PERSONAL SHOPPER ADVICE: WHAT'S NEW THIS SEASON?

With February fast-approaching, this means Fashion Week is coming to London from the 17th – 21st February to showcase the Spring/Summer trends to look forward to.

With the catwalks filled with warm-weather looks, you may be wondering what new items may work in your current wardrobe that you may want to invest in.

While I work around the ethos of a sustainable and capsule-like wardrobe, there are sometimes seasonal pieces that certainly feel right to add to my wardrobe. As long as they work alongside at least 3 of my current outfits, and make me feel great (and will last!) then they are worth purchasing.

Being a considered shopper makes each season more exciting as you take a moment to consider if the pieces you quickly react to will have a long-term effect. This is one thing to bring into your mindset each time you go shopping – give yourself the time to question if you have pieces that work with that garment, or if you love it enough to make some!

With this in your mind, let’s share a few of the new season favourites I have found.

Baggy jeans

I shared a guide to the top jeans to suit your body shape (which you can download here) last year, and baggy jeans are one of the most approachable pieces. They are often comfortable, and work beautifully on a range of body types.

If you are an hourglass or a triangle you will want to make sure you have a waist height that comes in at your natural waist. Tuck in your shirt, blouse or light jumper, and then add a belt to really level up your shape!

For an inverted triangle shape, a pair of wide-legged jeans that fall more on the flared side are a great option for you. Pop on a pair of heels to lengthen your legs and a form-fitting top to finish off the look.

Or try a pair that have a little bit of volume or pockets to the front will make a definition to your hips. And a square neck top, a crossover body bag and a pair of platform sneakers to make this cool-girl look complete.

Oversized Blazers

My favourite piece to have in any woman’s wardrobe – the blazer! This season it is coming in an oversized form, which can be comforting yet sometimes tricky to wear depending on your personal style and body shape.

Blazers can upgrade any look, and add that extra layer of warmth that can be so needed in the spring in London. With an oversized blazer you have more freedom for the layers underneath, and you can also play with the shapes and fits of the clothes you choose.

For example an oversized blazer that is just shorter than your skirt, with tights, boots and a comfy jumper is a great brunch or date night look. While the same blazer can be worn with a detailed blouse, your favourite wide-legged trousers and your heels for a day of meetings.

For a few ways to play with blazers and how to style them, click here.

Going Sheer

Now, bear with me here, but the sheer trend that has been shown across countless catwalks can be a great additional layer to add warmth, intrigue, or style to your outfit. While the catwalk stylings feel less approachable (but if you love it, go for it!) adding a covered layer beneath the sheer garment is a great way to make this trend-setting garment more likely to work in your wardrobe.

If you want to add colour to a look, for example, but you want to keep your neutral tones across your look, then adding a sheer long sleeved top over your vest will perk up the look in a flash.

For the sheer skirts, you can add these over another skirt of a similar length, or add definition to your waist by adding the skirt over a full length dress.

Sheer pieces are also great for adding texture, definition, and flair to your outfit. If you are cautious of going fully sheer, you can find several fashion houses that have added a sheer element to a piece such as the bottom of a midi skirt or in panels to just show a little skin.

So, what do you think of these three spring/summer seasonal trends? Will you be trying a few of them in your wardrobe? If you feel a little overwhelmed by all the changing trends, and don’t know where to invest and where to walk away, I offer a Personal Shopping experience, so you and I can go together to view and select the best items to match your style, needs, and body shape.

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.

SHOPPING TIPS - TOP INVESTMENT PIECES TO BUY TO RENEW YOUR (LOCKDOWN) LOOKS

Although the lockdown has meant some essential shops will be opening, I wanted to share with you some investment pieces you can add to your wardrobe to help renew your looks for work and play!

Some tips for investing in accessories and clothing

Investing in items such as jewellery can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it means you have a cherished item in your wardrobe that you’ll love wearing, but you will have a piece that lasts the test of time.

I truly believe in eco-fashion, and with investment clothing pieces and jewellery, you will know that the items you spend slightly more on, will last throughout your life. They quality of the items I recommend below, will be that of pieces that you will cherish and lovingly care for, so when you do invest in them, I highly recommend ensuring you know the care requirements such as cleaning and adjustments if in future you need anything tailored or changed according to your lifestyle or body changes. I do recommend that pieces you adore that you want to fit you excellently can benefit from having a tailor work on them so they fit you perfectly.

Headbands

I have recently shared some tips for online meetings, which included my love of hair accessories to help totally transform your look, especially if you are busily looking after even more tasks each day during lockdown!

