Diary of a Fashion Designer

Spring Summer 2010 - it's here!

2009-09-10T12:31:00.005+01:00

Hello there!

It might be getting cold outside but don't despair 'cos Summer's here again! And Spring too!

That's right we have launched our new Spring Summer 2010 collection and to celebrate the fact we're going to give one lucky fan a £500 gift voucher to spend on anything they like, as long as it's e.g...!

Simply get over to www.egSS10.co.uk and leave a comment about our wonderful designs and we'll put your name in the draw.

We can't wait to hear what you think.

Any one fancy a quick Rank?

2009-08-25T16:08:00.006+01:00

If you don't live in east London and more specifically if you haven't explored the eccentric Brick Lane area, then the headline of this blog might be a little confusing... and a little tantalizing.

Rankin, the photographer/director/publisher extraordinaire, has put together a stellar exhibit showcasing many of his stunning pieces, inside the Old Truman Brewery on the Lane. 'Any one fancy a quick Rank?' is the shocking catch phrase of this awe-inspiring exhibit.

So, why are we bringing it up?

Well, Rankin (who, for your information, is the man behind the glorious Dazed & Confused mag and has snapped the likes of Madonna, the Rolling Stones, Sienna Miller and David Bowie - to name only very few) has photographed none other than the lovely little miss lady londonherself, wearing one of our signature looks.

Below is the lovely blogette with Rankin himself. Hot.

The exhibit closes on 18 September, so our advice is to nip out immediately and have a look. It's a tenner to get in, but don't let the price tag deter you.

Trust us, it's well worth the dosh. Don't trust? Look at the live Rankin exhibit site to see just how cool it is. If the web site is that rad, imagine what the actual show will be like. Mmm, indeed.

The photo of Lady London and our jacket will be included in the show.

For an inside scoop on the photo shoot itself, feast your eyes on this

love lori, X

VOGUE!

2009-08-13T12:39:00.006+01:00

Vogue, the pinnacle of fashion journalism, has given e.g... a fab shout-out in their September issue.

Everyone please turn to page 114 of your fashion manuel...

The column discusses how fashion designers and fashionistas worldwide are using Twitter to connect to the masses.

E.g... is mentioned along with the likes of Topshop and Louis Vuitton for our tweeting abilities. Very cool.

Sadly the article points to our old egfashion account, which is no longer in use. Our new Twitter account can be found at inside_eg. Come check us out!

And while you're at it, make sure to find us on Facebook as well.

See you there! x

e.g... is not just a label

2009-08-05T16:48:00.006+01:00

Not Just A Label has selected our cropped herringbone jacket as a feature item for their online shop.

Key industry figures scour mercilessly, looking for avant-garde pieces to offer up on their online shop. The desired designers items are shown on the site, but only one lucky bidder will get the piece.

That's right - if you like what you see in the NJAL store, you better act quick - because only one of each piece is for sale.

Each month, a new host of the shop is introduced. This month it's none other than Amanda Lepore - the feisty American transsexual, who gives a whole new definition to quirky, feminine beauty.

Check out the site, the shop, and of course, the gorg' jacket. Maybe it could even be yours?!

http://shop.notjustalabel.com/womenswear/1283

Nolcha, Nolcha, Nolcha

2009-08-03T16:44:00.003+01:00

If any of you are unfamiliar with Nolcha, allow me to introduce you...

Nolcha is a fantastic American business that helps bring emerging and independent fashion designers to the forefront of the industry.

A few weeks ago, the New York based company contacted e.g... asking for an interview. After jumping for joy, Emma answered a few of the lovely Lynn Furge's questions.

Here is the best bit - some of the new collection was (finally!) revealed on their site. Model Maddy from Elite was selected to showcase some of the new designs and they are looking fierce!

We're all over the moon about this one, so be sure to check out their site, our article and of course, some of the new looks!

Nolcha introduces e.g...

Happy reading,

L x

A Fashion Tale

2009-07-31T11:35:00.012+01:00

Once upon a time in a not-so-faraway land called London, lived a beautiful young designer named Emma.

In her studio, located high above all the hustle and bustle of the east end streets below, Emma worked day and night on her new collection. But this wasn't just any collection. This was Emma's signature collection and everything had to be just right.

One day, as Emma finished yet another piece for this highly-anticipated new body of work, an idea struck the lovely blonde girl.

"I know!" she exclaimed from behind her sewing machine. "Instead of showcasing at London Fashion Week, I'll do something even bigger... even better. Something new.

Something revolutionary!"

Excited by her idea, Emma quickly consulted her partner Jeanpierre. "I think you're on to something," said JP, sipping from what was probably his thirteenth cup of tea that morning. "Yes, Emma dearest, let's create a video. The finest fashion video in all the land!"

And so they got to work. First they needed to find the best, the brightest, the most brilliant production team possible. "How about Creative Nation?" suggested JP. "Brilliant!" exclaimed Emma.

Of course it was brilliant. With the company's past clients including names like Nike, Coke, E4, Dunlop and Audi - they would surely do e.g. proud.

Next, auditions for the fairest ladies were held. Gorgeous girls from all over the world flocked to Emma's studio, but only a lucky few would be just right.

It was a hard decision for Emma and JP. "But they're all so stunning!" said JP. "Yes, you're right," said Emma. "But I have such a good feeling about these five. They simply MUST star in the video."

And so, the beautiful Annaliese, Ilona, Jo, Eryna and Natasha were all recruited, making up the fabulous five that will represent this most fierce new e.g... collection.

The day of the shoot is fast approaching. Next weekend to be exact. It will be a sinister and sexy

day, indeed. The weary and faint of heart need not apply.

A Spitalfields lot transformed into a fashion battlefield . Erotica, bondage and sexual tension run amuck... oh my!

The shoot will be well documented for all to see. Sorted, a glorious photographer, who has worked with the likes of O2, the Telegraph, Tatler magazine and Mixmag, will be on site. Not a sexy moment will pass without the click from his expertly-handled camera.

