Access Runway - Julien McDonald

Owning pieces from the largest and most luxury design houses in the world is now a real option for the 'Ordinary but extra' folks of the world like you and me! In this series of Blogs Access Runway, I want to share with you how you can build your own designer closet, with huge names straight out of Design houses like Chanel, Givenchy, Dior and Alexander Mcqueen for no more cash money than you spend on your regular outfits!

In each blog I'm going to share with you my favorite wearable looks, their inspiration, and the background and history of each designer so you can talk the talk when someone compliments your killer outfit!

This week I wanted to focus on Julien McDonald, some of my readers in the US may not be as familiar with his work as those in Europe. so let me tell you why this guy is a superstar!

Right from the get go Julien was destined for great things! Straight after graduation Karl Lagerfeld recruited him to work within Chanel at the same time he was freelancing for Alexander McQueen designing knitwear (which is known as one of the most challenging mediums to work with!) As if that wasn't enough his career then sky rocketed when he became the Chief Designer at the Paris Haute Couture house of Givenchy, and subsequently a year later he was awarded British Designer Of The Year in 2001. McDonald has dressed every name you can think of including Beyonce, Jlo and Gigi Halid, even HRH Queen Elizabeth II recognized his contribution to the industry and talent by awarding him an OBE.

No joke this guy is kind of a big deal! Let's get down to business! STAR by Julien McDonald is the best and most affordable way own your own piece of designer style. Julien's signature is always print and color, and the STAR collection doesn't disappoint season after season! I know that a few of you Debbie Doubters out there are thinking that an affordable piece of clothing doesn't hold the same designer feel, weight or detailing as a piece that you h ave to re-finance your house for. You would be wrong, unlike some of the designer collaboration lines Julien is heavily involved in this design process with Debenhams.com. His craftsmanship and attention to every single detail is a testament to that.

I absolutely adore this Black striped tunic dress which is currently online for under $55!!

Item No. 0070202014

This dress captures the contemporary elegance of his range. Effortlessly chic, this piece is complete with gold-toned buttons along the very flattering 3/4 sleeve that contrasts the striped monochrome base and a self-tie waist.

As you know I do a great deal of personal styling, and I have first hand experience with the STAR by Julien McDonald collection and I can tell you every seem, hem and piece of hardware is quality and as beautifully finished as you would expect from a designer piece.

The STAR by Julien McDonald Size matrix is perfect for those ladies who fall in that awkward category of the "Tweens" - Meaning that in some brands you can be straight size and in others you can be in extended sizes. Check out your own measurements in the product description and order true to size.

For those of us who need a little freshen up in the accessories department Julien has you covered too! I am a huge fan of his leather goods! Take it from the girl that owns designer handbags and pocket books that run upwards of $1500, these extremely affordable purses are no joke!

Item No. 0890102093

This Green winged large grab bag is a simple yet chic accessory for transporting essentials. In a color block design, it includes a spacious interior and a detachable shoulder strap lined with gold-toned eyelets. It is big enough for you to carry your life around in without looking like luggage! worth a mention also that this baby comes in at around $60!!! FOR A DESIGNER BAG!!!! I actually cant pick a bag from this collection, from clutches to cross bodies, I want them all!

Trust me, this line is going to give your closet a new lease of life! Who doesn't want to own a piece of Julien genius?!

Have a little click and scroll, be sure to share with me your favorite looks from the collection on social media and in the comment section below!

Until next time....... STAY FABULOUS!