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30 June 2013

What to wear to Wimbledon...

With it being half way through the annual strawberry eating Fest that is Wimbledon. Many will be looking to head down to the SW location next week as we head into the final matches. Although the fashion stakes are no where near as high as Ascot for example, you never know who you may bump into or if your face will appear on the tv coverage. This said the dress code remains smart casual but always with a sense of summer. Here are a few perfect look examples to give you a little bit of inspiration...




Remaining consistently summery throughout. Be experimental with print and colour and don't forget to utilise your summer blazer! Remember that pops of colour are perfect in the summer and show playfulness as well as a sense of style. 

For help in finding your ideal summer look get in touch with one of our stylists to arrange a consultation!

Until next time stay smiling in the sunshine. 

Matt x



29 June 2013

Summer Sale Top Picks

So it is that time of year again that we all love...... Summer sale!!

Here are my top picks from the high street.

Cute floral cut out boots: £50 reduced from £75


Zara Suede Combination Shopper: £39.99 from £59.99
Urban Outfitters BDG Blue Poplin Collar Shirt: £20 from £38

Why not brave the sales with one of our stylists to find the best bargain suited to your you?!

28 June 2013

Farewell...Miss Sim

Farewell and a massive thank you to Christina Sim for taking over the social style blogs for SouthGate Bath in the last 2 weeks. Today is Christina's last day as SouthGate's Social Stylist. 

Christina has thoroughly enjoyed her time as 'Social Stylist' and I'm sure we'll see much more of her soon. We'll miss you Christina, thank you for inspiring us with your chic Summer style!

In the meantime, don't forget to check out her blog Just So Fashion 
Twitter: @justsofashion
Facebook: Just-So-Fashion


This was Christina when she first came to see us at SouthGate...
Before 'The Style Challenge'


During 'The Style Challenge' 




After 'The Style Challenge'


If you loved the social style takeover, don't forget to check out next weeks winner: Rosie Franklin...



25 June 2013

Surviving a Festival in Style!!

As I was beginning to start packing my essentials for Glastonbury on Wednesday I thought I should share my tops tips to surviving a 5 day festival in style.

1. A Raincoat: Purchase a raincoat that you love as if it rains (fingers crossed it won't) this will be your entire outfit for the duration of the festival.

2. Dresses:  Frocks look pretty and are perfect for layering with a cardigan to keep warm yet stylish!

3. Leggings: Pack enough leggings for each day as they can easily slip under a dress and also dry really quickly if caught dancing in the rain.

4. Hair Accessories: Clips and bobbles are great for transforming your hair into a sensation. Simply create a cute plait or chic top knot and no one will notice you haven't been able to perform your usually beauty regime. Hair bands are perfect for creating a pretty stylish hairstyle.

5. Knee Socks: Take plenty of long socks to wear with wellies. Chances are you will be wearing wellies for the majority of the festival so socks provide comfort, style and warmth.

Which festival are you going this season? Let us know your 5 top tips to maintaining a stylish festival look.









23 June 2013

Short Talk

So with the summer holidays rapidly approaching the time has come to find that perfect pair of shorts, to both lounge by the pool in and for that evening stroll along the beach. With so many prints, colours and styles available. It is difficult to find the one that shows a sense of style yet doesn't also attract the wrong kind of attention. After looking at what the high street have to offer, I have chosen the three you can't go wrong with. On trend, stylish and simply perfect for the pool...

This gingham pair from Zara is both striking yet trendy with its monochrome design. 

For the perfect print look no further than these from New Look. The vintage style and coastal mix of colours simply scream lazy days on the beach. 

Or for a classic style with a pop of colour, try this offering from Topman. With nautical style running throughout, this design is totally timeless. 

For help in finding items for your summer wardrobe why not get in touch? One of our stylists would be happy to help you achieve the ideal holiday look. 

Until next time,

Matt x



22 June 2013

Trend Alert: The Earcuff Accessory

A unique way of accessorising your look is to invest in the earcuff trend. A simple touch, which adds sparkle and glamour!! This sophisticated accessory can easily be worn by any age, body shape and style; a widely accessible trend.

Take a look on how the celebrities are wearing the 90's comeback trend to find inspiration or alternatively book a personal styling session to locate an earcuff either on the high street or an exclusive vintage piece.

Spotted wearing a pearl and crystal drop ear cuff at the Glamour Awards 

Cara Delevinge opted for the jewelled version for the The Serpentine Gallery Summer Party.    


Rita Ora wearing a glamorous diamond version

Steal their style.....

Topshop £15

Oasis £5

19 June 2013

SouthGate's Social Stylist: Christina Sim of Just So Fashion


As part of SouthGate Bath's recent Social Stylist competition, the first winner of the challenge: Christina Sim talks about her experience...



