Up-market department store Selfridges has unveiled a new augmented reality mirror that allows female customers to try on luxury underwear from the designer brand Triumph’s new ‘Essence Collection‘, without actually getting undressed. The mirror, developed by augmented reality specialists Holition, is an innovation in fashion retail.

So how does it work? Basically, a customer will stand in front of a specially designed screen that has a motion sensor camera attached. The camera will then scan the person’s body using infra-red and generate a 3D silhouette which imitates the movements of the shopper in real time. This way consumers can virtually ‘try on’ pieces from the Essence Collection to see how it would fit their form without having to take off a single piece of clothing.

The CEO of Holition, Jonathan Chippindale stated: “The Fantasy Mirror demonstrates how 3D virtual reality solutions can be used to develop the consumer experience. We have integrated elegant design with innovative technology to give female shoppers something they have never seen before. The mirror is not an alternative to trying-on clothes, but an additional shopping experience. Consumer expectations are constantly changing as technology evolves and Holition is proud to support this evolution by providing complementary services.”

Holition has previously worked with many luxury brands including, TAG Heuer, Tissot, Garrard, Hannah Martin and De Beers. It seems as time progresses this innovative method of attracting consumers will only grow and who knows maybe soon the technology will be utilized as customers enter a store, enticing them to buy things they may not have even come to shop for.

Selfridges ‘Fantasy Room’ Story Highlights

• Selfridges launches augmented reality mirror
• Allows customers to try on lingerie and underwear without removing their clothing
• Customers stand in front of screen with a motion sensor camera attached
• Camera takes infra-red scan and creates 3D silhouette of customer
• Products can be seen in real-time 3D
• Mirror is developed by AR specialists Holition

Related Sites

• Selfridges – http://www.selfridges.com
• Holition – http://holition.co.uk

See Also

• Xbox Kinect (SuperStoreSearch.com)

Sunglasses are primarily a form of protective eyewear, protecting wearers from bright sunlight and cancelling out harmful UV rays from the sun.  However, sunglasses have also become an essential fashion accessory item, with a huge selection of trendy styles available in the designer sunglasses range.

Here are 3 of the leading designer brands for fashionable sunglasses.

Oakley Sunglasses

Oakley produces a range of sporting equipment ranging from sport visors, ski goggles to watches and most famously for their line up of sunglasses.  With decades of experience, research and development – Oakley sunglasses blend smart technology, performance and style.  Oakley holds over 575 patents worldwide and its innovations include High Definition Optics® (HDO®) – a superior lens clarity that minimizes eye shift to readjust focus as it tends to happen with lower quality lenses.

Oakley sunglasses also benefit from the three-point-fit system which ensures the sunglasses only ever touch the bridge of your nose and the side temples of your head for greater comfort and convenience.

Ray Ban Sunglasses

Ray-Ban was founded by Bausch & Lomb after an adventurous Lieutenant John MacCready complained of sun damage to his eyes after a balloon flying trip.  Bausch & Lomb registered a patent in 1937 on a prototype dubbed ‘Anti-Glare’ for lenses which would filter out infrared and UV rays from the sun.

Ray Ban went on to develop their technology further for the US Air Force and today is one of the leading designer sunglasses brands, helped to its iconic status by celebrities including the Beatles and featured in a number of blockbuster movies ranging from Top Gun to Men in Black.

Ray Ban has a long history of over 70 years in the design and manufacture of sunglasses and currently produces its popular range of sunglasses  in 7 series:

• Active Lifestyle
• High Street
• Fast and Furious
• Families
• Icons
• Craft
• Tech

Police Sunglasses

The Police brand was launched in Italy in 1983 as a specialist designer sunglasses company – in later years, it launched a range of perfumes in ’97 and Police watches in 2003.  It eventually produced a range of apparel in 2008 but the Police brand has most famously been known for its stylish sunglasses that have been sported by many celebrities from the likes of David Beckham, Bruce Willis, and George Clooney to various fashion icons throughout the years.

Related Sites

• Oakley UK (Official Site)
• Ray Ban UK (Official Site)
• Police Sunglasses (Official Site)

Did You Know..?

In space, sunlight is more intense and harmful than on Earth.  During space walks, astronauts wear a special helmet that acts like a pair of sunglasses – the visor has a darker lens and a thin gold coating for extra protection from the much higher levels of Ultra Violet radiation.

Reference

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunglasses

Simple and elegant handbags from Taurus, are both practical and trendy and complement virtually any style of outfit and dress when you’re looking to accessorize and can be carried on those special occasions and for casual use.  Taurus handbags are made from quality materials and designed to high standards.

