PERSONAL STYLING TIPS: WIDE-LEG TROUSERS AND HOW TO STYLE THEM

The Rise of Wide-Leg Trousers: How to Embrace the Trend and Style It with Confidence

For years, skinny trousers and jeans have dominated the world of women’s fashion, but recently, wide-leg trousers have taken centre stage as the go-to trend. And I suspect, and sincerely hope, that this trend will be here to stay for quite some time.

However, many of my clients initially found it challenging to adapt to this change. I’ve often been asked, “Are wide-leg trousers truly flattering?” and, of course, “How should I wear wide-leg trousers?” or “What tops and jackets pair well with wide-leg trousers?”

Naturally, when the shape of your trousers changes, everything else needs to change too—from your tops to your shoes. But after a couple of years, it seems that even the most sceptical minds have finally embraced this new silhouette. Why do I say “finally”? Because, truly, wide-leg trousers are incredibly flattering on most body types.

Take it from me, as someone with a pear-shaped figure, I struggled for years to find trousers that fit well and made me feel confident. Now, I happily buy and wear wide-leg trousers with ease, finding them not only comfortable and versatile but also effortlessly stylish.

But how do you style them for different occasions? Let’s explore some outfit ideas to inspire your wardrobe:

1. Tailored Vest

Pair your wide-leg trousers with a tailored vest, either in a matching tone or a contrasting colour. This combination offers a polished, chic look that works perfectly for a day at the office or a smart-casual event.

Stylist Tip: When choosing a tailored vest, pay attention to the cut and fit. A well-fitted vest that nips in at the waist will help balance the volume of the wide-leg trousers, creating a streamlined silhouette. If you're on the shorter side, opt for a cropped vest or one that sits just above the hips to elongate your legs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures—wool, tweed, or even a soft silk can add an extra layer of sophistication to your outfit.

2. Trainers and T-Shirt

For a more relaxed vibe, style your wide-leg trousers with a simple T-shirt and a pair of trainers. This look is perfect for running errands or meeting friends for a casual lunch—comfortable yet stylish.

Stylist Tip: To keep the look modern and balanced, consider a slightly oversized T-shirt that you can tuck in at the front. This tuck is crucial as it helps define your waist amidst the volume of the trousers. When it comes to trainers, choose a pair with a chunky sole to add height and give the outfit a contemporary edge. If you’re feeling bold, try a graphic or slogan tee to inject some personality into your casual ensemble.

Image source: @_Amoafoa_ on Instagram

3. Fitted or Cropped Top and Blazer

If you’re after something a bit more refined, try a fitted or cropped top with a blazer. Whether you opt for trainers or heels, this outfit strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant, making it ideal for both work and social outings.

Stylist Tip: The key to nailing this look is proportions. A fitted or cropped top draws attention to your waist, making it the focal point, while the blazer adds structure and sophistication. For a polished look, go for a blazer that hits just below the hips or opt for a longer, boyfriend-style blazer for a more relaxed, trendy vibe. Don’t shy away from playing with colours—monochrome looks are always chic, but a pop of colour in either the top or blazer can really make your outfit stand out.

Image source: Stylish Curves

4. Turtleneck Jumper

For a cosy yet chic look, tuck a turtleneck jumper into your wide-leg trousers and add a belt to cinch the waist. This ensemble is perfect for cooler weather and can be paired with either trainers or heels for a versatile finish.

Stylist Tip: When wearing a turtleneck, consider the thickness of the fabric. A thinner, fitted turtleneck works well for layering and won’t add unnecessary bulk. If you opt for a chunkier knit, make sure it’s not too long—tucking in just the front section (known as a “French tuck”) can help avoid a bulky look while still giving you that cosy, relaxed feel. Choosing a belt that complements your trousers not only defines your waist but also adds an extra element of style—opt for one with an interesting buckle or in a contrasting colour to make a statement.

Image source: Lookastic

There are so many different styles of wide-leg trousers available, and the details and fabric play a huge role in how they fit and feel. If you’ve tried a pair in the past and they didn’t work for you, don’t be discouraged—perhaps that particular style wasn’t the right one for you.

So, if you haven’t already, give wide-leg trousers a try. They might just become your new favourite wardrobe staple, offering both comfort and style in equal measure.

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 STYLIST TIPS: THE ART OF ACCESSORISING - ELEVATING YOUR OUTFITS WITH JEWELLERY, BAGS, AND MORE

Accessorising your outfit can make a huge difference to how the final look comes together.

If you want to elevate your outfits, but unsure how to use them effectively to enhance your style, then this article will share with you all you need to know.

Consider the occasion

I often say to my clients that they should have a selection of their favourite accessories across different occasions, to help them know exactly what pieces to gravitate to. When you know the type of day or event you are planning to attend, this will help inspire you for the perfect accessories.

For example, a day at the office will require different accessories than heading to a black tie dinner, which will be different to a day with the kids.

Start with jewellery

The reason I tend to start with the jewellery is because it is in the same room as my wardrobe – it’s as simple as that! Depending on your personal style you may want to pick a few delicate pieces that match, or look for one statement piece that works with the outfit you have put together.