Christina’s writes:
"Taking part in Southgate’s Social Stylist challenge was such a fantastic opportunity to share and express my style with others. I was a little nervous knowing I would be caught on camera through the challenge but once we got stuck in, I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and working with the team.

Having entered a brief summary of my style and a few photo’s to enter the competition. I was really pleased when SouthGate’s Personal Stylist Emmeline contacted me to talk about my style and love for fashion. When I discovered I had won, I knew I had a challenge ahead, but nothing prepared me for this excitement!

My brief was to style two outfits:‘The Big Day’ for the perfect wedding outfit and a ‘Spring/Summer’ ensemble of my choice.You can imagine my reaction when Emmeline revealed that I had a total of £475 to spend!!

So when it was time to hit the shops, new ideas sprung to mind. Emmeline suggested we went to the 2nd floor of Debenhams since it wasn’t an area I was terribly familiar with being a fan of Urban Outfitters andTopshop (yes ladies you can shop here in my age group). Emmeline challenged me to hunt down some items in a space of ten minutes!
After going our separate ways, we came together in Debenhams Personal Shopping area with some different ideas, I’m always open to new things, so was really pleased to try anything and everything. Although some things weren’t my usual style, once I had come across this dress from Phase Eight I knew it was the one, almost made-to-meaure. Emmeline showed me how to complete the outfit with a Coast fitted jacket and Ben De Lisi necklace which finished the outfit to my expectations of the perfect wedding day outfit.


After all the talk of weddings,it was time to get back in to the comfort zone ofTopshop.I love this store for their versatility,edgy styles and great all-age fashion. Knowing your age is one issue, knowing your style is another: when you’re over 35, don’t think it’s impossible to shop in younger fashion stores such as this. I find key pieces that work with my classic chic style, sometimes that’s simply a statement necklace, other times it’s a full outfit with wedges - which was good timing since I found my perfect Summer outfit here!

I love the the style of jumpsuits and after a bit of searching I found my perfect all in one. Simple and comfortable - I like the blank canvas which I can accessorise which is exactly what I did with the statement necklace, wedges and bag, if you have a plain dark colour - especially in summer, you need to make it more vibrant and give it life. I know what you’re thinking - jumpsuit? black? in summer?! For me -this is my style, I hate being cold and since we don’t get a great deal of sunshine, this is my versatile ‘dress up or dress down’ Summer outfit!

Once we had finished in Topshop, I was aware that I still hadn’t found any shoes for the wedding outfit, so it was last minute run - literally RUN to New Look where I couldn’t believe my luck - there waiting for me were my favourite style ankle strap shoes.They were on my feet and running to the cashpoint just before doors closed! I’m looking forward to wearing these with my shorts too.
As the day came to an end we took advantage of the deck chairs on the lawn in the sunshine for one final clip of the day. Exhausted? Yes.Would I do it again? Of course!

Being a devoted fashionista, I’m now really looking forward to the next 2 weeks inspiring others of my age, taking people through a journey of SouthGate learning things I didn’t know and showing others where they can shop and how. I hope you enjoy reading about my experience as much as I have enjoyed it so far. My blog: Justsofashion.blogspot.co.uk gives you a further insight to my world of fashion, I do hope you’ll follow me!
Happy Shopping!"

Just so...Christina x 
@justsofashion 

18 June 2013

Sarah Jessica Parker's Collaboration with Manolo Blahnik

For all those Sex in the City fans I am sure you will be as excited as us to hear that Sarah Jessica Parker will be collaborating with Manolo Blahnik. SJP is living Carrie Bradshaw's ultimate dream!!!

The collection of shoes, bags and trench coats will be sold exclusively in Nordstrom stores in January 2014. Their muse for the line is a metropolitan New York woman as in their opinion the combination of a structured coat, stylish shoes and a leather bag is essential. Suede fabrics and grosgrain materials will be featured within the range.

Keep an eye out for further information on the exciting collaboration! Apparently the shoe designs are mainly high heels influenced by her days as the Manhattan style icon.


17 June 2013

Must See: Southgate Style Challenge

Having been involved in SouthGate's Style Challenge for the ultimate shopping destination in Bath, finally the results have come to fruition. We were on the lookout for the most stylish shoppers of all ages to give us a taster of their style and to inspire others. 
First they had to tell us why they should win, after a difficult selection process we then met to take part in a style challenge at SouthGate where they had limited time to choose two outfits of which they then blog about and take over SouthGate's fashion social content for two weeks to inspire others with their style.