And those ever-so-alluring moments will be made all the more tantalizing by New York makeup and hair stylist Rachel Wood, who has worked on some of the most divalicious projects to date.

"She's lush," said Emma excitedly. She's worked on nearly every magazine you can name - Look, InStyle, Grazia, New - the list goes on! Not only that, Wood has showcased her skills on ITV, UK Style, UK Living and appeared in not one but FOUR episodes of last season's hit show Coleen's Real Women.

And so, Emma and her team continue pushing on towards the date of the big shoot. It will be a day to remember. And a day to definitely read about on this blog soon.

To Be Continued...

Emma recommends...

2009-07-28T11:32:00.006+01:00

Emma has taken some time out of her busy sewing schedule to fill us in on the best bits of London town - in her lovely opinion, of course.

So, while you're anxiously awaiting the release of her new collection (which, by the way, has new pieces being added each day it seems!), make sure you visit some of these hot spots. Maybe we'll see you there....

Best Pub:

Ok, this is a tough one. With a pub literally on every corner in this city, it's not easy to choose. BUT quantity does not always mean quality, and if it's quality you're craving than Emma recommends you visit Grapeshots Wine Bar in east London.

According to Emma, drinking in Grapeshots will have you feeling like you're in the midst of a Charles Dickens novel. The staff is lovely, the decor is lush and the ale is served in solid silver tankards! Not too shabby.

The pub is located just around the corner from our studio. The exact address is 2-3 Artillery Passage, Broadgate, E1 7LJ.

Apparently it's still an untapped amazing drinking hole in London, so take advantage of this insider information before the masses catch on.

Best Restaurant:

When Jeanpierre isn't whipping up something truly scrumptious in the e.g... kitchen (yesterday's noodle prawn dish was legendary, JP), Emma likes to venture out to a restaurant called Imli in Soho.

You'd think with Brick Lane just a hop, skip and strut away from the e.g. pad, Emma would opt for Indian food there, but nope, Imli is the place to park if you're in the mood for spicy curries, etc.

The restaurant boasts a variety of Indian tapas to tempt your tastebuds. Emma says Imli puts an exciting twist on Indian cooking - offering beautiful sauces, wicked cocktails and a Goan pork that is simply to die for.

And the curry is good... "like... REALLY good", says Emma.

I'm convinced.

The restaurant is located at 167-169 Wardour Street

in Soho - W1F 8WR.

I googled the place and TimeOut London has given it a five-star review! I suspect after this blog hits the netwaves, those stars will be climbing.

MMmmmmmm.....

If you visit either of these delicatable places, please let us know about it. We'd love to hear what you thought. Agree or disagree with Emma - let's hear it!

Ok, I'm hungry. Time for lunch. Bye for now!

L x

Stitsh

2009-07-24T09:21:00.002+01:00

We don't do this very often, but we wanted to draw your attention to a fabulous style site that everyone should definitely be bookmarking.

Stitsh is not like your regular style spotting website.

I love visiting street style sites. They're a great place to gain inspiration and see what people from all over the world are sporting this season.

But often, I'll visit these sites, see an item I MUST have and then realise I'll never own it because I have no idea where it's from. No amount of Ebay searching will ever land me the look.

This is why Stitsh is so wonderful. The staffers down at Stitsh actually do the hard work for you, by finding out where the fashionistas and fashionistos bought their amazing clothes and then providing links to online shops where you can purchase it for yourself.

Brilliant.

Scroll through their UK and US galleries and you'll see what I mean. Like what that girl is wearing in Manchester? How about the woman in New York City? Click the picture and viola, you're free to shop to your heart (and your wallet's) desire.

Check it out: http://www.stitsh.com/

Happy shopping,

L x

e.g.'s... Next Top Model

2009-07-22T14:37:00.005+01:00

It's been a busy day in the e.g... studio. The new collection is nearly complete and all the looks are coming together beautifully.

We've had some models in all last week, interviewing for the collection video. We start shooting very soon!

But, to see the new pieces in action today, we had a lovely and talented model called Annaliese come in to try them on and pose for a few pictures. She's a natural! So bubbly and full of energy.

With all this modeling action happening, Emma couldn't resist getting in on all the action. She was posing behind the camera. Luckily I caught her:

We loved having Annaliese in the studio. So, I conducted a little Q&A with her. Behold:

Q: Hi Annaliese! You're gorgeous. Where are you from?

A: London - that's an easy one!

Q: How old are you, darling?

A: 22

Q: You seem familiar. Where would we people know you from?

A: Probably Britain's Next Top Model. I was a contestant on the most recent cycle. It was great for exposure, but it's definitely not what it looks like on tv! More about entertainment than actual modeling. But it was fun.

Q: What are your career goals?

A: I have a lot! I would actually love to be a television presenter and host a national tv programme. I always say I'd love to steal the T4 girls jobs. But I love modeling too. I want to be on the cover of a successful magazine. I really love catwalk too. Hopefully someone will give a 5'7" girl a chance to walk the catwalks! I've mainly done commercial work.

Q: We've had some models in all week. They look perfect and we're starting to feel bad. Do you have any guilty pleasures?

A: Definitely - mine would have to be cheesecake.

Mmmmm! We agree.

Sadly I can't publish any of the photos taken from today. BUT, soon all will be revealed so stay tuned! I'll let you know closer to the day when you can check back for all the new looks.

Until then - keep posing!

L x

P.S. Annaliese is part of Oxygen Model Management in London. Gorgeous!

Facebook us!

2009-07-14T12:48:00.002+01:00

Have you heard of this little website called Facebook? It's pretty great!

If you have a moment, would you be ever so kind and come and visit our page? And, why not, while you're there, become a fan?

Lots of new things are coming and we want to make sure you're kept in-the-know.

Click, click, click: e.g...on Facebook

Big kisses,

Lori

Bloomin' good weekend

2009-07-13T15:15:00.011+01:00

Mmm, it's summer.

I'm writing this post from my desk in the studio. The window is open, the sun is shining (granted I did need to use my umbrella whilst walking in this morning, but nevermind that).