Here are a few tips for finding the right jewellery for your look:

V-necks and necklaces – if you are wearing a v-neck top, or a low neck garment, a necklace that comes a few inches above the neck line, can work well to lengthen your neck. If you prefer a choker, this may make your face look slightly rounder.

Polonecks

Polonecks – as with the v-necks, you can use longer necklaces to elongate your neck. A layered selection of longer necklaces can be an elegant option.

Watches

Watches – whether you prefer a more delicate watch, or a larger chunkier piece, they are a great option for work and professional attire, as well as when you are running errands. Many people are now using their phones as their time piece, but I love when I wear my favourite watch, it really adds a touch of style to my daily outfits. Consider picking a watch in a neutral tone that can work with any of the colours in your outfit, or if you prefer a more abstract style, select a piece that really reflects your personality.

Earrings

Earrings – I tend to gravitate towards drop earrings when I am intending to wear my hair down, or when going to an event. For some, drop earrings can be an extension of their style, with unique creations that add personality to their outfit. Like most pieces of jewellery, the pieces you select should complement your own personal style, so they align with your wardrobe. If I am wearing my hair up, or going to meetings, I wear a simple stud in a metal that is in my season.

Rings

Rings – Recently, I have noticed that rings on every finger have become incredibly popular. Different sizes, locations (base of finger/top of finger), and metals are incredibly trendy at the moment. You could add one feature ring that stands out from the rest of the rings on your finger, or look for a set of rings if you want to stick to a budget and try out the multi-ring look. If this isn’t quite your style, consider wearing a couple of your favourite rings to add a final touch to the look. If you do have a profession where you are doing a lot of hand shaking, you may want to consider less bulky rings, for the comfort of the person you are meeting!

Bracelets

Bracelets – the final jewellery piece I like to consider is if I want to add on some bracelets. Whether it’s a chunky acrylic bracelet, or a more delicate metal chain, a bracelet can work well in cooler months over sleeves to add some texture to a more simple outfit. In summer, they can be layered to add definition to your wrists and some unique flair.

Layered accessories

While this may feel less like accessories and more like the outfit, layers can work as additional accessories to your outfit.

Things like a mesh top, a long-lined cardigan, or even cute socks, can add a touch of extra finishing to the outfits you create. Another layering accessory can be your belts and scarves, which are varied in their style.

One of my favourite ways to use a belt as a layering accessory is to add it over the top of a maxi dress. During the winter, when I pop an oversized jumper on top of my dress, or when I am wearing a cardigan, it can work as a way to bring me in at the waist, and adds a bit of “hardware” to my look to make it look edgier.

With regards to clothing that you layer over your outfits, you can look into different fabrics while remaining in the same colours, or using these layers as your accent colour, which you can easily remove should you be moving between more and less formal occasions.

Your bag

While bags tend to be pretty essential no matter what we are getting up to (we won’t go into the pockets debate today!), they can be an excellent accessory for your outfit. From a tiny clutch for your make-up and phone, to a big over the shoulder bag for your kid’s snacks, spare layers, and devices, picking a bag that will help you throughout the day, while also look great will be a satisfying experience.

You don’t have to have a huge collection of bags either, if you want to have a select few bags that will work across the necessary parts of your life, I’d recommend these 4 types of bag:

Over the shoulder bag:

A small yet mighty bag that works with all of your outfits, in a neutral tone or an accent colour (depending on your personal style). It should fit your phone, cards, keys, and other essentials (think tissues, lipstick, and maybe even your small travel perfume!). This could be your daily bag, that doesn’t need to serve as a work or Mum-bag.

A backpack

I love a backpack! For some this may bring back too many memories of school but hear me out. A backpack is the perfect option for when you are commuting and running between meetings. It can hold your books, notepad, water, coffee, charger, the list goes on. All this space, while also making sure you aren’t getting a sore shoulder.

Clutch bag

A clutch bag is perfect for those special occasions where you don’t need to carry much with you, but want the option to carry your essentials, without the need to wear a coat all night. Depending on the events you tend to attend, and your personal style, you can go all the way with a glitter clutch bag or an embellished clutch that will give you the wow factor, to a simple clutch that is more paired back.

Briefcase or Mum bag

Ok, so I know these are two pretty different bags, but depending on your lifestyle, you may need one or the other on different days! A briefcase is a classic – the essential for carrying your work documents and perhaps even your laptop between meetings. It tends to be in leather (but other options are now available) and can range from classic styling to more abstract styles.

A Mum-bag, for me, is one that can fit under the pram, and you can use it as Mary Poppins would. Putting all of the kids’ essentials, your own snacks and water, plus nappies, shopping, and more in this bag that is required when you go anywhere with your children. While you are being “Mum” you don’t need to change your style. You can find so many options of larger bags like this to align with your personality (even a leopard print option) that you can continue to feel fashionable and truly “you” without taking away from the functionality.

The shoes make the outfit?

I remember reading a quote that shoes are the first thing someone will look at when they meet you. While I am unsure of that being true, the shoes can often finalise the look of an outfit. Depending on the shoes you can truly transform how your outfit will look and feel. Brogues can make jeans and a t-shirt elevated to a professional-ready outfit. While stilettos can make your suit feel sexier and ready for date night.

