WARDROBE ESSENTIALS: HOW TO WEAR A WHITE SHIRT

Sometimes, the basics are the hardest to style. One of the wardrobe basics for many of us is a white shirt. It can be dressed up or down, and for many, can be a staple in their dressing. 

However, when it comes to styling a white shirt, it may be a bit of a hit and miss. Depending on the shaping, styling, and accessories, you too can try out this wardrobe essential! 

Make sure you’re selecting the right shape for your body type

First and foremost, the best way to make a white shirt work for you is to understand your body shape and the styles that will work for you. 

Here’s a simple guide to inspire you: 

• Hourglass: v-necks or sweethearts, as well as crew necks are great for balancing your top and bottom. You will also want to look at a fitted blouse to enhance your waist. Structure fabrics are recommended if your features are more angular (neat hourglass); softer fabrics are better if your features are more curvilinear (full hourglass);

• Rectangle: look for simple styles, and structure fabrics (like pipeline cotton) that will accentuate your waist without adding unnecessary colume and opt for patterns like vertical stripes that will optically elongate the bust; consider a peplum style to create the illusion of a defined waist;

• Triangle: open necklines, macro prints, and details such as ruffles, frills and pockets are great for you, as well as puffed sleeves are also a great option to make your shoulders look larger and focus the attention on your top; make sure your blouse doesn’t stop on your hips, instead tuck it into high waisted wide-legged trousers or skirts, to highlight your waist and elongate the legs; 

• Oval: Hip length tops with an open neckline, as well as vertical or slanted stripes to optically elongate the bust. Opt for fluid fabrics, such as silk and viscose, to complement your natural curves. Go for simple lines and avoid details that add unnecessary volume at the torso, but also horizontal stripes or bold patterns;

• Inverted Triangle: simple lines and shirts that have minimal volume at the shoulders. Opt for crispy, structured fabrics to complement your angular features. Closed collars, peplum styles and wrapped shirts are great styles to explore for you. 

Now you know the style and shape that could complement your figure in the best way, here are some ideas to inspire you to style your white shirt. 

What to pair with your white shirt 

Styling a baggy tee and jeans is a classic “cool girl” outfit seen regularly on streetwear to high fashion runways. 

Source: The Zoe Report

If jeans and a tee aren’t in alignment with your personal style, you could try out wearing a white shirt under your casual spring midi dress for a layered look that covers your shoulders from the sun. Change up your dress by popping your shirt over it too, and crop the shirt with a belt or tying with a hair tie. 

Source: Mujerde10

Try out the dungaree trend with a classic white shirt underneath, with a pair of combat boots or DM’s to punk up the look. 

Source: Who What Wear

If you have midi-skirts in your wardrobe they go perfectly with a boxy white shirt, as well as a more romantic vibe of a peplum shirt. Wear your favourite sandals to embrace the summer heat and why not try out a straw hat to really embrace the summer vibes! 

Source: Who What Wear

For summery cool looks, pair your shirt with the go-to trouser of the season – a wide legged option. Whether it’s jeans or more formal black trousers, you can elongate your legs with a pair of heels or platform trainers in the same colour as your trousers. You can bring in your waist with a belt, and layer up the look with a cardigan over the top and a crossover body bag for the finishing touch. 

Source: Style Bee

How to style your white blouse

If a white tee is not up your alley, never fear – a white blouse can be an excellent solution. Still an essential in any wardrobe, this can be paired in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas: 

Pair your white shirt with a pair of kick flare, dark wash jeans with heeled boots for a 90’s-gone-2024 vibe. Flares are an excellent option for triangle-shapes, and go a long way to elongate your legs. 

Source: Buzzfeed

For a cute nighttime look, you can pair your looser fitting blouse with a mini skirt and heels (or boots if you want to protect those ankles). Try out a trend-setting metallic mini skirt to really elevate the look and stand out. 

Source BeSugarandSpice

Just like with a white tee, you can style a dress over the top of your white blouse for added layers and reusing your wardrobe items throughout the year. For example a summertime mini dress can be used throughout the year with a long sleeved blouse and tights for warming up during the spring/winter months. 

Source: Sarah Christine

Finally, if you’ve been craving trying out the denim maxi skirt look, there’s nothing quite like elevating the casual style of the skirt with a tucked in crisp white blouse. Depending on your body shape, make the look feel more sexy with a deep v-neck or unbuttoning the top buttons of the blouse and adding a long necklace – perfect for inverted triangles or hourglass shapes. 

Source: The Middle Page

So, will you be trying out a white shirt? 

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: DRESSING IN A RECESSION – THE THREE MOST VERSATILE PIECES TO HAVE IN YOUR WARDROBE AND HOW TO STYLE THEM

When it comes to dressing for an occasion or a season, you may feel like you have to have a full wardrobe to accommodate. In the times we are in right now, going out and buying lots of pieces just isn’t effective for the environment, our wallets, or our sanity!

