Judy Garland once graced the stage of the Birmingham Hippodrome and now over 40 years after her death Tracie Bennett brings "End of the Rainbow" to the theatre giving audiences a dramatic insight into the final events of her life.
Judy starts off as a camp diva, refusing to go on stage and ends up flailing around her London hotel as she is forced into drink and drugs by the life she's led. The emotional ending really hits home. And a few references to The Wizard of Oz are sure to keep the audience chuckling.
Bennett gives a truly magnificent performance as Judy. One moment I found myself chuckling away at her over the top camp performance and the next I was taken aback as she wobbles around stage drunk and dosed up on drugs. It's not surprising that London audiences loved her, and it's not at all a surprise that Bennett will be reprising her role on Broadway. From Judy's voice to her dramatic personality, Tracie Bennett embodies the character.
The show features many of Garland's much loved songs including "The Man That Got Away", "The Trolley Song" and "Over the Rainbow"... Not only are these songs orchestrated beautifully by a small band, but the likeness in the leading lady to Garland's voice is uncanny. Bennet really does capture that deep husky tone that Judy was famous for.
Hilton McRae, Norman Bowman and Robert Maskell give excellent performances to as Anthony (Judy's pianist) Mickey (her fiancée) and various other roles. The relationship between the men in her life and Garland was portrayed beautifully by these fine actors.
I couldn't help but feel emotional as we see the events leading up to the star's tragic overdose after which Bennet performs "Over the Rainbow" to a standing ovation. The shows leading lady definitely gave it her all and fully embodied the Hollywood star.
Finally, a piece of pure class entertainment is getting the recognition it should! This show deserves every success it gets and it's easy to tell that Broadway will lap this production up.
See this show on the rest of the UK tour... It's one not to miss.
For tickets and information visit http://www.birminghamhippodrome.com
Showing posts with label london. Show all posts
Showing posts with label london. Show all posts
Tuesday, 18 October 2011
Wednesday, 31 August 2011
A True Night at the Theatre for “Top Hat On Stage” at the Birmingham Hippodrome
“Dress to impress! It's Black Tie and Tiara night...” As I walked the red carpet at the Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre last night I could tell I was in for a true night out full of glitz and glamour. Even before the show began I immediately felt like I had been taken back in time to 1930s Broadway: there were ties and tiaras galore and the people of Birmingham had really gone all out for opening night.
The house lights dimmed and to the audience’s delight the conductor appeared and conducted the 23 piece orchestra under the glow of a follow spot; a definite throw back to the golden age of musical theatre. Three times Olivier Award nominee Summer Strallen and Strictly Come Dancing star Tom Chambers are the perfect duo to lead the strong company of 31 in this musical farce based on love and false identity. They play the roles made famous in the film by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, happy go lucky Broadway star Jerry Travers and the sassy Dale Tremont. Tom Chambers delights the audience with his Fred Astaire tap numbers, especially the act one finale when he is joined by the rest of the company, whilst Summer Strallen charms us with her beautiful rendition of “Better Luck Next Time” as she realises her love life is falling to pits. A personal highlight for me was watching the two leads fall in love in a London park as they tap and sing to “Isn’t It A Lovely Day (To Be Caught in the Rain?)”. Pure brilliance! Other highlights include Martin Ball and Vivien Parry’s act two duet “Outside of That I Love You” as they bicker over their marriage, whilst Ricardo Afonso and Stephen Boswell give genius comedic performances as the Italian fashion designer Alberto and the slightly deluded butler Bates. The cast of 31 continue this delightful performance as they simultaneously tap away in company numbers and bring to life scene including a Broadway stage, an upper class London hotel and a Venice beach.
A big round of applause is in order for choreographer Bill Deamer, mixing ballroom, tap and vaudeville styles to create a visual feast for theatre goers. It all looks perfect on a set designed by Hildegard Bechtler who uses sliding flats, beautiful backcloths and revolving beds to take us to nearly 30 locations. And what’s this show without the music? Although the film only had 5 songs, the creative team dug through Irving Berlin’s back trunk to create a beautiful score that takes us back to the golden era of musicals. Although, I couldn’t help but get distracted by some of the sliding flats getting stuck during scene changes, a few backcloths rising too early (and I’m pretty sure Tom Chambers might have been miming a few of his numbers, forgive me if I’m wrong...)
