Inside French Connection

Your INSIDE source for all things FRENCH CONNECTION.

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Style predictions for the BAFTA Film Awards

Awards season is a special time. Out of the dreary mist of January suddenly comes the red carpet; a place where seasonal trends are kindly overlooked for timeless gowns and jewels usually kept under lock and key. Next up: The BAFTAs. French Connection is offering one lucky VIP the chance to win two tickets to the Film Awards ceremony on Sunday 10th February.

With stars including Keira Knightley, Amy Adams and newcomer Jennifer Lawrence all set to wow on the night, this year's BAFTAs ceremony is bound to be a glamorous affair. Here's what French Connection is most looking forward to:

Helen Mirren.

Nominated for Best Actress for her portrayal of Alma Reville in Hitchcock, Mirren's awards night outfit is near-guaranteed to be a hit. Renowned for selecting super-flattering cuts, sumptuous fabrics and perfect accessories, Mirren always balances the latest trends with a strong knowledge of what suits her.

A look-in for Anna Karenina.

Slated for the Best Costume award, Anna Karenina is Joe Wright's version of the Tolstoy classic released late last year. We loved that Costume Designer Jacqueline Durran struck a chord between 1870s Russian dress and the structure and shape of 1950s couture. The results were striking, and the construction of fabrics beautiful to watch on screen. What we learnt? Fit and quality is always the most important thing. We just hope it wins!

Anne Hathaway.

A fresh style start in January is always tricky when the weather refuses to catch up. Anne Hathaway then, has been a breath of fresh fashion air of late - transforming her hair into a cute cropped style (chopping it off DURING the filming of Les Misérables, for which she is nominated in the Best Supporting Actress category) and switching up her usual red carpet style for a mix of masculine tailoring and a fresh, neutral palette. What a way to tweak your style bit by bit for the year ahead.

Enter here now for a chance to win tickets to this year's BAFTAs and an exclusive goodie bag, including a French Connection outfit to wear on the night.

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Duchess of Cambridge wears French Connection

Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, chose to wore the Silky Tie Neck Blouse to sit her first official portrait as a royal.

The artwork, by Paul Emsley, has officially gone on display in the National Portrait Gallery this week and the Duchess' blouse is currently available to pre-order here.

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Happy Friday! Why not pass the remaining time standing between you and the weekend with a little light shopping?

Shop Sale Exclusives.

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Press Favourites

Here's what the press have been saying about their current French Connection favourites....And what can we say, we agree with it all.

The Times Magazine recently featured our Ozlem Sequins leggings as part of the feature 'The Great DJ mash-up.' Just add a tuxedo jacket to recreate a dancefloor hit.

The Daily Mirror Fashion Clinic just declared our current sale (now with up to 75% off) 'best for workwear.'

And is there anyone who doesn't fall under the spell of the Ozlem Sequins? Here it is again, this time featured in More Magazine...

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'This year I will'

Happy New Year from French Connection! So how do we see style shaping up in 2013? Here's a few early resolutions...

“This year I will....invest [wherever possible] in myself”

Why bother with a futile January detox, when you can focus on a powerful new cut of dress instead? A looser fit and a mid-thigh length is a fresh style balance, and so relaxed that even all-over sequins suddenly appear nonchalant. Keep it modern with nude heels and a micro handbag in 2013.

Shop the Flash Sequins Dress.

“This year I will...stop blaming it on the weatherman”

Wherever you intend to go this year, whatever style plans you may have (peplum waists, crochet shift dresses and the like), don’t forget the all-important mantra before you head out of the door...but what is the weather up to? Face up to the answer in a transitional cover-up with a sharp, asymmetric front.

Shop the Simply Divine Coat.

“This year I will...enjoy fashion that little bit more”

Actually, we’re not one for rules as such. Don’t burden yourself this year; lighten up your fashion approach wherever possible. We'd start now with these embroidered white denim jeans - the perfect shot of lightness to kick start January with.

Shop Southwest Denim Jeans.

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The First of Spring

If you're ready for a fresh style start and your mind is turning to next season's big fashion opportunity, we've got two words for you. Suit. Up.

Our Prime Run two-piece will see you through a busy 9-5 and need little else but a kick of a court shoe for a fresh evening look. Ditch the excesses of a fun festive season the best way - with beautifully cut tailoring and a very faint houndstooth print. Tousled hair is an added bonus with this look.

Shop Prime Run Jacket and Prime Run Trousers right now.

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"I have a very casual, very simple style now and I like it!"

You may think you’ve maxed out on inspiration this party season, but don’t be so quick to call off the festive style search. We’re tearing up the seasonal rule book with a little help from three of our favourite fashion bloggers…

Parisian writer and Editorial Consultant Laetitia Wajnapel has been blogging at Mademoiselle Robot for five years now, where she continues to share regular updates on her latest looks and fashion favourites. Here Laetitia wears the Gigliolia Lace Dress while making a few last minute additions to the Christmas tree!

