due to their typically distinctive aesthetics, each watch will remain a classic piece that you can wear again and again regardless of seasonal trends.

One of the new D&G watch styles that definitely caught our eye is the new Sestriere D&G watch for men. Boasting a polished stainless steel bracelet strap for the chic factor, the typical D&G statement style can be found on the dial whereby the brand logo is prominently displayed in gold, also creating the illusion of being able to see the inner mechanisms of the watch. This design comes in a variety of different colours.

If you want to infuse a fresh style into your look, a white watch is a great way to D&G Sestriere Watch - Polished Stainless Steel/Silverachieve this. The new and very aptly named Pose design for ladies features a sleek white leather strap and a white dial with gold detailing. The 3, 6, and 9 time markers are also embellished in dazzling diamante stones for a touch of the D&G glamour! This watch will instantly dress up any look and is a real statement accessory that every lady would be proud to own and excited to wear!

Another watch for men that is the perfect example of the vibrant, unique and fashion forward D&G style is the new Navajo Ext watch. This design features a polished stainless steel bracelet strap and a striking black, white and red dial that includes sub dial date windows and is designed in a particularly interesting and eye-catching way, making this watch a truly unique accessory.

The entire D&G watches range is extremely varied and each model can be completely different from the next so make sure you check out the whole collection. D&G maintains a style all of its own and therefore a watch by this highly prestigious brand will make the perfect investment, and will also make a superb gift! Of course, D&G is also renowned for its ultra high quality materials and craftsmanship and each watch will be sure to go the distance in terms of both style and function.

Festival Sunglasses Trends 2010

June 9, 2010
Posted by sarah

Summer is officially here, the sun is shining and we couldn’t be happier! With the warmer months comes the usual smorgasbord of amazing festivals to get your hedonistic thrills at. Whether you enjoy moshing at ‘Download’, country pursuits at ‘The Green Man’, teenage kicks at ‘V Festival’, fancy dress at ‘Bestival’, glamour at newbie ‘Vintage at Goodwood’ or the mystic of ‘Glastonbury’, you must ensure you’re dressed for the occasion.

Festivals, fashionable summer gear and cool sunglasses all go hand in hand. Maybe it’s the influence of Gaga or perhaps Dita Von Teese, but this summer is all about kooky and vintage. With styles from the Fifties and Sixties making a comeback, we predict this year’s festivals to be awash with vintage shaped sunglasses in a cat’s eye style or small round frames, oversized sunglasses in reds, greens and brown and retro-looking shades.

The festival season kicked off with April’s Coachella Festival in California, where a host of celebrities dazzled with their fashionable threads and on-trend sunglasses. Kelly Osborne was spotted wearing small round framed lilac sunglasses, Katy Perry went retro in angular black frames with a bold white stripe across the top, Dita Von Teese personified Fifties elegance in oversized brown sunglasses with graduated lenses and Kate Bosworth dressed to impress in classic Ray Ban Aviators.

Aviators and Wayfarers from Ray Ban transcend fashion and will always be popular and current. For classic sunglasses you can’t go wrong with either of these styles for festival frolicking. The same goes for oversized glam shades. Designers like Gucci, Bvlgari, Versace, D&G, MDG Sunglasses, Chanel and Pucci all have great sunglasses for summer goddess style. On the other hand if you’re a seasonal type of girl with a desire to look fabulous and ‘now’ – take a leaf from Kelly O’s book and opt for small round shades. This style was all over the spring / summer catwalks and looks great in pastel coloured frames teamed with a floral frock or playsuit. Or you may want to play the vintage diva with cats eye shaped sunglasses – again a strong trend on the catwalk this year. Look to brands like Prada and Marc Jacobs to achieve this look.

We’ve got our Big Chill tickets and our festival sunnies sorted. Now it’s just a case of praying for sunshine! Here’s hoping….

D&G Sunglasses: If they’re good enough for Madonna…

January 29, 2010
Posted by sarah

It won’t have escaped your attention that Madonna has become the latest poster girl for Dolce & Gabbana. In a series of black and white stills, shot in an Italian neo-realism style, a glamorously suburban Madonna goes about ‘her’ household chores, all the while modelling D&G’s 2010 Spring Collection.

D&G’s latest collection is a whimsical return to their Sicilian roots. Although the designers have been friends with Madonna for over 2 decades, it is Madge’s Italian heritage, rather than her friendship with the duo, that led to her fronting their latest campaign.

According to Dolce & Gabbana, Madonna ‘embodies the strong sensuality of the brand’ and we’re inclined to agree. Famed for her strong feminine looks, her sexuality and vibrant style, Miss Ciccone strikes us as a perfect brand ambassador for D&G.