Investing in the shoes that work for your daily needs, and make you feel confident, will be an investment well made. While more budget friendly sneakers for doing errands can work well if you want to chuck on a pair of shoes without worrying about the wear and tear, you may want to look at investing (within your budget) in a few key pairs of shoes to make your outfits feel more pulled together.

A few of my favourite shoes and their outfit inspirations can be:

• Platform sneakers – great for upgrading your more casual looks. Pair with your favourite jeans, or even with your midi skirt, and you’ll feel more pulled together, without feeling too overdressed.

• Ankle boots – an edgy option to add to your shoe closet. Pairing them with leather trousers and a blouse can go a long way to complementing your rocker-style; while wearing them with your favourite midi dress will add some definition to your look that’s a little more unexpected.

• Pointed toed shoes – whether you prefer the killer heels, or a short heel, pointed toed shoes can work beautifully with flared jeans. The tip of the shoe pointing out under the jeans make these more casual bottoms a little more sexy.

• Brogues – I’ve noticed these have become more popular once again and they are a great more androgynous look for your work wear. They pair beautifully with a suit to go all out with your androgyny, or add a touch of femininity with a pair of thick tights and a mini skirt with a turtleneck.

The beauty of shoes is that they are so varied you should be able to find the styles you find you love. I recommend having at least 3 – 4 pairs of differently styled shoes in your closet. This will give you the variety you need no matter the occasion. Think of what you do every week and how these occasions are segmented. For example – work shoes, gym shoes, errands shoes, special occasion shoes.

Try a hat (or headscarf)

The hat is the final accessory I’ll recommend in this article, and it may make you either jump with delight, or quiver with unease. It seems that hats are a “marmite” accessory, while I implore you to try them out if only once!

A hat can be an elegant or edgy accessory depending on the shape and style you select. Exploring your personal style will help you discover the hats that work for you and make you feel confident and pulled together. Whether it’s a fedora, turban, beret or the wide-brimmed hat, you have countless styles to play with.

I’d recommend going to a store and trying different hat styles to see which one feels “right” for your personal style and adding it to your look next time you feel confident enough to do so.

A headscarf is another beautiful option to protect your hair texture, while adding additional colour and patterns to your outfit. For many, it is a way to maintain their religious commitment, or harking back to their own culture, and with the plentiful textures and colours we have available, you can play with countless options to work alongside your outfit.

As you can see – the accessories available to you are endless, and these options shared in this article are just the stepping stone to giving you some excitement to dressing. An accessory can make a big difference to the end look of your pulled together outfit, so I challenge you to give these a try next time you want to elevate your look.

If you are unsure on where to start with your accessorising, you’re not alone. I’d love to help you discover how to pull together looks with confidence that align with your personal style.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR DRESS STYLE

It’s spring here in the northern hemisphere, and with that, comes spring wear. For many, that can mean bringing dresses out from their wardrobes and putting away their thick jumpers.

If you want to bring more dresses to your wardrobe, but are unsure which styles will be best for your body shape, personal style, and requirements, then now is a great time to play with the options available. I have shared a guide below to help you choose your dress style, with some top tips to elevate your look & confidence.

What patterns & colours to choose for your dress:

Patterns and colours are a great place to start when selecting any garment, but in particular a dress. As a dress can usually be most of the outfit (unless you are covering it with something like a jumper or a t-shirt) the pattern tends to be all over. This means it can be a little overwhelming for those who are in the more natural or classical style personality – you can read more about the different personalities and find out which one you are in my blog, here.

If you do fall into the more pattern-averse personality, then I recommend a neutral colour to start with, and a simple pattern such as florals, small polka dots, or one with a minimal pattern repeat. Another option is look for a dress that has more than one pattern on it to break up the look, if you wish. If patterns are too much for you, then select a colour that is within your colour palette, and you can pair with neutrals from your season with your accessories.

If you are more dramatic or creative personal style, then you can look for more abstract or outstanding patterns that work within your colours. There are some fantastic patterns to look for with dresses on the high street, and let your creativity run wild! A patterned dress can also work well with a pattern clashing jacket or shoes, which will continue to showcase your style preferences. You could even pattern and colour clash with your accessories like your bag and shoes.

What dress shapes to look for

The shape of a dress can accentuate certain parts of your body, so depending on where you love to accentuate, you can look for a particular style. Often, I recommend styles based on body shape, as these can be the best options to highlight your shape, and these are general guides, but when you find a dress shape you feel your most confident in, I recommend trying out different lengths and colours to build your dress wardrobe!

With that in mind, here are some of the styles and body shapes they can look best on, to help you get started.

Pear shape (or Triangle) – Separates and Wrap dresses

Pear shapes are those with smaller shoulders compared to your hips. You go in at the waist but have wider thighs. This is why dresses that showcase your waist and glide over your hips can make you feel more confident.

Separates dresses come with a waist cut that will help highlight the waist (which is usually defined in this body type). I’d recommend looking for one that has a gentle flare that starts at the waist. I’d also recommend either looking for an all over print, or one that has no print on the bottom. A square neckline or sweetheart neckline can also bring the eyes upwards and showcase your waist and chest (if you wish). On the contrary, details on the top (such as frills, flounces, off shoulders) will help you accentuate the shoulders.