Taurus Small Black Leather Handbag

This double handled black mini evening Taurus handbag is made from soft leather and features an interior zipped pocket enclosure, a separate compartment pocket for a mobile phone.  Outside, there is an exterior angle pocket on the front and a large zipped closure pocket on the back.

Measuring 17cm tall and 22cm in length with a 6cm width.

Taurus Handbag Black

A tasteful and cultured choice, this Taurus zip up double handled handbag features three internal compartments, consisting of one zipped closure pocket and two internal holding compartments – a graceful style of handbag that fits any occasion.

If you are looking for ladies workwear check out the on trend range of  Marks and Spencers ladies suits.

Do you sometime stare into your wardrobe wondering what to wear to work? You need something smart but also want to show a bit of your individual personality and style. Wearing something that looks and feels great will not only do wonders for your confidence but also your career. Your work wear should be good quality and made to last, it should also be easy to wear and comfortable.

Classic Styles at Marks and Spencers

Building a capsule wardrobe of classic work wear staples from Marks and Spencers will not only make getting dressed in the morning much quicker and easier but it will also be a great investment that will never go out of fashion. A classic blazer or tailored jacket like this Autograph Essentials Textured Stretch Jacket is one of the most versatile work wear items that you could own.

Flattering Shapes at Marks and Spencers

Look for tailored pieces in classic cuts that complement your body shape. If you have wide hips look for straight or wide cut trousers and pay close attention to where your jacket finishes. If you want to disguise your tummy look for flat fronted trousers and if you are short avoid double breasted jackets at all cost. For those who want a slimming outfit for work, black or navy usually works best but this Autograph colour block  ribbed stripe jacket also has a very slimming fit and design and looks incredibly stylish.

Neutrals and Brights at Marks And Spencers

Neutral colours like blacks greys and browns are versatile and easy to keep clean, they also never go out of fashion. For some professions or offices it is best to stick to these basic neutrals for suits. However if you want to really stand out from the crowd or work in a creative environment a brightly coloured suit can be fun and really eye catching. This red single breasted three quarter sleeved suit is  a very bold and stylish choice of work wear.

On Trend Tops at Marks and Spencers

A loose fitting top in a comfortable jersey is the perfect choice for wearing with a suit. Look for eye catching prints or colours that complement your complexion and hair colour for maximum impact. You could also opt for a neutral or white top that fits well with the latest trend for minimalism. This Autograph scoop neck diagonal stripes top is both feminine and sophisticated for a professional look.

Statement Accessories at Marks and Spencers

Once you have found a great suit, trousers or skirt and top, you can then transform it into a number of different outfits using accessories. This is the fun part when you get to add a little of your own personality and style. Some bold jewellery is a great way to add a little glamour to your day or a bright red handbag adds instant colour to even the most neutral of outfits. A scarf like this abstract circle print light weight scarf is also a great way to brighten up your work wear.

At Marks and Spencer women’s wear seems to have been dominated lately by minimalistic styles. Whilst spring will see plenty of bright florals and bold patterns, there will still be plenty of minimal pieces for those who like to make an understatement.

The beauty of minimalism is that it is such an easy look to work. There is no need to co ordinate accessories, colours and patterns. You can stick to clean lines and neutral colours which are both stylish and flattering. Whilst the minimalist styles of last season concentrated on the colour camel for spring and summer Marks and Spencer have a range of other neutral tones and even pieces with neutral stripes. This new minimalism is laid back, relaxed and sophisticated.

There are 4 simple rules to working the seasons new minimalism:

Marks and Spencer: Simple Tailoring

You don’t need to wear lots of accessories to make the most of the minimalist look. Instead you can invest in some really good quality tailoring. With nothing to distract the eye the quality will be instantly obvious. Marks and Spencers have a great range of well priced tailored pieces with quality that really shows. Look for simple styles that will create an elegant silhouette. A black shift dress is a really classic piece that fits in so well with the minimalist trend when worn with black court shoes. This linen blend curved seam dress at Marks and Spencers can be worn for both work and special occasions.

M & S: Clean Lines

Clean lines are another key aspect of the minimalist look. Avoid ruffles and frills, flounces and embellishment. Softly draping fabrics are the perfect way to achieve this  and jersey separates work perfectly with tailored trousers. This Marks and Spencer jersey top with wool is part of the Autograph range and would look great with some camel or taupe coloured trousers.