It's important to take advantage of these lovely days, even if you have a much-anticipated new collection coming out in a matter of weeks.

Emma decided to bask in the warm(ish) weather this weekend and managed to creep out from under the sewing machine long enough to enjoy the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show just outside London.

She joined her lovely parents and good friend Amelie, whom she first met while working with McQueen, at the show. It looked lush.

Speaking of lush, meet Amelie:

The show is put on by the same group behind the Chelsea Flower Show, so we all knew it was going to be grand.

According to Emma, the show lived up to expectations. Gorgeous flowers at every corner.

Look how happy:

Apparently, Amelie was quite the savvy shopper - bargaining with vendors for the cheapest price imaginable for a chocolate-scented plant. Sadly, Amelie left without the plant. Probably cheaper on Columbia Rd, she thought, which is what she told the vendors! Bless.

Their hands weren't empty for long though. They did make a couple important purchases at the event. Actually, make that three important purchases, coming in the form of large glasses of rose wine. Mmm.

Emma's gorgeous mum guards the goods:

All in all, it was a fabulous weekend. Very posh.

Now it's back to the collection. Rumour is that models will be making their way to the studio tomorrow for casting of the collection video. Oh la la! It will be like a an episode of Britain's Next Top Model in here, I'm sure.

Brilliant.

- L xx

Teen Minutes

2009-07-13T09:20:00.004+01:00

Happy Monday everyone,

I thought I would start the week off with a lovely feature article about Emma recently published in Teen Minutes magazine.

It's a delicious Q&A and we're loving the layout. Check out the whole issue here: http://www.teenminutesmagz.com/

-L x

Shoreditch Shenanigans!

2009-07-10T13:54:00.009+01:00

A few members of the e.g. crew decided to take over your local friendly fetish night at the Hoxton Lab in Shoreditch on Thursday evening and luckily for us (unluckily for some of those captured) some photographs were taken.

Hurrar!

Bare in mind, these pictures were taken after many, many pints.

First up, Emma with design assistant Victor. Is it just me or does it look like Victor has something very important to tell Emma? E seems intrigued... yes, intrigued, or slightly frightened.

After filling Emma in on whatever it was that seemed so urgent, Victor made a new friend! We have no idea who this lovely chap is but we are LOVING his ensemble. That drink looks refreshing too. Is it cocktail hour yet? Hmmm...

The entertainment for the evening was great. As Emma put it, the music was like poetry with a little electronica flavour mixed to a rockin' dance beat. Sounds good to me!

And finally (and just because I can), I'm sneaking in a picture of Emma with the myserious and ever-so-elusive Jeanpierre (whom I suspect will delete this the moment he lays eyes on it).

Jeanpierre, if you're reading this, please don't take this photo off. You two look stunning! And for all those readers who are lucky enough to read the entry before this photo is deleted, well, bravo to you.

Have a lovely weekend everyone!

L x

Fashion156

2009-07-09T16:35:00.002+01:00

The gorgeous website, www.fashion156.com, has captured one of our tailored jackets beautifully, haven't they?

It's coming...

2009-07-09T11:42:00.004+01:00

The latest e.g... collection is nearly ready to make its fabulous debut. I don't know about any of you, but I'm dying to see it all come together.

I've been snooping around trying to get a sneak peek for all of you. I've only caught rare (and might I add totally sexy) glimpses of a few items.

I've been sworn to secrecy, but I can fill you in a few things to hopefully appease your hunger until the launch in a few weeks time.

Emma has been working for months on her latest designs - collecting inspiration from all sorts of places. It's been a true labour of love.

Her partner JP was able to grab this snap a while back. It's the lovely Emma assembling cutouts of everything that went into the S/S 2010 collection. So what do we see? Squint a little, zoom in... wooo! Do you see what I see? A little playful bondage, a couple cheeky nude shots, lots of black and white. Oh la la.

A running theme? Strong women. The new collection will be staying true to what the brand represents - edgy women who aren't afraid to embrace their masculine side while remaining feminine, sexy and, well, lets just say it, stunning in every way. That's the kind of woman I want to be! Emma's designs will help you get there.

According to Emma we're going to be seeing lots of silk. Lovely 100 per cent silk. Keeping with the edge, she's thrown in a little leather for good measure. Lots of structure, loads of style - that's the name of this fashion game.

The Creative Nation video I told you about briefly in the last blog post will start filming in a couple weeks time. That means by the first week of September I won't need to tease you any more and you can indulge in all the latest e.g... items from the comfort of your own computer chair.

So, watch this space!

I'll be on set during the filming and will make sure I fill you in on all the exciting things happening in studio.

Until then,

L x

Additions at e.g...

2009-07-07T13:59:00.006+01:00

Greetings lovelies! I hate to disappoint but this is not Emma. Rather it’s the newest addition to the e.g… studios. Me! Lori. Hi there.

Fear not – I haven’t hijacked this blog. Well, actually, I have. BUT it’s all done in peace and for the sake of all you e.g... fans who are chomping at the bit for more updates.

I’ve been begging for more updates too, so I’m taking matters into my own hands. I’ll be reporting live from the studio as much as possible - giving you all the juicy updates and insider knowledge from behind-the-runway.

Emma and her team are running around like crazy making sure the Spring/Summer 2010 collection is bigger and better than ever (which, by the way, I’ve seen a sneak preview of and it’s sexy!). Emma’s hands are too busy stitching to be typing. This is where I come in.

I’ve been in the studio for about two days now and I’ve already caught fever from how smoking hot the newest collection is going to be. Not only that, e.g... has come up with a very clever way to make sure all you fashionistas are included in the collection launch.

Starting next month a production crew will be in the studio shooting a short film which will document all the latest designs. It’s going to be dead glamourous and I can’t wait to see how it all comes together.

The folks behind the lens have worked with some of the largest brands in the world. Seriously. They're known as Creative Nation and check it out, they've worked with Coca Cola, Channel 4, Nike… need I say more? Not too shabby. AND it will all be ready for you darlings right before fashion season kicks off in September.