Colourful headbands such as these from Etsy designer LollyKiks, are a fabulous and easy option. They instantly add colour to your outfit and cover up that hairstyle that may be in need of the hairdresser! They are very budget friendly, and work for an array of hairstyles as they have the elasticated bottom to help keep it in place.

For a more classical style, Alice bands are another alternative way to transform your look, and are perfect for shorter hairstyles as they do not scrunch up your hair. I love this fabulously colourful and unique Alice band from Orelia, and it is available in an emerald green style with a tiger (!) or a more delicate option of pink with flowers.

If you prefer something without a pattern, I found this beautiful gold headband which has an added “knot” at the top to add definition. It is in a faux leather so is vegan friendly, and really adds a touch of glam to your hairstyle!

How to use colourful scarves to transform a look

Scarves are a fabulous way to add colour, personality, and definition to an outfit and can totally transform something that feels monochromatic. Now, I love the monochromatic style, especially for professional outfits, but when you add a scarf you can then add a touch of personality to the look with something that perfectly fits in your handbag (or even your back pocket!). You can transform a look with the same scarf but styled in countless ways, so have a play with the different options and have some fun!

One option for a scarf is the stunning Dolce and Gabbana silk scarf, which is an investment that you will cherish and will stand the test of time in terms of style. If you are someone who loves floral patterns and it works with your personal brand, it can definitely be an item to invest in for your wardrobe.

A shawl can be another option within your scarf collection, and can transform your outfit, especially this piece by Missoni which has fringes and colour! It is another high quality designer investment piece, but if you are looking for an item that can work to help bring some personality to any outfits, or if you are someone who wants to add colour without feeling committed to an entire outfit, I highly recommend a shawl such as this.

However, if you have a moderate budget for investing in scarves, you can invest in colourful items that work. This silk scarf which has been created using a design by 17th Century Japanese artist, Katsushika Hokusai. For a colourful floral silk scarf option, you could invest in this beautiful yellow number by Powder.

Colourful or detailed at collar tops

Tops can be accessories too, and there is nothing quite like a simple shirt with a touch of flair at the collar. Many brands have made fun collar accessories you can add to your shirts, or you can invest in the stylish top from the beginning and let your personality shine with your collar.

Starting with an investment item by designer Givenchy is this beautiful pussy bow blouse which is a simple black and white with the drama truly being shown by the collar detail. This shirt can be transformed depending on how you tie the bow, or how you style it. Try with jeans for a smart-casual style, or make it super professional with a blazer and work trousers.

For a more budget-friendly option, designer Kith and Kin have created this beautiful blouse which is perfectly simple with a touch of fun at the collar (and the cuffs) with a gorgeous design to let the blouse have some accents, without feeling overwhelming.

For even more fun, why not try out a quirky colourful shirt that will really add some personality and joy to your outfit? I love this Mariana Deri blouse which is a new fun take on a classic polka dot – isn’t it just sheer fun?

Top Investment Pieces for your Wardrobe - Earrings

Earrings can transform a look and can help to add a little sparkle or flair to your outfit in a flash. When you invest in a beautiful pair of earrings, and look after them, they can be a piece that you go back to for years to come.

For a little colour with a professional edge, you can try these beautiful hand-crafted earrings by Jennifer Behr with Swarovski crystals and glass pearls with a drop silhouette. There are also these beautiful colourful drop-earrings by Magpie Rose. This style of earrings work perfectly to transform your busy Mum white tee to a professional look, just wearing these earrings! They can also work beautifully with a classic monochromatic look, such as a black suit, slip dress, or polo neck.  I recommend colourful earrings like these if you want to add a touch of colour to your wardrobe, too.

I recently fell in love with Italian brand, Nali, which have excellent on-trend jewellery at very reasonable prices, like these colourful drop earrings at just 16euro! Such a steal and they are an easy way to try out new trends before finding which ones you truly want to invest in and keep forever. Nali sell online, as well as in stores such as TK Maxx and some independent stores, so you can try them before you buy them too.

For a more abstract or original look, these unique, 14k gold plated drop earrings by Pamela Love are amazing! The colours, shapes, and mismatched style are incredibly popular at the moment, and I think work really well for people who are more unique in their style choices. If you want to show off your personal flair, then earrings that are mismatched can be a great go-to. These are quite long earrings so may suit shirts that are more v-neck, to elongate your neck.

To try out the asymmetrical look, you can find this style on a tighter budget to test out the look, as it can feel strange to wear two different looking earrings if you are used to more traditional styling. this pair by Liars & Lovers are budget friendly and have some fun colours to bring some personality to your outfit.

Investing in necklaces for your wardrobe

My final investment pieces you can add to your wardrobe is necklaces – these are an accessory many of us may already have in our wardrobe and can help to make a simple look be elevated.

