SEASONAL LIPSTICKS - HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT COLOUR LIPSTICK FOR YOUR SKIN TONE

As we start to take off our masks, many of us may be jumping at the chance to get to try out some new lipstick shades, but which colours work best for us?

When I help my clients with a colour analysis, we go through the “seasons” to discover which works best for their colouring – these are easy to understand and discover, and once we have found out their season, we can then find out the colours that work perfectly for them. This isn’t just with clothing, however, which is transformative enough, but it also is with make-up and particularly with lipstick!

Here’s my guide to the perfect shades for you, based on your season – if you haven’t discovered your season yet, you can book your very own colour analysis session with me that I can hold face to face or online!

Lipsticks for Summers:

For my summer clients, you usually have cool undertones with low contrast between hair and skin. Light and soft or muted colours are great for you!

For them, I Iike to use the Duo Lipstick col Petunia by Arbonne the pink/matte side as a bold option (as you can see in the first photo below) and the same lipstick col Petunia on the light/glossy side for a more natural effect (second photo below).

Best Lipstick Colours for Springs:

Springs tend to have clear colourings, with warm, golden undertones. When it comes to make up, the best colours for you are light and bright.

For my Spring clients I like to use the smoothed over lipstick by Arbonne in the colour GUAVA  as a bolder option (first photo below) and the duo lipstick col Jasmine  by Arbonne for a more natural option (second photo below).

Top Lipstick Colours for Winters:

Winters have cool undertones and tend to work best with deep colours, their skin, hair and eyes have quite a high contrast between them, the make up I often recommend for winters is deeper in hue.

For a bold lipstick option, I often use the smoothed over lipstick col Peony (photo 1 below), while for a more natural option I usually go for the lip gloss colour Calla both by Arbonne.

Lipstick Colours for Autumns:

Finally, my Autumns, which are warm with golden undertones, and have usually a deep overall colouring and low contrast between skin, hair and eyes. Soft, deeper and warmer hues work beautifully on them and I like to find amazing for them the duo lipstick col Azalea as a bolder option (photo 1 below), while the smoothed over lipstick colour Lily for a more natural effect (photo 2 below).

As you can see, the right colour make-up can work perfectly to uplift and brighten your face, and when you do discover those colours that work for you, it not only boosts your confidence but also saves you money. If you’ve ever put on make-up or clothes and just feel like they’re not quite right but can’t put your finger on it, it may be because the colour isn’t the best fit for your skin tone and colouring. Understanding these little tricks can help, which is why I love doing what I do so much.

PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: THE GREENWASHING PHENOMENON IN FAST FASHION BRANDS

If you know me, you know that sustainable and eco fashion are top of my list for the reasons why I do what I do. When I can help my clients save money and the environment by having wardrobes that feel perfect for their needs and no longer need to get more items to try to make outfits work, I feel like I am doing just a little to help the environment as well as their wallets!

However, it can be a tricky thing to navigate when you are looking for sustainable garments, as so many companies say they are green, but how do you know if they truly are?

This is where I was so fascinated (and admittedly, disappointed) to hear about the Greenwashing Phenomenon that has seemingly become fashionable with fast fashion brands.

What is Greenwashing?

So, let’s start with the basics first, before we get up in arms together to protest all brands! Greenwashing is when brands that are perhaps less than sustainable use words that we believe to be sustainable within their branding but actually are not. Using words like “green”, “sustainable”, “conscious” and so on, in their marketing to attract the more conscious shoppers, but actually are not environmentally sustainable or looking after their fabric makers & garment makers.

Loopholes are currently being used by brands to help them continue to make money, ultimately deceiving people into believing they are sustainable brands. It sounds illegal, it generally is, but as these large fashion brands have excellent marketing, and legal support, they can work around many of the legal requirements

Marketing is an incredible thing, so it can be really difficult to truly discover which brands are doing this, and how to recognise it. 

Who is known for Greenwashing?

According to this excellent YouTube video, by Justine Leconte, the biggest brands that are Greenwashing, and should be avoided on your next shopping trip are:

• H&M – “Conscious Collection”. You may have seen their advertising, with outdoor styling, green imagery, and the H&M Conscious Foundation – which contributes funds to a trust that is dedicated to helping working conditions in Bangladesh. It looks on the outside to us, that these are excellent steps to being a conscious fashion brand.

  However, in their 2019 Conscious Collection launch campaign, they claimed that “every piece in the collection is made from sustainably-sourced material, such as 100% organic cotton”.

  According to Justine, this is a very deceiving statement due to the sourcing, rather than growing, as well as every garment being exclusively made from sustainable material, whereas, on their website, they state that at least 50% of each garment is made from more sustainable materials, like organic cotton or recycled polyester, the only exception is recycled cotton which for quality reasons can only make up 20% of a product.

  This may be a lot of numbers, but in short, they are only using a certain percentage of sustainable fabrics in each garment. They also do not mention how the garment workers are being treated – which is an incredibly important part of us ensuring that people are cared for and have safe working environments. They did, however, commit to paying a fair living wage by 2018 – but they missed this commitment. The video explains a lot more about this issue, and I highly recommend watching it to understand this issue fully.

• Primark – “Sustainable Denim”. Primark launched their very own sustainable denim collection which, they state, was made of 100% sustainable cotton, from just 15euros. There is no definition for the word “sustainable” which means brands like Primark can use this word without really delving into whether the cotton is organic.

  Primark have actually started an initiative with India and Pakistan which are big cotton-producing countries, and trained the farmers the techniques that are used by organic cotton farmers in organic fields. However, the farmers are still using chemical pesticides. This therefore means these 100% sustainable cotton jeans are not quite what we want from sustainable fashion! Primark has stated that if they stopped using pesticides, they would not be able to stick to their required production levels.

Another thing to look out for in Greenwashing campaigns is “100% vegan leather” – pineapple, and mushroom are great, but PVC is not due to the way in which they are grown, cleaned, and disposed of.

What can we do to prevent Greenwashing?

The best thing to do is to read up and do your research. When you intend to change your purchasing habits to be more sustainable and support workers more ethically, you are best to do your research on the brands you want to use. Check their sustainable plans, where they are creating their garments, the fabrics they are using, and look out for words like “sustainable” and prefer to find companies that use “organic” as this is a criteria-led requirement, and they have to be certified to be able to use this in their marketing.

You can also use the hashtag #whomademyclothes or #whomademyfabric to discover more about the production process. You can also follow & engage with “Fashion Revolution”, to discover more about how to engage in these hashtags and how we can continue to make sure companies in the fashion world are held accountable for their production, their factories, their working conditions and the garments they create.

Consider why your garments are costing what they cost. Often, the cheaper the garment, the less likely the garment workers are being paid fairly. I know this can mean more for your fashion costs, however, in my experience, when we pay a little more for our clothing we get so many benefits:

• The clothing lasts longer – therefore we can wear it, prevent having to throw it away and causing even more landfill, and we can love it for longer.

• The garment workers are paid fairly – which means everyone is cared for throughout the process.

• We are supporting independent fashion brands, that work hard to ensure their garments and workers are ethical.

When we consider taking a step back, wondering where our clothes come from, where our fabrics come from, who makes our clothing, and how we are impacting our environment, the world can be changed for good. I recommend making sure your wardrobe is becoming more of a longevity collection, rather than a one-event and throw away a selection of clothes.

If you have any questions or would like to know some of the brands I recommend in the UK that are sustainable, organic, and ethical, please get in touch.

PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: BEST HOLIDAY-WEAR LOOKS FOR 2021

Many of us are delighted to once again be able to travel – whether choosing to have a staycation or heading to the beach overseas, it has been some time since we had to pack for the summer so you may be feeling a little unsure on what to pack and feel confident!

I wanted to share some of the trends and essentials for your summer holidays, to make sure you feel organised, confident, and prepared!

Pack crossover pieces

What are crossover pieces? They are items in your wardrobe that work across outfits! One of the key ingredients to a well-planned travel bag is having multiple outfit options and this is where crossover pieces come into play. Having crossover pieces will make sure you are prepared for the holiday needs throughout the day!

Pack your favourite easy to wear shorts if you’re heading somewhere warm, particularly if you are planning on taking in the sights around you, or a great pair of jeans that are comfortable and easy to throw on if you’re staying in cooler climates. You’ll also want to pack a couple of cardigans for cooler nights that work with your outfits, as well as tees that you can easily throw on over your bikini with your skirt, shorts, or jeans.