What do you think is different about fashion at this time of year?

I don't think fashion changes dramatically at this time of year, aside from the fact that maybe everyone feels a little freer and hopefully more joyous. I suppose we all express it differently. My style doesn't change massively over the party season, you won't find me suddenly covered in sequins for example, but I indulge in festive details here and there. I do like a sparkly manicure, glittery shoes or more jewellery. It is a great occasion to dress up and do things slightly differently!

 What does ‘party season’ mean to you?

It means spending precious moments with my family and friends, spending hours cracking jokes at the dinner table, listening to cheesy songs and generally cherishing the people I love.

How did you style your French Connection dress?

The cut of this dress is very 1960s, but I felt like going for a full on Sixties look was a little too easy. I thought I'd try a lace-on-lace monochrome outfit instead. The Chelsea boots make the whole thing less girly and are a little hint of Sixties style too.

What was the inspiration for this look?

I am not sure! I don't really have ‘inspiration’ for a lot of the things I wear. I just open my wardrobe, stare at it for a while, pick a piece I like and then think about what would look nice with it!

 What’s your usual party style?

I don't really do partywear that much. I tend to just embellish my normal clothes a little more with details and accessories. I have a very casual, simple style now and I like it!

What are you most looking forward to this Christmas?

I am looking forward to spending two weeks in Paris with my family. I haven't spent the holidays there for five years, and so it will be a real treat to be able to share my family's Christmas traditions with my little girl!

If readers took away one tip from this post, what would you like it to be?

It's Christmas, don't worry about clothes and cherish the moments you spend with the people you love!

Catch up with the latest posts on Mademoiselle Robot here.

Laetitia's dress is still available to order in time for Christmas. Simply use our Express Delivery Service - click here for more information on Christmas Delivery dates.

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The 'wear forever' sale buys

Though no clairvoyants, we certainly know which sale pieces you will still be in love with this time next year. Build on your perfect and timeless winter wardrobe with these savvy sale selections.

Invest in Leather

Leather is such a staple in our lives that designers are forever updating how we wear it. A modern tunic top is perfect for paring back print, and leather-look leggings achieve the same timeless effect with a sleek fit.

Navajoe Leather Top, now £168

My Ride Skinny Trousers, now £57

Berry Shades

Whatever the whims of the catwalk, berry shades in winter will stand the test of time. Seasonal colours need to invoke the best of the weather, and a deep crimson has all the connotations of mulled wine, winter fires and a seasonal toastiness. Invest in berry shades in classic designs.

Winter Romance Tunic Dress, now £56

Band of Colour Dress, now £48.50

The sale now offers up to 60% off across fashion, accessories and homeware. Sign up to our email alerts to stay up to date with all the latest reductions.

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"With the right dress, you really don't need anything else"

You may think you’ve maxed out on inspiration this party season, but don’t be so quick to call off the festive style search. We’re tearing up the seasonal rule book with a little help from three of our favourite fashion bloggers…

Here's Miggy - of Miggy Likes the Internet fame - working the Ozlem Sequins Maxi Dress her way, as she tells us about Uncle Frank's Christmas style and what to expect from Christmas in Berlin.

What do you think is different about fashion at this time of year?

Everyone likes to make an effort. Even Uncle Frank, who only ever wears those brown corduroys, will dig out his special Christmas shirt! Whether it's a pair of 'carol singing' earrings or a special party dress, it’s a time of year when everyone likes to give that little bit extra. 

What does party season mean to you?

Party Season = sparkle.... oh, and a bottle (or two) of champagne of course :)

How did you style your French Connection dress?

Very simply. A dress this fantastic doesn't need much else! I never wear very much jewellery but with the amount of sequin on this dress, I felt I needed to strip accessories right down to just a pair of subtle earrings. I also opted for fairly simple black heels with a silver chain sling-back.

What's your partywear style like?

It really depends on the party and my mood.  Most of the time I like to be as comfortable as possible so a pencil skirt and a T-shirt will do the trick, but then sometimes I'm in the mood for glamour. That's why a dress like this is fundamental to my wardrobe!

What are you most looking forward to this Christmas?

 I'll be in Berlin, so I'm looking forward to the Christmas markets and special German Christmas food ;)

What Christmas event are you most excited about going to?

Christmas dinner of course! :)

 If readers took away one tip from this post, what would you like it to be?

With the right dress, you really don't need anything else!

Read Miggy's latest post, 'A Special Kind of Sparkle,' to read this style challenge in her own words.

Order by 2pm Wednesday to get Miggy's Ozlem Dress just in time for Christmas.

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The Weekly Edit: Day-to-Night

This Wednesday will mark your final chance to order in time for Christmas with our standard delivery service. Why not take the heat out of a busy festive schedule, and opt for a look that takes you seamlessly from day to night? All you need for the evening is a touch of metallic shine and a compact clutch. For flawless Christmas dressing made easy.