As a personal stylist, many people come to me with “I have nothing to wear”-itis. However, when I see their wardrobes, they are overfilled and a concoction of fast fashion items that don’t serve their needs.

So, what if I told you the secret to curing the daily struggle of what to wear, that not only helps you save money in the long run, but will create a more confident day to day is, in fact, less is truly more?

The importance of investing in good quality, versatile pieces that work across seasons and events, will save you time & money.

What are my three most important pieces to have in your wardrobe?

·        A great pair of jeans that suit your body shape

·        Two to three blazers

·        Three to four dresses

Seems pretty simple, right? The thing is, many of us are buying with the trends and filling up our wardrobes with items that we don’t know how to use outside of the “norm”. So, while you may have these items already in your wardrobe, you may not be maximising the ways to use them.

I wanted to help you with this problem, so you can find the perfect pieces in your wardrobe and know how to reuse them without feeling like you’re re-wearing the same outfit over and over again.

Three different ways to style your jeans

Let’s start with a girls’ best friend (when she finds the perfect pair) – jeans! Now, you may be recoiling at the thought of jeans, but I promise you, when you know the shape for your body type, you will want to wear them day in and day out.

Here’s a whistlestop tour of the shapes I recommend, before we dive into the different ways to style them:

·        Flares – for pear shapes and petites

·        Mom jeans – for hourglass, rectangle, and pear shapes

·        Boyfriend jeans – for inverted triangle, oval, and rectangle shapes

·        Skinny jeans – don’t be surprised by this, but most body types can wear this style, you just need to be conscious of how skinny you go with them!

·        Cropped jeans – for petites

Now you’re inspired to try out the right style for your body type, and I recommend trying out a variety of designers & high street stores to find the perfect fit for your unique body, let’s play with how to style them.

3 Casual outfit ideas for styling your jeans

Starting with the easiest option, casual outfit ideas. These are outfits you’d wear running out of the house but still wanting to feel confident and put together. They may also work for meeting up with friends during the day, or heading to the play park with your family.

1. Pair your jeans with a cotton tee, square toed shoes, a long line cardigan, and your favourite everyday earrings for a “I just threw this together” look. Add a touch of colour with your crossover body bag – as this can bring some definition to your look if your cardigan is a little oversized.

2. Another option, if you are more of an edgy style is popping on a leather jacket and combat boots or DMs with a slogan cotton tee or band t-shirt.

3. If you just don’t feel “right” in a cotton t-shirt, then you can invest in a silk blouse with a relaxed cut and add a pair of platform sneakers to still feel casual, yet chic.

If you are an hourglass shape or a pear shape, you’ll want to define your waist, so adding a belt will ensure you showcase your waist, while also averting the gap that can sometimes happen at the back.

For warmer months, a short sleeved body suit, a square-necked cotton or a linen vest can be an easy option too.

3 Work-appropriate outfit ideas for your jeans

Depending on the profession or space in which you work, jeans can be an appropriate option for you, it just depends on the pieces you pair them with!

1. Pairing a high quality, dark washed pair of jeans with a blazer and a blouse, with a pair of heels can be a powerful, professional look.

2. You can also pair your deep blue denim jeans with a silk shirt, a pair of dolly shoes, and an elegant blazer & handbag for an on-the-go professional look.

3. There’s also the option to make your personality shine by wearing your jeans with a pair of metallic sneakers (such as the iconic Vivienne Westwood shoes or similar inspired shoes available on the high street), a tunic top and a funky bag, should this work for your profession.

3 date-night looks for your jeans

Now we’re going from day, to night, and using those jeans in a different way yet again! If you’re heading out for a date, this gives us a few more options in terms of jewellery and fabrics.

1. Add a sparkly bag or sequinned top to your outfit to bring out a little more glam. Perhaps drape a blazer over your shoulders, pick up a shoulder bag, and pop on  pair of stilettos to finish the look. I’d also recommend either wearing a necklace or earrings to really finish it off.

2. For an edgier date-night look, a mesh long-sleeved top over a beautiful piece of lingerie (or a vest), with a red lip, leather jacket, and block heels will help you feel ready to take on the night!

3. For a sexy option, the option to wear a “underwear as outerwear” look is a great way to boost your confidence and feel sexy. When you wear this option with a pair of jeans, it can feel a little more approachable as they add a more comfortable option on your bottom half. Pair with an oversized blazer or leather jacket to keep yourself warm and covered, should you wish to. I’d recommend a few key jewellery items to top off the look, an over shoulder bag, and a pair of your favourite heeled boots or shoes!

Now you’re ready with the jeans that work for all occasions, let’s move onto dresses!

How to style your dresses for the seasons

Dresses don’t have to just be for those who fall into the “romantic” personal style. Dresses come in many different patterns, colours, shapes, and cuts, so they can work across many different style personalities, when they are styled correctly.

The thing is, I often hear that the dresses we love for the warmer months, don’t get used during Autumn and Winter. There are lots of ways we can work with them to make them stay an integral part of our wardrobe, no matter the season.

