Kwabs - The Wilhelm Scream (James Blake Cover)

Before I begin. I know I've been slacking this week. It's quite ironic how I've been consistent with my posts up until the point where I set myself a deadline. I said every other day and now it's been 8 days. As soon as I set myself that deadline, I began rushing and writing because it was time to. I feel as though in terms of my blog, I produce better content when I write as it comes to me. I always have something to share and so a post every other day would have been practical, but once I start Sixth Form I may not have as much time on my hands. The last thing I want is for my blog to become a chore and so I've decided on putting up at least 2 posts a week, and more as and when my cerebrum is struck with new blog post topic ideas.

Swiftly moving on (no Taylor) to today's topic. Whilst on one of my regular YouTube perusing sessions, I stumbled across this cover of James Blake's 'The Wilhelm Scream' by Kwabs. If I tell you that as soon as he opened his mouth to sing I was violently hit by the soft matured tone of his voice. Beautiful Homicide is what I like to call it. When something so beautiful makes you feel like you've been a dished dirty slap on tray made of fine China.

I love what Kwabs has done with this song. I'm not even going to get technical and talk about his tone, diction, clarity & how he made the song his own. I'm not a judge. My opinion on music is generally based on how it makes me feel and/or the lyrical content. 

The way that this 3 minutes of effortless soul made me feel is what marked me with an obligation to write and to repeatedly molest the repeat button.

The USP of this cover is how stripped back it is, it has that kind of 'singing to yourself in the comfort of your own room' type feel to it. His voice makes you feel as though he singing from somewhere deep. Not as though his sole intention was to show off his vocal talent by perfectly executing every note as how James Blake would've done. He's just. Singing.

This is how I saw it anyway. 

Let me know what you guys think of these kind of posts and what you would like for me to write about, be it Music, Fashion or even Literature. What you thought about this cover and Kwabs' voice? I love hearing from you all and if you comment below, make sure you check back for a reply!

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How I Style: Dungarees

This post was requested by a friend of mine and it's on how I would style a few variations of dungarees/overalls.

Dungaree Jumpsuit: Asos // Crop Top: Primark // Hat: H&M // Arm Cuff: River Island // Shoes: River Island/New Look //

This outfit is a simple monochrome ensemble featuring this dungaree jumpsuit that I've been drooling over for a while. I've kept everything quite simple and minimal because I find outfits like this really effective. The gold upper arm cuff gives the outfit an nice touch and compliments the buckles on the shoes really well. 

Onto the shoes. They are dupes of the Jeffrey Campbell Coltrane boots, they look VERY similar and are at a fraction of the price. They are £45 (and sold out online), however New Look also have some for £30. If you want to get your hands on them, prepare yourself for the mission because they are selling out fast!

Dungarees: Topshop // Crop Top: River Island // Shoes: Nike Air Max 90 Hyperfuse // Curb Chain: Ebay

This second outfit is a lot more casual than the first and it's centred around this denim number. I would want the dungarees to be oversized and slouchy for this outfit.
I've kept the other colours quite toned down to allow the shoes to stand out.
I saw these shoes on one of my favourite bloggers, Maria at pigeonfightsandcigarettes.blogspot.co.uk and they looked beautiful. If you don't already know of her you should definitely go and check her blog out!

Dungarees: Topshop // Crop Top: Topshop // Flatforms: Topshop // Arm Cuff: River Island //

For the third and final outfit I've chosen these full length dungarees. I've paired them with simple items again because I like to keep everything minimal when styling dungarees. I would wear them with the straps down for this outfit to show the top off.
Miss Guided have a really nice version of this mesh panel crop top but I couldn't get a good picture of it. Click here if you want to see it.

Over here - Party Next Door x Drake

I've had this song on repeat for a couple of hours now, I'm just in love with Party Next Door's hazy voice. I'm currently a huge fan of alternative R&B, the sounds of Frank Ocean (my babes) , Jhene Aiko, The Weeknd, Miguel and James Fauntleroy have made a reoccurring appearance in my recently played playlist. If you haven't heard of Party Next Door before then definitely check out his debut self-titled mixtape. Party Next Door. 