Mix It Up Dress, now £80

Tiered silk layers add demure glamour to this navy dress. Make the transition to eveningwear with just a few key accessory changes.

Abby Croc Belt, now £52

Cinch the waist with a luxury textured belt, for ladylike charm. Swap it for a long chain necklace after dark.

Genie Chelsea Boots, now £147.50

Sharp pointed heels give ankle boots a versatile spin. Toughen up a feminine daytime look and keep it ticking over for the nighttime...just add berry lipstick.

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Spotted in French Connection: Tulisa in the dress of the season

Do you remember last month when we posted a snap of The X Factor judge and singer Tulisa shopping in store? Today we can finally reveal the fruits of that particular trip!

Tulisa is yet another fan of this season's standout dress - the Ozlem Sequins Dress. Here the singer wears it on the cover of Weekend Magazine. And doesn't she look wonderful?

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Florals like you've never seen them before

The latest arrivals online are fresh, tailored and bursting with new ideas for next season (yes already.) This Queenie Rae Classic Shirt has been featured in January's Elle magazine, where the editorial team find three exciting ways to work those ubiquitous spring florals.

Tip: tulips are a great place to start, so you can forget peonies for 2013...

Get inspired, and shop the shirt now.

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The Advent Calendar

Is happening right now. So far we have given away a clutch bag, our signature fragrance, an Elizabeth Arden skincare set and a gift card. But what's behind the latest door we wonder...

Open today's door for the chance to win an exclusive prize.

Merry Christmas - and happy Friday! x

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The team selects: the best of sale

There's plenty to choose from in our seasonal sale, which launches today with beautiful party dresses, snug coats and more all at up to 50% off. To help you pick the best piece for you, three members of our E-Commerce team have shared their top sales picks exclusively for the blog.

Online Merchandiser's pick - The Sequins Dress

"I just love our black, long-sleeved sequinned mini dress! It’s classic, sexy and rock’n’roll at the same time. I would wear it with some cool black boots and throw it over a vintage leather biker jacket."

Shop the Sequins Dress, was £160 now £128

Studio Assistant's pick - the Block Leather Jeans

"It's been a really hard choice this season, but my favourite sales buy would have to be these block leather jeans. I'd glam them up with heels for a night out and they'd look brilliant with a chunky knit and converse for the day time.  My vote has to go to these jeans!"

Shop the Block Leather Jeans, was £225 now £112.50

Online Content Manager's pick - Obvious Intentions Coat

"It’s an easy-to wear coat with standout details. The drop-shoulder cut creates a relaxed style, with the contrast trim, shawl collar and rounded hem giving it a quirky twist."

Shop the Obvious Intentions Coat, was £220 now £176

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"I took the party right out of this party frock"

You may think you've maxed out on inspiration this party season already, but don't be so quick to call off the festive style search. We're tearing up the seasonal rule book with a little help from three of our favourite fashion bloggers...

This week Queen Michelle, of Kingdom of Style, styles the Ozlem Sequins Dress her way and talks us through the importance of being yourself first when it comes to fashion. Especially when wearing gowns drenched in sequins.

What do you think is different about fashion at this time of year? It's very geared towards glam, since it's party season. This is the time you see an abundance of fake fur and sequins. So what does ‘party season’ mean to you? The annoying influx of misguided women in 'sexy' Santa costumes. How did you style your French Connection dress? I basically took the party right out of this party frock! I've mixed it with lots of 80s/90s elements such as a plaid shirt, an Eighties Metallica baseball tee, biker boots and a beanie.

What's the inspiration for this look? Me in the early Nineties, if someone had made me go to a prom. I'd have been the sullen grunge kid in the corner, drinking Thunderbird out of a cola bottle.   How do you normally dress for a party? I'm not at all comfortable being glamourous, so I always 'rough up' partywear and downplay the glam. I love sequins but I team them wool and tweed, for example.   What are you most looking forward to this Christmas? Not working for two weeks!

  And what's the festive event you can't wait for? I like to hibernate as much as possible over the festive period, so the event I'm most looking forward to is the one where I get to wear my PJs and watch Frasier reruns.   If readers took away one tip from this post, what should it be? Don't conform - turn things on their head and experiment by mixing and matching unlikely elements.

Michelle is wearing Ozlem Sequins dress, a vintage Metallica baseball T-shirt, a plaid shirt, biker boots, a beanie hat and borrowed mittens.

Read Michelle's blog post 'Prom Queen' for more on this party look in her own words.

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Can you tell what's on our minds right now?

Parties, parties, parties!

Get inspired with our latest high-shine feature, and get your favourite evening look for less with 30% off courtesy of Stylist Magazine.

Whatever your style, now is the time to prepare for the social season ahead...

Shop now.

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Spotted in French Connection: guess who?

Party season rolls on, and once again sequins begin to dominate all of the fashion pages. Here's Girls Aloud's Cheryl Cole wearing the Ozlem Sequins dress, as she recreates her own party-ready routine and shares her beauty tips in this week's Grazia magazine.