How to style your dresses for Spring

This is often when most people get their dresses out from hibernation. They are fresh and inviting for a warmer season.

As Spring, particularly in London, can fluctuate in weather, I recommend popping a jacket, blazer, or light cardigan over the top, to keep you warm. You could also pair these with a pair of light dernier tights, and a pair of combat boots or sneakers.

How to style your dresses for Summer

Now the warmer month is welcomed, you can take off those tights and wear a pair of biker shorts to protect your thighs. Pop on a pair of strappy heels for a brunch with friends. Add a crossbody bag, or a shoulder bag for your essentials, and let your dress do all the talking.

If you want to define your waist further, adding a belt can help draw the eye to your waist.

A pair of sneakers, or platform wedges are a great casual, yet fun option for your shoes when you are welcoming the summer. Sandals can be a more casual option, too.

How to style your dresses for Autumn

Autumn can be the time when many put their dresses away, and head for the long-sleeved options, that are chunkier and warmer. While these can be great, I want to stay away from you feeling you can’t maximise the garments already in your wardrobe, just by rethinking how you see your dresses.

You can add a warm jumper over your dress, and roll up the jumper into your bra or with a hair tie for a comfortable option.

A long-line cardigan can also be an additional layer that works over most dresses – I’d recommend making it just a little longer than your hemline, unless the dress is a maxi dress, in which case flip that and have a cardigan that hits at your waist line.

For v-neck or strappy dresses, another option is to add a tee underneath for an added layer. This can feel a little more casual, so I find it’s more appropriate for daytime get togethers, or outside of the office. You can style this look up with the shoes, jewellery, and bag that you select, which go a long way to transforming a look!

Tights and boots also go a long way to keeping you warmer, while you wear your dress. Hosiery has come a long way from the 50 dernier classic black tights. You can find warm, yet patterned or high quality hosiery that won’t break as soon as you try to pull them on!

How to style your dresses for Winter

Swapping out the cardigan for a Winter jacket is one quick way to keep wearing your dresses into the Winter season.

You can also continue to wear your thicker jumpers over the dress, with a belt to keep them tucked in and defining your waist. If your dress is a v-neck, you could add a polo neck top or jumper (if the dress has a strappy sleeve) underneath for an additional layer, and add a necklace to draw the eye down.

Invest in a pair of great quality suede or leather knee high boots at this time of year, as they will work with your skirts, dresses, and even your skinny jeans. I’d recommend a pair with a block heel so you can stay comfortable, warm, and elegant.

Accessories such as a warm woollen hat, a scarf, and gloves also don’t go amiss at this time of year.

How to style your blazers for different occasions

Finally, one of my favourite essentials for any wardrobe, is the blazer. It’s a quick way to style up a look, add a pop of colour or pattern, and a great layer for the cooler months.

There are lots of different ways to style a blazer, but here I wanted to share just 3 to inspire you. The great thing is, if you haven’t got a blazer in your wardrobe yet, there are lots of charity shops that have a variety of options for you to try (you can even find some gorgeous men’s blazers, that you can get tailored to your shape for a unique option with a sustainable edge).

You will have seen above that I have mentioned the blazer in the jeans and dress styling options above, so already I have shared two ways to style your blazer, which I hope will inspire you.

Three ways to style your blazer

1. With a midi skirt.

When you style your skirt with a blazer, it’s a way to add definition at the waist and shoulders so can work really well for many body shapes. If you have a tee with your skirt, the blazer can transform the look to be more professional.

While if you have a patterned or colourful blazer, this can be the way to add your colours to a more monochromatic look that is underneath. I’d recommend a midi skirt as it can work across different occasions, but if you love showing a bit of leg, got all out and pop on a mini skirt, knowing your blazer brings a professional edge to the look.

2. With wide-legged trousers.

Wide-legged trousers are a beautiful, elegant option for any occasion, particularly suited for pear shapes or hourglass shapes, as they skim the legs and accentuate the hips. Pop on a belt under your blazer, a blouse, and a pair of block heels for a professional look. You can dress the look down by simply changing the blouse for a camisole or slogan tee.

Add a pair of platform sneakers to make the look even more comfortable, and pop on a bag for your essentials, and you’re ready to go.

3. With your knitwear.

Finally, adding your knitwear under your blazer, adds an additional warm layer, while also jazzing up your look.

A cashmere sweater, with your favourite jeans, and a pair of heeled brogues has an elegant yet cool outfit for Autumn. Whereas your chunky high neck knitted jumper, with a pair of tailored trousers and heels flips the script on professional dressing while remaining warm!

I hope this guide to dressing in a recession inspires you to continue to use your investment pieces in more ways. While we may be in a space to want to treat ourselves to more and more items for our wardrobe, I suggest you take a step back, consider what you already have, and perhaps invest in versatile pieces that you’ll wear over and over again.