I've noticed a lot of people saying that music nowadays isn't as good as it was in the 90's for example. This is partially true, 90's R&B and Hip Hop will always have a place in my heart. However I think it also depends on where you're looking. If you listen to the charts all the time you generally will be disappointed because most of it is commercial.

Hop onto YouTube and discover someone new, an underground artist? Download a mixtape. Let yourself be inspired by something different, something fresh and alternative. The reason why I favour underground, indie or non-mainstream artists (I'm not a 'hipster' I promise) so much is because they don't have to meet the expectations of an opinionated society. They can stay true to themselves and their art because they don't have a big time record label focusing them on sales.

Sales are great, don't get me wrong but when money becomes the sole purpose for doing something, everything else is lost along the way. That is also why I like mixtapes. They don't have to sell, they just need to be heard and when you focus on the music rather than the number of album sales then the true artist is unvieled.

Back to the artists I mentioned above, they are bringing something new to the table which we wouldn't have necessarily heard back in the 90's. So I'm not completely disheartened. Music has to evolve just like everything else and so we couldn't have stayed in the 90's forever.

HYPETHRASH RUE PORTER

hrueporter.co.uk | Photography by VDR @ vintagedollrisa.blogspot.com

Hypethrash Rue Porter. A brand new label from London town that is the epitome of the phrase "simple yet effective". 

Hypethrash's minimalistic and monochromic approach, possesses an aesthetic that is pleasing to the eye. The designs are consistent and stick to a colour scheme of white, grey and black. The limitation of colour allows you to focus more on the design of the garments and yields an effortlessly cool vibe. 

The name Hypethrash is a tribute to two magazines, Hypebeast and Thrasher Magazine, that introduced creative director/owner Tej Adenuga into the world of Fashion and the skateboarding culture. Tej says "I felt it was right to pay homage to those two publications because that is where I get most of my design inspirations from".

The SS13 collection presents a series of military inspired t-shirts. Perfect for throwing on during the summer months, as well as layering up as the temperatures begin to drop. The versatility of the t-shirts make them great wardrobe staples. Everyday garments that make you look as though you have made an effort, what more could you ask for? I am in love with the simplicity of the SS13 collection and the use of complimentary shades of colour. 

Plans for the future? Hypethrash Rue Porter aims to branch out into other forms of clothing as the label progresses. The store opens tomorrow so make sure to head over to hrueporter.co.uk and have a look for yourself and let me know what you think!

You can also follow the label's Instagram and Twitter accounts to keep to up to date.

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KOKON TO ZAI SS14

I know this post is slightly late in terms of when London Collections: Men happened, however today's post is on one of my favourite shows (which I watched from the comfort of my laptop screen). Renowned for their extravagant show-stopping designs. This is KTZ's (Kokon to Zai) SS14 collection.

Think Arabian Gangster. Fierce metal plated accessories and structured fits. The collection presents a collaboration of eccentric prints, monochrome themes, sporty influences and layering all displayed on loosely fitted kaftans that resemble the attire of a traditional Arabian man. Like artwork on a canvas, the elements all seem to compliment each other. 

As I watched the models walk down the catwalk (from my laptop screen), I envisioned a group of ELITE Arabian mobsters walking through a misty desert scene with a demeanour that cannot be achieved by many. Do you see it?

I was also excited by the richness of colour and print of which works well with the richness of culture presented in the collection. Head of design Koji Maruyama and creative director Marjan Pejoski did an astounding job with their take on the captivating geographical silhouettes of KTZ's latest collection. The garments stand out in every sense of the word and are most definitely not for the faint hearted.

On the more practical side of things. The light weight material and loosely fitted clothing is perfect for the hot (if we're lucky) spring/summer months. 

I see show-stopping printed kaftans and Arabian style outfits becoming a thing of the up and coming Summer (you heard it here first). The style is authentic as you can see from KTZ SS14 but it's achievable. It would be nice to see more men switch up their style a little bit and with the growth of London Collections: Men, I think this is very possible.

What's your take on the KTZ SS14 collection and/or what was your favourite show from LCM. Let me know in the comments box below or tweet me @CharisseeC!

Potential Purchases: Bomber Jackets

Most of you already know of my love for the 90's. T'was a beautiful era. An era that I would love to have experienced, as well as take a few style notes from the ladies (and the men of course) of those days.