Summer dresses

When you’re on holiday, you may not want to consider the outfits to throw on in a hurry to get to the beach, forest, or activity, so a dress can be a whole outfit in one. For warmer climates a floaty dress can be perfect such as a maxi dress that you can easily wear over your bikini or swimsuit. They are easy to wear, and can be dressed up for the evening with accessories for dinner, or dressed down for the beach with your sandals.

Keep your colour palette minimal

To make sure you can match outfits quickly throughout your holiday, I suggest keeping the colours in your baggage to a simple palette. Adding a few pops of colour to update the look for a different activity can make sure you don’t feel too neutral on holiday, but you’ll be able to quickly grab a few items that you know will match together. Neutrals, blacks, or whites can be a good option, but if you are a colour lover, have a few monochromatic options that you know you’ll feel great in.

Patterns can be brought into the look through a tee, skirt, or jacket if you want to feel more playful in your wardrobe, but I suggest only taking one or two depending on the length of your stay so you don’t end up pattern clashing (unless that’s a style you love!).

Have a change of shoes

When I go on holiday, something I always regret not packing is my favourite pair of heels. We want to save space on our luggage, of course, but when you are planning to go out for the evening, and all you have is flip flops or the shoes you wore on the plane you may feel a little underdressed. Make space for your favourite shoes so you have the option to dress up and feel more formal for a special occasion. I’d suggest, in a perfect world when you’re planning to pack is to have a pair of sandals, a pair of comfy trainers, and a pair of heels/smart shoes.

Use tissue paper

If you have items in your baggage that crease, then you’ll want to save yourself the hassle of trying to find an iron while on holiday! Using tissue paper for those garments can be a real time-saver, and make sure that everything is neat and ready to wear as soon as you arrive.

Travel with your big bag, and pack a smaller one

When you travel, you’ll want to keep all the essentials with you on the plane in something like a backpack or a beach bag, but having a smaller option for the essentials while you enjoy the scenery will be a great way to save your back! I suggest finding a crossover body bag, as they can make sure your items are safe on you, they work well with many outfits, and can often fit things like a camera, your wallet, your phone and some sunscreen!

Wear your jewellery

Jewellery can be something we love to use in outfits, but I don’t suggest packing them for your holidays, as they can be easily lost or forgotten while in the rush of packing on your last day. I recommend wearing the jewellery that are your go-to pieces on the flight, and then add or subtract the pieces throughout your vacation. Items like a few rings, a necklace, and your earrings are just the right things to keep you feeling well put together, while also preventing attracting attention for sparkly beautiful jewellery while out and about. It’s sad, but true, that tourists are often targeted based on their clothes, so if you can steer clear of any expensive pieces, this will prevent any problematic encounters.

And of course, don’t forget the essentials like your bikini/swimsuit and sliders/flip flops (or beachwear) if you're planning to go to the seaside. I hope you have a wonderful time on your holiday, no matter where or how long you are staying. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the thought of what outfits will work, please get in touch – we can have a personal styling session to help you feel more confident in what to put together for your holiday, and for any occasion!

PERSONAL STYLING TIPS: HOW TO CREATE SMART CASUAL OUTFITS

Many of my clients ask me to help create a more smart-casual look for work, particularly now they are heading back to the office after a long time in more comfortable, casual looks. The usual office look of years past may have been a more formal outfit, but it appears that comfort has been a part of the new office wear. Companies are more open to a smart casual office look, which can encourage more comfort while at their desk, particularly in comparison to the usual formal professions such as lawyers, finance, and banking.

But what does “smart casual” actually mean? Whether it’s attending a meeting, an event, or going out to a special venue that has a dress code, it can be daunting to know what they really mean by this dress code. Then comes the styling of an outfit – are you going to feel too dressed up, or too casual?

In this article, I’ll share a few tips to help you create the perfect smart casual outfit to feel your best!

Fabric makes a difference!

You’ll often find that certain fabrics can feel more or less formal, so finding the perfect smart casual look can be made to work when you find the right fabric for your needs. Think about the beauty of silk – it can feel a little sexy when in a full dress, but when you find a perfect silk blouse, this can upgrade your casual jeans to a smart casual outfit. The same goes for your jeans – investing in a fabulous fitting denim jean will make a huge difference to your smart casual look. I highly recommend looking for jeans that are environmentally friendly, such as the Levis waterless high rise jeans in a deep colour.

Finally, where fabrics can make a big difference is on your feet. Did you know, an outfit really can be transformed when you add the right shoes? Velvet, leather, suede are all fabrics for shoes that can change how your shoes play with your look.

It’s all about the pairings

Some of my favourite looks when in the office for smart casual attire are mixing smart trousers with a casual top and blazer – particularly in the creative world. You can dress up the look with a more structured blazer, or bring a bit of colour into the outfit with a colourful jacket. This can ensure you feel more dressed up, while keeping the outfit comfortable through your t-shirt. I recommend finding a good fitting t-shirt so as not to look too informal, and mixing with tailored wide leg smart trousers, and heels or well-looked after platform trainers. If you prefer skirts, you can swap the trousers for a pleated midi-skirt in a mid-rise, or even a more flowy dress over the more formal go-to pencil dress, and pair it either with a denim or leather jacket, or even a cardigan, to style it down a little, and pair it with trainers instead of heels for an even more casual and comfy look.

Colour combinations for smart casual looks

When curating a smart casual look is considering the colour combinations that work well. Of course, the perfect work look is often black, white, or nude, but when you bring a pop of colour it can feel more approachable and less formal. Pops of yellow, pink, green, or red can be good go-to combinations that work well for work attire.

I recommend adding these colours through the use of accessories so they don’t feel overwhelming in your outfit. Shoes are a perfect way to add colour, but you can invest in a beautiful colourful necklace, fun colourful earrings, handbag, a belt, or if you’re feeling confident, with your blazer! The rest of your look can be monochromatic which will help to keep the look feeling more smart.

You can also be more muted with the tones, such as muted yellows that can be more accessible in the workplace over more neon or bright tones – so play with your outfits and see which ones you feel more confident in.

Your make-up can make a difference

Make-up can completely transform an outfit – think of the beautiful red lip that is a classic for date nights, while more muted tones are more work-appropriate. If you’re reaching for the lipstick, find a less bright tone of red if you love your red lip, to help create a smart casual look that is both work and event appropriate. If you feel a red lip is too much for the location, then a nude lip looks great with a minimal look. The natural look is one that I highly recommend for smart casual outfits as it works across requirements, and can feel well put together without overdone.

Your journey back into the office, to events, or out at special locations shouldn’t be stressful, so when you are building your look consider the well known quote – you can never be too overdressed! It is often better to be more on the smart side over the casual side, so if you feel a little too casual, try to add one of these tips to the look, and it can help you feel more confident.

If you’d like some help curating a wardrobe for getting back to the office, please get in touch – I offer personal shopping and personal style consultations to suit your needs.

PERSONAL STYLING TIPS: HOW TO PREPARE FOR A BUSINESS OR BRANDING PHOTOSHOOT

I love being a business owner. It gives me the ability to work with people I love working with, do what I adore, and have special time with my family around my business commitments. Something I have discovered over the years of running my own business is the importance of photography.

People buy from people, so having photos of myself is something I have invested in regularly, particularly as I am a sole trader, to help people connect with me and find out more about me in a matter of seconds.

Something that truly worried me at the beginning of my business journey was how to show myself in the right way to my potential contacts, clients, and colleagues. As a personal stylist, I knew I had the edge in terms of knowing the right colours and shapes to feel my best, but it took time to understand the key elements I needed to get these branding photos just right. I discovered some really important tips, and use these with my clients that I now help solely for their business branding photoshoots.

If you are planning your own business photoshoot, but are feeling overwhelmed by the feeling of what to do to get it right, you’re not alone. So, I wanted to share with you a few of the top tips I share with my clients, to help you feel more confident.

Choose the venue carefully

Your photographer may be able to help you with this, as the venue can transform the way your photos look. If they are not from the area that you want to have your photos, then it’s time to do some research! Think about what you want your photos to portray – if you want it to be fun and relaxed this will mean the venue will be completely different to a professional and corporate style of branding images.

