PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: WHAT NECKLINES WORK FOR LARGER BUSTS?

Depending on your needs, body shape, and personal style, finding the perfect neckline to complement you can be tricky. For example, if you need to remain more conservative at work, but want to lower the neckline for out of hours, or have a larger bust, the necklines in your wardrobe can vary drastically.

The right neckline can enhance your silhouette, boost confidence, and make you feel your best every day.

In my Colour&Style Clinics in London, Kent, and online, I've had the pleasure of assisting numerous clients in discovering the most flattering necklines for their body shapes (as well as the colours, styles, and patterns!) and I’m pleased to share here some universal tips that always work well:

Make sure your underwear is the right fit first

One of the most important elements for the comfort and confidence you can feel when wearing any garment, but in particular those that have lower necklines, is the right bra. Whether you prefer a softer, non-wired bra, a balconette, or a push up bra, you will want to find the one that fits you well, and is appropriate for the neckline.

For example, a v-neck is best with bras that go lower down so you aren’t showing the lingerie, whereas a scoop neck may be best with a t-shirt style bra that is full coverage so there aren’t obvious lines underneath the material.

When you have found the right selection of bras, you can then play with some of the different necklines with more confidence.

Here are some of my top tips for the best necklines for those with larger busts:

V-Neckline: A classic V-neckline is a go-to option for those with larger busts. It creates a vertical line that elongates the torso, drawing the eye upwards and away from the bust area. Opt for a moderate V-neck that doesn't plunge too low to maintain a balanced look.

Scoop Neckline: Scoop necklines are another fantastic choice for larger busts. They offer coverage and support while still showcasing the décolletage in a flattering way. Look for scoop necklines that aren't too high or too low to achieve the perfect balance. For this, understanding your ideal cleavage point - that comes with the face shape analysis – could be a game changer!

Square Neckline: Square necklines can work wonders for those with larger busts by providing structure and support. They create a visually appealing frame for the bust area without adding unnecessary bulk. Experiment with different variations of square necklines to find what suits you best.

Photo via: @jazy_g

If you prefer a softer line, try the sweetheart neckline which is similar but less angular.

photo credit: TheMomEdit

Wrap Neckline: Wrap necklines are incredibly versatile and flattering for all body types, including larger busts. They offer adjustable coverage and can be cinched at the waist to enhance the silhouette. With a larger bust, finding a wrap neckline with sturdy closures will ensure proper support.

photo credit: Curves Next Door

When shopping for tops and dresses, pay attention to the fabric and fit in addition to the neckline. Fabrics with a bit of stretch give added comfort and invest in pieces that are tailored to fit your body shape perfectly, while more flowy fabrics will complement your curves and result in a very flattering look. Remember, confidence is the best accessory you can wear, so wear whatever neckline makes you feel fabulous!

Finding the right neckline for larger busts is all about balance, support, and flattering proportions. By experimenting with different styles and paying attention to fit and fabric, you can elevate your wardrobe and feel your best every day.

If you're unsure where to start, don't hesitate to reach out to a personal stylist like myself for expert guidance tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

There’s a fantastic promo running until the end of May, where you can have an Online Colour&Style Clinic at HALF PRICE! We’ll help you take your style to the next level, from the comfort of your home, and at an unbeatable price.

PERSONAL STYLING TIPS: PARTY OUTFIT IDEAS

It’s party season, and many of you may be wondering what to wear for the Christmas party and any other events coming up for the festive season. While the colder months means you need to be conscious of warmth, you still want to feel dressed up – but what are some on-trend party outfit ideas that you can wear?

In this article, I share some of my favourite party outfit ideas for you to try (that can also be worn throughout the year).

What to consider before you get your party outfit

Before we dive into the options, you’ll want to consider a few key points:

• Where is the event going to be held?

• What is the dress code?

• Will there be dancing/walking (this will help you decide on comfort levels and shoes)

• Do you already have the outfit in your wardrobe?

When you know these points, this will help inform you on the best styling to accommodate your needs.

Now let’s dive into my top picks for the party season!

Play with suiting

A suit is always a solid choice for an event. You can dress it up or down alongside the dress code with the accessories and pieces you add to it.

Here are a few ways to style your suit:

1. Play with sparkles – Adding a sequinned skirt, sparkly shoes, or a glittery cami can take your suit from office to party in a flash.