I've been on the look out for a bold/printed bomber jacket and I thought I would share some of the jackets that I've been eyeing. 

1. Asos

2. Asos Marketplace

3. Boohoo (It looks so much like a Coogi sweater)

4. Asos

All White Everything

White Cropped T-shirt: River Island (find similar in Primark) // Skort: Zara // Watch: JD // Sun Glasses: Asos // Shoes: Vans // Leather Ruck Sack: Grafea 

I am currently in love with all white ensembles. They are such a contrast for me, a sucker for an all black outfit and someone who as has an unintentional habit of wearing/buying black and/or similarly darker coloured items of clothing. This outfit stems from my current obsession with the sports luxe look and my love for a simple white t-shirt during the summer months.  

CITIES MESH

Mesh Jersey: H&M // Midi Skirt: Boohoo // Shoes: Converse // Leather Rucksack: Primark // Rings: H&M //

Hi Guys, I'm so sorry for the lack of posts recently. I've just moved house and I had no internet connection for about a week. As a result, I've finished all mobile data and made use of literally every 'free wifi' opportunity there was. You've gotta do what you've gotta do right? 

Oh yes! I also participated in a styling and image making workshop called the Hackney Street Style School and I'm preparing a post on that, so keep posted!

I've FINALLY got my hands on an oversized mesh jersey and I picked this one up for £7 in the H&M sale! I've paired it with a high waisted midi skirt and my Converse. I actually wanted to wear my black flatform trainers but the sole's broken. No, the sole has been sliced. I have no idea how either.

Lastly, GFC (Google Friend Connect) has or is apparently closing down. I haven't seen anything official on it and so I'm not 100% sure if it's true, but you can now follow me blog lovin' here. You can also subscribe by email (in the side bar), or follow me on Twitter @CharisseeC I always tweet my new posts.

Desirable: PHIDEL White Napa Leather Baseball Jersey

Photo from phidel.co.uk | Photographer: Christina Ebenezer

Guys guys guys. So I've been anticipating the release of this up and coming fashion label Phidel's debut collection for a while now. They did such an an amazing job at building up towards the release of their collection, utilising social media platforms to expose the captivating photography and videography used to showcase their collections. The minute I heard of Phidel I was captivated.

Phidel was started by a young emerging designer from London. The designs are authentic and to me, represent a generation of people trying to step outside of the box society has a tendency of putting us in. So many young people are trying to start up clothing lines and brands, but I feel as though not all of them have the right mindset and it shows. It's safe to say that the standard of work Phidel has presented, is in line with the renowned names in high end fashion, although it still retains an undergound-esque ambience.

The minimalistic all black/all white themes and the experiments with texture are what intrigued me. A different spin on fashion within the 'Hip-Hop Culture'. Which is a culture that I personally love because of the rawness that it embodies.

This white leather jersey has to be my favourite item from the Resort 13 collection and hopefully will be a purchase. 

Let us pray.

I can't get over how clean/crisp it looks and the leather material creates such a statement that sets it apart from the thousands of baseball jerseys out there. This is why I have chosen it as today's desirable. I for one can't wait to see what else Phidel has in store.

What are your thoughts on the motives of up and coming clothing brands and your opinions on Phidel's collection? Comment below (I always respond, so check back) or tweet me @CharisseeC!

Recent Purchase: Dr Martens 1461 Dupes

Hey Guys!

I recently purchased these dupes of the Dr Martens 1461 shoes, after I came across them in Shoe Zone for only £15! They remind me of the kind of school shoes my Dad used to insist on buying for me in Primary School, you know those Clarks/Brantano shoes. I remember I used to HATE them all because I thought they weren't 'cool', because they weren't the shoes everybody else had. I'm so glad I've gotten rid of that mentality because seeking confirmation from others for what you need to be doing is good for no one.

Enough of that, let's focus on the shoes. I actually love them. The geeky grungy aura that they posses. I will be forever styling them this summer, 'docs' & frilly socks and various other clothing items.  

My exams are pretty much finished and I am so glad! Since I have more time on my hands, my blog updates will be a lot more frequent and I will get some OOTD posts up, yes finally! 