If you are having a multi-venue shoot, you will want to make sure the journeys between the venues are easy and well planned so you aren’t going back and forth with your team and your photographer!

There are also some important things to consider when it comes to photographing at venues, such as being permitted to do so without a fee; what the lighting will be like; how many people there will be, if it is a public place; and do you need to pay for a private room? Venues can have a huge array of legal requirements for photographs that will be used for marketing, so before you book your photographer, you’ll want to speak with the venue/s to make sure you are legally permitted to have photos there.

If you are planning to have some photos outside, speak with your photographer to understand the best time of day to do this, and so they can bring the right equipment. This is also important when it comes to your outfit choices as during the heat of the summer you won’t want to be overheating, and on the opposite side of the scale, you won’t want to be incredibly cold if you’re outside in the winter!

This leads me perfectly onto the photographer choice!

The photographer is so important

We all know that we get what we pay for, so one area to always invest in when it comes to your business photos is a great photographer. Not only do they need to be of great quality, but I find, they need to be in alignment with you.

You’ll want to feel comfortable and confident with your photographer, so get to know them before the photoshoot, and do some research before booking them. A few things to ask yourself during your photographer search are:

·       Do you like their style of photography?

·       Do you align with their story?

·       Can they share some examples of similar photoshoots, perhaps within your industry, to help inspire you?

·       What will the journey look like up to and during the photo session?

One great way to know you can find the perfect photographer, is to ask people who have had photos done that you like. Word of mouth is fabulous in this case – because you know they do a great job!

Plan your outfits attentively

I can’t share branding photoshoot preparation tips without talking about the outfits, I am a personal stylist after all! I find it’s really important to prepare in advance to help you know if you need to get any extra items to make the outfits pop, and to make sure your garments feel and look right for what you want to achieve. Here are my tips for planning your branding photoshoot outfits:

1.     Select the clothes you want to wear and put them out on the bed (or on your door).

2.     Create potential combinations to elevate your looks – and create the opportunities for multiple photos that can be used across social media and marketing.

3.     Don’t forget your accessories! Jewellery, scarves, shoes, and bags can transform a look – so add them to your outfits that are hanging up or on the bed and see how they can work together.

4.     Now take a photo of every combination and save them into a folder that you can access quickly, like Pinterest, or a camera roll folder in your phone!

5.     On the day of the shoot, steam/iron your garments to make sure they look their best.

6.     Pack your garments by outfit, to help you quickly change into what you had originally planned for.

These are the steps that I follow for myself and for my clients when helping them organise their outfits for a branding photoshoot, and it really helps save time on the day and be more efficient. If you would like support to make sure your branding photoshoot is a breeze, please get in touch.  

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: SPRING/SUMMER SKIRTS FOR 2021 AND HOW TO WEAR THEM.

I had so many people love my dresses for spring/summer 2021 blog that I had to make a post about skirts - I know some people aren't lovers of dresses, and separates are their go-to style but feel overwhelmed by how to style skirts. So in this post, I am sharing the top skirt styles for 2021 and how to style them for your body shape & personal style.

The style of skirts for 2021 are similar to the past years. Many are midi in length and often in a silk or satin material, however leather has seemingly come into fashion too. This can make it feel difficult to style them, and is often the style my clients want to wear but are unsure on how to style them.

How to style your midi skirts

Let’s start with the most popular of skirt styles for 2021 – the midi length a-line skirt. A tricky one for many of us, and often seemingly styled in a “cool-girl” effortless way. The most popular and easy to wear option with this style of skirt is with a boxy tee tucked into the skirt. However, if you find a skirt that has an added detail such as this Oscar de la Renta leather piece with tie-waist, you can tuck in more structured tops, or formal styling thanks to the structure of the skirt.

If you want to style your midi skirt more formally but it doesn’t have an in-built belt, you can add your own. This can help with making the connection between top and skirt less uncomfortable, as I find the tops of many of the satin versions have a difficult waist to style without a casual look. So whether you style your satin midi skirt with a vest, a boxy top tucked in, a vintage tee that is cropped, a comfortable over-sized jumper, or with a shirt and belt, try out what works for you and feels comfortable.

Tiered skirts

The tiered, poplin style, comes to skirts as well as dresses this year. It’s a very relaxed and comfortable style so expect to feel boho-chique in this look! From feeling your Julia Roberts Pretty Woman-self in this polka dot belted tiered skirt to feeling fully 70’s hippie, you can find an array of tiered midi-skirts across styles and brands. I would recommend trying this style if your go-to personality is more on the boho or romantic side as it works excellently with boho-tops. You can also style them with fitted t-shirts or square necked long sleeve tops tucked into your skirt.

Wrap skirts

The easiest of the trendy skirts for Spring/Summer 2021 is the wrap skirt. While wrap dresses are one of my favourites for this time of year, I haven’t seen wrap skirts in fashion for a few seasons so I am so pleased that this style has come back! These work with everything from white shirting to printed tees, so get creative. From florals to almost structured-professional options, you will find a host of wrap skirt styles to play with.

Which of these skirt styles are you looking forward to trying in the coming months? If you are unsure on how to find the right styles for your body shape, or feel overwhelmed by the ways to style the latest trends, please get in touch.  

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS - DRESSING FOR SPRING / SUMMER 2021: DRESSES

Many of my clients during my recent styling and shopping sessions have shared how difficult they find dressing for the warmer months. From Spring dresses, to skirts and shorts, it can be a daunting time of year especially as our social calendars start to (hopefully) fill up with fun and interesting events.

In this blog, I wanted to share with you some of my favourite 2021 spring/summer trends that are wearable and useful for your wardrobe, as well as the way to style them over and over again to maximise your investment, starting with dresses.

Spring/Summer dresses for 2021

Let’s start with an easy to access full-outfit choice – the dress. For some of my clients it’s their go-to outfit choice, for others, it’s not quite their thing. Dresses can be a great item for your wardrobe and with a few changes to your accessories or styling they can offer different looks when you rewear them.

Puff Sleeves are in

For my pear shaped clients, any detailing in the sleeve that is voluminous can be a perfect option to balance out their shape, which is great news for the current big trend in dress styles. If you are smaller in the chest than on your hips, look for a dress with puff sleeves and a-line skirt, a dress with a structured waist, or try one with a tiered skirt which will bring you in at the waist and skim passed your hips to bring some comfort and confidence in the warmer months. If you are more hourglass, a V-neck with empire waistline will bring attention to your waist, you will also only want a minimal sized sleeve. If you are a straight body type, bring the voluminous sleeves lower down and try an off-shoulder style with an elasticated empire waist to add definition to your waistline.

For all of the puff-sleeve dresses, you will tend to see some sort of rouching or elastic styling to the top. This is great for bringing definition to the waist but be considerate of where this ends and the softer fabric begins as you will want to make sure it stops at your natural waistline.

Square neck lines

Square necklines are becoming a popular styling for dresses and work beautifully to elongate the neck. If you have a smaller bust you can look for dresses that have this neckline and a delicate strap as you may be comfortable wearing no or minimal support. For larger busts, that are curvaceous, choosing a square neckline that has the sleeves stop by your bra strap will help prevent you from adjusting the sleeves! You will also see many of these dresses with elastic or rouching, this can go a long way to adding support and definition in your waist. For a short option, this Zara sun dress in satin is incredibly pretty and perfect for those who gravitate towards a more romantic style.

Less structure, more floaty styles

From taking in all of the styles, I have seen that the most popular is seemingly poplin or a more laid-back silhouette. This is possibly due to fashion designers gently bringing us out of our comfortable styling for the past year, so expect floaty, summery dresses with minimal structure.  This may feel welcomed, and for some shapes it’s perfect, but for others it can feel a little difficult to wear. If you want to ensure your waist is defined, you can look for those dresses with elastic at the waist, an empire waistline falling to an A-line skirt, or bring a belt to your outfit to define your shape.

Tea-dresses are the perfect go-between for these floatier styles while still bringing structure to define your shape. They are often button-up with a collar neckline, gentle waistline, and floaty skirt. So if these voluminous options just don’t suit your wardrobe, find a tea dress that is easy to throw on and are across the high street in different patterns and styles (they also work perfectly with a casual jumper thrown over).