A big cheer should also go to the Hippodrome staff for hosting the “black tie and tiara” dress code and laying out a red carpet. It’s funny how theatres have spent the past few years making shows more accessible by diminishing dress codes and the affluent nature of the theatre, yet a sense of nostalgia filled the air as the audiences agreed that the theatre should be a place where you can get dressed up and feel elegant.
A 5 star production that deserves every success it gets, and if not more! It’s really good to see a piece of new commercial theatre that’s bringing something fresh to audiences. This show feels old in a sense that it takes you back to a time when theatre was an elegant night out, yet it feels fresh and exciting.
The show plays at the Birmingham Hippodrome until 10th September, before continuing its UK Tour.
Visit for tickets and for details on the show and the rest of the tour.
The house lights dimmed and to the audience’s delight the conductor appeared and conducted the 23 piece orchestra under the glow of a follow spot; a definite throw back to the golden age of musical theatre. Three times Olivier Award nominee Summer Strallen and Strictly Come Dancing star Tom Chambers are the perfect duo to lead the strong company of 31 in this musical farce based on love and false identity. They play the roles made famous in the film by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, happy go lucky Broadway star Jerry Travers and the sassy Dale Tremont. Tom Chambers delights the audience with his Fred Astaire tap numbers, especially the act one finale when he is joined by the rest of the company, whilst Summer Strallen charms us with her beautiful rendition of “Better Luck Next Time” as she realises her love life is falling to pits. A personal highlight for me was watching the two leads fall in love in a London park as they tap and sing to “Isn’t It A Lovely Day (To Be Caught in the Rain?)”. Pure brilliance! Other highlights include Martin Ball and Vivien Parry’s act two duet “Outside of That I Love You” as they bicker over their marriage, whilst Ricardo Afonso and Stephen Boswell give genius comedic performances as the Italian fashion designer Alberto and the slightly deluded butler Bates. The cast of 31 continue this delightful performance as they simultaneously tap away in company numbers and bring to life scene including a Broadway stage, an upper class London hotel and a Venice beach.
A big round of applause is in order for choreographer Bill Deamer, mixing ballroom, tap and vaudeville styles to create a visual feast for theatre goers. It all looks perfect on a set designed by Hildegard Bechtler who uses sliding flats, beautiful backcloths and revolving beds to take us to nearly 30 locations. And what’s this show without the music? Although the film only had 5 songs, the creative team dug through Irving Berlin’s back trunk to create a beautiful score that takes us back to the golden era of musicals. Although, I couldn’t help but get distracted by some of the sliding flats getting stuck during scene changes, a few backcloths rising too early (and I’m pretty sure Tom Chambers might have been miming a few of his numbers, forgive me if I’m wrong...)
A big cheer should also go to the Hippodrome staff for hosting the “black tie and tiara” dress code and laying out a red carpet. It’s funny how theatres have spent the past few years making shows more accessible by diminishing dress codes and the affluent nature of the theatre, yet a sense of nostalgia filled the air as the audiences agreed that the theatre should be a place where you can get dressed up and feel elegant.
A 5 star production that deserves every success it gets, and if not more! It’s really good to see a piece of new commercial theatre that’s bringing something fresh to audiences. This show feels old in a sense that it takes you back to a time when theatre was an elegant night out, yet it feels fresh and exciting.
The show plays at the Birmingham Hippodrome until 10th September, before continuing its UK Tour.
Visit for tickets and for details on the show and the rest of the tour.
Tuesday, 12 July 2011
Dirty Dancing First Ever National Tour (coming to the Birmingham Hippodrome Summer 2012)
The kind people at the Birmingham Hippodrome invited me along to an exclusive press launch for the first ever national tour of “Dirty Dancing” today. First of all, I’m not going to lie; I’ve never seen the movie or the stage show – I’ve been living under a rock...The event was held at Aston Villa Football Ground and included a tour of the ground, drinks reception, lunch, exclusive performances from cast members and a Q&A / photo session.