Lastly, I just want to say thank you to all of you who have visited and commented on my blog so far. I was quite surprised to see multiple views from people outside of the UK (Hi!). I love hearing from all of you guys and so if you ever have any questions or even just want to say hi, feel free to tweet me @CharisseeC or comment below! Until next time.

One last thing! I feel like you all need to see these beautiful all white Docs. Just to share this moment with me. Am I the only one that finds these absolutely mesmerising?!

AQUA X AQUA JUMPSUIT

Images from aquabyaqua.com

I came across this Aqua by Aqua jumpsuit whilst perusing their site and I think it's freaking amazing. 

This show stopper is among many of their dynamic captivating pieces. I love Aqua by Aqua as a brand because their collections are more works of art than just items of clothing. 

Their collections consist of structural statement pieces that are so aesthetically pleasing and resemble the era of the ancient Egyptians. It's because of the way in which they are so perfectly and geometrically sculpted like the composition of a pyramid. The designs, to me, resemble the attire of an Egyptian goddess. Stunning. 

I'm hoping to purchase one of their dresses soon and when I do, you will most definitely see a post on it!

The Potentials

Yankees Pinstripe Jersey: E-bay // Burgundy Creeper Boots: Daisy Street Shoes // Bandana Print Graphic Tee: E-bay // Denim Skater Skirt: Miss Guided // Lion Head Earrings: E-bay // Black Turban: E-Bay // Black Treggings: Topshop //

Hey guys!

So I've decided to put together a blog post on a few potential purchases of mine. There isn't really a specific theme for these items, but then again I wouldn't say my style really has a category it fits into. I'm quite eclectic, however I am in love with all things 90's (especially the music, oh the music!) and I do feel as though these items have a 90's Vintage feel to them. I've been lusting over the Yankees Jersey for a while now, but couldn't bring myself to buy it! On the other hand, I have so many ideas on how I would style it. So the battle begins. Practicality vs Fashion.

Another thing I have to mention is the creepers. I've always been a bit undecided about creepers, but then I came across these high-top ones and 'fell in love' (so cliche). I must say I think they look much better on, than they do in pictures. I would style them with flowy skater skirts or fitted dresses to contrast with the grungy-ness of the shoes. (Collin's my cousin so making words up runs in the family).

I'm also loving this paisley bandana print t-shirt and so when I found it on eBay I had to share it with you all. I don't know exactly what it is about it, but whatever it is I like it! It's one of those items that you can just throw on with something ever so simple + a gold chain and leave the house feeling like a don. I think that's what I like about it.

Lastly, the Topshop treggings are similar to the American Apparel Riding Pants (except from the fact that they aren't ribbed, of which I'm okay with) but at £25 they are so much more affordable! I would pair them with over-sized jerseys and crop tops, and trainers/sneakers such as the Nike Air Max or Converse for shoes. This is all for a more casual day to day kind of look.

I won't be posting much, if not at all for the next month because I have a lot going on with exams and revision, but once my exams are over I'll have so much more time to blog and will even get round to posting some of my own photographs. I hope you all enjoyed this post and I'll hopefully have a new one up soon!

The Introduction?

Hey all, so this is my first blog post! I sound like a typical 'keeker' "Heyyy guys this is my first keek" (you know the rest). This post is basically an introduction to myself and my blog. I created this blog as a reflection of myself and as a visual documentation of my style/lifestyle. It's something I've wanted to do for a while now and I've finally done it!

The name Authentic Duplicate came from an idea I had after trying to think of a name for ages! It's the idea that we as people are all similar, but most definitely not the same. No matter how 'original' we try to be, the inspiration for that originality has to come from somewhere right? We are all are a result of components of our surroundings, what we see and hear is what makes us who we are.

After letting this concept sit around my mind for a while, I decided I wanted to incorporate it into my blog. I hope to create a blog that is both relatable and authentic. I just feel as though it would be so much more gratifying if I could establish some sort of connection with you all by being myself, rather than trying to be something I'm not. This is how Authentic Duplicate was conceived.

My blog is mainly going to be a compilation of style/fashion, music and my visual experiences. It will be relatively free in terms of content.

Thank you for taking the time to read my wafflings and I'd love to hear your opinions!