Style Icon’s The Fashion Word: Arm Candy From Designer Exchange
Designer Exchange is a hidden gem, discreetly tucked away on Egerton Street in Knightsbridge. This unique store prides itself on a simple ethos of designer handbag recycling. Like a child in a candy shop, you will indeed find the latest arm-candy in its most impeccable form from the latest Louis Vuitton, Hermes croc bags, vintage Gucci, Chanel, Valentino and lots more high-end brands so I am sure you can imagine (as a fashionista) how I felt when asked by Designer Exchange to become their new brand ambassador – unbelievably happy springs to mind! There are many consignment shops in London but not like Designer Exchange who in essence feel like everybody’s popular go-to hub specifically for beautiful, contemporary bags at unbelievable prices not to mention offering the opportunity to sell a bag you no longer use provided it’s in its original condition. The store itself is spacious making it dangerously easy to feast your eyes on such neatly presented bags that eventually make you give into temptation. Designer Exchange has three stores across the UK – London, Manchester and Birmingham, and a store in Madrid. It feels great to collaborate with British based brands who support creative initiatives offering a unique customer experience. As a Designer Exchange brand ambassador, I will be styling my own looks using their bags for upcoming high profile fashion events. This way, you’ll get to see what’s trending at Designer Exchange through Style Icon’s The Fashion Word blog.
Finding the right look for a client can be an exciting challenge for every stylist but ultimately it’s the final touches that make a difference. A statement bag is like “the cherry on a cake” – something is missing without it. Further to this, an outfit wouldn’t feel complete without the right accessory. One top fashion tip is to find an accent piece that will either compliment a particular colour of an outfit or style of dress. You may decide to opt for a classic red bag, for example, to uplift a simple black dress. Designer Exchange have something for everybody so “What one person may no longer desire, another may love”
I was invited to a fashion event recently to celebrate the release of Candid Magazine’s 12th issue and the launch of the AW16 Grooming Room a creative hub for bloggers, press, buyers and VIPs to relax in between shows during London Collections: Men. The venue choice for this event was at Century private member’s club on Shaftesbury Avenue. I wanted to look stylish for this event which is a MUST for any stylist so I opted for a little black dress by Biba; very classic and demure in style. The simplicity of the dress allowed me to go to town with accessories which I did with a funky Christian Louboutin bag by Designer Exchange.
This shoulder bag from Christian Louboutin is made from black leather and features bold, multicoloured ostrich feathers on the chain shoulder strap. This is a real statement piece best worn with a simple outfit in a plain colour just to give extra VA VA VOOM! I sure did get other guests talking about this beautiful accent piece that can transform an outfit completely into something unforgettable. One amazing thing you must know, Designer Exchange sell this bag for £395 as it was pre owned. However, it is in very good condition, available in their Knightsbridge store! If you’d prefer to wear this bag with a bolder colour then I strongly suggest red to accentuate the red feathers. I would head down to the store now before it’s too late!
Written by Natalie Robinson @styleiconnat