Upon arrival we were greeted nicely and offered drinks before being shown a stadium tour. The tour included seeing the conference rooms, the pitch and (my favourite part) seeing the home team’s dressing room. I was amazed by the rooms – who knew there were hidden safes behind the team’s shirts? (I’m gonna guess anyone who loves football already knew this...)
Checking out the Villa's dressing room... Click for a bigger version.
After bumping into same familiar faces from other Hippodrome events fellow blogger Alex and I made our way to the main event...
Sitting at one of the press tables, chit chat and socialising was at the top of the agenda - I need to get used to these events and remember that when someone asks “where are you from?” they don’t mean my area, they’re in fact asking me what newspaper, company, ticket agent or TV / radio station I’m from. Following on from a lovely lunch provided by the Hippodrome / Villa Ground, the event began.
Dirty Dancing preview... Click for a bigger version.
James Leece and Charlotte Gooch burst onto stage performing the “Mambo” number: a hot Latin sequence with lifts galore. Karl Sydow (producer of the production) then took to stage to give the audience a general talk about the film, the show and the new tour. Chris Holland and Shonagh Daly then gave us an amazing performance of the song “Do You Love Me?" before all five of the Dirty Dancers held an open question and answer session.
Some interesting questions from the crowd revealed that the tour will include all the famous scenes from the movie (including the water scene, the log scene and of course the infamous lift) and that the production will follow closely to that of the recently closed West End show. However, the original set has been slightly adapted for touring venues (like every other big West End tour). The cast also told some quirky anecdotes about the “lift” going wrong in performances. Who knows? Maybe you’re there the night when Baby’s family have to stop her from face-planting the stage. Before going, the cast gave an extraordinary performance of the famous song “Time of My Life”.
James Leece and Charlotte Gooch perform for the press... Click for a bigger version.
The Hippodrome also revealed today that Dirty Dancing will be the last production to be performed on the current stage. On the 12th August 2012 the theatre will close its doors to undergo a million pound redevelopment of the main stage: a deck that has been there for decades and has seen some of entertainment’s most famous faces perform on it.
After a photo call it was time to leave; my train was full of other audience members discussing how excited they are to see the show (most of them have booked tickets over a year in advance).
Recently closed at the Aldwych Theatre, Dirty Dancing opened in the West End in 2006, breaking all box office records with advance ticket sales of over £15 million, which made it the fastest-selling show in West End history. It has since played to over 1 million people, receiving nightly standing ovations and continuing to enthral and delight. The show is sure to sell out at the Hippodrome soon so booking early is advisable.
Dirty Dancing will appear at Birmingham Hippodrome from Wednesday 4 July to Saturday 25 August 2012.
Ticket Prices: £20-£55 (Concessions available)
Book online www.birminghamhippodrome.com or telephone 844 338 5000.
For more information on the show visit www.dirtydancingonstage.com
Upon arrival we were greeted nicely and offered drinks before being shown a stadium tour. The tour included seeing the conference rooms, the pitch and (my favourite part) seeing the home team’s dressing room. I was amazed by the rooms – who knew there were hidden safes behind the team’s shirts? (I’m gonna guess anyone who loves football already knew this...)
After bumping into same familiar faces from other Hippodrome events fellow blogger Alex and I made our way to the main event...
Sitting at one of the press tables, chit chat and socialising was at the top of the agenda - I need to get used to these events and remember that when someone asks “where are you from?” they don’t mean my area, they’re in fact asking me what newspaper, company, ticket agent or TV / radio station I’m from. Following on from a lovely lunch provided by the Hippodrome / Villa Ground, the event began.
James Leece and Charlotte Gooch burst onto stage performing the “Mambo” number: a hot Latin sequence with lifts galore. Karl Sydow (producer of the production) then took to stage to give the audience a general talk about the film, the show and the new tour. Chris Holland and Shonagh Daly then gave us an amazing performance of the song “Do You Love Me?" before all five of the Dirty Dancers held an open question and answer session.