Here are a few behind the scenes shots for a taster, but what you're really missing out on is the first of our winners Christina Sim who has taken over as SouthGate's Style Guru for the next 2 weeks starting today! 
So watch here: Christina Sim

And watch this space for more....




Emmeline :)

16 June 2013

Festival Finds for the Fella's...

As well as longer warmer days and endless afternoons in the beer garden, summer also brings with it festival madness. That time of year when people take one weekend out of their normal lives to let their hair down and cut some shapes in a mud sodden field. As well as music however, festivals also bring with them their very own fashion. Throw together outfits that appear both effortless and super cool. As an example of how easy such an outfit can be to create I have out one together using easy to find pieces from the high street.

Urban OutfittersTopman

All SaintsZara 

Have fun mixing styles, prints and colours just remember to keep it practical and comfortable. Until next time...

Matt x

15 June 2013

I'm Running Away to Join the Circus

My childhood memory of the circus was being repulsed by the smell of the animals making me dash for the nearest exit. However, my experience last night left me amazed and in awe of the performers unique skills and upper body strength. I attended the Bianco by No Fit State in Bristol  - a contemporary re-invention of the circus.

We joined a standing audience being ushered to watch jaw-dropping, dramatic acts above us. We were literally immersed into the interactive show accompanied by a talented live band to build tension and excitement. A very unique, theatrical and artistic interpretation with quirky costumes and a great sense of humour.

Bianco runs in Bristol until the 23rd June. I am sure you would love to witness a lady walking the tightrope in high heels.....and so much more.

Book tickets here: http://www.nofitstate.org/bianco








11 June 2013

Upfest Street Art

On Sunday I set out to hunt down the street art from Upfest -  Europe's largest live street art festival located in various venues across Bedminster, Bristol along with my boyfriend Andy. Aided by the glorious sun we were able to locate the creative visions of talented artists travelling from over 15 countries and all over the UK.

Which one is your favourite?? Mine is either the Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion piece. I was amazed by the large size and detailing of the iconic saying that makes reference to Bristol's floating harbour or the two antelope's hanging animals on a washing line. I also really enjoyed the clever way a dragon was created by a artistic map of Bristol.

I am looking forward to next year although I am hoping to not get stopped by the Police for taking a photograph of the Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion piece - of course a misunderstanding due to it being situated next to a bank.

For those impressed by our findings ensure you find out when next year's event is taking place or appreciate the existing art like we did.

























10 June 2013

Finding the best bag...

It has taken a little while for men to catch on to the importance of a good bag. Gone are the days of cramming your wallet, phone and keys into your pockets. Nowadays everything you need can be carried confidently in a bag without the fear of your style choices being questioned. There are numerous designs available all of which vary in levels of functionality. Making it easier for you to find the bag that is right for you and your needs.

Here are three from the high street that are both stylish and practical. Perfect!

This fab hold all will carry all you need for that perfect weekend away. Bursting with token Zara style this timeless bag will see you through many more years to come. 
This vintage looking satchel from Topman is ideal for the young city dweller. It's practical shoulder strap and hipster looking style will add a youthful edge to any outfit. 


This rucksack from COS has an edge of Parisian chic. It's mix of textures and structured design elements make it able to work with both casual clothing and more formal attire.

For help in finding your perfect bag, or any other item missing from your wardrobe, why not get in touch? One of our stylists would be happy to arrange a consultation...

Until next time, be bold with your bag!

Matt x


08 June 2013

Audrey Tatou Vs Alexa Chung

Every woman fears arriving to an event with an identical dress or outfit to another guest. Imagine being a celebrity and having this announced worldwide for everyone to judge and comment.

That's why the majority of celebrities hire stylists to locate unique dresses to avoid the same destiny!

If you have a special occasion to attend it may be wise to book your own personal styling session. With our help together we will find an exclusive, original dress that no one else will own. 

So......who wore it best Audrey Tatou or Alexa Chung?



04 June 2013

Fab Florals for the Fella's...

So summer seems to have officially arrived! Celebrate the most wonderful season in style by adding a bold floral shirt to your existing wardrobe...

With so many styles available, make it fun by trying a whole range of colours, prints and fits to find the one for you.

Here are three that won't break the bank, but will however stand out at any summertime soiree.

This bold piece from Zara will ensure you look cool by the pool. An all over print and formal design will give you the versatility needed for a whole host of summer occasions.
This washed out print from New Look will add a retro American edge to your wardrobe. Light hues on a darker base colour leaves room for playful styling and layering.


Or how about this vintage inspired piece on ASOS. Both beachy and bold, this print will carry you right through the season!

For help in choosing your perfect summer shirt get in touch today to arrange a consultation with one of our stylists.

Until next time, get those shades on and show off your summer style:)

Matt x