Marks & Spencers – Understated Palette

To break up the solid shape of a minimalist piece and give it that relaxed and understated look, try mixing a few different neutral colours black, grey, camel and taupe all work really well. Stripes or layers of these colours work best for subtle effect and are  very fashionable this year. This Marks and Spencers stripe knitted jumper is part of the Limited edition collection and gives a nod to both the minimalist and seventies fashion trends that are likely to be popular for the season ahead.

M and S: Subtle Accessories

Minimalism is about having as little fuss and distraction as possible. If you do add accessories they should be simple and clean looking like the outfit. You should only have a maximum of one or two subtle accessories. A tan leather handbag is the easiest way to carry your belongings around in understated style. It will also be a great investment as it will go with just about every piece of clothing in your wardrobe. This Autograph leather double Hobo bag at Marks and Spencers is both practical and on trend and will look amazing with your minimalist outfit.

Explore more of the minimalist women’s fashion range at the Marks and Spencer website.

Biba relaunched exclusively at the House of Fraser last year and is the perfect opportunity for you to get your hands on a piece of clothing by one of the hottest names on fashion of the sixties and seventies, especially if you missed out on this label the first time around.

Biba started as a mail order company in the early sixties before exploding into a global fashion brand in the early seventies. The store founded by Barbara Hulanicki was known for its fashion forward clothing and was a real trendsetter of its day. It was also the first real department store and went on to shape the future of the British high street. It was a huge shock and loss to so many people when Biba closed it doors in 1975.  But now it is back at The House of Fraser just in time for a seventies revival with a modern twist.

Did you know? One of Biba’s first successful fashion trends was a gingham dresses with matching head scarf of which 17,000 were sold after it was featured in the Sunday Mirror. Biba was the place to hang out for the coolest of cool people, they sold everything from Biba Baked beans to fake fur coats.

Biba is modelled by the it girl of the noughties Daisy Lowe the perfect match for the new brand that keeps the original ethos and essence of Biba but has changed its look to work for the modern woman. The Biba look is pure glamour but the collections at the House of Fraser feature something for just about every occasion from day time with denim to evening wear with the boutique collection. The Biba collection also includes limited edition House of Fraser jewellery inspired by Art Deco and handbags.

This season the inspiration for the collection at Biba House of Fraser includes luxe, soft metals and stardust.

Biba Boutique At House of Fraser

This collection is packed full of elegant maxi dresses which exude old style Hollywood glamour. Featuring embellishment, amazing prints and beautiful Grecian draping, these dresses make the perfect evening dress for the lady who wants to turn heads for all of the right reasons. We love this Assymetric one shoulder maxi dress which is incredibly flattering and has a great slimming effect.

Biba Denim at House of Fraser

The most in trend styles including the high waisted indigo flare and the white skinny jean both feature in the Biba denim collection. There are also a range of other styles in classic blue and black to suit and flatter all body shapes. The Biba Eli bootcut jeans are also coming back into fashion and offer an incredibly flattering fit.

Biba Fine Jewellery At House of Fraser

The Biba fine jewellery collection at House of Fraser is inspired by the Hollywood glamour of the 1930′s as was the original Biba collection. These dazzling diamond and white gold earrings also fit perfectly with the current trend for sparkly chandelier earrings but anything from this collection of fine jewellery will also last a lifetime.

See the full Biba range at www.houseoffraser.co.uk

There is absolutely no doubt about it Stripes are going to be a huge trend this year with M&S having an amazing selection to suit everyone. Last year the launch of the Coco Chanel film prompted a huge rush for striped tops, this summer stripes are adorning just about anything from knitwear to tops and blazers. The great thing about stripes is that they never really go out of fashion, any striped clothes that you buy from Marks and Spencers are a great investment, they are also likely to last for many seasons to come.

Grab yourself some M&S clothes with stripes quick, for the freshest and most stylish look for the summer.

M&S Fashion: Nautical Stripes

Nautical stripes are probably the most classic of all the stripes. Navy and white stripes, sometimes also referred to as Breton stripes are the easiest way to add instant chic to just about any outfit. They look great with bright red or yellow accessories if you want to add some colour. This Portfolio slash colour stripe jumper at Marks and Spencers is the perfect choice for a casual outfit that doesn’t compromise on style.

If you want a smarter look, this single breasted striped jersey blazer at Marks and Spencers is really on trend and would look great with a pair of tailored trousers or perhaps if you are really brave over a floral dress.