If you’re unsure on where to start, or have a wardrobe that is spilling over, yet causing you more stress than pleasure, please get in touch. I can support you with a wardrobe edit, a style masterclass, or a personal shopping experience so you have someone there, by your side, to help you invest wisely for your future outfits.

HOW TO FIND THE PERFECT JEANS FOR YOUR BODY TYPE - PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS

Jeans are always “in fashion” but with the ever changing trends, what is the best shape for your body type? From the classic flares coming back to the catwalks, to the noughties skinnies, let’s take a look at some of the top jeans styles, and colours, and how to style them for your body shape.

Flared jeans

The best body types for flared jeans

The swinging 70’s are back and pear shapes rejoice! While flares made a small come back in the 90’s it seems they are back in full swing for us this year, and they’re great for those of us with larger hips. This is because they add a little extra volume lower down to balance out our hips. You may also love flares if you are petite, as you can hide your heels under the flare of the jean, elongating your legs!

How to style flared jeans

I prefer my jeans in a dark wash, as a pear shape myself, because they are great for adding a slimming effect. These high-rise jeans in a dark wash from Reiss are a beautiful cut and work perfectly from day to night. Try your flares with a pair of heels, your favourite blazer and a turtleneck for a powerful professional look. You can then swap the turtleneck for a graphic tee, and add a belt for definition for your evening look. For a more casual option, swap out your heels for your favourite platform trainers or sandals for the summer.

Mom Jeans

The best body types for Mom jeans

Mom jeans continue to be a comfortable, casual option when it comes to jeans. With their wider leg, yet tapered waist, they are great for hourglass figures. As they tend to be loosely fitted on the legs they do work for more rectangular body types as well as pear shapes, when the cut is right. They do tend to stop just above the ankle, so unless you specifically invest in petite sizing, they don’t tend to be the best option for petite body shapes unless you’re happy to add some extra rolls to the ankle area.

How to style your Mom jeans

With their relaxed style, Mom jeans tend to look best in a casual look, but you can style them up with the right blouse or shirt. They have a high waist, with a loose fit, adding to the casual look while showing off the waist. Dive into this classic shape and find a pair of Mom jeans in a vintage denim colour.

You can then style them up with your favourite button down or blouse, and pop on a pair of strappy heels for a brunch date. You could also wear them for errands and grabbing coffee with a pair of trainers and your favourite cropped jumper or tee. Pop on a crossover body bag, with a leather jacket and your casual yet classic look is ready to rock.

Boyfriend Jeans

The best body types for Boyfriend Jeans

Not to be confused with the Mom jean style, Boyfriend jeans are looser and tend to have a baggier area around the crotch. These are perfect for people with an inverted triangle shape – with smaller hips than shoulders, as well as oval and rectangle. Because of the baggier fit around the thighs, this will streamline your silhouette.

How to style your Boyfriend Jeans

Due to their casual and slouchy nature, these are a great style of jeans to wear out and about, rather than trying to dress them up. If you are an inverted triangle shape, style them with your favourite camisole or a tighter top to draw the eye to your waist. I’d highly recommend finding a pair of high-rise Boyfriend jeans for your body, as this will help create the waist in the perfect point. This higher waistline will also help with elongating your legs. Continue the elongation of your legs with a pair of wedges, or go all out for your date night with a clutch and a pair of nude stilettos.

If you are an oval or rectangular shape, lower rises are much more comfortable for you – and I’d recommend untucking your tops. This will help with the shape of your silhouette.

Skinny Jeans

The best body types for Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans – they became all the rage in the noughties and seem to have stayed. While skinny jeans are great for some body types, those who have larger hips need to be conscious of how skinny we go with them! They are great for building confidence and showing off your curves, and when styled correctly they can work for most body types. The thing to think about is how long they are, the wash, and the styling.

How to style your Skinny Jeans

Because the skinny jeans are so tight on the figure at the base of your body, the best outfit ideas for this is to balance it out with volume in your tops. Think tucking in your blouse into your jeans with a belt to add the waist definition. You could also wear an oversized blazer to feel a little more professional, with dark wash skinny jeans and a pair of heels. Balancing out the skinny jeans is where you will feel your best – but don’t let this stop you playing with the trendy skinny jean.

If you feel confident in this slinky silhouette – go for it!

Try out dark wash skinny jeans with a silky camisole top, drape a blazer over your shoulders and add an oversized clutch for your date night look. If you want to feel a little more rock chick, and balance out your look, you can wear these cropped black skinny jeans with your favourite combat boots, or with a pair of ankle boots to balance out the hips.

Cropped Jeans

The best body types for Cropped Jeans

Cropped jeans are the last style on my list, and you may be surprised to hear that I love these for my petite ladies! While the flares help elongate you by hiding your heels, cropped jeans make it seem like your legs are “too long” for the jeans. It’s all about discovering the perfect length – and cropped jeans come in a lot of different options. As a general rule, look for cropped jeans that hit just above your ankle.