Some interesting questions from the crowd revealed that the tour will include all the famous scenes from the movie (including the water scene, the log scene and of course the infamous lift) and that the production will follow closely to that of the recently closed West End show. However, the original set has been slightly adapted for touring venues (like every other big West End tour). The cast also told some quirky anecdotes about the “lift” going wrong in performances. Who knows? Maybe you’re there the night when Baby’s family have to stop her from face-planting the stage. Before going, the cast gave an extraordinary performance of the famous song “Time of My Life”.
The Hippodrome also revealed today that Dirty Dancing will be the last production to be performed on the current stage. On the 12th August 2012 the theatre will close its doors to undergo a million pound redevelopment of the main stage: a deck that has been there for decades and has seen some of entertainment’s most famous faces perform on it.
After a photo call it was time to leave; my train was full of other audience members discussing how excited they are to see the show (most of them have booked tickets over a year in advance).
Recently closed at the Aldwych Theatre, Dirty Dancing opened in the West End in 2006, breaking all box office records with advance ticket sales of over £15 million, which made it the fastest-selling show in West End history. It has since played to over 1 million people, receiving nightly standing ovations and continuing to enthral and delight. The show is sure to sell out at the Hippodrome soon so booking early is advisable.
Dirty Dancing will appear at Birmingham Hippodrome from Wednesday 4 July to Saturday 25 August 2012.
Ticket Prices: £20-£55 (Concessions available)
Book online www.birminghamhippodrome.com or telephone 844 338 5000.
For more information on the show visit www.dirtydancingonstage.com
Sunday, 30 May 2010
West End News
The past few weeks have seen the London theatre scene buzzing with excitement: Danielle Hope is to be Andrew Lloyd Webber's new leading lady, Sister Act sees a cast change, Lee Meed joins Wicked and of course, Hair had it's closing notice.
It's a full range of emotions.
Let me tell you, Danielle Hope was definately the right decision for Dorothy, she had the charm, charisma and passion whilst the others seemed to lack the acting skills needed for such an iconic role - that is to say the other potential Dotties won't go on to great and wonderful things. For a start, many of them have been auditioning for shows and drama schools.
Sister Act had it's cast change which bids farewell to the great performers but I'm sure it welcomes some wonderful replacements... Shame it's set to close before the of the year.
In a similar fashion Lee Mead recently joined Wicked as Fiyero, replacing Lewis Bradley who was temporarily acting in the role whilst Lee finished other projects, Lewis has returne to his understudy position. Funny how they were both finialists on "Any Dream Will Do" and Lee won? Ironic? What's even more ironic is the fact that Rachel Tucker (the new Elphaba) was also a finalist on Webber TV talent search... It seems that's the only way to get into the industry these days.
And of course, the hippy musical Hair recieved it's closing notice recently. We say goodbye to the show on Sept 9th. Shame. Where else do you see naked hippies in London?
And there we have it... Highs, lows and the domination of Andrew Lloyd Webber in the West End...
It's a full range of emotions.
Let me tell you, Danielle Hope was definately the right decision for Dorothy, she had the charm, charisma and passion whilst the others seemed to lack the acting skills needed for such an iconic role - that is to say the other potential Dotties won't go on to great and wonderful things. For a start, many of them have been auditioning for shows and drama schools.
Sister Act had it's cast change which bids farewell to the great performers but I'm sure it welcomes some wonderful replacements... Shame it's set to close before the of the year.
In a similar fashion Lee Mead recently joined Wicked as Fiyero, replacing Lewis Bradley who was temporarily acting in the role whilst Lee finished other projects, Lewis has returne to his understudy position. Funny how they were both finialists on "Any Dream Will Do" and Lee won? Ironic? What's even more ironic is the fact that Rachel Tucker (the new Elphaba) was also a finalist on Webber TV talent search... It seems that's the only way to get into the industry these days.
And of course, the hippy musical Hair recieved it's closing notice recently. We say goodbye to the show on Sept 9th. Shame. Where else do you see naked hippies in London?
And there we have it... Highs, lows and the domination of Andrew Lloyd Webber in the West End...