M & S: Bright Stripes

Bright stripes featured heavily in the spring summer catwalks for 2011. At Prada, there was a combination of bright colours with thick black stripes. At Tory Birch a trouser suit featured vertical red and black stripes and at Marc Jacobs there were thin stripes in sugary shades of pink and purple. This Per Una scoop neck knitted striped top at Marks and Spencers is a great way to work the spring and summer trend for stripes and for neon colours.

Marks and Spencer Clothes: Diagonal Stripes

Diagonal stripes are a  slightly more unusual and off beat way to wear stripes. Diagonal stripes can also be very slimming and help to create the illusion of a smaller waist. The look is not as traditional as the typical breton and horizontal stripes but can look great on a contemporary style of dress to wear to the office. This Portfolio slash neck dress by Marks and Spencers features slightly wavey stripes to create an optical effect that is reminiscent of the sixties.

M and S: Black and Grey Stripes

Black and grey stripes are also proving to be hugely popular this year for an understated alternative to the high contrast of black or navy and white. Marks and Spencers have a range of grey and black striped pieces but one of our favourites is this Per Una Multi Stripe Knitted Cardigan.

Top Stylist Tip - Use stripes to make everything appear in proportion. If you have wide hips wear a striped top to make your top half look wider and balance the look. If you want to slim and lengthen the body, wear vertical or horizontal stripes and if you want to define the waist look for stripes that point in towards the centre of the waist.

See more stripey fashion and the latest seasonal trends at www.marksandspencer.com

Over recent years Marks and Spencers have established themselves as being at the forefront of quality and on trend clothing for men and women. One key piece of clothing that never goes out of fashion is the leather jacket. It is practical, warm, versatile and durable.

It is well worth making that little extra effort to look for quality when shopping for a leather jacket. It is likely to be an investment piece that will last for many years. You can find a selection of classic and fashionable leather jackets at Marks and Spencers whatever your style.

Look for super soft leather and luxurious designs that will compliment your spring wardrobe and add a bit of extra warmth on those slightly chilly spring days.

The Quilted Leather Jacket

If you are looking for a really sophisticated leather jacket this double breasted style by Marks and Spencers Autograph Weekend is ideal. It is slightly warmer and more substantial than your average leather jacket and goes equally well with work wear and more casual outfits. It is a great contemporary style and will transform your spring wardrobe.

The Biker Jacket

One of the trendiest styles of leather jacket at the moment is the biker jacket. It has the ability to add a little rock and roll to just about any outfit. It works particularly well when contrasted with something feminine perhaps a little black dress or floral dress. This grey long sleeved leather jacket is a great variation on the classic biker style with an asymmetrical front, fitted shape and soft leather with a textured finish. It is perfect for wearing with the seasons must have maxi dresses and skirts.

The Drape Leather Jacket

With the lace like leather that featured in Christopher Kanes catwalk collection for SS11, it is no surprise that there will be plenty of high street choices which combine leather and lace. This very stylish leather jacket by Marks and Spencers Limited Collection has a lace insert creating an interesting and fashionable look. The open and draped front is the perfect way to achieve an unstated but chic look.

The Military Style Jacket

A high collar, front pockets and belt all combine to give a military style of leather jacket which is the perfect structured addition to a casual outfit. This funnel neck jacket from the Marks and Spencers Autograph Weekend collection is a great way to add some style to an everyday pair of jeans. The tan colour is also really on trend for spring.

The Suede Leather Jacket

For a slightly softer shape, a suede leather jacket works perfectly. It is also a good way of adding texture to an outfit. This funnel neck  suede jacket from the M&S Indigo range is another example of how Marks and Spencers is rocking the military trend this spring with its epaulettes and multiple pockets. It is fully lined for comfort and warmth.  A very wearable style which works perfectly with casual outfits.

See the full jacket collection at the M&S website:  http://www.marksandspencer.com

Spring is not far away, why not celebrate with some very stylish floral dresses at Marks and Spencer clothes?

Floral dresses are likely to be one of the hottest looks for spring summer 2011 with plenty of inspiration on the catwalk including bold and bright prints and floral embellishments. Flowers are colourful and fresh, the perfect look for a sunny spring day. They can also be romantic and feminine and work perfectly with so many of the seasons other trends.

Eye Popping Florals

If you really want to make the most of colour this spring then a floral print is a great way to do this. Jil Sanders featured an eye poppingly bright floral print on a billowing maxi dress that would be sure to make anyone the centre of attention, at the spring summer 2011 catwalk shows. This 3/4 sleeve floral dress from Marks and Spencers is the perfect eye catching choice for every day wear and a much more flattering option than the catwalk version.

