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31 December 2013

New Years Eve Outfit Solutions

So the big night of the year is drawing closer and plans have been made. Some people feel a lot of pressure to wear the most extravagant outfit that ever existed!!!! Countless times I have hit the shops to find the 'perfect New Years Eve' outfit, spending money on an outfit that I have only worn once! My advice is to look back at previous 'must have' outfits and experiment with these to create a new showstopper! Don't get me wrong if you have already seen/purchased an incredible outfit then certainly wear it tonight but my message is don't buy for the sake of it.

My choice is my deep red velvet dress with sparkles as I mentioned in my Christmas Day Outfit Solutions post. As I browse the shops I see a few versions of my dress I bought 3 years ago, which I was tempted to buy before realising my dress was at home waiting to celebrate the New Year once again!! I decided I would prefer to buy a new and exciting item to add to my wardrobe that enhanced my look and was needed.

My advice is to make use of your the items in your wardrobe that you already own. It is easy to fall into the habit of buying for the sake of it rather than spending wisely and realising that during the festive season similar trends appear. Maybe this year you will add a new top to a gorgeous skirt, a statement blazer to your lace dress or a new hairstyle to make you feel special.


Happy New Year from all at The Image Consulting Company!!! I look forward to 2014 with more style advice to share : )





28 December 2013

How To Survive The Sales

Christmas Day is over (sad face) and many high street stores are heaving with bargain hunters hoping for the perfect item in the sales. My Facebook feed was filled with those who braved the Next sale on Boxing Day at 5am. Even though I love a bargain I refuse to shop on Boxing Day as I think this festive day should be reserved for family time, movies and food : ). Anyway, rant over and on with the task in hand.


  • Brace the shops early to avoid elbowing your way through the crowds. The sale department will also be tidy and organised from the close the night before.
  • Pick out pieces that you are drawn to and reassess later.
  • Don't purchase items because of the cheap price, ask yourself do I actually need this and will I wear this regularly?
  • Take a break to relax and compose yourself, especially if the stores are busy. It is easy to become irritated when there are a lot of people around.
  • Don't wear too many layers! Stores and shopping centres are usually hot so you will end up carrying coats and cardigans, which make the process more difficult. 
  • Either take a friend with you for support or go alone to make the task more focused. You could always meet up for a coffee to show off your purchases.
  • Remember quality over quantity!! 

  • Also, remember that this is a fun trip and there is no pressure to purchase anything - just enjoy it!
  • Head out with a budget in mind and try not to exceed this amount with items you don't need.
  • Good Luck!!!!!
If you need a helping hand to brave the sales why not book one of our personal stylists to help you find great bargains!!! I am off to the new Primark in my hometown today - wish me luck. 

Vivienne Westwoods quote is very relevant to sale shopping!! Choose those best pieces rather than purchasing a lot of 'ok' items!!






27 December 2013

The Friday Girl's Style: New Year's Eve

If you say New Year's Eve to me, normally what pops into my head is a little sparkly dress, this has, in my opinion, become a bit of a cliche! So I thought this year I'd try and wear something a little bit different and make a statement with something else, like this fabulous French Connection coat. I went for a sixties theme with a comfy but chic roll neck from Miss Selfridge and some gorgeous Nasty Gal cigarette pants. Paired with this cute bag from Boohoo and some leopard print Kurt Geiger courts, you're good to go with a slick of liquid eyeliner and a bit of backcombing in that beehive. Marc Jacobs jewels to top that look off perfectly, aren't those daisies just the prettiest earrings you've seen all year?

Happy New Year ladies. xxx


24 December 2013

How To Accessorise: Part 3

Another useful accessory that can add interest to your outfits is jewellery. I have recently invested in a few key statement necklaces to transform my look. This is particularly relevant to my last post on Christmas Day Outfit Solutions!!! as those velvet dresses or lace tops can immediately appear different with a piece of stunning jewellery.