Saturday, 1 May 2010
Wicked the Musical: Nik-Shaw Backstage.
Life as a standby in the theatre can be boring at times, never knowing when you're next on... However, "Wicked's" standbys fill their time by making us wonderful videos detailing life backstage in the West End.
Click here to see the first Nik-Shaw Video.
Click here to see the first Nik-Shaw Video.
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
THE STYLE SCOUT - London Street Fashion: London Style: Love the Shoes...#links
THE STYLE SCOUT - London Street Fashion: London Style: Love the Shoes...#links
A link to another blog detailing street fashion, definately worth checking out for some creative inspiration!
A link to another blog detailing street fashion, definately worth checking out for some creative inspiration!
Thursday, 1 April 2010
Home Decor Art.
After studying Fine Art for three years I'm always on the look out for pieces that are unique, tell a story and are attracting to the eye. People often think that "art" is for the more elite and that there's no way on earth they'd be able to afford some top pieces for their homes. After sourcing department stores and doing some internet shopping I've found some top pieces that will brighten up any room and add some style to a boring wall.
Now, I often find myself re-arranging furniture and art pieces to suit the needs of my own feng shui. I also can't stand looking at the same thing each and everyday with no diversity, therefore I find myself arranging and changing art pieces almost every fortnight. This doesn't necessarily mean buying expensive pieces every two weeks, I simply search department stores for quirky images on canvas and frames to change the style of rooms.
One of my favourite pieces can be found at John Lewis, it's very "Rauschenberg" inspired in use of the abstract nature and sense of "anything goes". The red and brown tones of paint applied randomly with white / cream highlights create a modern yet stylish piece. Entitled "Spiritual Painting" it costs £300, slightly pricey for those looking for a bargain and not to appreciate art. However, take a look at some of the work by "Robery Rauschenberg" and it's easy to see why his work (and pieces like "Spiritual Painting") are so popular and have the ability to attract the eye.
(Copyright and piece available from: http://www.johnlewis.com/230720451/Product.aspx?)source=46387
Another one of my favourite pieces, and slightly less modern is another piece avaiable from John Lewis. This piece entitled "Over The Top Print". This canvas print by Shyama Ruffell draws on influences from Hundertwasser in the use of bright colours and child-like image. A more cultural piece it costs £90 and is definately worth the price.
(Copyright and piece available from: http://www.johnlewis.com/230720465/Product.aspx?source=46387)
An interesting piece for the modern household can be bagged from Marks and Spencer's. This piece uses photography with a Pop Art (think Andy Warhol) influence to bring out the best of New York City's monuments. At a priceo f £39.50, this image is defaintely one to brought up quickly as the vintage styles of 60's peaks. Entitled "New York City Wall Art" I like the simplicity of black and white photos used to create a collage print.
(Copyright and piece available from: http://www.marksandspencer.com/New-York-City-Wall-Art/dp/B002I6F88I?extid=af_a_Content_79682)
Lastly, it's always nice to inject a sense of Britishness into any household with Britain always having that quirky and elegant feeling in all of it's decor. This quirky canvas print features the simplicity of limited colour in which the typical "red London busses" are set against the black background and white/grey outlines of London's momumental sights reminding the viewer of what makes Britain so elegant and characteristic. Definately a bargain piece (£19.99) for the type of person who likes to change their walls (like myself) to create different moods for the mood you're in.
(Copyright and image from: http://www.wallpaperdirect.co.uk/products/arthouse/buses/71885?siteID=0RpXOIXA500-oIH86sek4agkmVhGIv7YoQ)
And finally my favourite saying "art is what one wants it to be" means that you should never be restricted in the artwork you buy and how you arrange it. Pieces that clash can look stylish (if arranged correctly) or contemporary pieces can look classic if you want them to. When buying art, lead with the heart and you'll never go wrong.
Now, I often find myself re-arranging furniture and art pieces to suit the needs of my own feng shui. I also can't stand looking at the same thing each and everyday with no diversity, therefore I find myself arranging and changing art pieces almost every fortnight. This doesn't necessarily mean buying expensive pieces every two weeks, I simply search department stores for quirky images on canvas and frames to change the style of rooms.