Vintage Florals

This spring is likely to see a seventies revival and floral dresses will play a big part in it. At Erdem and the Paul and Joe catwalk shows, we witnessed plenty of seventies floral inspiration with stunning floor skimming floral maxi dresses. The look is romantic with  flowing skirts and a soft feminine silhouette. The slightly shorter hemline of this Limited Collection Vintage floral dress at Marks and Spencers is a much more practical choice for daytime wear but still really on trend for the spring and summer.

Monotone Florals

Black and white is a really striking way to wear florals this spring, a look that featured at both Chanel and Dries Van Noten. Monochrome is definitely a grown up take on florals. It is sophisticated and striking, perfect for a wedding or special occasion. You can get a more wearable and affordable version of this catwalk look at Marks and Spencers with this Per Una Floral Print cap sleeved dress. Why not try accessorising with some of the seasons brightly coloured accessories?

Delicate Florals

If you are looking for a slightly more understated floral dress, then Marks and Spencers also have a great choice of ditsy or mini floral prints in muted and pastel colours. This look works particularly well for a more relaxed weekend outfit and looks great combined with denim as seen at the D&G catwalk shows. This Autograph Weekend Pleated Floral belted dress is a relaxed choice for a lazy but very stylish Sunday afternoon.

Tropical Floral Prints

That hot tropical weather is bound to hit eventually and when it does you can really look the part with a tropical floral print dress at Marks and Spencers clothes. Neon bright floral prints combined with a bright white background were seen on the catwalk at Dior for spring and summer 2011. Marks and Spencers have their very own wearable version in the seasons must have midi skirt length. This cross over v neck floral print dress features tropical leaf designs and gives a nod to the Hawaiian shirts and feminine dresses of the fifties.

See the full floral dress collection at the Marks and Spencer website.

Visit: http://www.marksandspencer.com

Your new look for the new year starts here with Marks and Spencers!  Check out the latest styles from Marks and Spencer that will definitely embody the new you.  For trendy women, here’s something to take note about with this year’s spring collection being much inspired by the 1970s. Marks and Spencers take pride as they unveil their pipeline of maxi hemlines, swirling prints, and A-line denim skirts that obviously has the tinge of the St. Michael label on it.

Marks and Spencer Fashion Design

Neil Hendy, Marks and Spencers’ head of design, explained that “There were so many references to the 1970s that we’ve had to split it into “70s day” and “sleek 70s.””  He differentiated between full maxi printed dresses for day and gem-coloured halter dresses for night, that brings you back to the Studio 54 era looks.

Marks and Spencer Retro Styles

Apart from the 1970s, Marks and Spencers also offers seven trends,  with most of it having the retro look as reference.  Expect wardrobes from the 1950s-inspired Coney Island sections, which includes beautiful floral print and striped dresses, to the Fluid Form rail, which emphasized minimalism and pleating.  Hendy justified the retro references by  further saying that “Decades are useful reference points for customers to understand new trends.”  The 2011 spring collection stresses the company’s commitment  to offer a wide range of looks, on which the brand, in its present “your Marks & Spencers” embodiment now specializes.  Other significant looks to be excited about include laser cut leather tops, snakeskin print / new leopard print, and a lovely red lace dress reminiscent of top London label Erdem.

Other than stylish clothes for women, Marks and Spencers also presents many exciting products that continuously boasts of its innovations, especially in the underwear department. Watch out as  these new lingeries may be too good to be kept under the wraps!

Marks and Spencer 2011 Spring Collection

This January 2011, the Multiway Lace Detail Underwired Bra was launched and it can be worn in five different ways: conventionally, halterneck, cross back, strapless and one shoulder.  It’s designed for the modern women to experience a comfortable, flattering fit, offering secure support, and great flexibility.  On the other hand, for those who prefer a non-wired bra, you may want to check out the newly available “High Impact Non-Wired Padded Sports Bra” which gives firm, gentle support during high impact activity. Marks and Spencer will also launch its  Nearly Naked bra, that uses bonding and the alleged “free cut” technology over traditional stitching, a way to eliminate the bulges around the ribcage as the straps are expected to stick to the body.

Other interesting new products for women include the Firm Control Sheer Floral Waist Cincher, a firm control knickers that gently flatten tummies in seconds,  the V-Neck Spot Mesh Full Slip / V-Neck Floral Lace Full slip, a basic fashion slip with spot mesh design / attractive floral lace design that enhance the look of your dress especially those that look see-through under light clothing, and lastly the Cotton Blend Floral Lace Multiway Crop Top, a fashionable floral lace and multi-purpose crop top that is perfect for layering.

Visit http://www.marksandspencer.com