Jewellery is an inexpensive way to create a new look. High street stores are full of various types of necklaces, bracelets and earrings to add the right amount of BLING to your outfit this Christmas. Now, I know it's Christmas Eve and you are probably all shopped out but if a necklace is the secret to transforming your Christmas outfit then hit the shops. If you are focused on the task in hand then you will be back watching Christmas films before you know it!!!! Alternatively, there may be one stashed in your jewellery box from a few seasons ago that will do the trick.

Let me know what Christmas outfits you will be wearing this year. I have opted for a sequin skirt with a more casual tee............... and you've guessed it, a statement necklace!!!

Have a fantastic Christmas from us all at The Image Consulting Company.




21 December 2013

Christmas Day Outfit Solutions!!

Christmas Day is approaching (quickly)! Presents are bought and wrapped, the Christmas tree is beautifully decorated and the turkey and trimmings are waiting to be cooked. Phew!!! Everything is sorted!!!!!! Then panic hits...........................What am I going to wear????

Now calm down, take a deep breath and head to your wardrobe. I have discovered that over the years similar trends appear during the festive season. Velvet, sequins, lace and glitter hit the high street distracting those dedicated present buying shoppers who are tempted to try on some slinky numbers to avoid buying those difficult gifts you leave until the last minute.

This year I have vowed to search through my wardrobe at the items I have bought in previous years. Proving my theory right I have a gorgeous velvet dress with glitter spots, a stunning black dress and a cute sequin skirt that have all been worn on only a few occasions. I have decided to wear one of these again this year. I plan to spend the afternoon re-inventing my outfit to give it a new look!!!

What dresses and skirts do you have in your wardrobe desperately trying to shine for Christmas Day???    Take a look through and remember don't panic!!!



20 December 2013

The Friday Girl's Tips: Festive Party Survival Essentials

 
It's party season and from personal experience, girl to girl, I know that sometimes disasters can happen and that I need to have outfit and beauty emergency tools on hand to keep me looking and feeling fabulous. I'm sure a lot of you are the same and you can only feel your absolute best if everything goes to plan. Sometimes, things don't go to plan, and you need my little survival kit at home whilst you're getting ready and a few bits in your clutch bag to keep you looking 100% party ready.

First of all, you need perfect underwear for your shape and your outfit. If you haven't had a bra fitting, next time you're shopping take ten minutes for yourself and visit a department store or underwear boutique and have a fitting. You'll see an instant difference if you're wearing the wrong size bra, and trust me, around 80% of women the world over are wearing the wrong sized bra. Try some shapewear if you're wearing a slinky body-con dress to really show off your shape. Check out 
Topshop Shapewear to see the one I've featured. 


Secondly, a secret weapon of mine is the trusty body tape! You can pick this up in a lot of different stores and online and it's a god-send to keep everything where it should be. Personally, I find that I don't fill some playsuits or dresses enough for them not to gape open so I just grab a little bit of tape and voila, no unwanted peekaboos.

Blister plasters are a must to keep in your handbag, and I find that Compeed are the best by far, they really work on those poor heel-clad dancing feet! Also, if you're an over-sized clutch lover like myself you can grab a mini dry shampoo and deodorant to pop in there to keep you feeling fresh. 

17 December 2013

How to Accessorise: Part Two

As discussed in last weeks instalment of How To Accessorise, I have invested in three different accessories that have enhanced my wardrobe.

This weeks accessory discovery is socks!!!

I found that various ankle socks are very practical for the Winter season and also stylish. I have invested in various colours and styles to add an extra touch to my look. Socks are versatile as they can be worn in the day through to the evening. I also team the accessory with skirts, trousers, jeans, shorts and dresses (over tights) and with boots, shoes and trainers. I wear them so much I have asked for a range of styles for Christmas - with glitter ones at the top of my list.

Top Tip: My advice would be to make sure that the ankle sock is long enough to fit over the top of the boot. Ideally, you should be able to have enough length to create a worn look by scrunching the sock. I have made the mistake of choosing a style that wasn't the right length leaving me irritated and uncomfortable all day. Remember the whole purpose of the sock is to be visible to create a stylish look.