Which of these dress styles are you looking forward to trying in the coming months? If you are unsure on how to find the right styles for your body shape, or feel overwhelmed by the ways to style the latest trends, please get in touch.

PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SHOPPING TRIP

If you have already managed to get to your local high street, you will have noticed that many people are making the most of once again being able to shop, eat, and connect with loved ones. But the new normal may feel a little daunting in terms of getting out and shopping for perfect items for your wardrobe, without wasting your time and money.

In this article, I wanted to share my guide to maximising your shopping trip to make it enjoyable, functional, and economical. This is so important, as shopping, particularly for fashion, should be an enjoyable experience. For many, it can be overwhelming and expensive, particularly as at the moment, many stores are not allowed to have changing rooms.

Have your technology ready

The first important thing to note for going shopping after lockdown is that many stores will have a QR code to scan for your NHS tracker. Make sure you have that set up on your phone, and can easily check in and move into the store.

Technology can also be really handy too to help you know the items you want to get – so bring your phone with your style board already downloaded (if you’d like your very own style & confidence boosting guide, book my styling session!). This can be a really excellent way to make sure you are picking up the right items for your personal style, without getting distracted by the current trends that feel shiny and new, but may not suit your current wardrobe.

Know what you need, and what you want

What you need and what you want are two wonderfully different things when it comes to shopping. Knowing which of each you would like to get when shopping will help you feel more in control of what you are looking for, rather than aimlessly walking through shops, feeling like you can’t find what you want!

How to know what you need:

1.       Consider the outfits you already have and love – see if they need an update for the season

2.       If you have a go-to outfit that you love, but perhaps an item doesn’t fit, or you have only one so can only wear it once, then see what extras you need to replicate the look regularly!

3.       Know your basics – do you have them? For example – do you have an easy to wear light jumper for spring; perfect jeans you can pop on and feel confident in; a tee that can be comfortable but suitable for seeing colleagues, loved ones, and friends; and if you need an update in shoe options since we’ve been in slippers for a year!

How to know what you want:

1.       If you love a certain style of outfit but your wardrobe doesn’t currently accommodate, you can see if you can make this from items you find while shopping

2.       Non-essential items in your wardrobe, but ones that will bring a little more personality and joy to your outfits.

3.       Special occasion events – let’s be honest, we aren’t going out to lots of parties, so a special occasion outfit isn’t as essential as work, meeting, and networking outfits!

Once you have your “needs” and “wants” lists with you, keep them in your bag so you can refer back to them throughout your shopping trip and tick them off as you pick them up.

Do some research!

One thing my clients find so helpful once we’ve had our personal shopping together is seeing how we plan prior to the shopping trip. I do my research on local shops that offer the colours, cuts, styles, and personal brand options that my client wants.

This helps us to know more than just the right shops to visit, but also that they will be a good shop to go to and enjoy the experience. For example, if you are looking solely for excellent jeans, then you should find the highest recommended jeans shop in your area, or go to a store like Selfridges which has a lot on offer in one easy to visit area. You can then try different brands to see which ones fit your body best.

Within this research stage, you could check out the outfit ideas that are shown on the shop’s Instagram, and website to inspire you for future outfits. It’s also important to know the sizes that fit you in this store. This can be a learning curve, and without being able to try on in the store for many shops, you may want to get a few sizing options and ignore the number – it is different in so many places and is not a reflection of anything other than the shop’s creations.

Enjoy the shopping experience

My most important thing to remember when you go shopping is to enjoy it.

So often we are rushing around, feeling concerned about our timing, other things to do, where to go, and what to find. With your research and list in your pocket, your style knowledge on your phone so you know exactly which colours, cuts, and stores to gravitate to, you have removed the stress element. Then you can make the experience an enjoyable one.

Give yourself time to walk around the shops – don’t have appointments you have to rush to afterwards, let this be a meeting with yourself that you can enjoy.

Find a local coffee shop for a pick me up – I find having some delicious coffee, or tea, stopping for lunch, and knowing the little places you can stop, recuperate, and enjoy the day, is so important to my mindset when shopping.

Bring a friend – when we are able to shop with different households, see if you can bring a friend that is confidence-boosting, who knows you well, and can perhaps bring a different idea to your clothing choices that really reflect you, but perhaps push you to new styles you may not have picked up.

Use a professional – if you still feel overwhelmed by the whole experience, I would love to recommend finding a local stylist who can help you. Whether it’s an online guide, a personalised experience, or just seeing what professionals suggest, will make shopping happy for you.

I hope these tips have helped you feel more encouraged about the shopping experience for yourself. If you have any questions or want to discuss how I can help, please reach out – I love making sure all of my clients get to enjoy their wardrobe and feel confident every day.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: 7 WAYS TO WEAR COMBAT BOOTS

Combat boots are the trend of the season in shoes, and as we progress into going back outside to see friends, they may be an item you’d like to bring out of your shoe cupboard or invest in to add a little flair to your spring outfits that can easily transition into Autumn and winter!

Wear combat boots with your jeans

A classic way to wear your combat boots that is edgy and cool is with your favourite pair of jeans. They are often best with jeans that are skinny to the ankle so they can be tucked into the boot, or with cut above the ankle jeans so they can swing loosely above the boot top.

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 little length. If you have long legs, then your favourite pair of dark blue jeans can be really edgy with your black combat boots.

Add some classic cool with a leather jacket over your outfit

Combat boots are often seen as quite an androgenous look, with masculine and tough exteriors. You can bring this look to the top half of your body with a light leather jacket that works well as an extra layer as the evening gets cooler. If you’d like to feel cool but professional, you can pop the jacket over your shoulders for softer styling.

Style your combat boots with a short flowy short dress

Perfect for spring – this look is wonderful for springtime dates, evenings in the garden and a little flourish of girly if you bring a floral patterned dress to the look. Your combat boots will bring a comfy and cool edge while the dress can keep you feeling young and fresh. Consider a dress just above the knee so you have enough distance between your boots to your skirt. If you are conscious of your legs then adding some tights can bring some confidence as well as warmth to the look.

Styling your maxi dress with combat boots

If you’re more of a long-length dress type of person, then you can try this style with your maxi dress. I’d recommend finding one with a slit in it so you can show off those fantastic combat boots beneath as you walk. This can be a flowy and comfortable look, perfect for brunch and garden drinks.

Skirts work perfectly with combat boots

Just as we have seen the fantastic juxtaposition of a dress with your boots, skirts work really well with them too. A great style to go for is a leather, A-line, or midi skirt, as they are the right length to match with the slightly higher boot. Again, as with the short dress, if you fancy covering your legs, investing in some fun tights or tights that are the same colour as the boots will help to elongate your legs.

Bring the colour to your feet!

You may be thinking that the classic combat boot is in black – and you wouldn’t be wrong, but, if you’re someone that loves to wear black in your outfits and feel some colour is needed you can bring that with your combat boots (or any accessories). There are a huge range of colours available like these vegan maroon Dr. Martens, or even these purple heeled holographic combat boots which are super fun! Adding a little colour really can transform an outfit, so if you are someone that loves to add quirky touches to your outfits, investing in some colourful combat boots can be a great way to quickly inject that personality.

Wear your combat boots with your shorts

As we head into the warmer weather, your shorts will be coming out to play, so why not bring your combat boots with you, and you can pair your favourite pair of shorts with your awesome combat boots. I’d recommend investing in a tapered topped combat boot like these from Dolce Vita as they are slim fitting; or on the alternative side, a slightly higher boot to the calf by Koi Footwear which have a fun crocodile pattern to them. 

Which way is your favourite to wear combat boots, have I missed any classics that are your go-to? If you’d like some help creating fantastic outfits that you love & will want to wear over and over again, then I’d love to chat with you. I offer a face to face or online personal styling service which will help you find your personal style.

GUEST BLOG POST: FOLLOW THE THREE T’S TO BOOST YOUR BRAND THROUGH VIDEO

Stefania and I have spoken a lot about presenting your brand, and one of the best ways to boost people’s awareness is to get yourself out there on video. Even though we’re all excited about getting back out into the world, many business owners have seen how video has helped them over the past year so they will continue to use them as part of their marketing.

Audiences have responded too, with 81% of people saying they want to see more videos from brands. People are watching videos more than ever, on their mobile, on their tablet, sitting at home or on the go. So even with people moving around - they’ll still be watching your videos on the Tube, on the bus or in the park.