Whilst any item from the D&G Spring collection is sure to burn a hole in your pocket, D&G style is easily replicated. A sexy high street pencil skirt and bustier can be accessorised with a gorgeous pair of genuine Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses, for a quarter of the price. D&G sunglasses can be bought for as little as £80 at Shade Station and as we all know it’s the accessories that really make an outfit! With a massive selection of stunning D&G sunglasses and most of them new styles, Shade Station are making it a doddle to imitate fashion’s most talked about material girl!

Divine D&G Sunglasses – Classic Sophistication!

December 23, 2009
Posted by Laura

Since the iconic Dolce and Gabbana label was born in 1985 as founded by design duo extraordinaire Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, the brand has it has established itself as one of the main leaders and inspirations in the fashion industry loved by celebrities and A Listers alike.

Renowned for their exquisite sense of sexy and glamorous designs with an essence of sophistication, the collection of D&G sunglasses perfectly depict that with the range comprising of classic styles, oversized, aviators and visor styles.

Sunglasses are so much more than just an accessory to protect the eyes – they have become an indispensable fashion accessory and a part of our everyday lives, even when the sun isn’t shining. They can be a remarkable representation of your personality, style, status and can transform the look of any outfit to inject a chic and polished edge. With styles for men, women and unisex, a pair of D&G sunglasses are on trend and effortlessly refined and make for the perfect autumn and winter accessory.

Many people like their sunglasses to be overstated and the best way to work this look is to keep you main attire chic and simple. If getting noticed is your thing and you love the glam effect, a pair of the DD8018 D&G sunglasses with their jet black oversized frames are the perfect choice. With the sleek brand logo on the arms, this style retains that Hollywood glamour oversized look and creates a dramatic look but the jet black colour and slim frames keep the sunglasses versatile and chic. The DD3030 frames are similar but have a thicker and more retro inspired oversized frame.

For something a little sportier but maintaining the glam factor, the unisex DD8037B visor or shield style sunglasses are perfect with wide frameless lenses and thick jet black arms. The D&G lettering logo is positioned on the arm in diamante stones which definitely adds a favourable touch of bling which is synonymous with the D&G brand. A further funky oversized pair includes the DD6022B sunglasses which have goggle style frames and again feature the diamante D&G logo. These frames are also retro inspired in their design.

For something sharp a little edgy and funky and very D&G, the DD6057 unisex shades have large square shaped lenses with jet black arms and dark grey lenses. Slightly retro with a contemporary twist, these sunglasses have a sleek edge that will instantly transform your overall look. Not too over the top or understated they definitely add that essence of effortless A list glamour.

D&G sunglasses provide a great example of the classic and tailored approach that the brand favours and will make for a fantastic accessory staple that will look great for a numerous seasons,  conveying timeless style. Sophisticated, polished and chic with the offering of just the right level of bling, a pair of D&G sunglasses will see you through every fashionable season in true Italian D&G style.

Brand Focus – D&G

December 15, 2009
Posted by Laura

Design duo Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana are the creative brains and faces behind the famous luxury brand D&G and it is these two gentlemen who are responsible for making the A List celebs look and feel fabulous and glamorous on the red carpet with looks that we are constantly trying to replicate. Their super sexy styles have been seen on the likes of Naomi Watts, Scarlett Johansson Ashlee Simpson and Nicole Kidman to name only a few.

How the Brand Began-: The D&G brand became established in 1985, when the organisers of the Milano Collezioni invited the two designers to take part in a fashion show which was geared to showcase new design talent. The next year they boldly presented their first independent women’s ready-to-wear show and became an instant hit. Becoming increasingly popular the design duo then expanded their lines to menswear, fragrances and accessories including the iconic D&G watches and D&G sunglasses. What is signature and loved about D&G is the way they entwine their own Mediterranean inspired style with a typically English classic edge.

Inspired by Bohemia-: The design duo first discovered their main inspiration in a thrift shop called Bohemia where they stumbled across an array of animal print garments in bold colours. Loving the fact that this style represented the glitz and glamour of the film industry, the designers wanted to represent the theme of telling a story in their clothes and accessories. Their main priority is always to design pieces to flatter and reflect personality as opposed to merely following trends. They even admitted that they wouldn’t mind if their only valid contribution to fashion was a black bra as long as it was flattering and well made!