Stores: Topshop, Urban Outfitters and H&M are a great location for socks; to name a few. Remember, that socks are ageless and can be found in most stores.

What colour socks do you love to show?? I dare you to wear a pair os socks this festive season - there are so many styles available, you will be spoilt for choice!!




14 December 2013

Scarves for the Adventurous!!!

As you are well aware of the Different Ways To Wear A Scarf, I have found a new technique to add to the list that I was not aware of (even us stylists are constantly learning new fashion tips). Now, this scarf is for the adventurous, the brave and the mighty!!!  So this weeks challenge is to try it out, I would love to hear how you get on! I am just about to give it a go myself!!

 



13 December 2013

The Friday Girl's Gift Guide: One for The Boys.

So last week was all about the girly presents and this week I thought I'd do a little gift guide for the boys. I always find them so hard to buy for! It can't just be me? There's a price range here, I know, the watch is the only ridiculous thing on there but it's so nice I couldn't resist. There are some great high street alternatives though in case you don't fancy splashing out quite that much! I've done a mini watch gift guide too.


Here are a few alternatives to the a month's worth of rent John Lewis watch, all can be found from the ASOS website. 




Only 12 days to go!

10 December 2013

How To Accessorise: Part One

This weeks topic: How to accessorise an outfit

Do you find that your outfit feels incomplete and a little boring? Find out how I managed to transform my outfit through statement accessories in three instalments.

Fashion Dilemma: I realised that my outfits were starting to become a little dull and uninspiring, which led to me to thinking about ways I could add creativity within existing outfits.

Aim: My aim was to find inexpensive solutions to re-invent my look!! Accessories were the obvious answer but I wanted to remain true to my style so began searching for items that were relevant.

Solution: In my search I found three particular types of accessories that worked well with my style and cleverly created an illusion that I was wearing a whole new outfit. Firstly, I chose a bowler hat, which would easily fit in with my existing look. I love how my bowler hat immediately turns a simple top and jeans into a stylish, sleek outfit; a comfortable look that has attitude and edge. Look out for the next two accessories that have added an extra touch to my style.

Top Tip: Experiment with different styles of hats that work for you and fit perfectly. It takes confidence to wear hats as I was worried everyone would be looking at me and it may be annoyingly uncomfortable. Luckily, my hat fits really well and I forget that I am wearing it giving me confidence - only once the wind caught my precious hat leaving me running gracefully (I'm sure) trying to recover it.

What type of hat do you wear? A beanie, trilby or, like me, a bowler hat? I would love to know your secret hat tips. Alternatively, if you have a fashion dilemma please comment below or get in touch.







07 December 2013

Wardrobe Top Tips: Week 6

How did the shopping trip go? Did you purchase items from your list???

Once safely back in the comfort of your own home it is time to experiment with new outfits and to discover if the items work in the way that you had hoped. Do those cute ankle boots look great with your dresses, skirts and jeans as you had imagined? Does the navy blazer become a staple that can be worn with almost every outfit?

After you have tried all the outfits on make sure you hang each item away in the correct place (remember by product as I explain Here). This applies to every time you wear a piece from your wardrobe, you should hang it away properly to avoid making your closet look messy. 

Personally, unless the new piece is for a special occasion, the item should be worn within a 2 week period (if not less). If not the item should be returned as unfortunately it is not the perfect piece. 





06 December 2013

The Friday Girl's Gift Guide:Pressies for Girls!

So, I thought, a lot of our clients are mums and grandmas or you might be similar to my age and looking for some gift inspiration for friends and sisters, daughters, granddaughters, nieces, girlfriends of sons, etc! I'm in my early twenties so thought I'd just share a few ideas across the price range of things I think the fashion and beauty loving girls would love to appear under the Christmas tree in 19 days! (19 DAYS?!) 


03 December 2013

How To Not Get Stuck in A Rut

This weeks topic: How to not get stuck in a rut!!

How many of you are guilty of reaching for similar items whilst out shopping? I certainly was!! Find out how I changed my shopping habits below.