One of my favourite pieces can be found at John Lewis, it's very "Rauschenberg" inspired in use of the abstract nature and sense of "anything goes". The red and brown tones of paint applied randomly with white / cream highlights create a modern yet stylish piece. Entitled "Spiritual Painting" it costs £300, slightly pricey for those looking for a bargain and not to appreciate art. However, take a look at some of the work by "Robery Rauschenberg" and it's easy to see why his work (and pieces like "Spiritual Painting") are so popular and have the ability to attract the eye.
(Copyright and piece available from: http://www.johnlewis.com/230720451/Product.aspx?)source=46387
Another one of my favourite pieces, and slightly less modern is another piece avaiable from John Lewis. This piece entitled "Over The Top Print". This canvas print by Shyama Ruffell draws on influences from Hundertwasser in the use of bright colours and child-like image. A more cultural piece it costs £90 and is definately worth the price.
(Copyright and piece available from: http://www.johnlewis.com/230720465/Product.aspx?source=46387)
An interesting piece for the modern household can be bagged from Marks and Spencer's. This piece uses photography with a Pop Art (think Andy Warhol) influence to bring out the best of New York City's monuments. At a priceo f £39.50, this image is defaintely one to brought up quickly as the vintage styles of 60's peaks. Entitled "New York City Wall Art" I like the simplicity of black and white photos used to create a collage print.
(Copyright and piece available from: http://www.marksandspencer.com/New-York-City-Wall-Art/dp/B002I6F88I?extid=af_a_Content_79682)
Lastly, it's always nice to inject a sense of Britishness into any household with Britain always having that quirky and elegant feeling in all of it's decor. This quirky canvas print features the simplicity of limited colour in which the typical "red London busses" are set against the black background and white/grey outlines of London's momumental sights reminding the viewer of what makes Britain so elegant and characteristic. Definately a bargain piece (£19.99) for the type of person who likes to change their walls (like myself) to create different moods for the mood you're in.
(Copyright and image from: http://www.wallpaperdirect.co.uk/products/arthouse/buses/71885?siteID=0RpXOIXA500-oIH86sek4agkmVhGIv7YoQ)
And finally my favourite saying "art is what one wants it to be" means that you should never be restricted in the artwork you buy and how you arrange it. Pieces that clash can look stylish (if arranged correctly) or contemporary pieces can look classic if you want them to. When buying art, lead with the heart and you'll never go wrong.
Monday, 29 March 2010
The Trench Coat
We see them in almost every shop, whether it's a high street store like Topman or a more luxury store like Burberry but wherever we look, we can't escape them... It's the single must have of every male (and female) wardrobe: The Trench Coat.
Time for a history lesson: originally made for practical reasons during the First World War, the trench coat was designed by Burberry for the use of Officers in World War I, over the time it was adapted to suit the needs of World War II and was soon seen in other countries. Since 1901 (when the design was first submitted) it has evolved into one of Burberry's iconic designs and has been developed by pretty much every other fashion designer in the world (atleast in the UK and New York).
After browsing trench coats from Daks to Jaeger, Topman to Burberry and Asda to H&M my personal favourites are in the lighter colours, however, they work just as good in the blacks and navy's. As we move into Spring it's advisable for a more of a "jacket" than a "coat", a perfect example of a navy jacket trench coat can be grabbed from Topman for £60 and is sure to keep you going for the next three or more seasons. (http://www.topman.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=17551&storeId=12555&categoryId=56915&parent_category_rn=38994&productId=1668004&langId=-1) Perfect for anyone looking for style but an affordable price tag and any male of any size. Definately for the casual look, dress it up with a pair of dark (but not black) jeans and smart black shoes you're ready to hit the swankiest bar in the city (plus it's perfect to wear to work over the usual office attire.)