Wrap dresses work in a similar way, but focus even more on accentuating your waist. Look for a wrap dress that is patterned all over or in one colour, and with the additional v-neck shape, they are a great option for those who want to showcase their chest.

Hourglass - bodycon and belted dresses

An hourglass shape are those who go in at the waist and have similar shoulder and hip ratios. Most dresses that go in at the waist are best for this body type, in particular bodycon and belted. You want to highlight your smaller waist in any way, and using a belt can do this too.

With a bodycon dress, you will be highlighting your whole body, its curves and balanced proportions.

With a belted dress, depending on the length of your torso, you’ll want to look for a specific size of belt. Some of us have longer and some have shorter waists. But in general a slimmer belt can be a great option just to bring you in at your smallest point. Another option is to find a dress with a belt in the same fabric as the dress, so it highlights your waist but doesn’t detract from the style.

Apple or Oval - Empire & tunic

Apple shapes have broader shoulders than their hips, with a larger bust and waist compared to their, generally, slimmer legs. This means you’ll want to highlight your legs, and potentially have a dress shape where the waist is higher up, or glides over your waist.

Empire style dresses have a high up waistline, usually just under the bust. This is great for your shape as it will highlight your bust line, and then go out below the empire line. If you want to feel a little sexy in this style of dress, look for an empire dress that has a shorter hemline, or truly showcase your bust with a square necked style.

Tunic style dresses are great for the summer months and for a more relaxed style. They are currently very popular, and were also very popular in the 60’s – think Twiggy!

Rectangle – straight lines & shift

Rectangle shapes tend to have a minimally defined waistline, and are more athletic in their shape. This means the best looks can either work to create the illusion of a more defined waist or look for a dress that falls straight from the shoulders down.

Straight dresses are great for rectangle body types as they keep the details minimal at the waist, and they're also very versatile, so depending on the hem length, you can wear them for anything from work to dates.

Shift dresses can be a more comfortable style for you to wear, with it having less of a shape it can be a good option for running around, comfort, and feeling confident!

Inverted triangle shape – shift or a-line

Inverted triangle shapes are those who have broader shoulders than their hips. This means the best shapes are those that add volume to the lower half to balance out lines of the body.

A shift dress is a great option if you are an inverted triangle shape and want a comfortable, easy to wear dress. If you can find one with a defined or ruffled hem line, this is also a great solution!

Alternatively, an a-line dress with volume at the bottom will be a lovely dress for this time of year, and if you prefer a longer hemline this will be a great solution if you look for a midi or maxi dress. Patterns on the lower part of the dress, as well as ruffles can be another way to add definition to your lower body.

There are a lot of options out there, as you can see, when it comes to dresses. I hope this guide has helped inspire you to add a few new styles to your wardrobe to enjoy during the warmer months! If you are unsure which styles and colours work for you, and you want to boost your confidence every day with tools and insights that work for you and your personality, I’d love to help. I can support you with a Colour and Style Clinic where we’ll help you understand what shapes, colours and cuts work best for you, and share advice and inspiration on how to shop and dress with confidence.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS - HOW TO DRESS FOR WORK IN 2023

I have had a lot of conversations with female clients who work in the city, that the way they are dressing for work has drastically changed since the pandemic. Most people now work on a hybrid format, with a mix of working from home and coming into the office.

They struggle to understand what to wear now, due to the dress code seemingly changing to a more relaxed version of what they were used to. The office wear of 2023 and beyond, seems to be incorporating more comfortable attire, and they feel that they no longer know what is suitable for the office.

As a personal stylist, I work with my clients to help them learn the ways to dress that they feel confident in, while remaining suitable for their environments. So, if you are feeling that your work wardrobe is no longer serving you, and you’re looking for ways to dress for this new hybrid way of working, then here are my top three tips for what to wear at work.

 

Tip Number 1 – Working from Home

Working from home looks tend to go more on the comfort and relaxed side, particularly on the bottom half of your outfit. You will tend to be able to walk around with less of an “office look”, but still need to look professional while jumping on and off of meetings. Your top half does still need to be more tidy and professional.

My top tips for working from home outfits:

• Add a cosy yet good quality jumper, so you can remain warm but happily jump on a virtual meeting without having to change.

• Wearing a colour from your colour palette will make a big difference, particularly when on camera, too.  Make sure it doesn’t blend into the background, so you don’t disappear!

• Add accessories such as earrings or headbands to add a little detail to your look, and finish off the professional style.

• For your bottoms, you may want to wear something a little more comfortable, such as leggings or relaxed trousers.

Tip Number 2 – Working from a Corporate Office

If you need to have a more corporate look, or have a strict dress code because you are a lawyer or you are meeting clients, a suit with a little personality is an easy go-to for this.

Top Tips for adding personality to a suit:

• While suits are excellent for corporate styling, they can feel a little restrictive. Depending on your position and company, you can add a dash of personality in a few ways:

• Wear a colourful heel or bag to your look to make your suit pop.

• Pop on a brooch to your lapel to liven up your suit jacket.