Sexy and Classic D&G-: D&G clothing is sophisticated and classic but with a strong hint of sexiness such as the concept of wearing underwear as outerwear including corsets – a garment that D&G is famous for. Pinstripe suits and bold animal prints are also a common D&G favourite, again keeping the look chic but with edgy suggestions. Overall the brand likes to make any female feel that with the use of well designed clothing, they can be as glamorous as they have ever desired. Some of their simple suits or tailored shirts for example are still designed to reveal a hint of sexiness in the specific cut of the garment. Another powerful tool the brand uses is controversial and bold advertising campaigns. The most iconic advertisement was probably featuring the super glamorous model Marpessa in 1987 and most recently the brand has released a rather risqué advertising campaign with the theme ‘Three’s A Crowd’ for D&G Time.

D&G watches and sunglasses-: The range of D&G watches and D&G sunglasses are quite spectacular and are a great way of bringing that unique and daring D&G design to your look with the use of a simple accessory. The retro influence and Bohemia style is also conveyed in many of the designs. There are some beautiful new D&G sunglasses to look out for in an array of styles such as aviators, wraparounds, retro sporty and oversized, all of which inject bold colours, strong designs and are incredibly striking and fashion forward. The range of D&G watches continue the glamorous theme with a whole host of stunning designs ranging from bright and bold to elegant and chic and even eclectic with a strong hint of bling! D&G is a brand whereby you are sure to find something to your taste and the collections allow you to be as over or understated as you wish.

D&G is a must-have for any fashionista and style lover. The brand is perfect as a way of expressing your own unique style with that high end designer look that is instantly recognisable as D&G. The brand is always at the forefront of the fashion industry whether this being with the launch of new collections, at events or via a new advertising campaign that gets everyone talking! D&G has that star quality that separates you from the crowd and will see you through seasons in true style with its timelessly fashionable products.

Three’s A Crowd? D&G Watches say Quite the Opposite!

December 5, 2009
Posted by Laura

Yes, D&G have done it again! Notorious for their somewhat boundary pushing ad campaigns which are often a little raunchy and provocative, the latest commercial for D&G Time is certainly no exception and perhaps is the most daring of them all!

The designers of D&G Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have had full creative input in the ad and feel the expressive nature presented in the campaigns only help to place the brand at the forefront of our minds and represent it in a seductive manner with the watches being conveyed in sensual nature. The recent mini-movie, directed by Cyrill Guyot is set in a luxury apartment in romantic Paris whereby we see a strikingly beautiful lady dressed in D&G with two rather dashing young men, all of whom are sporting the latest beautiful D&G watches and  representing the fact that three certainly isn’t a crowd. The risqué situation is then interrupted by her strict mother who clearly disapproves of such behaviour. Oo la la indeed!

Dolce and Gabbana definitely like to have fun with their racy ad campaigns, pushing the creative boundaries as far as they can which has ultimately helped to really get the brand out there and contribute to its sexy and fun image with a sense that wearer can be as free spritited as they like with their style.

The collection of D&G watches are as daring or understated as you wish and the variation of design is incredible. Some feature vibrant colours or colour combinations, some are more classic and demure and some are full on sparkly and glitzy. Unique shapes are consistent throughout the whole of the collection however and D&G is definitely a brand which likes to express style according to individual personality.

Some new styles include the Ireland D&G watch which is available in either silver or highly polished gold plated (Ireland Gold) and is a great example of the brand being bold with the majority of the bracelet style strap designed in the D&G lettering. The dial is kept sleek and simple which keeps the focus remained on the strap. The new D&G ‘800’ is the perfect option for all you ladies that like to sparkle as the entire bracelet strap comprising of delicate petal shapes is embellished in diamante stones for a super glamorous and feminine look. For something a little classic for the men, The Anchor with its slick and slim black leather strap and sleek black dial with silver detailing is perfect for an understated yet effortlessly stylish finish. The Anchor watch is also available in other dial colour and material variations.

D&G is a brand that dares to be different which is also reflected in the marketing surrounding the watches including the D&G Time ad campaigns. However, with an extensive range of classic and more traditional watches in addition to bold statement designs, this makes D&G a brand applicable to each individual and style personality. A D&G watch wearer is confident and stylish and not afraid to stand out in a crowd. Why not take a look at the fabulous watch collection the brand has to offer and add some daring D&G attitude to your look this season!

Scarlett Johansson for D&G

November 27, 2009
Posted by Laura

Italian fashion label Dolce & Gabbana is famous for its elaborate and glamorous advertising campaigns and past models and that have all made memorable appearances include Gisele, Lily Donaldson and Gemma Ward. The latest glamazon to grace the billboards and silver screens as the face of D&G is actress Scarlett Johansson who is the perfect match for the sophistication and femininity that the brand aims to convey in its range of clothing, accessories, jewellery and watches.