Colourful necklaces are a great investment to add to your wardrobe, as with the earrings above, they can go a long way to transform how your outfit looks without having to completely change – speed is of the essence, especially during lockdown! When you invest in a beautiful necklace, you will want to take into account the colours that work best for your skintone and your current wardrobe. From a blue necklace in 18k gold, to a pearl and pastel pink statement – you will want to make sure you find a colourful necklace that works for you. 

For even more of a statement, you can try the statement chain look which requires a more adventurous personal brand. This really is a statement, but one I love the look of when styled correctly. The great thing about these chains is that they not only make a huge statement for your outfit, but can mean the rest of your look can remain minimal – if you want it to, keeping your outfit choices simple, with just the jewellery to add your personal styling. Starting simple, you can try a gold or silver chain, which can be an easy first step into this trend, or for a more budget-friendly alternative Nali, have this stunning large chain necklace in beautiful pink tones at a very reasonable price. There is also this beautiful dual chain necklace by & Other Stories which is a more delicate but still on trend look.

No matter what trends are “hot right now” your investment pieces should be ones that you adore, especially when they have a higher price tag. You should consider the care they require to make sure they last, and that they work with your current wardrobe so you can get pleasure from wearing them.

I am here to help should you want to have assistance with how to create a personal style that you love, that works for you, and can help to keep you feeling confident during and after lockdown. To arrange an online personal styling session, please do get in touch.

BRIDAL STYLING : 6 NEW TRENDS FOR WEDDING DRESSES

Here are the bridal dresses TOP trends for the 2016! what is the one the suits you most?

1. Fairy tale : bright, sparkling and romantic, this kind of dress recalls to the Disney's princesses. It will illuminate your decollete and your look and doubtless it will enchant your guests and, mostly important, the Groom! In terms of dress-cut it is better for whom has wide shoulders and want to emphasize her top part.

2. Cropped top : following the last high-street fashion trends, this is maybe the most fashionable of all and probably limited to the youngest brides. You must have a very flat belly and small breast to wear it properly. Absolutely not for everyone, but if you are a very fashion victim and a very thin figure this could be the best choice for you!

3. High-low :  this is the half-way between a short and a long dress, perfect if you want to show off your legs but have the long train also. This kind of dress will enhance all your body, because it will draw the eye attention both on your top and on your bottom part. If you really want to make a great entrance this is the right choice for you! Personally I think this is one of the best bridal dress cut ever (maybe my favorite) but it requires a very self-confident personality.

4. 3D Flowers : the flowers become real! We are no more talking about prints or lace, but real 3d application that will make you seem a nymphs! this is very romantic and, to me, it recalls to the famous "privamera" print of Botticelli. You will feel a Venus in that dress and that sounds great 'cause Venus was the Goddess of Beauty! There is nothing to say about the dress cut cause here the applications have the key-role and they can be applied on several kind of dress shapes. So you must really feel romantic and a bit bohemian to choose this style.

5. Blush Shades :  If you are not really convinced of the pure white, nor the ivory color, this is your year! Pink blush shades will dominate the 2016 palette, not only for the wedding embellishments but also for the dress! Here the color has the key role, not the dress cut, but you must be quite romantic and classic and , mostly important, you must love pink! warm colored hair (like red,reddish brown or medium blonde) match better with this kind of color.

6. Long Sleeves :  absolutely regal! it immediately recalls to Kate Middleton's wedding dress, indeed. Good if you look for a simple dress cut but, nonetheless, you want to feel the "queen" on your Big Day. It will give you importance, despite the simple shape, because none of your body part will be unadorned. I suggest it for women who wants to give importance to their arms (for example if they are very thin and you want to add volume).

So, before going on trying and choosing your Wedding dress,  think who you really are and what part of your body and your personality you want to enhance and highlight, then make your choice! Do not forget that dresses styles are closely related to hairstyles, make-up and shoes kinds! Shortly I will talk about these subjects as well.. so don't miss it!!

Stefania

LIFE OF A LONDON STYLIST : VISITING TRADE SHOWS

There's always something new to know about fashion... new trends, new brands and new connections! Visiting this trade shows, even as image consultant and not a buyer, can be very interesting and gives you new inputs and ideas for your clients, and even new connections, that are always important! 

And I am very happy and proud to see lots of Italian names to thrive among the PURE LONDON's stalls today with their genuine made-in-Italy products.  This is not a good moment, the fashion marked is full of valuable and fierce competitors and it is very difficult to conceive innovative and unconventional ideas with; but I've seen good proposals today, for quality and originality, between lots of cheap and, I daresay, dull products. I really hope that the buyers had noticed the same , choosing their suppliers wisely!