While I have mentioned they are great for petite frames, cropped jeans work well for all body shapes – it just depends on finding the right inseam length, and styling.

How to style Cropped Jeans

Cropped jeans are a chic option for your jeans outfit, and work beautifully from day to night. I think they look beautiful when paired as part of a monochrome look. Classically French-chic, the monochrome of all white can be perfect for your day in the office when paired with smart sneakers, and changing up your jewellery you can wear it to drinks after a long day. Pair your cropped white jeans with an elegant cotton top if you are an oval shape and pop on a layered necklace to bring some sparkle to your look.

For a super-casual yet cool look with your cropped jeans, look for a pair of high-rise boot cut options. As with any high-rise jean, pulling you in at the waist will help define your physique and add a more hourglass look. Match them with your favourite slogan tee and a pair of square toed shoes for a touch of elegance.

If you want to have a more relaxed feel, find a pair of cropped jeans with a distressed hem, pop on a pair of leather ankle boots or trainers, and go all out rock chick with your leather moto jacket, or baggy oversized blazer.

While these are my personal stylist tips for discovering the perfect jeans for your body type, finding jeans that you love wear is the most important thing. I help people discover the right shapes for their body type, while also considering their personal style as a whole.

While these are my tips for helping you create outfits that you’ll love to wear with your jeans, if you are looking for a personal stylist to help you discover a wardrobe you love, please get in touch.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: 7 WAYS TO STYLE A LEATHER JACKET

A leather jacket is a staple for many people and can truly be versatile, besides being a crossover piece. The way to wear a leather jacket has changed over time, and today it really is one must-have piece that is able to add personality to a piece of clothing and style it up. From dresses, to trousers and skirts, everybody just needs to find their perfect shape, colour and also material (from vegan to genuine). So, if you’re looking for ways to make a leather shirt a new feature in your closet, or perhaps change up the one you wear in new ways, then this article will share 7 ways to style up your leather jacket!

Try a different shape

When you think of a quintessential leather jacket, you will probably be thinking of a classic biker jacket shape – cropped, with large lapels, and perhaps with a belt at the bottom. Now, for some body types, this looks incredible, whereas for others it just isn’t the right shape for you. When you are looking to invest in a leather jacket, you’ll want to try out a few shapes and styles to see which looks best for you, and works best for your style.

From a cropped option but in a draped or peplum style, which works well for people who are looking for a more relaxed form; to a longer leather jacket that works beautifully on those with a larger bust. Try looking for jackets in different shapes until you find one that you feel confident in.

Work with a different colour

Who said you have to just have a black leather jacket? With the incredible changes in options with dyeing, as well as options that are alternatives to leather, you really can change it up! If you love a particular colour, you will probably be able to find a leather or faux-leather jacket in that colour.

You can discover leather jackets in rose pink, or even gold, which means you really can change up your jacket game without having to give up on your colour-loves! For a classic look, but still with the edge of a leather style, try out a white leather jacket that can replace your classic white suit jacket.

Leather jacket and jeans

Let’s start with an easy-to-work look with your leather jacket – jeans, boots, and a tee. Simple, elegant, and classically cool. If you’re wearing a classic cropped jacket, then this will work beautifully with high rise jeans in a dark colour. Depending on your body shape, you can tuck in your favourite tee, add a chunky belt and go full rock chick. Whereas, for a more elegant look, try adding stilettos or open toed heels with your jeans, and add a turtle neck (autumn/winter perfection!).

Leather jacket and a dress

If you love wearing your dresses and need to find a way to keep yourself a little warmer, or to add a little “rock ‘n’ roll” to an outfit, then you really can’t go wrong with your leather jacket! A maxi dress with frills and flowers has a fantastic juxtaposition with a leather jacket, while a more tough denim dress brings even more edge. While you can bring your sexy little black dress out, with an additional over layer of your black leather jacket – I love this look too, as it is perfect for a date or dinner with friends.

Leather Jacket Replaces Your Blazer

Now, if you love a blazer, but are looking for a way to dress down your workwear, pack your leather jacket with you, and throw it over your suit trousers and blouse, bring in some bright jewellery and you’re ready for a night out! A blazer is one of my favourite staples in a wardrobe, but it sometimes isn’t appropriate for the event, or your personal style, so while you are wearing a more formal pair of wide leg trousers, and a crisp white blouse, you can instantly swap the blazer for your leather jacket.

For an even more demure look, keep on your suit and add your leather jacket over the top – this is best with an over sized jacket, or slung over your shoulders!

Wear your leather jacket with a mini skirt and knee high boots

I recently shared an article on the top 5 items you should have in your wardrobe for Autumn/Winter, and one of my favourite was the over the knee boot! These boots work really well with a mini skirt that is brought into a more casual style with your leather jacket. I recommend an a-line skirt if you want to try out the shorter style but have more of a curvaceous figure or have a more formal event to attend.