Fashion Dilemma: I found myself purchasing similar items, which eventually became uninspiring. I felt as though I was buying different versions of floral dresses and although I love a pretty frock it was  time to expand my range.

Aim: My goal was to purchase items that would add a new, exciting element to my wardrobe steering away from similar items. I was discovering that whilst wearing my new purchase (a floral dress), I felt as though I had owned the piece for ages - not a great feeling!!

Solution: I set myself a task to locate items that were slightly out of my comfort zone and totally new. I didn't want to change my look completely as I love my individual style but I wanted to branch out a little. My first purchase was a long sleeved bodycon dress from Warehouse. I usually avoid tight fitting items, as I like the oversized look, but I was ready to try a new fit. As a result, I love wearing my new dress and every time I step out in the new addition I feel adventurous and gain confidence.

Top Tip: When choosing a bodycon style, opt for a well manufactured dress that is produced from a high quality fabric. This allows the dress to fit perfectly without becoming too tight and overstretched. The sole reason for usually avoiding this silhouette is because the cheaper fabrics ride up becoming uncomfortable. My dress is great value at £38!! Mission completed!!

Do you feel like you need to explore new avenues? Try something new? If so, get in touch!!! Remember if you have any styles questions please let me know, I would love to solve your latest fashion dilemma!!

30 November 2013

Wardrobe Top Tips: Week 5

So, how is your shopping list looking? Not too long I hope!!

The next step is to find all the items that will help complete your wardrobe and form some killer outfits. I understand that for some this may be a daunting prospect of hitting the shops alone, so here are ten useful tips to guide you.

1. Remember your list as this is a useful tool to refer to whilst shopping. Relying on memory will leave you confused.

2. Keep focused on the task in hand. Don't forget the reason you have decided to come on the shopping trip.

3.  For many, shopping is overwhelming so make sure you take regular breaks, which will help you to relax.

4. Be strict with yourself and avoid temptation. Don't get me wrong, if you fall in love with an item that you know you will wear time and time again, I understand that this gem has be purchased but do not go too crazy - stick to the list!!

5. Head to shops you feel comfortable in to begin with and then start to explore other stores that may have the perfect item.

6. Don't rush. Your list doesn't not have to be purchased straight away as this will lead to panic buying if you feel like you have to accomplish the task in one trip.  You may find items when you least expect it!

7. Take a friend with you for guidance and advice, which will also make the trip more enjoyable.

8. Try everything on to ensure that the item fits perfectly and it is definitely the right choice. There is nothing worse than when you have to keep returning items that are not quite right.

9. Try to avoid busy periods as this will make the experience less stressful. Either time your shopping trip early or late afternoon for a more quieter environment.

10. Whilst browsing if unsure of a particular item simply pop it in the basket and reassess once in the changing room. If still uncertain it is not meant to be.

Good Luck!! Let me know how you get on. If you would like help with completing that shopping list, get in touch. We would love to join you!!


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29 November 2013

The Friday Girl's Picks; Velvet Shoes


I'll let you into a little secret, I've had a pair of shoes sitting in a box for almost 8 months now, I've not worn them and they've just been sitting there. Normally, if I get something new, it's on my back, face or feet faster than you can say "Would you like your receipt in the bag?" but this time was different. Why?! I hear you cry. Becauuuuse... they're my Christmas shoes! I bought them in April in the Kurt Geiger sale, some black velvet jewelled numbers and I've been waiting for the perfect time to bring these babies out to party. I thought I'd have a look around and find some more amazing velvet shoes and share them with you all ready for the party season! 

Whatever size heel you're after there's the perfect pair of velvet shoes for you and the best thing about this trend is that they're not all black like you'd expect them to be!
Top Row; ASOS, ASOS, Missguided
Middle Row; ASOS, Kurt Geiger
Bottom Row; French Sole

Image Source

26 November 2013

My Personal Fashion Dilemmas Answered

I have decided to regularly share with you my own fashion dilemmas that I have faced and overcome. I thought a personal insight into challenges I face with my own body shape and style, will help you in your own journey. I realised that many issues that I have solved are very similar to those I hear from clients I talk too. This will become a weekly post so please share any problems you are experiencing as I would love to help.