• Look for a different colour for your suit. Navy or black are no loner the only options! A deep grey, lilac, brighter blue, or even look for yellows, pinks, or greens, depending on your colours, to really jazz up your suit options.

• Change up the suit by wearing a different jacket with your black or navy bottoms, and vice versa.

Tip Number 3 – Working in the New Office

The case seems to be that most offices have now relaxed their dress codes with the changing times. This means you can have smart-casual looks, which may feel a little difficult for those who have always worn a suit to work, and now have more options!

A few ways to make a smart-casual office look:

• Wear your suit jacket with a pair of smart jeans. A deep wash is often best for this as it remains professional, but brings that touch of a more relaxed look to the outfit.

• Wear a suit with a smart t-shirt, in place of a blouse or shirt. There are lots of options for smart, high quality cotton t-shirts, that have a bit of personality, without having a slogan that may feel too casual!

• Pop on your favourite trousers or chinos, and add a comfortable high quality jumper or long sleeved cotton tee. The smarter bottom half of your look will elevate the comfort of your top half.

• Try out an alternative shoe, such as a brogue or a platform. Heels are no longer a requirement for the office, so play with more relaxed styles. For more ideas on shoes that work for the office that aren’t heels, I have shared a few of my favourites in this article.

• Play with colours that bring a touch of personality to your outfit, allowing you step out of the traditional black or navy palette.

• When it comes to working in a new way, it can feel difficult to plan your looks when you go to the office and when you stay at home. I hope some of these ideas have helped you plan your outfits for this new way to dress.

If you are a professional and you’re feeling unsure on how to dress for your new working style, I can help you make it a pleasure to dress for your work life.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: 7 WAYS TO STYLE CROPPED JEANS.

Jeans – they’re an essential part of most of our wardrobes, but when it comes to the styles we can wear, they are countless. Cropped jeans are one of the styles of jeans that is a more recent trend after years of skinny shapes dominating the fashion world, but can be tricky to style.

The first thing to think about when it comes to getting your cropped jeans is how can you style them with confidence? Here are my personal styling tips to help you discover new ways to play with your cropped jeans and perhaps add them to your wardrobe!

Cropped jeans with ankle boots

When you think of cropped jeans, you may not initially think that wearing ankle boots are a great option, but they can be super stylish together! Adding your little ankle boots, particularly when it’s a colder day, can be one way to continue to style your cropped jeans, while remaining a little warmer. I recommend wearing cropped jeans with higher boots that can hide under the jeans leg, but if you prefer to show a little space between your jeans and your boots, and your cropped jeans are the same length as your boots, then roll them up a little to show off that little bit of skin and create a break line.

A black pair of cropped jeans with black zip up boots, that have a little detail can be a great “rock chick” look to try out. However, if you’re more “romantic” in your styling, find a boot that has a thinner heel or have a quirky pattern to them to bring a little elegance or flair to your look.

Cropped jeans with a long overcoat or jacket

Layering is one of those styling additions that can transform a look, particularly for winter wear. Find a jacket or a shirt that comes to the length of your jeans and style them together to bring a complete look together. When you are looking at attending a smart/casual event this can be a great look to try as it can elevate the jeans you are wearing to a more smart-appropriate style, while remaining comfortable.

For the layering items, you can find blouses that are meant to remain open all the way or just at the top, and you can go for a fully fashion-forward look by half tucking your blouse at the front to bring an a-symmetry to the outfit. This can also be where you add your colours to the outfit, particularly if you have blue or black jeans that remain more neutral – add the colours and patterns to your outfit with a bright blouse or jacket and you’ve brought drama to your outfit!

Cropped jeans with a blazer

Now, if you know me, you know that a blazer is an essential piece I recommend to any client that wants to have an easy to add item to an outfit that brings a formal/business-appropriate addition to any item – and the same goes for your cropped jeans! Where your blazer may be more form fitting, this is where you can find a “mom” style cropped jean to your outfit or a looser fit to the bottom, that is then bringing the eye to your waist with your buttoned up or belted blazer.

For more ways to style your blazer, I have created a blog that shares a few ideas!

Cropped jeans with stilettos

With this outfit choice, you’re really going to town with the casual jeans paired with your formal or even sexy stilettos! I love bringing a heel to my jeans, so with a stiletto, go all out and make them work for you. You can have your looser fitting cropped jeans paired with your stilettos to create a sexy date-night look in a flash – with just a change of shoes! These are one of the best accessories that you can bring with you in a bag if you’re going to meetings and then seeing friends or your partner in the evening. But, with the right stilettos, you can also make these jeans work for business meetings. Find a nude or black pair of stilettos and pair them with your cropped jeans for a more work-appropriate look, that works if you are more comfortable with a smart/casual business attire.

Cropped jeans with platform trainers

Platform trainers are an excellent shoe to add to your collection – they remain comfortable, yet chic and stylish, while adding a little height. A classic white platform sneaker is a great option to add to your cropped jeans, as you can look slick and feel confident running between meetings – while remaining stylish and professional. If you want to add a little more personality, you can find platform sneakers in a range of styles, so go all out, try adding a little splash of colour to a neutral look with pink or bright blue platform trainers, while you could invest in a pair of designer platform trainers to really upgrade your look if your jeans are more budget friendly.