2. Add this season’s top trend metallic leather – I shared my top trends for autumn in my newsletter which you can find here. One of these being metallic leather. Whether you invest in a pair of gold leather trousers, or even a metallic pink skirt, you can really shine with this on-trend addition to your suit.

3. Add party heels – one of the easiest change ups for your suit is the switch to party heels. This is the perfect solution if you’re heading to your party after work in the office. Whether you opt for vibrant stilettos or a pair of metallic block heeled boots, these can be the perfect solution for a festive party look that works with your suit.

River Island Silver Glitter Skirt

Work your Little Black Dress

A classic every person needs in their wardrobe is the Little Black Dress. With so many options to suit all styles, dress codes and body shapes, I highly recommend having one or two in your wardrobe that you can gravitate to when you need to dress up in a flash.

The dress can be styled up or down depending on your outer wear and accessories, such as with a bejewelled blazer, unique tights, or a fun festive handbag.

Depending on the dress code, your LBD can be anything from a velvet mini dress, to a full length gown, with the right accessories you will be ready to party with the knowledge that this wardrobe essential can be worn over and over again, too.

Goggles De La Vali Agua Crepon Maxi Dress

 Festive Co-ords

If you’re looking for a simple and effective outfit, but prefer two pieces, why not try a co-ord? They are much like a suit but can be a little more informal. You can swap out the top or the bottoms to create other outfits too, so they are much more economical and sustainable within your wardrobe.

Some can be on the more casual side too, so as with your LBD, you’ll want to work with your accessories to make them suit the dress code, or look for more luxe fabrics such as silks and velvets. For example, you can try out a silk sequinned gold co-ord that is almost suit-like, or this elegant trouser and top set available in green, black or even rose.

Phase Eight Florentine Co-Ord

An Elegant Festive Jumper

For a more casual event, you can go more tongue-in-cheek with a fun and unique festive jumper. Lots of designer and high street stores have their own creations, but these can be a one-use affair. I prefer to recommend jumpers that feel festive but aren’t the classic “in your face” Christmas style.

A few festive options can include:

• A pearl embellished jumper – almost bringing the snow to your outfit, pearls are an elegant yet somehow festive look. This jumper by GUESS does all the statement work for you. Pair with a midi skirt or wide leg trousers and you’re ready to go.

• Crystal notes – another embellishment that I love is crystals. Depending on your personal style, you may want to look for a lightly embellished look, whereas you can go all out with the beautifully designed Karen Millen top that looks almost like armour!

• Softly sequinned – if sequins are a bit too much for you, you can look for pieces that still have the metallic effect, without using the smaller sized sequins. This cardigan by Ted Baker London is elegant yet still has the festive-feeling thanks to the gold large sequins.

GUESS Pearl Embellished Top

Sequinned dresses

For an elegant, fun and glittery feminine look, you can try out a sequinned dress. Sequins are always on-trend at this time of year, so you will find plenty of options out there to suit your personal style.

Anything from an almost 70’s vibe floral sequinned dress, to a full length 20’s inspired black gown adorned in silver sequins can be found on the high street right now. Depending on the occasion, you may want to consider this longer hemline, but if the event calls for a party look, you could go all out with a mini dress with ostrich feathers and sequins!

Styling a sequin dress can feel a little daunting as the sequins do all the work! Let the dress do all the talking and let your accessories complement it. For example, dark tights and a black pair of heels if you are wearing a shorter dress (and to keep your legs warm) or a pair of simple strappy heels – and you are ready to rock the dance floor!

River Island Dress

Try a Jumpsuit

For those of us who fell in love with the range of jumpsuits Gillian Anderson wore in Sex Education, this time of year couldn’t be better to try out the on-trend look. Jumpsuits, just like dresses, can be the full outfit, so you don’t have to worry about what to wear. Pair with heels, boots, or even platform sneakers, and you can head to the party in a flash.

Play with the metallic trend and try out a bronze jumpsuit with statement shoulders, or a black sequinned style can be a fun and comfortable look. For a statement, this one shoulder, belted jumpsuit is affordable and fun, and available in both black and orange, while this gold boned jumpsuit will definitely turn heads at any event.

As with all looks, the styling can make a jumpsuit look more or less formal. Consider make-up, hair style and jewellery to finish the look.