So, lets get started, my first dilemma is: I have a long torso and struggle to find trousers and skirts that fit well. I also have a love for cropped tops.

Solution: I began to realise that I needed to invest in high waisted trousers and skirts to meet my cropped tops and to draw the eye line to my waist giving an illusion of a shorter torso. Since my epiphany, I have indulged in a pair of high waisted black jeans, high rise tube pants and a pair of high waisted leggings (picking up skirts along the way which are easier to find).

Outcome: I usually wear a lot of dresses (which I love) but felt that I wanted to vary my wardrobe and make use of tops that I haven't been wearing. The realisation has given me confidence to wear tops I usually wouldn't as I didn't want to show too much of my stomach and was forever trying to pull up my trousers to the desired point. High waisted trousers also create a nice smooth line around the stomach area disguising any unwanted bumps.

Advice: High waisted trousers have to fit perfectly around the waist, bum and legs without being uncomfortable. My advice is to try lots of different pairs on to locate the best pair in a variety of shops. I think I tried 6 pairs of the same tube pants on in River Island. These are not an item that you can buy in a hurry.

Have you ever had this problem? If you have any dilemmas that you are facing and would like any help, please get in touch. Either comment below and I will write a blog post or email for a more private answer.


25 November 2013

The Word: Bristol magazine #AutumnStyle

This month in The Word - the free magazine distributed to selected homes in Bristol: 
Double page with feedback from Bristol Fashion Week, Top trends for AW13




23 November 2013

Wardrobe Top Tips: Week Four

Now that your wardrobe is organised and beautifully arranged by product and colour it is time to create a shopping list that is beneficial to your wardrobe. In the fun process of building those outfits you will have been secretly wishing for a statement necklace or a chic blazer to finish the look.

Before heading out on your shopping trip create a list of pieces that will truly enhance your wardrobe and complete those fantastic looks. Remember to not, I repeat not, add an item to the list that you already own!

Maybe take your photographs with you as a reference point and write down the list on a piece of paper rather than relying on memory. So, this week take time and consideration when writing your list ready for my next weeks instalment of how avoid temptation when shopping for those essentials. Be specific with items that you want - write necklace rather than jewellery - and remember there is no rush to purchase these items. If you don't find exactly what your looking for don't panic I guarantee you will discover the perfect item eventually.

As always we are here for any advice or guidance!

What will your list include? 



22 November 2013

The Friday Girl's Picks: Kardashian for Lipsy


As a huge Kardashian fan I always like to see what they bring through in their collections. They're always so glam, I love the bodycon fit and how it shows a womans curve. Since the collection for Lipsy is super glam and sparkly, it's perfect for Christmas and the party season!

These are my two favourite pieces from the collection that together make a killer outfit: I chose the biker for that extra wintery cover-up because I can't stand being cold on a night out. I also love how the sequins make an amazing statement, the perfect alternative to the leather biker. Mesh sleeves on this great fitting dress are perfect for showing a little bit of skin in a much more demure way




20 November 2013

Win your perfect party outfit now!

Amazing competition from SouthGate Bath - win your party favourite outfit just by snapping the things you love from your favourite stores at SouthGate and posting it on to facebook for a chance to win. 
There's a Winner everyday!

What are you waiting for?!


See: www.southgatebath.com/win-your-perfect-party-outfit/ for more information and terms. 
Full details as below: 


WITH #PARTYPERFECT

We’re helping you make a statement and get party perfect this festive season, by giving you the chance to win your most lusted after partywear, shoes and accessories from our stores!
We’ll be choosing winners every day until December 1st, so get snapping!

TO ENTER
1. SNAP
Take individual pics of everything you’d like to win in our stores
2. SHARE
Post your pic to Facebook
3. TAG
Tag @SouthGate Bath and use #PARTYPERFECT each time you post to automatically enter yourself in the competition.
4. LIKE/FOLLOW
If you haven’t joined us on Facebook yet, make sure you do so right away so we can see your entry and let you know if you win!