To help make the collection an even bigger success (which I have no doubt it will) Emma has brought on Felicities – a fab PR agency who specialises in helping emerging designers get their trendy boots through the doors of the fashion industry (and trust me, security is tight at those doors!).

But before all that, please check out my new twitter feed @inside_eg to really keep in the know. I’ve also organised a fan page on Facebook for e.g… where you’ll be able to see sneak previews of the collection and satisfy your insatiable hunger for all things fabulous in the world of e.g... fashion. Delicious!

Speaking of delicious, JP has just cooked up some wonderful concoction in the kitchen and I’m dying to try a bit. Must dash.

Speak soon

Lori xx

Alex Gaudino, ASOS and Apologies!

2009-06-16T11:53:00.007+01:00

Hello my darling readers. It’s been awhile since we last caught up. Have you lost weight? No, seriously, something is different about you. Well, whatever it is you look simply marvelous. I can’t take my eyes off you!

Ok, enough already.

The truth is, I’m feeling slightly guilty that I’ve neglected this space for a month. Flattery gets you everywhere, right? But I’ve been a very busy bee, we're working on our Spring Summer 2010 collection and I just haven't had a chance to sit down and fill you in. But here I am, at long last, the wait is over.

I will say, however, that this space will no longer have month long voids. I vow to keep you up to date on all the latest e.g... happenings as soon as possible.

I don’t think the old adage of being fashionably late applies in the blogging world, and since we are never out of style, we’re going to keep this blog as current as a Victoria Beckham hairdo.

So, what’s been happening with us?

Well, we seem to be catching on in the music world. First Ciara rocked our tailored sleeveless jacket on MTV3, then Beth Ditto's stylist called and asked for a Blue Sporty Dress for one of her many shoots and now the fabulous Alex Gaudino has requested a coat for his latest music video (not for him, mind you!).

You may not have heard of him but he’s the Italian DJ behind the song Destination Calabrio. Remember the cheeky video? Literally cheeky. Bare bottoms were shaking. Here’s a reminder: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APtj3EvhfWA you will definitely know it!

We haven’t seen the final video yet, but we’re on the edge of our seats here. Come on Mr. Gaudino - make e.g... proud and make us here in the studio dance. Shake it!

But wait, we can’t dance for too long. We need to sort out our SS10 collection and quick! We have a few very important and very exciting meetings coming up, and soon!

I befriended a few members of the ASOS team over Twitter and thanks to the lovely @ASOS_Amy (quick go follow her she's lush!) we have set up a July meeting with one of their women's wear buyers, woohoo! Seeing the collection sold on their site would be divine, so fingers crossed everything goes well.

You may not be able to tell through your computer screens but I have a big goofy grin on my face right now. Knowing ASOS is coming makes me want to keep dancing.

Cue the Gaudino song…

Twitter is a wonderful creation, isn’t it? I’ve been meeting and tweeting so many interesting and cool people over the last little while. I’m becoming addicted.

If you’re not yet on Twitter, what are you waiting for? Sign up! Then, kindly give us an add @egfashion and while you’re at it, say hello to our new friend @Lori_Christine. She’s a freelance journo who runs a great blog at www.mercibeaucoup.co.uk.

So now you’re all caught up. Hurrah!

See you soon.

2009-06-10T16:27:00.001+01:00

Pretty Stylish London - June 10 2009

Label Love: E.g...

There's something really fresh and exciting about new London based fashion label E.g... Perhaps it's the clever mix of tough tomboy meets youthful femininity or the 80's power dressing chic that's prominent in the collection. Whatever it is, the brainchild of E.g..., Emma Griffiths is definitely onto something. And it's not surprising when she's previously worked for some of the best womenswear designers in the industry including Alexander McQueen and Boudicca.

Now with the launch of her own label, the split personality of the brand is sure to work in her favour. Appealing to those seeking something unique, a tad eccentric and yet still very much on-trend, the key ingredients of luxurious designs with powerful silhouettes, result in quite a delicious style offering. For structured dresses, statement jackets, and a gorgeous all-in-onenumber that will make the likes of Daisy Lowe swoon, see my hot picks from the look bookbelow:

Ciara, London Fashion Week and not meeting Beth Ditto!

2009-05-13T19:40:00.006+01:00

Well it's been quite an exciting week really.

First Ciara was seen on MTV3 wearing our Tailored Sleevelss Jacket, and frankly she looks amazing! If I could have picked anyone to be seen wearing it I couldnt have come up with anyone more suited than Ciara. The pictures are below in the next post.

Then my partner JP sent an email to Frank Strachan, fashion editor of Attitude and stylist to the stars, to say hello. Within a couple of hours he had pinged one back asking if we had a Sporty Dress in a size 20, as he was getting ready to shoot Beth Ditto for the May issue of Attitude. Well we don't hold much stock and we definitely don't have an abundance of size 20's but I absolutely love Beth so there was no chance we were going to miss the opportunity. I stayed up until the wee hours of the morning making her dress myself, just to make sure it was perfect.

The following day, I was as giddy as a school girl, planning what I was going to say when we met. I took no notice of JP when he said not to get my hopes up as we may not even see her, of course we were going to see her!

As it turns out we didn'd see her, bugger! When we arrived at the shoot there were a load of people all being busy in that "I'm too busy to stop" kind of way. We found Frank and gave him the dress, we suggested we didn't mind hanging around to offer some styling tips but he was having none of it and we had to leave. I'm sure I saw the back of Beth's head though and should they decide to use the dress it will be more than worth it. We even told Frank that Beth can keep the dress, so hopefully she will be wearing it all over town.

As if that wasnt enough, we have also passed the first stage of The British Fashion Council's New Gen sponsorship scheme. We (along with probably 10 million other hopefuls) now have to submit 6 samples from our collection for judging. Should we be selected we basically get the funding to show at the next London Fashion Week which would be amazing!! I'll keep you posted.