There has been a huge issue surrounding the use of thin models in advertising campaigns and on the catwalks and therefore an icon such as Scarlett Johansson who is renowned and adored for her curvaceous, womanly figure and extraordinary beauty, is the perfect choice to represent the theme of D&G. The actress’s image is very reminiscent of 50’s Hollywood glamour and this is definitely the essence of the D&G collections with the watches being as sparkly, sophisticated and chic as ever.

There are some wonderful new styles to look for this season, all of which are perfect for the inevitable parties that take place over the festive season and beyond. The new Flock D&G watches are both aesthetically stunning and practical with their silver D&G branded bangle strap and simple faces in either mint green or black. The new Visionnaire D&G watch with its multi strand links and diamante inserts is absolutely striking and makes for the ideal evening style watch that will perfectly compliment your party dress. For something a little more neutral and understated yet with that untouchable D&G chic edge, the New Gloria watch with its black or white leather strap and diamante bezel is a perfect way to jazz up your day look and can easily transcend through to a dressed up evening out. For the men, the Anchor D&G watch certainly allows you to shine in a masculine manner with its polished stainless steel strap and ultra chic black and silver round dial with the iconic D&G logo positioned at the bottom.

D&G is a label which is consistently spotted at high profile events whether this is the brand sponsoring a party (such as the New Moon preview after party) or if the attendees are seen wearing garments and accessories by the label. It is a brand which is always on the scene and people are constantly aware of its ever evolving collections. The advertising campaigns are also key to establishing the image that D&G wants to portray in the actual products – the elaborate settings, exquisite colours and romantic tone all help to convey D&G as a brand that is synonymous with all of these elements. The collection of D&G watches are the perfect way to capture a part of that glamour and the bold and unique designs which push design and colour boundaries really make a statement about your style. The new additions for this season are perfect if you want to shine like a Hollywood star and add something really special to your festive look!

 

D&G Hosts New Moon After Party-D&G Jewellery

November 22, 2009
Posted by Laura

D&G is always a hot favourite among the celebrities and it has once again being brought to the fashion forefront after hosting the swanky after party of the Twilight New Moon special screening in New York where the cast members including Ashley Greene, Nikki Reed and Taylor Lautner, as well as the rumoured off-screen leading couple Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson were in attendance. Ashley Greene also chose to show off a D&G number at the party which came in the form of a beautiful butterfly cocktail dress that perfectly captures the feminine but unique essence of the D&G style. Nikki Reed also wore a stunning gold slinky D&G dress with a crystal embellished neckline. New Moon which is the sequel to the hit film Twilight is the much anticipated film that everyone has been waiting for this year and along with the cast members, the D&G after party also saw a number of celebrities including Jessica Stam, Natalie Portman, Agyness Deyn and Taylor Momsen.

Since it was founded in 1985 D&G has been one of the first choices of designer for many A Listers and fashion lovers. The range of D&G jewellery is widely varied but retains that element of funky and unique D&G style which incorporates quirky features such as elegant charms and pendants or multi layers. From simple to statement, there is a piece of jewellery within the collection that will suit your style and compliment your overall look, whatever the occasion.

One piece which is typical of the D&G trend is the D&G Candy white ring. Large chunky rings are a big statement trend this season as create drama to your look – a striking ring will always be noticed. The ring features a wide band with a circular top section with the D&G lettering logo displayed in diamante jewels and the perimeter also incorporating diamantes. The D&G Crossroads ring is completely different in style but equal in statement with a polished band and three cross shaped charms in different designs with black and clear jewel features. Cuff style watches have been a fashion must this season and the same applies to jewellery – the D&G Rough, D&G Anchor, D&G Locked and the D&G Lush collection are great examples of how a chunky bracelet, cuff or bangle can add something truly unique and defined to your look. One common feature within the range of D&G jewellery is that most of the pieces feature the D&G lettering branding – this has been evident in many of the clothing and accessory collections and is often where the use of striking diamantes are incorporated for a glamorous edge. The D&G Multiple necklace is bang on trend with multi layered chain strands of different lengths which creates depth to the piece. Primarily gold, this necklace also includes a black section woven into one of the gold chains and seven D&G charms – again, a further key trend. Many celebrities have seen working this look and it works incredibly well against a plain coloured outfit.

D&G is a fashion label that is designed to be noticed. That said, there are also some beautiful understated pieces such as the D&G Lines chunky ID style bracelet. With an extensive collection of necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings, (some of which are also unisex) D&G jewellery is the perfect way to compliment your look and can easily be worn in the day through to night. Still a huge favourite among the celebs and hosting high profile events, the iconic D&G brand will always be the hot label to be seen in due to its unique and timelessly stylish appeal.

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