19 November 2013

Scarf Storage Solutions

After writing my blog post Different Ways to Wear A Scarf I came across some useful storage solutions on how to store your collection of scarves. I was amazed how many great ways there are to present and store this versatile accessory using household items.

1. knotting scarves around a hanger is a great way of keeping the accessory organised.

2. Folding scarves into a magazine rack displayed on your bedroom wall is a fantastic solution to storing scarves in a creative way. You will be able to locate your preferred one easily.

3. Draped over a towel rail, which is hooked on the back of your bedroom door offers a unique and tidy method of hanging your scarves.

4. The most innovative way is to display your scarves over what appears to be a wooden door frame  with metal rods running across the centre. This method becomes an artistic installation in the middle of your room.

Which storage solution do you prefer? Do you have any top tips yourself? We would love to hear them.

16 November 2013

Wardrobe Top Tips: Week Three

How do you feel now that all your items that you don't wear are gone for good? Relieved? Happy? I hope so! Let's celebrate!!!

The next step is to arrange your outfit into product type. So collecting all tops, skirts, jumpers (the list is endless) together. A top tip is to then to arrange by length and then colour i.e. All vests together followed by short sleeve tops and finally long sleeve tops.

Some people arrange their wardrobe with outfits that they regularly build, which is restricting as you will find yourself constantly just wearing those pieces together. However, with the product approach you will be able to mix and match and create new looks utilising ALL of your wardrobe!!

This is where your photographs taken previously can come in handy as you can refer back to these for ideas. Don't forget to keep inventing new outfits and experimenting to make the most out of your existing wonderful wardrobe!! Remember to keep snapping!!

Below are a few examples of how to organise your wardrobe with a few hints captioned for each one. Any questions please comment below or book in with us for a wardrobe consultation!!
This one needs to really look at lengths and products. The grouping is nearly there but I would start with tops  following with jackets as on first glance this arrangement is a little messy.

Great product grouping but could have put colours together a little better (i.e. white skirts that are similar length)
Fantastic arrangement but maybe needs to look at sleeve lengths.
Perfect example of working with colour!!
Men can arrange their wardrobes with our top tips too!


Would you like to be a fashion illustration?

Get you're own fashion illustration? We're there! In selected Warehouse stores today only...

15 November 2013

The Friday Girl's Picks: Festive Jewels 6 Under £25


It's coming up to party season and I thought I'd just find some amazing pieces of statement jewellery to wear to those Christmas parties and they're all under £25 which is a massive bonus! 

14 November 2013

Winter Wallet Wonderland

If like me you see your wallet as the timeless element of your daily ensemble, then like me you will also find that it is very rarely replaced. Meaning that the choice you make when purchasing a new one deserves consideration, as the chances are you will have it for a while. Not only expecting to remain practical but also in tune with your style. With so many gimmicky or trend orientated offerings available these days it is hard not to be swayed. However, my advice would be to remain classic in both style and colour choice, so as to maintain a sartorial, gentlemanly touch to any look or outfit. Below are my top three that can be found online or on the high street right now.

 
Topman. 

Ted Baker. 

Asos. 

So there are a few options for you to consider. If you require further help however why not contact one of our stylists?

Until next time,

Matt x





12 November 2013

How To Wear A Blazer

Blazers are a 'must have' for every women's wardrobe! A bold statement I know but very true. The versatility and diversity of blazers is what makes the piece so desirable. Each season the staple item returns in different shapes and colours.

Different types of blazers:


  • Boyfriend blazers are oversized in shape giving a relaxed, loose fit. Wear with a short dress or skinny jeans.
  • Unstructured blazers are manufactured in a light weight fabric avoiding tailoring for a casual feel. 
  • Cropped blazers are obviously shorter in length and are great to wear either with high waisted trousers/skirts or with a longer top or dress. These highlight the waist as the eye is naturally drawn to this line!
  • Coloured/printed blazers are vibrant, bold and fun to wear with a variety of outfits. This is a great way of adding colour and interest to your style in a simple way.
  • Suit jackets are formal and tailored for a smart and sharp look. Either team with trousers to maintain the polished look or with jeans to add a casual edge to your outfit.
Which type of blazer do you usual opt for? 