Ciara on MTV - May 10 2009

2009-05-12T23:00:00.004+01:00

Us pop sensation Ciara is pictured here on MTV wearing our Tailored Sleeveless Jacket and she looks HOT!

To see the orginal post please visit Sincerely Ciara

This Little Lady Went to London - May 12 2009

2009-05-12T22:57:00.001+01:00

Love at first sight…

•May 12, 2009 • No Comments

OK, so I’m a bit of a sucker when it comes to love at first sight, and I’m pleased to say my instincts haven’t let me down so far. After all, I knew the second that I saw The Boy that it was a happily ever after story. The moment I saw the puppy I knew I was in it for keeps. And I was 100% smitten the instant I laid eyes on e.g…

e.g… is the lovechild of new UK Designer Emma Griffiths, a graduate of Westminster University, and her partner Jeanpierre Kalebic. Emma cut her teeth working for prestigious names such as Alexander McQueen and Boudicca, and this pedigree shines though in her work – its clear that e.g… plan on following in their ridiculously successful footsteps. The designs are strong and powerful, yet feminine; think of a girly, modern take on 80’s power dressing and you’d be partway there.

Personally, I love the way that Emma combines sharp silhouettes with flowing lines – her pieces are bang on trend for this season. Check out the exaggerated shoulders on theTailored Ribbon Jacket, or the sexy, flowing shape of the Cream Summer Dress…in fact check out the entire collection. It’s GORGEOUS!

To see the original post please visit This Little Lady Went to London

Kingdom of Style - Apr 21 2009

2009-05-12T22:42:00.001+01:00

Speed Racer

Sometimes the path of information moving along blogs is quite odd. A couple of weeks ago I received and email from a girl called Rachel telling me about a new label called e.g. She particularly pointed me in the direction of a blue dress she thought I'd love. Panelled, futuristic and a wee bit Emilio de la Morena. I sauntered over to the site and she was right on every count. I placed my order for the dress immediately and began my patient wait.

Then a few days later Style Bubble posted about the label. I then received an email from Jeanpierre from e.g. telling me about them and I informed him that my order had already been placed. When he realised who I was he told me that Emma, the designer, was already making my dress and it would be arriving shortly. I didn't get any of the 'empowerment' chat Ms Bubble playfully had a pop at, but I must admit that when I put the dress on...I felt a smidgen empowered!

It arrived last week beautifully packaged and gorgeous.

I can vouch for the quality of this dress - it's wonderfully well made. It's not just a bog standard lycra dress, it's double layered for maximum strength and durability with what feels like slight padding in the shoulder area. It's exceptionally well structured, especially considering it is just lyrcra.

I immediately tried it with some electric blue tights and my Givenchy cream wedges.

It's undeniably very short and tight, so I will mostly be wearing it with Angie's cage skirt on top, unless I invest in some Spanx for pot belly days, but quite frankly the thought of squeezing myself into industrial strength underwear is too depressing, and since I refuse to give up Domino's pizza with extra cheese, sticky toffee pudding, salt and chilli chicken or pancakes with chocolate spread, I'll just need to live with the occassional tubby tum.

Of course not every day is a pot belly day (I don't eat pancakes and chocolate spread for breakfast every morning), so when I can I will wear it as it is.

I couldn't not try it with my wonderful Spartan leggings from my leggings pimp, who made them extra long for me. This looks like a full-on costume. It lends it an appealing super heroine/speed racer/Power Ranger/Pam Hogg kind of vibe to it. And I love it! I just need a good eye mask to match. The Luella Batman sunglasses would have been perfect!

And of course the gorgeous blue colour compliments my Giia neckpieceperfectly.

It will also look great with my leather and vintage garter belts and my DIY pvc peplum layered over the top (again for pot belly days), but since it was really hot while I was taking these photo's, had I tried on any more clothes I was in serious danger of suffering death by lycra.

Hopefully I can save up some pennies for this formidable jacket which looks equally amazing.

Queen Michelle

To view the original post please visit Kingdom of Style

Stylebubble - Apr 10 2009

2009-05-12T22:26:00.001+01:00

e.g...

I should be a little scared when the headline of a designer's website begins with"e.g...the UK's hottest new fashion label for empowered women...made in London." Not so much that name of label is called "e.g..." or that the clothes are made in London. But it's more to do with e.g...'s self-proclamations of hotness and empowered women that makes me a little dubious. What empowers someone is entirely subjective to the person and of course doesn't necessarily need to involve sharp nipped in waists, jutting out shoulders and bodycon tightness. However, all of those things apply to e.g... and I'm finding that there is still something that I quite like about the clothes.

Emma Griffiths, a Boudicca and McQueen alumnus is the brains behind e.g... and that employment history can be seen running through the sharp cutting, the tailoring and the attitude of the collection, which might have something to do with why I do like it. Young upstart labels rarely jump right into the structured and fitted genre pool with such gusto, and proclaim that they're hot to trot at the same time. They've already set up an eshop for empowered women to check out "UK's hottest new fashion label". I'm about as empowered as a dover sole flopping around on a chopping board in Zilli Fish but I'm about 80% there with this blue sporty lycra dress...

Posted by susie_bubble on 10 April 2009 | Permalink

To view the original post please visit Stylebubble

The Style PA - May 10 2009

2009-05-12T22:20:00.002+01:00

DESIGNER - e.g... made in London

Just over a week ago, I went to a Fashion and web networking event and was lucky enough to meet Jeanpierre and Emma of e.g... made in London, a fresh new fashion label. The creative brains behind the label belong to Emma Griffiths (that would explain the e.g.) and Emma has worked with the likes of Alexander McQueen and Boudicca. I think that is all the endorsement they need! But in case you were wondering, Susie Bubble of Style Bubble and Michelle of Kingdom of Style have both praised the new label and these are ladies whose opinions are respected the UK over.

So what do I think of the designs? The sharp tailoring and bold silhouettes make for a contemporary style statement. The strong shapes hint at influences from eighties power dressing which I love. Exaggerated shoulders were all over the catwalk earlier in the year and Emma is ahead of the game on getting this into her online store.