NADINE MERABI - Lucinda Gold Jumpsuit

With the party season coming soon, I hope these ideas will inspire you to play with something fun for the festive events in your calendar.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: 10 WAYS TO WEAR A BLAZER

After the announcement by Boris, you may be getting incredibly excited about the future of potentially going outside with friends, or heading into the office. Even if you aren’t planning on going out, but need some ideas to freshen up your Zoom meeting looks, I wanted to share with you a few ways to style up one of my favourite crossover pieces – the blazer!

Why I love the blazer

Let me first share with you why I love wearing a blazer, and recommend at least 1 or 2 in my clients wardrobes.

They can upgrade a look without having to feel stuffy or overdressed; they come in a fantastic range of shapes, colours, styles & patterns; and they can add a dash of style to a casual look or personality to a traditional office outfit.

So, let’s see some ways you can wear your blazer…

Traditional Blazer Styling – with your suit

This is where the blazer was born – to be put over your suit. Whether it’s your tailored suit trousers and a shirt, or a pencil skirt, your blazer works perfectly over a suit and is the optimum meetings/professional outfit.

Over a dress

For those of you who love to wear your dresses to meetings or on Zoom calls (or like me, are dressing up once a week during this lockdown with a lovely dress!) you can always add a fabulous blazer to finish off the look and keep yourself a little warmer in the cooler months. Try to add a pop of colour or statement patterns if your dress is a neutral or simple style.

Draped over the shoulder

Ahh, the gorgeous and ever-sophisticated “over the shoulder” look and one that can work fantastically to add a touch of warmth without the restriction of arms. Pair with a hand held clutch, your favourite pencil dress, or suit, and you are heading for French-girl chique. For a more relaxed way to wear this, I recommend platform sneakers, a pair of your favourite wide-legged trousers, and a casual tee tucked in.

Over your favourite t-shirt

That brings me perfectly onto one of my favourite ways to wear the blazer – over your favourite casual t-shirt. Instantly you will upgrade your outfit to a  more professional one, and can work really well for brunch, or networking social events where you can be a little more smart/casual with your look. I recommend a graphic t-shirt to add a touch of style, but you could also have a plain white tee and have your blazer do all the talking.

With jeans

Time to get a little more casual with your outfit, and this can work really well for seeing friends or going for drinks (when we are able to do so!). Pop your blazer with a shirt or simple top, and then pop on your pair of jeans to help make the outfit a little less formal. You could wear this with heels or trainers, depending on the type of event you are heading to.

Make it sexy…

If you are planning to go on a “date night” indoors, or even to a restaurant when they are open, you can go really sexy with your double or single-buttoned blazer, and wear a beautiful piece of lingerie and nothing else. This isn’t for the faint-hearted so if this feels a little too much, try starting with a deep v-neck top underneath and see how you feel. Pair with a statement necklace or earrings to really finish off the date-night look.

Clashing prints

If you have a few suits, with blazers and trousers or skirts, and they have clashing prints, this modern and quirky look can be a fun way to add a little personality to your outfit. Pop on your blazer that is in one pattern, and clash it with the trousers or skirt. This can be a difficult look to try out, but once you find the pairing you love, you’ll definitely stand out from the crowd.

Keep it monochromatic

If clashing prints feels a little too much, then you can keep your fresh look to a monochromatic style – which means in the same colour or similar colour shades. This is a simple and easy to throw together look, especially if you know your colours that are already in your wardrobe.

Wear your blazer over a slip dress or maxi-cami dress

With the warmer weather coming, you will probably be getting out your spring/summer wardrobe – with that, comes your slip dress or maxi cami dresses which continue to be in-fashion. This can be a great way to feel a little more comfortable in this body-skimming style of dress, as well as add a touch of warmth. Pair with colourful stilettos, and you’re ready to go out for a party or a gorgeous date.

Layer over your comfortable trousers

While we have all been living in our comfy tracksuit bottoms or loungewear, this is actually a style that can work (with the right bottoms, of course!). Pop your sophisticated blazer over your comfortable lounge items for a way to Segway into the more professional styling of being back outside.

To make sure you feel more professional (if you need to) pop on a pair of heels which can elevate the look.

So, will you be trying out some of these blazer outfits? If you’d like to know the ways to make your wardrobe work for you, rather than against you, I’d love to chat. Arrange a free call, and we can see how I can help.