Leather Jacket with a midi skirt

Does the mini skirt feel a little too short for you? No worries – your leather jacket can work beautifully with a midi or full-length skirt. I personally love matching the metallic features of the zips and studs of a moto jacket with a feminine metallic midi skirt – pair it with some high heels for an evening look, or wear your sneakers to bring a little casual chic to the look.

The leather jacket really is a versatile piece to have within your wardrobe and if it feels like it would work within your personal style, now you have 7 great ways to play with it! I’d love to hear how you are styling up your moto jacket in your wardrobe, or if you are thinking about getting one, and are unsure where to start, I can help with my online personal styling service.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIP: THE CROSSOVER PIECES EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE IN THEIR WARDROBE

I love a tidy, organised, and season ready wardrobe, which you can learn about here, but there are often pieces that we call “crossover” pieces that can stay in our wardrobe during all seasons. They are items of clothing that you love, and can be timeless in your wardrobe.

Crossover clothing examples

I wanted to share with you a few of my favourite crossover pieces in my own wardrobe to help inspire you, and recommend some items you can add to your wardrobe that will work for Autumn, all the way to Summer!

Leather jackets

A leather jacket can be a staple in your wardrobe, and will always stand the test of time. I recommend investing in a really good jacket that you adore, if you are vegan there are countless faux-leather jacket options you can get nowadays, such as this Melrose vegan moto jacket, or this bright cobalt blue BB Dakota biker jacket, for those of you who just love a splash of colour! There are also the classic leather jackets that age with time and become softer and more classic with the years, such as this black All Saints moto jacket or this DOUBLE-FACED BIKER JACKET by Zara.

As someone who truly believes that eco fashion is something we really need to be conscious of, you can get some incredible vintage leather jackets from vintage shops in London or surrounding areas, so if you are able to visit a vintage clothes shop, I recommend having a browse for one that has been preloved and is much softer to use. You can also try out one of the online vintage stores such as Vestiare Collective, hardlyeverwornit.com, Thrift.plus, houseofvintageuk.com, or Vinted – which is an app you can use to sell or buy preloved items. Whichever place you go to, I truly love a leather jacket as it can last a remarkable number of years in your wardrobe as long as you take good care of it. You can wear these in the Winter as your top layer, or in the summer as outerwear over your shoulders to add a touch of protection for the evening.

Classic tee

A good t-shirt is hard to find, but when you have the go to shape and style that works for you, then you can utilise them as a great crossover piece in your wardrobe. I have a selection of white and black t-shirts that can just be thrown on in the summer, or added as an extra layer in the winter, that can I go to in my wardrobe when I need them. A cotton t-shirt is best for all weathers, like this one from & Other Stories, but if you are looking for something a little more trendy, you can look for a vintage band t-shirt, or a graphic tee with a cute design on it like this one from Lanvin that can add a little flair to your simple outfit of jeans and trainers, or keep some casual fun to your midi-skirt and heels.

One of my favourite t-shirt stores is Happyfern, a new sustainable brand launched by Gosha Doubtfire, that makes t-shirts and sweatshirts in recycled cotton, for women, men and kids. We’ve even collaborated to create a one of a style tee too!

Crossover dresses for all seasons

Dresses can be a really easy way to dress up or dress down in a flash, just using the right accessories. There are of course dresses that work specifically for summer or winter, but with the right additions you can change up your favourite dresses with a simple knitwear item over the top, or a long-sleeved top underneath. You could even add that excellent leather jacket or a blazer in autumn and winter to keep yourself warm. A simple strappy dress, such as this one from & Other Stories or this slip style dress from Envelope1976 can work beautifully for summer with a light blazer on top, as well as in winter with a lovely big high neck jumper over the top. If you prefer to keep your arms covered during the summer and winter, then this long sleeved polka dot midi dress can also work with a cardigan, or a cropped jumper to keep your waist the main focus while remaining warm.

If you like items that come as pairs, then this season, All Saints have already done all the hard work for you, with their jumper and dress combinations. I love this black feather print strappy dress with luxurious over jumper, both of which can be used separately or together so you truly have several outfits you can make with just 2 crossover items in your wardrobe!

I hope this has inspired you to not only see the benefit of having crossover items in your wardrobe for all seasons, but helped you know how to maximise those items already in your wardrobe. If you’re unsure on where to start when it comes to personal styling, then I’d love to chat with you.

PERSONAL STYLING TIPS FOR ENTREPRENEURS - WHAT TO WEAR FOR A BRANDING PHOTOSHOOT

As the world begins to re-open, and countless entrepreneurs are starting up new fantastic businesses, or wanting to rebrand and announce their business reopening, there are lots of people coming to me asking for advice on what to wear at their business photoshoot.

Photos are a pathway into getting people to notice you for all the right reasons. I know the importance of photography, particularly for my business, as my service is so personal, I want people to trust, like, and get to know me just by seeing my business images. With just a few correct selections, your business photos can convey the perfect message to your customers!