I particularly love the bubble look hem and colour blocking on these dresses (below). The colour palette is fabulous mixing a subdued base colour with a bright accent. These are pretty and playful with confident lines and a belted waist to enhance the female figure.
Other parts of the collection have a more boyish shape, like these sharp shirts (below). I would wear mine tucked into a tight pencil skirt for an enviable office look. Expect to pay between £100 up to just under £600 for the beautiful coats, but from what I hear, the quality of the cutting makes them worth every penny.

You can keep up with e.g... made in London on Twitter - @egfashion

To view the original post please visit The Style PA

The Fashion Line - May 10 2009

2009-05-12T22:00:00.006+01:00

e.g… part deux

e.g…

Emma Griffiths (yes, thats the E.G.) is probably one of THE hottest designers currently in our viewpoint.

Blending late 80’s chic with up to the minute materials, we think everyone should own a piece now.

With free delivery for UK orders, every item made in London, every item personally inspected by Emma before shipping

and a fabulous 100% satisfaction guarantee, (Mick Jagger couldn’t get no satisfaction, you can!!) you can’t go wrong.

Watch this space for more from Emma Griffiths. Hot, Hot, Hot.

To view the original post please visit The Fashion Line

Elastic Mini Skirt - Black

Price: £100

The ultimate bottom hugging, bandage skirt. Each skirt is hand-constructed around a tailors dummy to create the perfect figure enhancing fit.

Composition:
Skirt (100% elastic)
Washing Instructions:
Wash at 30 degrees
… More

Colour: Black

Tailored Ribbon Jacket

Price: £520

A tailored jacket with champagne grosgrain ribbon detailing and half capped sleeve. A strong, distinctive garment, oozing with confidence.

Composition:
Jacket (cotton drill 100%)
Lining (acetate 100%)
Washing Instructions:
Dry clean only … More

Colour: Black

Tailored Sleeveless Jacket

Price: £395

Sleeveless, extended shoulder, tailored jacket. Smart and sexy, looks fantastic with our stretch lace leggings and killer heels.
Composition:
Jacket (cotton drill 100%)
Lining (acetate 100%)
Washing Instructions:
Dry clean only… More

Colour: Black

Leon Bailey-Green - May 10 2009

2009-05-12T18:31:00.002+01:00

WAYS TO PROMOTE A NEW FASHION LABEL E.G... START WITH FASHION BLOGGERS

Monday May 11, 2009 / Categories: Online Marketing, E-Commerce

e.g., a new fashion label started by Emma Griffiths (who graduated from Westminster University last summer) and Jeanpierre Kalebic (a former estate agent), is one of the best examples I have seen of a fashion start-up getting on with the business of promoting themselves online, and successfully too.

There are tons of new fashion labels launching all the time, but unlike many of them Emma and Jeanpierre have focused first on getting coverage from fashion bloggers.

The next stage of their plan is to target online fashion magazines before beginning an assault on the fashion magazines, using the buzz from fashion blogs as a way in.

A very clever (and realistic) strategy if I do say so myself.

Every new label wants to be featured in Vogue and Grazia, but there is a lot to be gained by start-up labels from featuring on blogs like Style Bubble and Kingdom of Style.

Queen Michelle features e.g on Kingdom of Style blog

e.g. Sales Director Jeanpierre says “We have been picked up by a number of blogs and this has provided us with a steady stream of new visitors to the site”.

Fashion bloggers offer awareness, visitors to websites, search engine friendly links and post-blog commentary from their readers, often offering constructive insight into what they think of the range.

See e.g.’s press page - pretty impressive work.

to view the original post please visit Leon Bailey-Green

Viva Voce Fashion - May 12 2009

2009-05-12T18:16:00.003+01:00

To view the original post please visit Viva voce Fashion

Late Mag - May 2009

2009-05-12T18:12:00.001+01:00

e.g...made in London

If I were to sum up my personal style with three words it would probably be tailored, tomboy and funky. If I were to sum up my personal style with one label, then London based e.g... would certainly be a contender.

The hot new label is the brainchild of Emma Griffith’s, a lady with an impressive CV, previously working with Alexander McQueen and Boudicca. The debut collection is an arresting mix of structured silhouettes and luxurious fabrics with silk jersey and silk taffeta prominently featured. I particularly like their trousers with back vents, the shape-shifting black trench, the blue silk taffeta skirt and their jackets (all three of them!)

To view the fill range visit their website www.egfashion.co.uk

To view the original post please visit Late Mag

Fashion Tribes - Apr 9 2009

2009-05-12T18:09:00.001+01:00

e.g. - A Hot New London Label for Empowered Ladies

What's not to love about fashion inspired by 80s big-shouldered divas Grace Jones and Joan Collins...with some tomboy thrown in?

The brainchild of Emma Griffiths - who worked with both Alexander McQueen and Boudicca - and partner Jeanpierre Kalebic, they recently launched e.g. out of their East London studio, where everything is handmade using local talent. The structured Roland Mouret'ish sheaths, asymmetrical full skirts, and femme fatale trenches are timeless - yet right on trend - and just what the fashion doctor ordered.

Available at egFashion.co.uk.

- Lesley Scott

For the original post please visit Fashion Tribes

Wales Online - Apr 27 2009

2009-05-12T18:03:00.002+01:00

London calling helped Emma Griffiths to success

Apr 27 2009 by Emily Woodrow, Western Mail

FIVE years ago, an aspiring fashion designer left Wales to seek her fortune in London.

Armed with an array of sewing skills gleaned from her home economics classes and a healthy fear of the unknown, Emma Griffiths started at the bottom of the ladder.

But just half a decade later she has her own label, has worked with prestigious designers Alexander McQueen and Boudicca, and is on the cusp of cracking the American A-list scene. US chart-topper Ciara has recently been snapped in one of her creations and, with the top-end items in her just-released new collection retailing at a celeb-friendly £540, more appearances on the red carpet for her clothes are likely to follow.