Cropped jeans with a shirt

You really can’t go wrong with a crisp shirt and any style of bottoms, and with your looser cropped jeans this can be another way to ensure a more smart/casual look that may work well for a more relaxed business person. A looser shirt can be a good option if you have a larger bust, as you’ll be able to tuck in your shirt into your cropped jeans to bring you in at the waist – adding a little definition with a belt can be another way to continue to bring your waist in.

Finding a cotton shirt that works for you is one investment piece I highly recommend bringing into your wardrobe, as it can go really well with many bottoms.

Cropped jeans with combat boots

Finally, one of the most rock-chick ready looks to wear with your cropped jeans is with combat boots which are another huge trend at the moment – best if you can invest in a leather or vegan leather option. With combat boots you could play with different options, from the classic punk-look of Doc Martens, to a more modern and romantic style with stiletto fronted combat boots! If you are conscious of your leg length, then matching your jeans colour to your boots is a good way to help your legs look elongated, or buy a pair of platform or heeled combat boots to add a touch of height.

While this can remain the most casual of looks, it can work well if your business style is more rocker or design-led, depending on the combat boots you try (for inspiration on how to style your combat boots in a variety of different ways, go here).

If you are planning on trying some cropped jeans, I hope some of these styling ideas have inspired you to bring new looks together! If you are unsure on how to style outfits, or want to have a professional helping hand when you go shopping, please get in touch.

PERSONAL SHOPPING TIPS - CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

As Christmas approaches, I am sure many of us are wondering what a different style of Christmas this will be. If you are looking for some inspiration for gifts you can send to your loved ones, that can be wrapped and lovingly curated by you, without having to leave your home, then I wanted to compile some ideas that may work for your 2020 Christmas.

Stylish Christmas gifts for women

Skincare gift set

You really can’t go wrong when you look for a gift when it’s indulgent, relaxing and something that perhaps your loved one wouldn’t get for themselves, but will adore when they receive it! I love being able to find indulgent spa items such as face masks, body soaks, and lotions. One idea for an “all in one” gift can be a “pamper kit”, with many of these on the market you can be as indulgent as you like, plus they often come with sample sizes so your friends can try out the items. Upcircle have created a lovely pamper kit with a range of their best sellers; as an alternative option, Kiehl’s ultra facial favourites skincare gift set is wonderfully indulgent. For any friends that are vegan, you could create this personalised Aphrodite & Ares pampering & relaxing kit from notonthehighstreet, which includes options such as a fragrance, bath salts, towel, candle, and exfoliating mitt.

Jewellery gift ideas

For a little sparkle at Christmas, jewellery can be a wonderful gift idea for your loved ones. I recommend making sure you know which type of metal your loved one prefers before investing in a jewellery item for them – gold, rose gold, and silver are often the go-to, but you can also see pearls and even quirky colourful jewellery. If you’re looking for a quirky jewellery item, then these colourful sea horse raffia earrings which are hand woven are a fabulous and unique item. This choker necklace in gold with beautiful leaf detail is another unique piece but with a more classical edge – it is a beautiful piece and one that is sustainably created by Smilla Brav. Finally on my recommended jewellery items for Christmas gifts is a bracelet – this can be a more approachable option, and a simple bracelet can be a lovely gift to give to your loved one. I love this silver double drop bangle which comes in 4 different colours, by Rosaspina Firenze, or this Love & Positivity spinning stone bracelet in recycled silver or gold by Amy Russell Taylor Jewellery is a beautiful gift idea.

Letterbox flower subscription

If you have a friend that deserves a regular smile, then a flower subscription box could be a beautiful idea for them. There are lots of incredible suppliers in the UK, and some of my favourites are Bloom & Wild and Freddie’s Flowers. Each of these providers offer a regular subscription that you can have in a 3 month or 6 month option, depending on how you would like to gift. They are seasonal, beautiful, and in my experience last an exceptionally long time, so they brighten up your loved one’s home as a reminder of you.

Accessories

As a personal stylist, I’d be amiss if I didn’t recommend accessories as a great gift item for Christmas. From headbands to scarves, you can find a wonderful item for your loved one this Christmas that can work across seasons for their wardrobe. For a long haired friend who loves colour, this silk scrunchie in pouncing leopard pattern is a beautiful & fun gift idea, as it is made of silk it can make sure that their hair doesn’t go static, too! For a more classic piece you could gift a bag that your friend can use for years to come. From a classic crossbody in black, to an indulgent Alexander McQueen shoulder bag, you really can have some fun finding the perfect bag for a Christmas gift for your loved one.

A stylish notebook

For the friend that loves to jot down her ideas, you can’t go wrong with a beautiful notebook to add to her collection. From the stunning jaguar hardback pack of 2 hardback notebooks, to these beautiful handbound leather notebook in a range of colours, a notebook can be a beautiful gift to give to your friend this Christmas.

STYLISH CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR MEN

Men can be really difficult to buy for (or is that just me?) so finding the perfect gift for the men in your life may feel more daunting than any of the other gifts you look to get this year! Here are a few of my masculine favourites that you can get online to treat some of the men in your life.