I understand that making videos makes some people feel nervous, but I’m here to make your life easier, I promise. In order to get you out of your head and make videos to increase your visibility and boost brand awareness, I propose you follow the three T’s.

What are the three T’s? Technology, Technique, Technicalities. Easy to remember, and even easier to implement, I promise.

EXPLAINING THE THREE T’S

1) Technology

If you want to create short videos for social media, your blog or vlog – you already have the technology, probably in your hand right now: your mobile phone. You don’t even need a fancy app, just your camera. Position it correctly and press record.

When you get deeper into technology, you can play around with the lens, but until you have mastered the basics, don’t worry about it.

The other thing that is vital when it comes to technology is your lighting. This is probably the single most important piece of advice when it comes to video: lighting can make or break your video. It needs to be bright yet not wash you out, and you can easily buy an inexpensive light to get the right effect. That’s if you don’t have much access to daylight.

The position of the light is important too – make sure that you’re not backlit or getting light from above you, especially if you’re concerned about looking pale or tired. Light yourself from the front and you’ll get the right effect, making you look your best.

2) Technique

The right technique will ensure that you connect with your audience, which is the aim of the game here. You want to capture their attention, deliver your message and begin building trust with your audience. How do you do that? A couple of little tricks make this possible:

a)      Position the camera around arm’s length away to ensure that your whole face can be seen. This is a great distance as it gives the impression that you are standing in front of your potential customer as if they were having a conversation with you.

b) Another trick is to put the camera at eye level, using a tripod, or even propping it up with some books! When you’re speaking to them at eye level, it creates the illusion that you are face to face, which makes people forget the screen a little.

Don’t record when looking up or down at a camera, it’s distracting, can give a wrong impression and will draw away from your message. 

3) Technicalities

When I talk about technicalities, I mean the little details. Your style is important at communicating who you are, but remember so is everything else that the viewer can see. Have you props to support your message, or do you think they will be distracting? What’s going on in the background – remember anything that can draw the eye of your audience will become part of what they think of you. It can also become an extra distraction that will have their attention as opposed to looking at you and listening carefully to what you have to say.

Essentially what I’m saying is to keep it simple. You only have a short window of time to make an impression, so ensure that it’s the right one. Here are some tips on how to do that:

a)      What you’re wearing: I suggest to only wear one or two colours at most, especially if your features are on the fairer side. Bright colours are great in person, but on video they can be distracting – pulling the attention from you and your message. As Stefania has said before, a bright scarf or hairpiece can be very effective.

b)      Your background: Position yourself somewhere that has a plain or simple background. Much like your clothes, bright colours behind you simply create something else for the viewer to look at. Don’t choose a park with children playing in the background – unless that’s part of your story and brand.

Hopefully knowing these three T’s will boost your confidence and improve your video-making skills. You can find out more on my blog, or book a 1-2-1 chat with me to discuss your video strategy and goals.

Blog link: https://ufocuspro.com/in-the-spotlight/

Let’s chat video link: https://bookme.name/eugeniaz/lets-chat-video

GUEST BLOG POST: DECLUTTERING BEFORE A SPRING CLEAN

After the many wardrobe edits I delivered over the past 5 years, I’ve come to the conclusion that one thing is to detox and clear out a wardrobe, another is to keep it tidy and organised. Many people struggle with this, so I’m very happy to host and share this blog post written by Tracy Ross, professional Organiser at Blissfully Organised, where she highlights the benefits of keeping a decluttered wardrobe.

My name is Tracy Ross, and I am a Professional Organiser. For over 11 years I have been supporting my clients to simplify their lives by simplifying their home organisation. The connection between our space and mindset is immensely powerful. If our space is in chaos we can feel chaos in other areas of our lives.

SPRING IS HERE

With the arrival of Spring, we can start to think about preparing our homes for the warmer months to come. As much as I love winter, Spring always has such a positive feel about it. Before you start your Spring clean it’s important to declutter the space first. This involves returning displaced items to the correct storage place in your home and getting rid of the things that you no longer need.  To help motivate you here are some of my top benefits of decluttering your home/workspace.

1.       SAVE TIME EVERYDAY: An uncluttered home with effective storage will save you time. There will be less to clean and you’ll spend less time looking for displaced items.

2.       BREATHE MORE EASILY: Cluttered rooms attract dust and create an environment for germs and pests.

3.       EFFECTIVE HOME MAINTENANCE: Cluttered spaces can hide potential problems such as damp or cracks. If you cannot get to the affected areas easily you can’t see or action repairs.

1.       LESS FINANCIAL MESS & BETTER FINANCIAL PLANNING:  It’s more difficult to keep track of your bills and paperwork in a cluttered environment. Important documents can get lost in piles of paperwork causing you more stress and time spent looking for the paperwork that you need to action.  With effective household paperwork organisation, you can be more proactive and feel more in control.

2.       SELL YOUR HOME FOR MORE MONEY: If you are planning to sell your home an uncluttered space will help to maximise the space that you have and help to secure a higher sale price. Decluttering before you sell will also save you time and money as you’ll have less to move to your new home.

3.       STRESS FREE ENTERTAINING: An uncluttered home means that you can invite friends and family around without having to do a ‘massive’ tidy up before they arrive (often throwing things in cupboards out of view).

4.       RECLAIM MORE SPACE: Decluttering of crammed lofts garages/sheds can create effective space for seasonal items that you need to store from other areas of your home.

5.       SAVE MONEY: Decluttering our homes can help us evaluate future purchases i.e. less duplicate buying and unfinished projects.

6.       REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE: You don’t have to feel guilty about getting rid of the things that you no longer need or simply throw them away.  There are so many options to make a difference by donating items to the right new home.

7.       HOME IS A HAPPY PLACE: Feel more relaxed in your organised space and stimulate creativity.

Often getting started is the most difficult part. You may be feeling overwhelmed and do not know where to start.

Please contact Tracy Ross at Blissfully Organised Home Organisation and Decluttering at tracy@blissfullyorganised.co.uk. She offers a confidential and trusted service that will support you to achieve your ideal home organisation.

PERSONAL STYLIST TOP TIPS TO ORGANIZE YOUR RETURN-TO-WORK(WEAR)

If you’re anything like me then you will be getting very excited about what the next few months will hold for us. Not only are we now able to once again see one another (within the government guidelines) but also, many of us will be beginning to go back to “normal” working lives. Whether it’s coming out of furlough, seeing clients face to face, or returning to the office after months at home, your wardrobe is going to need to return, potentially, to a more professional style. But how can you reorganise your wardrobe to reflect these changes?

Give yourself time

We have indulged, sat at home, and simply started to get used to the comfort of our working from home wear. This means that your previous professional outfits may feel uncomfortable or different to how they used to. Give yourself enough time to retry on your professional clothes, and permit yourself self-care should they no longer fit. Prevent yourself from holding onto clothes that are too big or too small, and just donate them. Take them out of your mind, and give yourself a little boost knowing that now you can upgrade your wardrobe to reflect your personality a little more with some clothes shopping. If you want to know my tips for making your online shopping experience successful, read my blog here.

Plan ahead

Now you have your clothes sorted in your wardrobe, and you’re ready to get back to your working routine, you’ll want to save yourself valuable time! For some, this return to work means extra early wake ups, and long commutes, so any time saved means more time in the shower, having breakfast, with the family, or just simply saving stress in the morning. Plan your outfit the night (or even the week!) before, so you know exactly what you’re going to pick up and put on.

If you are unsure on what outfits work well, then why not head to Pinterest for some inspiration (or give me a call to discuss a Personal Styling Session!) to help create outfits that you love. You can then plan them in a “flat lay” on the bed, see what accessories and shoes work well, and make some fun out of the whole planning process. Once you’ve curated outfits for the week, you can hang them all together so they are easy to pull out of your newly organised wardrobe in a flash.

You may also want to prepare a bag for your change of shoes if you are someone that does a lot of walking but needs to transform into high heels or less comfortable smart shoes for the office.

Create capsule spaces in your wardrobe

If you are changing up your routine with flexible working, meaning you may be working from home some days and then at the office on others, then you may want to create easy to access capsule areas in your wardrobe so you can easily switch between office workwear, and home workwear, as well as the fun clothing for outside brunches and, soon, date nights! When you know the area to pick and choose from for your outfits for specific days, it will make the experience so much more fun.