09 November 2013

Wardrobe Top Tips: Week Two

How did last week go? Is your wardrobe arranged in two sections of YES and NO?

This week's challenge is to experiment with the YES pile and remove all the NO items from your wardrobe.

1. The pieces that you no longer need can be either donated to charity, recycled or sold at a car boot sale to earn some extra money.

2. A really fun way is to host a clothes swap, where a bunch of your friends bring their unwanted clothes and SWAP! Items that you have become bored with or no longer like the pattern, shape etc may be the perfect answer to your friends fashion dilemmas.

  • Be careful to not swap your unwanted clothes for items that you don't need. Take time and decide whether the swapped piece is relevant and will enhance your existing wardrobe.
3. With the YES pile you are required to start building outfits that you have not tried out before. Enjoy experimenting with creative ideas to find new outfits.

4. Take pictures of the outfits that have worked well as a reference point for those days when you feel like you have nothing to wear. This is the tricky part as you might need help and encouragement  from one of our Personal Stylists. It is difficult to explore out of your comfort zone and visualise new ideas with clothes that you already own.


08 November 2013

The Friday Girl: Winter Pinks


Pink is a huge trend for this A/W but not just deep wintery pinks like you might expect. There's baby pink and barbie pinks galore and a dusting of lovely dusky pinks too.
Why not support the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign with this amazing Nails inc glittery polish? This pink blazer is a personal new addition to the wardrobe, I love it, it's going to make a great alternative to the classic black blazer. Why not try pink if you're stuck in a wintery rut this November? It might just brighten you day.
Image Source & Products shown.

07 November 2013

A Clear Clutch for those Christmas Nights!

With Christmas just around the corner, you should not only be thinking about presents, but also the festive party season. Those nights of glitz and glamour whether they be at the office, round a friends or out for NYE. Whatever the occasion, the outfit of choice is of great importance. With the LBD often seeing a glittery makeover at this time of year, nothing sets it off better than a statement clutch. Therefore why not stay bang on trend and opt for one of the many clear clutches that are currently available. With so many on offer sometimes it can be hard to find the right one for you. Below is my lowdown of the top 3 available at the ever fabulous ASOS.




So here are a few for you to consider. If you require more help in sprucing up your party season wardrobe then why not contact one of our stylists!

Until next time,

Matt x








05 November 2013

Different Ways to Wear a Scarf

Scarves are such a versatile, inexpensive accessory that can transform your outfit completely. There are numerous ways to wear a scarf that are unique and easy to achieve.

Different ways to experiment:

  • Effortlessly wrap the scarf once or twice around your neck.
  • Wear as a headband tying the knot underneath your hair or neatly in a bow on top of your head for a statement look.
  • Drape the scarf delicately over your head and wrap around your neck.
  • Wear as a turban opening the scarf to cover your whole head.
  • For square scarves fold diagonally in half and wrap the two point of the now triangle around your neck. 
  • Wrap the scarf around your neck and tie a knot to form a v-neck shape.
How do you wear your scarf? If you have found your own unique way let us know......


02 November 2013

Wardrobe Top Tips: Week One

A lot of women we meet on our travels describe how their wardrobes are bursting with items that haven't left the constraints of their closet for years (poor things). Women continue to shop squeezing new items into a wardrobe that oozes potential.

I have decided to share some simple tips on how to improve and maintain your wardrobe habits. I will update weekly to give you time to complete each task (as miracles don't happen over night). Stay tuned!!