Not bad for a 30-year-old who grew up watching her mother and grandmother making outfits. The dedicated designer from Llandaff, Cardiff, has her own studio in the trendy Spitalfields area of east London, and designs on some of the world’s most fashionable names.

But the designer was not always convinced of a future in fashion.

Ms Griffiths said: “I’ve always had an interest in clothes and from a young age I was able to learn about where they came from, but I didn’t know where that would take me. I remember when I was at Whitchurch High School and was asked to make a car tidy in my home economics class. I hated doing it and my teacher must’ve thought I was useless, but here I am now years later still sewing.”

The Welsh designer admitted that she got stuck in a rut in Cardiff, and the thought of moving to London and trying to make it in the fashion world was initially a daunting prospect.

“After school I did a course in hairdressing and make-up, worked in a bar, and just tried as many professions as I could”, she said.

“I think I was scared of moving to London with no money and no job security and just tried to put it to the back of my mind and do something else. But I realised something was missing and that I wasn’t doing what I should’ve been. I reached the age of 25 and thought ‘this is it, I’m going to London to follow my dream’ and I’ve never looked back since.”

She went on to study for a BA in fashion design at Westminster University and used work experience placements to get her where she is today.

The Emma Griffiths collection contains items ranging from £125 to £540 which are inspired by 80s style icons such as Grace Jones and Joan Collins. The pieces boast big shoulders, structured silhouettes and luxurious fabrics, and offer a range of distinctive looks for strong, independently minded women who like to stand out in a crowd.

Ms Griffiths, who tries to return home and visit her family in Llandaff as often as possible, said: “My clothes will always be strong. I like to challenge the norm and how we’re perceived as women. That’s what’s so great about London – you can wear what you want and no-one bats an eyelid. You could walk down the street naked in some parts and go unnoticed.”

Although Ms Griffiths is thrilled that pop star Ciara has requested pieces from her collection to wear around America, she said she would most like to see singer and cutting-edge fashion icon Roisin Murphy in her clothes.

“I’d also happily lend them to actress Tilda Swinton and Duffy is beautiful, so she’d look good in some of my pieces too,” she added.

The collection has clothes in sizes six to 12 but Ms Griffiths hopes to extend it to accommodate larger women.

She said: “I’m not into size zero and I don’t agree with the constant pressure on women to be stick thin. I see someone like Beth Ditto and I think she looks amazing. She knows she has lumps and bumps but carries it off – I’d happily let her wear my pieces.”

The designer, who hates going shopping because she can never find anything different enough, said she doesn’t like to think of herself as having “made it” in the fashion world as she is always aiming to strive for more.

“My advice to budding fashion designers is just to go for it”, she added.

“Try and do lots of work experience and always experiment and open your mind to new ideas.

“You will have tantrums and sleepless nights, but that’s just the way fashion goes, and I love it.”

The Emma Griffiths collection can be found at www.egfashion.co.uk

For the original post please visit Wales Online

Suite Chatter - Apr 25 2009

2009-05-12T17:56:00.004+01:00

For e.g...
e.g... is a new fashion label hailing from London and their structured designs have completely won me over!

My picks:

To satisfy my current craze for all things maxi.

You all know how much I love structured lines.

This sleeveless jacket would go so well with a mini and leggings.

The tour de force of this collection: the silk taffeta coat that opens up to a pintucked structured bodice and long coat tails at the back not unlike the tailcoat.

I love the fact that you can tie up the back coat tails and voila! You get a trenchcoat!

For the original post please visit Suite Chatter

Fashion Steals - Apr 24 2009

2009-05-12T17:51:00.001+01:00

Designer Label to Watch: e.g... made in London

e.g... is the brainchild of designer Emma Griffiths. Her style is highly tailored, edgy luxe - you'll definitely see the influence of the world-renowned designers she's worked with ... none other than Alexander McQueen and Boudicca.

e.g... is designed for the strong and confident.

"... the empowered woman with a split personality; a tough tomboy with a youthful girly look.

Heavily influenced by 80s style icons such asGrace Jones and Joan Collins the collection explores the contradiction of structured shapes and stylish sophistication to create luxurious designs with strong, powerfulsilhouettes."

Whatever the influence, I'm definitely loving these funky, luxurious designs. They're perfect for adding that something extra to your wardrobe ... that gives your look its own personal stamp.

To view more of the e.g... collection or shop online go to:

Visit the e.g... website

For the original post please visit Fashion Steals

Fashionising - Apr 24 2009

2009-05-12T17:44:00.005+01:00

Collection from e.g... London

London label e.g... have just launched a debut collection which grabbed our eye for its interesting shapes and unique mix of the futuristic and the classic. Accurately described as being for a split personality - "a tough tomboy with a youthful girly look" - the collection sports manyaccentuated shoulders (a growing trend), sharply structured pieces, and contrasting drapes and folds.

This is one promising label we'll be keeping an eye on. Click on the gallery below to peruse more looks from e.g.'s debut collection.

For the orginal post please visit fashionising

Click For More Pictures 9 in total

Chictopia Everybody is Ugly - apr 10 2009

2009-05-12T17:27:00.002+01:00

chic label: e.g...

Trendy Style, best suited for a Art Opening

Apr 10, 2009

We here at Chictopia receive tons of press releases from brands, and we put them through a few filters before we parse on the info to you. #1 Do they use the words, “hottest” to describe their outfits? #2 Do they use comic sans in the email body? #3 Do they misspell our site as “Chicktopia”? (a;sdkfj;laskjfklds) #4 Do they boast about how “Heidi Montag”, “Paris Hilton” and “Bai Ling” are fans? Next, please.

But there is one trump card: if I would wear their clothes to grab lunch with Carine Roitfeld, then all the rules go out the window. So despite label e.g.’s proclamation that they’re “the UK’s hottest new fashion label for the empowered woman” (oy), I’d wear every last sharp shouldered, drapey, dramatic piece to lunch with Carine, dinner with Karl and hell—even breakfast with Christian Audigier.