Manage your expectations

If you are feeling overwhelmed by what to wear, as it’s been a very long time for all of us living in the sort of “half professional” look, then you deserve to give yourself some time to manage your expectations for what the coming weeks and months will look like for you. Planning your outfits, getting clothes together in advance, and making sure there are no items in your wardrobe that don’t fit or suit you, will be one way to help keep the process smooth and calm. If you work in an office, or have networking events that you attend with close friends or contacts, you could all chat together before the working week to see how you’re getting on, help one another with outfit choices, and make it a more fun experience for you all.

My final piece of advice is to enjoy these changes – remember how fun it can be to dress up, create workwear outfits for a meeting, and feel professionally pulled together, and embrace that fun. If it doesn’t feel fun (or if you have always dreaded getting your clothes together for any occasion) then please get in touch – I can help you feel confident, comfortable, and make every morning an enjoyable one when it comes to clothes.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: THE GIFT OF (THE RIGHT) COLOUR

With the arrival of Spring, and lockdown being lifted, clothing brands are reacting with colour – and boy do we need it in our lives.

Something I love about what I do is helping my clients find clothes more enjoyable, with a focus on the colours that work beautifully for their skin, personal style, and personality.

So, what are the new trends in terms of colour, available to us during Spring 2021, and which colours can work best for you? Let’s dive in!

Ice cream sorbet colours

While we may only be in spring and ice cream may not be as enticing as in summer, ice-cream pastels have been a colour trend coming through fashion shows for 2021. As the name suggests, these colours have cool features, which means they work particularly well on people with cooler skin undertones.

From pinks to purples, these pallets are a great way into this fashion trend for summers and winters, depending mostly in the saturations of the hues, and will match amazingly well with silver! While if you believe, or you know, that your features are warm, but you’d still love to go for ice cream sorbet colours, don’t despair, you can find ways to “fix” them through a nice match with one of your best colours, especially neutrals (like browns, beiges, greys, navy blue..) that usually goes with pretty much everything.

Yellows

A perfect colour for welcoming the sun is yellow, and this softer hue is a gorgeous colour to embrace in your wardrobe if you want to dip your toe in bright colours without overwhelming yourself. However, be careful, yellow is not an easy colour to wear. I personally recommend this colour for lighter skin tones such as Spring and Summers. Try out the soft yellow tones with a scarf, or go all out with a comfortable spring-ready light jumper, or dress for brunch with your loved ones.

Whereas Autumns can opt for a more golden tone, or even mustard (that will be available too) and Winters may want to only wear soft yellows as an accessory rather than all over.

Monochromatic white

I love a monochrome outfit – using one colour or shades of the same colour – it can work beautifully for a pulled together, professional look. Spring/Summer 2021 appears to have fallen in love with white monochromatic outfits and this can be a stunning way to welcome a warmer season. Consider keeping the look clean and minimal, with a small number of accessories – like metals - both gold and silver work beautifully with white, one making it warmer and the other cooler, so it can be your way to make your monochromatic white outfit truly work for you.

White can be a difficult colour to wear though, and I recommend you opt for a cream if you think you have softer features, as it isn’t as harsh against your skin. While you can wear a bright white if you are a winter.

Try a stunning jumpsuit or go for separates with a lush suit that can make you feel powerful & professional.

Pretty in pink

With previous years showcasing neon hues of pink, 2021 seems to have embraced a more bubblegum shade, as well as lighter shades – and it can be a very fun colour to wear, for the right skin tones. With the multitude of shades, I recommend finding one that suits you and your personality. Light pinks can be beautiful on Springs and Summers, depending on the hue temperatures, whereas the brighter, shocking pink hues can stand up to Winters. Autumns need to stay on warmer and softer tones, like peaches and apricots.

The lighter pinks can work well with white and light denim, whereas darker shades of pink work really well with darker denim or even black. But if you have a more dramatic or creative style, you can have fun mixing pink with greens or blues in your outfits, like some celebrities are showing off proudly.

It can be a very girly colour, so if that is your style go all out and get yourself a beautiful pink dress and enjoy the spring sunshine!

Green Hues

If you are a vibrant colour fan, then this green trend is fantastic for you! If you are an Autumn, you can pick lime greens, which go fantastically with your skin tone, why not try a beautiful halter-dress for Spring to welcome the warmer weather with the green trend? You may gravitate to a flowy, lime green wrap dress (that is a little more on budget), or a lime green bag can be a less domineering step into the lime green trend. 

For Autumns and Winters, the darker green will work very well with your skin tone and I can suggest a structured strappy dress that will transition well into the Spring and Summer, if you are an abstract style of dresser. Whereas, for my Romantic Autumn and Winters a more flowy deep green dress with florals on it will be the perfect addition to your wardrobe.  This stunning Chloe bag in deep green is a great accessory to add to your wardrobe, for a green addition without having to dedicate to a full outfit, too. Whereas my Summers need to veer more towards the teal green tones, due to their colouring, like these leather trousers by PINKO, or this shirt from ASOS.

Vibrant orange

My final favourite colour in Spring/Summer 2021 fashion trends, is vibrant orange. We all need a pick me up, and this daring colour is wonderful for the soul. Different fashion houses have shared a multitude of tones, so expect our high streets to embrace orange too. Burnt orange is stunning against darker and warmer skin, whereas the brighter hues can be beautiful against Spring tones, who can try out this bright trend with a cardigan or jumper, or treat yourself to a perfect long sleeved orange dress.

For the burnt orange, an accessory like a bag or pair of heels can be very versatile (I’ve found a more budget-friendly replica on Asos here if you love those shoes!), or invest in a stunning silk shirt to work well on Zoom calls and when you go out to lunch with friends.

 Bonus – Colour match trend

Feeling a little overwhelmed with all the colours and unsure how to match them with your wardrobe? The stunning yellow colour works beautifully with caramels and browns, as well as your traditional yellows, and is becoming a trend among the fashion-conscious. It’s not a colour combination that has often been seen, so it’s perfect for those of you looking to be a trend-setter! The caramels and beiges in general also work beautifully with white, black, and other pastel tones so can be played with across outfits and seasons.

source: https://www.thetrendspotter.net/fashion-trends-spring-summer-2021/

If you want some help finding those perfect colours for you all year round, not just for a specific new trend, then get in touch, and we can organise a colour analysis or online personal style masterclass to suit your needs, personal style, and wardrobe.

Which colours were your favourite, that you’ll want to try out?

PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: HOW TO PLAN YOUR SHOPPING ONLINE AND MAKE IT REALLY WORK FOR YOU

My gut tells me online shopping will be the preferred options from the majority of consumers over 2021. Online shopping can be "tricky" so, while I absolutely understand that people feel safer and want to avoid stepping into a physical store (and also, most of them do not allow us to try things on during these times) I'd recommend being careful with shopping online, trying to search specific items and avoid random/compulsive purchases. So here are some tips to help make sure your online shopping experience is a good one!

Write a list

My first tip is to write a shopping list and follow it while researching items. Start your list by going through your Spring wardrobe and find the items you feel are missing that can extend your outfits. Do you have a need for new tops, or camisoles, perhaps you may need a few replacement light cardigans – whatever you feel you may need to add to your wardrobe that would actually work with your current collection will ensure you have a list that works rather than a haphazard approach to shopping.

Which clothing brands do you love?

We often gravitate to certain brands that work for us, and our wardrobe will show us those brands. So, while you’re writing your list, find out the brands that seem to pop up regularly. With this in mind, you can then visit their online stores for their new collections or sale items, that match your shopping list!

What cuts work well for your body?

Our body can look amazing in certain styles, and with a knowledge of the style of jeans you love most, to the dress types that you feel amazing in, figure out the cuts and styles you love to wear and this will help you when searching for items online.

For example, if you feel fabulous in square neck tops – look for clothes with a similar neckline that you know you’ll feel confident in. Perhaps you need a new pair of jeans (now we are finally being given the opportunity to go outside with friends once again!), consider the style of jeans you like, as well as the leg length and waist size, which you can replicate with your next purchase. Flared jeans are coming back into fashion, so if you’ve been desperate to get a pair, now is a great time to invest.