A watch can go a long way

My husband loves watches, and they are a classic piece that can be added to a man’s wardrobe to work with their fashion preferences. If you are looking for a life-time investment piece that your loved one will adore, this PORTUGIESER CHRONOGRAPH with blue face and sapphire glass it’s a beautiful investment piece for that truly special person in your life. Tag Heuer are another fabulous watch maker for men, renowned for their unique sports and classic watches, I love the look of this beautiful Carrera watch with leather strap for the more classic style. If a metal strap is more your loved one’s style, this Longines Conquest Chronographs is a beautiful piece (and under £1,000!). If classic is what the man in your life is all about, then you can’t go wrong with a Rolex. They are an investment piece, but they last a lifetime and are impeccable, my husband’s favourite is the Oyster which has a range of beautiful face colours to match their fashion preferences.



I completely understand that these watches are in the higher spectrum of budgets, but you can find amazing finds through vintage stores and there are countless online stores that specialise in preloved watches such as Watchfinder and Goldsmith’s have their own pre-owned selection. From a beautiful pre-owned Longlines La Grande Classique for just £850, to a TAG Heuer Monaco piece at just £1,925 (they retail at £4-5000) you can truly find a wonderful piece that has history, lasts a lifetime, and will look fantastic.



Create your own Christmas hamper

I recently found this fabulous independent small business that creates a host of incredible indulgent gifts that you can send to your loved ones. They recently launched their Christmas gift offering and one of them is specifically for men. From delicious chocolate treats, to a Gentlemen’s Sheet Mask, you really can get a gift together that feels personalised and fun, all in a neatly wrapped box. You can also indulge your loved one with a Fortnum and Mason gift hamper, which can range from £60 to over £200, and they’re perfect for the foodie friend in your life that deserves a gorgeous hamper as a treat this Christmas.

Cookery Kit

If your loved one is a dab hand in the kitchen, and wants to increase their knowledge then a baking kit can be a great idea. I found this fabulous Pasta Making Kit that gives you all the ingredients and tools you need to make your own pasta, for just  £25. Another fun cookery gift set is the Create Your Own Gin Cream Tea set by The Alphabet Gift Shop, which is a fun quirky option for your sweet-toothed friend.

Men’s toiletry gift set

I have had the privilege of helping my male clients with their personal styling in the past, and something they often ask about during our experience is how to take better care of their skin. If you know someone who deserves a box full of fabulous goodies that will take care of their skin then this organic toiletries set could be perfect, plus it comes in a gorgeous wicker basket that they can use for picnics in the future! For a relaxing and indulgent option, you could treat them to the Morris & Co Men’s relaxation gift set, which includes candle, vegan leather case, nourishing hand wash, and hip flask!

Socks

We’ve all heard that socks are a regular go-to item for men, but let’s move away from the classic styles and bring some fun to your friend’s feet. There are some incredible styles and comfortable options that will keep their feet warm yet stylish this Christmas. For the fun and quirky fashion-lover, these Look Mate London Super Socks in bright blue are a fabulous & fun gift idea. If bright blue with multicoloured patterns may feel a little too much for your friend, then this gift box of bamboo socks can be a great option.

BONUS CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS!

Elegant Pyjamas & Loungewear

We all love to be comfortable, and with more of us working from home, investing in good lounge wear is imperative. If you want to treat someone to some luxurious lounge wear that can double as workwear on Zoom meetings, then you could gift them loungewear items they’ll love.

Luxury pyjamas for women

There’s nothing quite like putting on warm, luxurious loungewear or pyjamas, but often we don’t treat ourselves to these beautiful items. That’s where you can come in! These glorious pyjamas by Fable and Eve are soft to the touch while remaining warm for winter and cool for summer, are a fun print that feels beautiful on the skin. For serious luxury, you can’t go wrong with Olivia Von Halle’s loungewear collection, such as this beautiful 1920’s inspired set with mother of pearl buttons and French seams in the classic white and black colour palette. For a more budget friendly option, take a look at Hush’s pyjama collection which has some elegant and fun patterns, including this beautiful “oriental bird” print pyjama set which could work perfectly on a Zoom meeting acting like a blouse!

Fabulous pyjamas for Men

These brushed-cotton pyjama trousers from Derek Rose are a great option, as they are comfortable and fashionable. For a little more fun, these rhino print organic cotton trousers by John Lewis are a cute option.

I hope these gift ideas have inspired you for your 2020 Christmas, and beyond, and if you are looking for a personalised gift that can truly make a difference for your loved one for years to come, then I’d love to recommend my Personal Styling and Personal Shopping gift vouchers.  Whatever you get up to this Christmas I wish you a safe and wonderful end to the year.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS FOR FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS

When it comes to transitioning from the corporate world to running your own business, there are a whole host of incredibly overwhelming and exciting things that need to be thought about. What to call your business, what to offer as a service or product, where and how to market yourself, and with this marketing comes the potential to refresh your personal branding. Out with the corporate world requirements of you, and in with the ability to truly express your own self! Goodness, that can be a very scary thing, especially if you have moved from a role that had a uniform, or felt like it had a uniform even if it was not set upon you!