The brains between the Grace Jones inspired collection is Emma Griffiths whose time with Boudicca and Alexander McQueen have infused her own collection with the kind of body-con structure and powerful tailoring that make me want to go all Amazon-princess and cut my hair off. Peep their lookbookhere, or shop their wares on their online store.

For the original post please visit Chictopia

Stylist Stuff - Apr 17 2009

2009-05-12T17:19:00.003+01:00

An Interview with Emma Griffiths of the label e.g...

Posted by Rebekah Roy on April 17th, 2009

Recently I have been searching for tailored garments with an edge. I’ve been looking at new designers like Hemyca andJasper Garvida who do sharp wearable tailoring. I like clothes with an attitude.

I recently came across the label e.g. launched by Emma Grifiths, a Westminster University graduate, and Jeanpierre Kalebic (an ex-estate agent). They’re based in East London.

I’m always interested in new designers - they are never really all that new and have usually been sewing and designing most of their lives before setting up their own label. When I first looked at the colIection I loved e.g.’s blue dress. It’s very strong and you could imagine using it in a shoot. I also liked that they used a model of colour. (It shouldn’t be noteworthy and maybe it shouldn’t matter but it does.)

Could you tell me your fashion background?
EG - I studied at Westminster University, where I was taught by Zowie Broach (founder of Boudicca) and I worked with Alexander McQueen. Following that I opened a small boutique in Clerkenwell, where I designed and made clothes for the stylish local ladies. My partner and I then set up e.g… at the beginning of this year.

Did your mum or grandmother sew?
EG - Yes, both. A lot of my clothes were made for me when growing up, which was nice because it gave me an understanding of where clothes came from. Nowadays kids don’t really have any inkling that their clothes are actually made by someone; ask them where a potato comes from and they will more than likely say Tescos.

What inspired your collection?
EG - I wanted to question woman’s place in a male dominated world and hopefully instill confidence in our clients. The cardinal skirts and tops for instance, I’ve taken aspects of the Roman Catholic Church, a male hegemony, and used them to make strong, confident ladies’ clothes. There are aspects of the 80s in there too, big shoulders, defined shapes all help the wearer to feel bigger and stronger than perhaps they are, like a suit of armour.

How many pieces are in the collection?
EG - We have about 30 at the moment but we intend adding 1 or 2 garments a week over the next few months to keep it fresh..

What piece/garment most represents your collection?
EG - I will have to say the ribbon jacket. (It’s the jacket in the image below.) It is the strongest, piece and really stands out as something special.

What advice would you have for someone starting an on-line business?
EG - The website has to look perfect. It doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive, our site for instance is quite basic in terms of functionality, but it looks good. No spelling or grammatical errors, clean and easy to navigate, informative. Then get out there and tell people about it, get in touch with everyone you know and tell them to tell their friends, get in touch with as many relevant blogs and online magazines, and of course try and get some editorial in newspapers and magazines.

What is the most important thing you wanted to achieve when designing your site?
EG - It had to look clean, crisp and structured, like our clothes.

What has been the most challenging aspect of starting a new business?
EG - The hardest part is the set up, money goes out at an alarming rate but nothing comes back in, its quite scary!

Will you be doing a show at London Fashion Week Sept 09?
EG - Not Sure yet, we are looking at the possibility of getting some funding.

Tea or Coffee?
EG - 2 cups of tea when I wake up, a cup of coffee following that, followed by another cup of coffee and then generally tea for the rest of the day (it has to be Yorkshire tea).

For the original post please visit Stylist Stuff

Style Eyes Fashion - Apr 9 2009

2009-05-12T17:14:00.002+01:00

The Girly Tomboy

I recently got an email about Emma Griffiths, a new label that describes itself as 'the UK’s hottest new fashion label for the empowered woman with a split personality; a tough tomboy with a youthful girly look.' I was interested enough to have a look and see what they were talking about and was very pleasantly surprised. The clothes had a strong look with a definite eighties influence which was exhibited through the larger than life shoulders, body con dresses and strong silhouettes.

What I loved about the clothes was the attention to detail which created an interesting diversions from the silhouettes giving another layer of features that flatter the figure. A silk jersey dress with a flattering design added in grosgrain ribbon, a herringbone wool cropped jacket with velvet corsetry detail and a taffeta coat with a pin tucked skirt attached only at the back were all examples of the dramatic but very flattering designs. The overall feel was luxurious, fresh and eye catching.

The collection was heavily influenced by eighties style icons like Grace Jones and Joan Collins, not people who I would perhaps want to dress like, but overall this theme has been cleverly adapted for the modern woman.

Emma Griffiths has worked with Alexander McQueen and Boudicca before starting her own eponymous London based label. Yet more proof that London has some great up and coming designer talent.

Catwalk Fashion - Apr 11 2009

2009-05-12T16:50:00.006+01:00

e.g…new Made in London distinctive fashion collection

Sat, Apr 11, 2009

Design Houses, Fashion News

e.g… was founded in 2008 Emma Griffiths, a Westminster University of Fashion Graduate and Jeanpierre Kalebic (an ex-estate agent). Their new collection offers strong, independently minded ladies the chance to wear distinctive, sexy designs at a reasonable price.

Emma has worked with world renowned designers Alexander McQueen and Boudicca, and now from their base in East London they are aiming to be the label for “empowered woman with a split personality; a tough tomboy with a youthful girly look.”

Here is a selection from their current offerings.

Visit their website at www.egfashion.co.uk.

For the original post please visit Catwalkfashion

Indie Quarter Blog - Apr 15 2009

2009-05-12T16:40:00.006+01:00

e.g. . . . Made in London

Introducing e.g. . . and their debut collection. The brainchild of Emma Griffiths, this recently launched clothing label is influenced by 80s style icons such as Grace Jones and Joan Collins. The structured tailoring and sharp cuts create strong, powerful silhouettes that are also quite sexy.

I like this look - a sort of dramatic power dressing for the noughties. Yep. A bold, kick-ass collection for strong and confident women.

Look, browse, shop - www.egfashion.co.uk

For the original post please visit Indie Quarter