What colours will suit your current wardrobe and personal style?

Another really important part to remember when it comes to shopping is to know the colours you love to wear, and that work with your wardrobe. Many online shops allow you to categorise by colour as well as type, so use this option so you’re not distracted by items that just won’t work with your current wardrobe!

Know your budget

My final tip is to consider your budget. Fast fashion works well for quick required pieces, but with so many of us still being wary of going out quite as much, you may want to step back and consider your budget. With a higher ticket price, you will often find a much better item – and if this means waiting a little while before investing in pieces that you will love, or waiting for a sale, then you will find your wardrobe has more clothing that you want to wear more often. Invest in a few important pieces while online shopping that stay within your budget, to treat yourself, but also to know that they will be worn with love & will work with multiple items in your wardrobe (if you’ve done all the other ideas in this list!).

If you are feeling a little overwhelmed by the thought of shopping online, or perhaps you have bought clothes in the past that you’re not using, please get in touch – I can help you with my online personal style masterclass where we will work together to create a perfect personal style for you. With this in hand, your shopping (online and offline) will be a much more enjoyable experience!

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: 10 WAYS TO WEAR A BLAZER

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

Why I love the blazer

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

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

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

Traditional Blazer Styling – with your suit

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

Over a dress

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

Draped over the shoulder

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

Over your favourite t-shirt

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

With jeans

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

Make it sexy…

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

Clashing prints

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

Keep it monochromatic

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

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

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

Layer over your comfortable trousers

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

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

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

HAND CONFIDENCE AND SANITIZING

Have you ever stopped thinking about the importance of your hands in your everyday life and style?

Hands are the parts of the body that are always exposed and clearly visible (even more than the face at the moment). If you look down at the keyboard, the first thing you see is your hands; whenever you grab something, your hands are there in front of your eyes; during an online meeting you move your hands and people can still see them; when you meet someone (not now maybe but it'll happen soon again) your hands are the first point of contact between you and someone else - and that's also why some people define them as the very first business card. Besides, well-groomed nails have always been considered synonymous with beauty.

At a personal level, having beautiful hands makes us feel presentable and "right". Whilst when we have old, half chipped nail polish, bitten nails, or cracked hands, we just don't feel comfortable. Not by chance is hand-beauty a million-pound industry, which sees lots of people (not only women) investing into it every year.

And yet, I find that many people still overlook their hands and their nails, and over the last months, the constant use of hand sanitizers and aggressive detergents has surely not helped people in taking good care of their hands.

This is why I thought to interview a true expert: Sabena Malik founder of Nails Haute Couture, who has helped countless numbers of clients look after their own nails.

Here are a few questions that I asked Sabena to help us have beautiful and tidy-looking hands and nails, without too much fuss.

Q: What can we do to take care of our hands and nails on a daily basis? Especially now that we are using hand sanitizers all the time.

A:  Luckily there are hand sanitizers available for sensitive skin, some with Aloe Vera so you can find one that suits your skin best.

Using natural hand cream without mineral oil or alcohol maybe before bedtime is a great way to help your hands and nails recover from the stresses of hand sanitizing.  Shea Butter is super absorbent and coconut or olive oil is hydrating for the nails and cuticles. If your hands are exceptionally dry, wearing cotton gloves during the night can really help lock in the moisture and condition the skin. Organic Aloe Vera Gel is very soothing and healing too.  We keep ours in the fridge and apply under our hand cream for extra hydration.

Q: How important are our hands in our general style and presence?

A: Tony Robbins once told his story about how his nail biting cost him a very valuable business relationship because the person saw his blood-covered fingers from biting his nails and she said she couldn’t work with someone who doesn’t have the discipline and self-respect for himself!

Nail biting is a sign of insecurity and basically a bad habit.  If you’re in business, everything from shiny shoes, clean teeth and manicured hands can be an indication of the level of your self-respect and confidence.

Q: Do you have some quick and easy tips on how to have good looking hands, even if we have no time to have a manicure?

A: Just bringing your nails into shape and giving your hands and fingers a little massage with a good hand cream at the end of the day in front of the TV can do wonders.  Our hands do work hard for us and deserve this little treat at least!

Q: Which products would you suggest to use to keep hands hydrated and help nails grow strong and look nice, even without nail polish?

Alcohol and mineral oil ingredients in skin care products will block the pores and will just sit on top of your skin without being absorbed.  Any good skin care product will not have these ingredients so watch out for them.  I love anything with shea butter and aloe vera.

I also drink a collagen-boosting supplement every day which is great for healthy skin, hair and nails. 

Q: Is cutting your cuticles bad for the skin?

A: Cuticles are designed to protect your nails from bacteria and cutting them makes your nails vulnerable.  If they are cut so much that they are red or bleed, open or irritated skin can contract all kinds of bacteria and can lead to nail fungi and skin infections.

The best way to treat your cuticles is to just leave them. When they are soft from a shower or bath, gently push them back and using a cuticle nipper just nip off any loose skin.
Hydrating with a good cuticle oil is great to keep them conditioned.

This article is not intended as medical or scientific advice. If you have any concerns, please consult a GP or skin specialist.

If you liked Sabena's tips and would like to get in touch with her, her details are below:

www.nailshautecouture.com

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabena-malik-09091128/

or Sign up for Nailtime Stories at nailshautecouture@gmail.com  

7 TIPS TO FIND THE PERFECT PAIR OF TROUSERS

In this article I am delighted to have a guest post from tailor, Dara Stringham, who shares her advice on how to find the perfect trousers for you, and how to use a tailor to help make them fit perfectly.

Why is it so hard to find trousers that fit?

7 tips to get the perfect pair of trousers

I’m sure that most of us have asked ourselves this question: Why is it so hard to find trousers that fit? And perhaps we’ve taken it further to think: What is wrong with my shape?

The truth is that trousers are one of the most difficult garments to get right - especially for women. We all carry our weight in different ways and as we age our shape changes too. I am certainly seeing a difference in my waistline now that I have reached my forties. Partly it’s having had children, but it’s also natural metabolic changes that occur as we grow older.

When drafting a pair of trousers for my clients, I take into account a variety of factors that go beyond simple measurements. For example, the shape of the hips, tummy, thighs, and seat. Are they round or straight, what is the angle of the hips from front to back, left to right, the overall posture?

Conventional ready-to-wear can only accommodate a basic symmetrical shape - and if you’re lucky you’ll fit into it. However, it’s far more common not to, which is why I’d like to share a few tips on getting trousers to fit better, and what to consider when purchasing a pair.

1.     Always fit your largest measurement.

When purchasing clothing, it’s a good rule of thumb to fit your largest measurement and then work with an alterations tailor to fit the rest of the garment to your shape. So, if your hips are wide, make sure you have enough room in the trousers to sit comfortably and not have unsightly creases cutting across your thighs. Then have the waist taken in to fit.

Have a look at the waistband on the trousers, and ask yourself these questions:

·       Does it have a centre back seam?

·       Are there belt loops that might get in the way?

·       How easy is it to open and detach from the trouser legs?

·       Are there pockets in the side seam which could make taking it in at this point more difficult?

Considering these questions when you are shopping will help you decide whether it will be an easy alteration or a more complex one. If you’re not sure, buy them and take them to a tailor for advice.

2.     Find a tailor that will do a fitting with you.

Following on from my point above, I would suggest finding a tailor or dressmaker that will do a fitting with you. So, rather than going in and saying, “I need the waist taking in by 4cm”, have your tailor look at the fit with you. Often in addition to taking in or letting out the waist, adjustments need to be made to the crotch and inside leg seam. Having an expert give you advice is the best way to achieve a good result. For tips on how to find a good tailor you can read my blog here.

3.     Consider the seam allowance.

Most conventional garments only have 1cm seam allowance to save on production and material costs. However, better brands will have a deeper seam allowance of around 2cm for the leg seams, and 3+cm on the centre back. Taking note of this at time of purchase will give you more scope for alterations in the future - especially letting out your favourite pair of trousers should it become necessary. (And after a year at home this is increasingly the case!)

4.     Buy more than one pair.

As a good pair of trousers are so difficult to find, I recommend buying more than one pair of the same design if you find ones that fit. I have so many clients who come to me disappointed that their favourite pair are no longer stocked. Retailers change their collections, even their basic styles, on a regular basis. So don’t rely on your favourite design being available forever.