In this article, I wanted to share some fantastic examples of how female entrepreneurs are showcasing their personality with fashion, and how you can remain yourself, but keep “professional” or as much as you need to when running your business. Now, these are just my personal tips, and I love the uniqueness that fashion can bring to us, alongside the independence that running our own businesses can bring to our wardrobe, so you can wear whatever you wish, these are simply some ideas to whet your appetite!

Ideas for the networking meeting

As a business owner, I find that the best form of marketing is word of mouth and recommendation, so I attend regular networking events with fellow business owners to help me extend my network of contacts that I can recommend to clients, and in return, they may also recommend my services to their contacts too! In these meetings, there is often a lot of sitting, as well as the potential to stand up and share insights into your business. They are not informal, but they are not as professional as, say, a corporate meeting with investors. So I recommend keeping an outfit that feels comfortable yet professional enough to not feel to informal!

Try a button down shirt and leather trousers for a funky look when attending these meetings – one of my clients, an early-30’s business owner, loves being able to turn up in her leather trousers, a pair of heeled boots, and a fun, colourful shirt at her networking meetings. It’s a great talking point, and one that works well for her business.

If you are in a more corporate feeling mood, you can never go wrong with a pencil dress, or skirt. These are still quite a feminine look, but you can pair it with trainers (see my recent article which shows the new ways trainers are taking over the heeled world!), for a less formal feeling. There’s also no harm in throwing on a pair of killer heels, should you feel more confident in them.

If you prefer a more casual look, you can go for a great pair of jeans, paired with a blouse – potentially a silk or smart white cotton blouse, as these can be a good option for the potential nerves that arise when networking!  To help elevate the look, I’d recommend pairing your jeans with a pair of heels, but it totally depends on your preference.

For the business meeting

As a business owner, you may be meeting with clients, investors, potential business partners, suppliers, the list goes on! So, when it comes to showcasing your business, this may require a slightly more elevated look than for the more informal networking events. I always recommend getting a colour analysis to my clients, particularly if they are looking to boost their confidence with their wardrobe, so these outfit ideas will be on the basis that you either know the colours that work well for you, or feel a certain love for specific colours or patterns!

The classic monochrome look is one that works incredibly effectively for a formal outfit. Layering is an excellent way to help build up the look, without feeling too “samey”. I love the use of black, beige, or cream, as these are classically elegant options, however, I have noticed many women on the street using fantastical monochrome coloured looks including pinks, greens, and purples, and they look fantastic! For the best options, I recommend finding similar tones in the colour you are looking to build your outfit with, as well as utilising different patterns and textures to help the outfit feel really put together.

Upgrading your outfit from day to day, to business meeting, can be transformed with a simple and elegant blazer. I love using a blazer to transform my outfits, they are a great way to help a look feel more business appropriate. There are a range of options out there, from simple black, to blue velvet, as well as the classic tweed and linen options. Find a few blazers that you find work in your wardrobe, add them to your coat rack, and use these in place of your coat when you head out for a business meeting, it can transform the feeling of your look! They work fantastically over a turtleneck, a blouse, or a casual tee.

Now is the time to invest in key items

When it comes to letting your wardrobe make you feel super confident, you can’t go wrong with investing in pieces that perhaps were higher than you used to spend in your corporate job. Trust me, the investment is so worth it. The reason I find investing in key items so important is that I will tend to take better care of them, they last longer, and I get more wears out of them. Shops like Reiss and & Other Stories are great places to find slightly higher end wardrobe items that can have your key items that elevate your look (& Other Stories also offers a 10% off voucher if you take them old textiles, which is an excellent way to support sustainable fashion).

Reiss is the place I recommend for an elegant, effortless yet modern style. & Other Stories is a younger, more boho style that is quite Parisian. They have excellent choices to add to your wardrobe and I tend to find well-made piece of knitwear or beautiful dress are items I can pick up easily in these stores. Reiss even offer a tailoring service, so your items can be made to fit you like a glove.

For my petite clients, I highly recommend visiting HOBBS, as they offer not only an excellent range of smart pieces, they also have a petite collection – perfect for female entrepreneurs who are under 5 foot 3. Their styles are classic, and have a huge range of dresses that are a great solution for a “grab and go” outfit. If you are looking for a more corporate look for your business styling, you can also take a look at L K Bennet. Their workwear collection has a range of excellent blouses, suits and classic styling that would work perfectly in most corporate offices & your business office!

As a new Mum myself, I know the importance of being able to have comfort and professionalism come together, so there are a few brands I love to get my jeans and blazers from. One brand I highly recommend, particularly for those of us with problems finding jeans that fit both our hips and our waists, are Liu Jo. As for blazers, my go to option is Pinko, they are fantastic!

You will often find that heading to new shops on the highstreet can be an excellent way to find your new “branding” and you may gravitate to certain styles, let your gut instinctively tell you, and go and try it. I do recommend heading to a department store to get to see a big range of options in one handy place, somewhere such as House of Fraser or John Lewis are a good place to start. Once you find a brand that really embraces your style and shape,  The great thing about being a woman entrepreneur is that you make the rules – be yourself, let yourself be confident, and bring your personal style to the forefront! If you are feeling nervous about where to start, I’d love to help you with a personal styling session.