Now, for those wanting to splash the cash you simply MUST have an iconic Burberry trench coat in their lighter colours, the creams work well to inject a bright atmosphere into those Autumn 2010 styles. For a price of £1659 you can grab yourself this magnificent number: http://uk.burberry.com/fcp/product/clothing-accessories/coats/single-breasted-ruched-leather-trench-coat/10000009835?colour=trench&lastcategoryurl=true . With minimal buttons, large pockets and cream leather this coat really gives off the "relaxed yet perky, stylish yet classy" look. However, not for the larger male as the belt will make that beer gut more revealing. Dress it with some Italian styled leather shoes and darker (try to stay away from black, keep to rich tones of brown) trousers this look will definately have heads turning as you grab your morning coffee for work.
These are just two of the coats that are out there, quickly walking Armani Exchange last weekend I noticed they were appearing in those windows. Topman always have an array of the jacket styles and Selfridges is always a good place to look (they have an affordable hight street section and an upper market design section).
Now, if you haven't got one already I suggest you hurry quickly to the nearest high street. You can easily nab one from GAP for £70 or for £60 from H&M. Not only is the "military" style becoming hot this season, your trench coat is sure to remain in your wardrobe for a long time as it provides a classic smart - yet modern look for any respectable gent living and/or working in the city. After testing and trying many trench coats I'd suggest going for one of the upper high street price ranged ones from designs such as Firetrap and Ted Baker, not only will you have it for the rest of your life (a good investment), the performance quality is much better than one grabbed off the rails at Asda, and the style / cut / material / overall look tends to be better when you splash the cash.
Time for a history lesson: originally made for practical reasons during the First World War, the trench coat was designed by Burberry for the use of Officers in World War I, over the time it was adapted to suit the needs of World War II and was soon seen in other countries. Since 1901 (when the design was first submitted) it has evolved into one of Burberry's iconic designs and has been developed by pretty much every other fashion designer in the world (atleast in the UK and New York).
After browsing trench coats from Daks to Jaeger, Topman to Burberry and Asda to H&M my personal favourites are in the lighter colours, however, they work just as good in the blacks and navy's. As we move into Spring it's advisable for a more of a "jacket" than a "coat", a perfect example of a navy jacket trench coat can be grabbed from Topman for £60 and is sure to keep you going for the next three or more seasons. (http://www.topman.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=17551&storeId=12555&categoryId=56915&parent_category_rn=38994&productId=1668004&langId=-1) Perfect for anyone looking for style but an affordable price tag and any male of any size. Definately for the casual look, dress it up with a pair of dark (but not black) jeans and smart black shoes you're ready to hit the swankiest bar in the city (plus it's perfect to wear to work over the usual office attire.)
Now, for those wanting to splash the cash you simply MUST have an iconic Burberry trench coat in their lighter colours, the creams work well to inject a bright atmosphere into those Autumn 2010 styles. For a price of £1659 you can grab yourself this magnificent number: http://uk.burberry.com/fcp/product/clothing-accessories/coats/single-breasted-ruched-leather-trench-coat/10000009835?colour=trench&lastcategoryurl=true . With minimal buttons, large pockets and cream leather this coat really gives off the "relaxed yet perky, stylish yet classy" look. However, not for the larger male as the belt will make that beer gut more revealing. Dress it with some Italian styled leather shoes and darker (try to stay away from black, keep to rich tones of brown) trousers this look will definately have heads turning as you grab your morning coffee for work.
These are just two of the coats that are out there, quickly walking Armani Exchange last weekend I noticed they were appearing in those windows. Topman always have an array of the jacket styles and Selfridges is always a good place to look (they have an affordable hight street section and an upper market design section).
Now, if you haven't got one already I suggest you hurry quickly to the nearest high street. You can easily nab one from GAP for £70 or for £60 from H&M. Not only is the "military" style becoming hot this season, your trench coat is sure to remain in your wardrobe for a long time as it provides a classic smart - yet modern look for any respectable gent living and/or working in the city. After testing and trying many trench coats I'd suggest going for one of the upper high street price ranged ones from designs such as Firetrap and Ted Baker, not only will you have it for the rest of your life (a good investment), the performance quality is much better than one grabbed off the rails at Asda, and the style / cut / material / overall look tends to be better when you splash the cash.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)