1. Take some time to empty your wardrobe carefully considering each piece.

2. Ask yourself how often do I wear each item? When was the last time I wore it? How did it make me feel?

3. Depending on each answer create piles (or sections in the wardrobe to avoid too much mess) of YES, NO and MAYBE.

Typical answers

  • I wear it all the time: YES
  • I wear it every so often: MAYBE
  • I haven't wore it in years: NO
4. After some careful consideration it is time to review the MAYBE pile to decide if they join the YES group or are added to the NO.

5. I realise this is no laughing matter and you may require some time to decide or a friends help or even guidance from a stylist at the The Image Consulting Company. Let us know how you get on by commenting below or get in touch we would love to help.

Go from a messy, uncontrollable wardrobe to an organised, neat closet with my top tips!!

01 November 2013

The Friday Girl's Picks: Topshop's Autumn Leather

We're well an truly getting into Autumn now, there are leaves covering every path I deem to walk down and I am feeling colder than ever!
One of the things I miss most in the summertime though is leather and I'm so glad that's it's back for the foreseeable future. There's been an update this season for leather though, we're seeing more white, burgundy and patent PVC coming into trend. So much more exciting than the standard black! As much as I love my trusty black leather skirt and jacket, I love mixing it up a bit. Here are a few of my picks from the new season.

31 October 2013

You can leave your hat on...

With the weather having plunged head first into winter this week, it's time to start thinking about those heavy duty accessories. Not only for the purposes of keeping warm and battling the elements, but also for adding depth and colour to your seasonal looks. Having been viewed in the past as a novelty item, the humble wooly hat for example is now seen as a popular addition to any outfit. With its ability to add individuality as well as style, wooly hats are now available in a range of designs and colours fit for any fashionisto. Below are a few of my personal favourites for this season.



Hype accessories are hugely popular right now. Adding a touch of urban styling as well as a pop of colour, this piece could prove to be the one. 





Or maybe this more traditional wool one is for you, simply ideal for funking up classic/monochrome looks. 





Finally this one is for those of you already thinking about Christmas. It's festive fairisle pattern will be sure to put a spring in your step. 

For help in strengthening your winter look, contact one of our stylists today. 

Until next time,

Matt x

29 October 2013

Halloween Inspiration

As you know the scariest night of the year is drawing upon us, which can only mean one thing - fancy dress costumes!!! If you have a Halloween party planned with no costume organised, there is no need to fret. I have sourced a few ideas from celebrities who know how to celebrate in style!

Can you guess who the celebrities are? Let us know by commenting below.


25 October 2013

The Friday Girl's Tips: Dress for your shape; Pears! 2/2

Happy Friday lovelies, this is your second installment of the How to Dress for Your Shape if you're a pear! You can read the first part, on tops, here.


This part is all about how to dress the part that is all part of the problem, the bottom half. Whether it be your bum or your legs, or both, these bits are going to be slightly bigger than the top of you, hence making you a pear shaped lady. This shape can also be called the triangle shape, if you've heard that one before and might be wondering what that is. 

We're going to look at some clever tips & tricks with trousers & skirts to enhance your gorgeous figure. 

Jeans
The classic jean cut for a pear shaped figure is anything that will balance your ankles out with your hips such as a boot-cut jean or even a flare. I love a flared, wide-leg jean and you can find some great ones at Levi's. Levi's do a great range called Curve ID where they have three fits, so depending on the size of your pear, they will have the perfect fit. They come in Slight, Demi and Full curve. 

Top tips for trousers & jeans
- Stay away from side pockets or detailing as this will add volume to your hips
- Go for clean, tailored lines so there's no distractions from your great bum!
- Belts should be slim and a dark or similar colour to your jeans/trousers so to not draw attention to the bit you're trying to remedy!

Skirts
An A-Line or Pencil skirt will look great on a pear-shaped figure. The pencil may be for the more body-confident of the pears, but trust me, just try one and you'll be amazed by the confidence boost it will give you! You could even try an illusion pencil skirt or dress to make the body seem even longer and slimmer. This camel one from Next is a great autumn neutral and has the eye-drawing illusion panel down the centre. At only £22 this is a bargain for a piece of fashion magic!

Tweet me with any questions that you'd like answered.
Bye for now! 
Allie x