5.     Find the best style to suit your shape.

Finding the perfect trousers begins with understanding which style suits you best. Are you long or short waisted? Are your legs long or short in comparison to your torso? What is your overall body shape? A personal stylist such as Stefania can give you expert advice on which styles are best for you and more importantly where to find them. For example, if you are long waisted, high rise trousers are ideal for you. They optically shorten the torso and lengthen your legs bringing your body into proportion. Or if you are wider on your top half than your lower half you could choose wide legged trousers to balance this out.

6. Consider the pockets.

Pockets and their placement can play a big role in the fit of trousers. If you have a round tummy slanted pockets on the front are more likely to gape open and add bulk where you don’t want it. Instead, having pockets in the inseam or choosing ones that can be closed with a zipper can be a better option.

On the back, the placement of patch or jetted pockets with flaps can help break up the area. Again, considering your shape and knowing what will work best for it is important.

7. Trouser Pleats.

Pleats or sharp creases are a great way to define the leg and make sure it looks neat and long. The vertical line creates length. The direction of the pleats is also important. If they are facing towards the middle, they draw the eyes inwards, minimising wide hips. Folded towards the outside the reverse is true. So, a simple reversal of the pleat direction can make a big difference to the look of the trousers.

I hope the above tips are useful and give you some ideas on how to achieve a better fit. If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch.

And if you’d like to find out more about the most common fit problems when it comes to trousers you could also read my post here.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: HOW TO WEAR COMFY CLOTHES AND STAY STYLISH!

Style is changing, we have seen during the last year that fashion and style has evolved into a comfortable, practical form while we stay home and stay safe. However, for many of us, the “comfy” look can feel frumpy, and unstylish, so in this blog I wanted to share with you a few ways to make your comfy clothes feel & look great!

Go for colour!

Often the first thing I recommend to any of my personal styling clients is the importance of colour, and there is never a more important time to consider colour than when you are looking at your comfy wardrobe. While remaining comfortable, you want to feel put together, and a splash of colour really can help to bring through your personal style. Whether it’s a bright hoodie, or a colourful headband, bring some colour to your comfy wardrobe to feel more stylish.

Bring in texture

Something I find important about comfortable clothing is the textures. From textured velvets to wool, the textures you can find in your clothing will not only add an extra layer of comfort, but also work really well in adding a little style to your look. Velvet, for example, can look fantastic when on a video thanks to the different ways it picks up the light. Find some great textures & fabrics to add to your wardrobe and upgrade your comfy style.

 Add a blazer!

If you want to upgrade your athleisure look in a flash, add a blazer! The added layer works beautifully over many different casual looks – from over a hoodie and jeans, to upgrading your workout top if you need to jump on a video call. I recommend having a few different styles of blazer in your wardrobe, a formal muted blazer, a fun piece that showcases your personality, and a thicker (perhaps wool) blazer for colder days.

Indulge in high quality comfortwear

While you may feel that the classic active wear you want to wear to work out in can be a budget piece, I highly recommend investing in some key comfy pieces that will last a lifetime. When you invest in a high-quality piece, you instantly feel more put together. This isn’t to say you have to spend thousands on a designer item, but looking for something that isn’t fast-fashion priced will mean your piece will last longer, and feel a better quality too. Knitwear is one category I recommend investing in and you can find some stunning items from the high street that are built to last and look unique. I also recommend getting a few “casual” pieces that can also transform into work-ready items like a matching set.

Embrace comfort

My final tip is to embrace that many of us are having to deal with a huge amount right now, from looking after the kids, living through a rollercoaster of changes, and our lives genuinely changing almost every day, you should give yourself the permission to embrace the comforts in your every day life. Whether that’s giving yourself time to yourself, or living in your favourite snuggly jumper and yoga pants, giving yourself the permission to be comfortable is just one way to help build your wellbeing during these trying times.

If you would like some advice to upgrade your comfort wear, or want some advice on how to create a wardrobe that is stress-free, I’d love to chat.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: HOW TO LOOK AND FEEL CONFIDENT, FROM THE WAIST UP

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: HOW TO LOOK AND FEEL CONFIDENT, FROM THE WAIST UP

With the recent announcement meaning many of us will be continuing to work from home for a while yet, I wanted to share some more tips to help people look and feel their best for the online meetings we will continue to be hosting!

Brighten up your mindset with some colour

Winter is often a time of year when many of us feel quite grey and perhaps even a little moody. For those of us without the joyous snow, it has been rainy and cold which means plenty of layers and perhaps our summery florals & colours are impatiently waiting to be pulled out for summer. My thoughts on winter are that this is the time of year that we most need colour in our wardrobe, and I feel this couldn’t be more needed than while we are staying at home. With an addition of colour to your outfit you will start to feel more uplifted, and they will also help you stand out when on a large online meeting!

You’ll want to know the best colours for your skin tone but a few ideas I can suggest for online meetings are pinks, blues, oranges, and bright yellows – they stand out really well on camera.

You could even go for a really bright and fun pattern like this jumper from House of Sunny, which will definitely perk you and your fellow online meeting attendees’ up!

Boost your confidence with a touch of make-up

Working from home can feel like bliss for those of us who had to get up hours in advance of starting work to not only get the kids ready and commute to the office, but also for the extra time-savings of no need for make-up. However, make-up can be a wonderful confidence and mood-booster. Whether it’s a colourful lipstick, or a dash of eyeliner, or even just a sweep of mascara, they can go a long way to helping boost your mood and help you look put together if you are asked for a surprise online meeting that you thought would be just a telephone call!

Go for an easy to apply, long-lasting lipstick in a shade that works for you, or a water-proof mascara that can survive the rain if you nip outside for a breath of fresh air on a walk or jog during the day.

Add an accessory

My final tip for boosting your confidence from the waist up is to add a favourite accessory to your outfit. Something that has sparkle, a lovely memory, or feels special to you. From a colourful silk scarf, to a fun pair of earrings, you can bring an accessory to your outfit quickly and easily to upgrade your casual work from home look to a professional business meeting outfit.

If you are feeling a little uninspired or overwhelmed on how to feel more confident when you attend online meetings or events, then I’d love to invite you to join Mel Byron and me for our “Confidence and Style from the Waist Up” webinar on 18th January where we will help you elevate your look and learn how to speak with professionalism & confidence.

NEW YEAR NEW YOU - TOP TIPS TO KICK START 2021 AND FEEL YOUR BEST

As a personal stylist I love helping my clients boost their confidence through their personal style and with a wardrobe that they feel truly showcases their personality. This year has been a tough one for so many of us, so I wanted to share some of my confidence boosting tips to help you start 2021 with a growth of confidence and feel your best!

Find colours that you love and wear them more often

Do you find that sometimes you put something on that is in a certain colour and you just feel more confident? Colour can be a truly transformative element to our confidence. Bright colours, especially during the colder months, can be a wonderful way to make you feel a little more bright and fun. Try adding some colour to your outfit with accessories like a hat, scarf, or if you’re feeling really adventurous a coat or go for a classic with some bright and beautiful shoes!

Dress up for yourself

With everything that’s been going on in 2020, many of us have been staying indoors, living in our yoga pants, or pyjamas unless a meeting calls for it. Although this was fun at the beginning, it can feel a little repetitive. I find dressing up can really improve my mood, and is something I am actively doing at least twice a week. Whether it’s for date night indoors with your partner, a meeting online, or just to get yourself some coffee, going the extra mile with your outfit can be a great way to improve your confidence.

Whether it’s a demure long dress for the evening, or a glamourous shirt that you feel great in, treat yourself to an outfit you love and wear it.

Actually treat yourself!

Relaxation and self-care are ways to help build your confidence, and are important parts to helping us feel our best. For me, having a relaxing bath is a really lovely way to treat myself, and makes me feel great – I get to read a book, light some candles, and have some wonderful smelling body soaks to unwind. For other ideas you can treat yourself by painting your nails, reading a book, taking a break for coffee, calling a loved one, or using some wonderful body care items.

However you are planning to spend the last week of the year, and planning for 2021, I hope you spend time on yourself too. If you would like to treat yourself to the gift of a wardrobe that brings you joy, please do get in touch and we can organise an online Personal Style Masterclass together! Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and New Year!