Here are just a few of my tips that I share with my clients in advance of their business photoshoot.

1) Define the message you want to give through your image and choose outfits and colours that'll help you express the right message. If you haven’t read it already, you can read my article on How Colours Affect your Mood, which can be a really useful piece to help when you are deciding on which colours convey your business in the best way. It’s incredible that a colour can instantly make someone feel a certain way, so if you haven’t gone through the process with a branding expert in terms of the right colours for your business logo, or just haven’t got there yet, then the colours you choose to wear in your business photos can make a huge difference, and should reflect your business in the best way.

2) Define your target audience. Understanding who are you talking to will have an influence in your image and looks choices. When you have a branding exercise, knowing your perfect clients is essential to your entire business. Who are your perfect clients? What do they expect from someone delivering your service or product? How do you want to be perceived by them? When you know your customer avatar, you will be able to attract them to you with the right outfit choices and image options through your photos.

For example, if you are a business coach working with women in corporate jobs, you may dress in a more formal pencil dress with a colourful necklace to show that you are professional, but with personality. On the other hand, if you are a make-up artist, you will want to show colour and flair, to show you know the current trends and how to work them. These are simple considerations you can have when thinking about the perfect outfit and styling to choose for your business photoshoot.

3) Enhance your personality. Remember, your personality is a unique selling point and can help you stand out, so always express it through your style. So, if you are a bright, bubbly, and excited person, let that show through the outfits you wear. If you are a reserved, professional, then you can choose more muted tones.

4) Wear colour shades that work best for you and your features. Although you may be overwhelmed right now with all the options of what to wear to get the best results, the most important thing I believe on top of all of this, is to make your feel confident and shine brightly. The way to do this best, is by choosing the colour shades that work best for you.

If you are feeling overwhelmed with the thought of your upcoming business photoshoot, or perhaps you have a team photoshoot coming up and want your business to be reflected appropriately, and want to organise a group session to help get everyone ready, then please do get in touch. I am always so delighted when I can help my clients feel their best, look fantastic, and show their business in the best light through their photographs. Besides, you’re investing in your business with a professional photographer, so you should invest in yourself to make sure the photos look the best they can!

PERSONAL STYLIST ADVICE - NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION - TIME TO FEEL MORE CONFIDENT

We all deserve to feel confident within ourselves. Having a wardrobe that helps increase that confidence, so you can simply walk in, choose an outfit you know you’ll feel fantastic in, and go out is something that can not only be time-saving, but also truly life changing. As the new year sets in, I propose you have a resolution that you can stick to – make your wardrobe and clothes work for you, rather than against you. So often we spend our valuable time and energy going through wardrobes which don’t serve us or make us happy. I propose 2019 is the year you make a difference! Spend some time going through your own collection of clothes, and take the pieces that you don’t wear, or feel confident in, and giving them to a charity shop (or selling them, but I love handing pieces that will bring joy to others and help a charity close to my heart!). These pieces don’t serve you by being there, causing you to question yourself each time you get dressed, and are taking up valuable storage space for items that you do love!

You can start your 2019 with a fresh new start, a wardrobe that works for you, and helps you to feel ready to take on the year with confidence! Here are my tips to helping you get started on that all-important wardrobe edit.

1. Give yourself time – don’t rush through your wardrobe clean-up. Get yourself a cup of your favourite drink and make it an enjoyable, freeing experience.

2. Listen to your gut instinct – if an item of clothing makes you feel anything but positive, then it’s time to remove it from your wardrobe. If you are unsure, then place it in your wardrobe, with the hanger facing the opposite way to your other clothes, if in a month you haven’t worn it, that means it’s time to get rid of it.

3. Make it seasonal – unless you feel confident enough to match a summer dress with a lovely woollen jumper, you will probably have seasonal items taking up your wardrobe space. Take out any items that won’t suit the current climate, and place them neatly into a storage container, and put them away. A clean and seasonal wardrobe is a happy wardrobe! You can then go through these items before the new season comes in and take the same clear out process with these items before placing them into your wardrobe.

One of the toughest things my clients have when we go through the wardrobe edit is knowing what style most truly reflects them. This can often change throughout our lives, as we age, get new jobs, become parents, or simply feel a new personal style is more appropriate. Once we get to grips with the styles that not only suit our body, but more importantly suit what we want to project to the world, then our confidence can shine brightly. It makes it easy to shop and find new clothing that we will want to wear every day!

If this feels overwhelming to you, or you’d like some support and professional assistance in choosing the items in your closet which will look the best on you (as well as removing those which do not serve your personal style), then I’d love to chat. Please feel free to comment below if you’re hitting a roadblock, or have any questions, or call me to see how we can work together to make your confidence shine brightly.

PERSONAL SHOPPER ADVICE: HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR OUTFIT FOR A WEDDING?

Summer 2017 is approaching and so the Wedding Season (as most of the weddings are celebrated in summer indeed!).

Stefania, image consultant - founder of One of a Style - wants with this video share 3 tips for guests (women) who are attending one or more weddings in the coming season, to help them with their selection of dressed and outfits. 

This idea came after as she dealt with lots of clients in the past who asked her consultation to find dresses and accessories to attend weddings. It is clear that this is not an easy subject and that most people (especially women) get lost, and sometimes crazy, in their seeks of an appropriate outfit for the occasion.

1st tip Stefania gives is about the location and venue, and so the style, of the wedding (villa or country house?! Castle or restaurant?!) that can make the difference in the choice of the dress'style!

2nd tip is about the accessories features! An outstanding outfit is not just done by the dress but by the whole set of elements and embellishment. She suggests to find metallic accessories (gold / silver/ rose gold...) that can be easily matching between them and with all the colours of the spectrum for a dress! A smart choice above all if you have more than one wedding/even in a single season, so that you can change the dress but leave the same accessories (shoes, clutch, jewellery).

3rd tip is more than everything the answer to a question many clients asked her : can we wear white or black at a wedding? If you wish to know the answer have a look to the video :-) We don't want to spoil you everything, do we?! 

PERSONAL STYLIST ADVICE: WHAT TO WEAR FOR A JOB INTERVIEW / BUSINESS MEETING?

Probably you have asked yourself the same question many times! Image consultant Stefania wants to share 3 top tips with you through this brief video, to help you leading a successful performance also thanks to your image. 

If you need some specific styling tips for yourself contact Stefania at stefania@oneofastyle.com and ask her help to impress.

PERSONAL STYLING ADVICE: DOES SHORT HAIR SUIT YOU?

The new hairstyle trend is clear : short cuts!

I myself am a "victim" of this new trend! I couldn't resist, I cut my hair just a few days ago, after years of high maintenance long hair I said: "let's cut"! The sensation of lightness and freedom after that is incredible! Yet it wasn't easy to take such a decision.. before going for a "bold" cut you must find a good hairdresser, someone you really trust in, then you need to find the best cut for you 'cause the wrong one would make you regret your decision in an instant! 

So, how to determine if short hair suit you? And, in case, which cut is better for you? Well, there are some general "rules" to know that might help your choice, apart from your personal style and taste, that depends on your face shape, shoulder line and hair texture. 

The first rule to know is something about math, applied to beauty of course! It is called the 2.25" rule and it was invented by Giles Robinson, Senior Stylist at John Frieda Salons UK and International Training Director of Color Wow. This simple measurement will indicate whether a face is suited to short or long hair through the help of a ruler and a pencil! Just place a ruler under your ear, vertically, and a pencil under your chin, horizontally, then check the measurements from the intersection of the pencil and the ruler. If it's less than 2.25" (or 5.5 cm) it means that a short haircut will be perfect for you! If it's anything more, maybe you will have to change your mind and leave your hair long.

 But that's not all! Here are some other useful rules and tips :

FACE SHAPE :  

the oval face shape is the best one for short hair, basically good with every kind of haircut. Charlize Theron has a perfect oval.

Oblong face should instead be aware of haircuts that add volume on top and create vertical illusions, like the so-called "spike" hairstyle; they should opt instead for haircuts that add volume on the sides, in order to create balance; the best hairstyle for oblong face are bobbed hair and possibly wavy or curly.

Kim Kardashian is a perfect examples of oblong face shape.

On the contrary rounded face should create vertical illusions through their hair, adding volume on top, and go for a tuft or a long fringe. Michelle Williams is a perfect example of rounded face shape.

The pixie haircut are instead better for triangular or diamond-shaped faces. 

Scarlett Johansson is a perfect example of diamond face shape, and in fact, she looks is great with a pixie haircut.

SHOULDER, NECK AND JAWS : 

You must be aware that when you go for a short haircut your face frame become more visible, as well as any eventual defect! So, if you think your neck, shoulder and jaws (or at least two of them) are not well balanced maybe it's better to leave your hair longer. Jennifer Lawrence has, for instance, perfect proportions between her neck, shoulders and jaws.

BODY PROPORTIONS :

Your body proportions may affect your hairstyle choices as well. Pixie haircuts, for instance, are surely good for petit women, 'cause they tend to elongate, while they could be a risk for tall women unless they are extremely proportioned; as for triangles women (hips wider than shoulder) or the inverted triangles (shoulder wider than hips) they must be aware that in both the cases a very short haircut could highlight their unbalance. A pixie haircut, for instance, helped Emma Watson (H. 165 cm) look taller.

CURLY or THIN HAIR?

Despite the opinion of some hairdressers, I believe that even curly-hair women can dare a short cut! Obviously the hairdresser choice is fundamental, they must be specialists in curly hair, but with the right hand and the right cut, even curly-women can change their look and get an amazing short cut.

As for women with smooth and thin hair, there is no problem at all in doing a short haircut, that would add the volume and the movement they need unless it is an extremely layered cut.

In the end, do you think short hair would suit you?