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31 August 2013

Trend Watch: Nail Art

A great way to incorporate colour into your style is the new wonderful craze of nail art. Trialling new colours, patterns and textures through painting your nails is a simple method of exploring bright, adventurous colours.

If (like me) you need a helping (steady) hand to achieve your desired pattern there are many places that would love to design and paint your nails. Here at The Image Consulting Company we would love to come along for a sneaky look!


30 August 2013

The Friday Girl's Picks; Ladylike Chic

Happy Friday gorgeous people!

 It is basically the weekend which means one thing to me. Shopping. I'm really into the Ladylike trend that seems to re-emerge every season whether it be in pretty pastels for summer or gorgeous boucle fabrics in the winter. 
 
Here are a few of my picks from the up and coming trend for A/W 13.  I adore the winter floral tea dresses from Topshop and I'm definitely going to be rocking a fedora this season.

28 August 2013

MTV Awards-Best Dressed Men.

So as well as there being a sea of stunningly stylish ladies at the VMA's this week. The men also dressed up for the occasion and really set themselves high in the style stakes. 

With the performance from Robin Thicke remaining a hot topic. It appears his outfit has been talked about just as much too. Pharell was another super cool guy who's smart/casual approach instantly got noticed. Whilst the futuristic look from Daft Punk and playful styles from One Direction managed to also grab some attention. 


Whilst these looks would have been created by stylists. Similar looks can easily be created from the high street. Look to brands such as Zara, All Saints, COS and Reiss for similar smart and refined yet wearable styles. 

Until next time,

Matt x

27 August 2013

MTV Awards

The MTV Awards played host to a number of amazing performances and of course an array of stunning dresses captured on the red carpet. I thought it was time to play judge once again and find out which dress wins your vote.

Does The Image Consulting Company Award go to Ellie Goulding for her studded gown,  Taylor Swift for her sophisticated style, Jennifer Hudson's monochrome vision or Allison Williams pretty number?

25 August 2013

What to wear to Carnival...

With the August bank holiday finally upon us, many will be heading to the west of the capital to make the most of Notting Hill's annual carnival. As music and delicious Caribbean cuisines fill the streets, its the perfect time to go bold with your outfit. After all when it comes to carnival it's all about being colourful and creative!

Luckily with the high street offering endless bold prints and colours this season, its your decision as to how bright you want to go. 

Here is an example look that is both wearable and comfortable. Not to mention a little bit playful too...

Start with a statement dress. This fern print from Topshop will make heads turn, yet manages to flatter with its dark base colour. 
Trainers, like these ones from Nike, are the ideal comfortable footwear. Whilst adding an urban edge, they also appear playful when worn with a dress. 

Accessorise with rings and chunky necklaces. Fringed, tribal and thick chained designs are particularly hot this season!
Finally finish your look with your favourite sunnies. There are endless possibilities when it comes to style, colour and shape. So have fun. 

So there we have it. Have a great bank holiday and add a splash of colour no matter where you go or what you do!

Until next time,

Matt x







24 August 2013

Zara's A/W13 Lookbook

Zara is devoted to bringing a sophisticated and elegant style to women worldwide. The high street store certainly does not fail to deliver with their Autumn/Winter womenswear line. The sheer, delicate fabrics and relaxed silhouettes that fall effortlessly ooze femininity. Zara indulges in a warm and charming colour palette expressed through pretty, subtle prints. The combination of lace and black adds a more edgy and mysterious touch to the collection. 

Get inspired below Zara's vision of Autumn/Winter:










23 August 2013

The Friday Girl's Picks: Autumn Winter Collection: Karen Millen


Happy Friday Everybody!
It's nearly the weekend, I hope you've all got some amazing plans for the Bank Holiday!


I know it's technically still Summer, but I bought my Winter coat yesterday so I am all over the A/W feel right now! Here at The image Consulting Company, we are huge fans of Karen Millen and they have brought out some lovely things for the coming chilly months. 

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I love this grey Stud Pocket T-Shirt, I think it's perfectly grungey as well as being pretty and wearable. Paired with a great pair of jeans or a leather skirt it would also look fab, as well as with these incredible Tartan Check Print Jeans!
Speaking of statement trousers, a huge favorite and staple of mine for summer, check out these lovely A/W versions from Karen Millen, Brocade Tuxedo Trousers  teamed with this lovely vertical Mixed Graphite striped top with a collar that I adore.  I'm always drawn to a Peterpan or triangle collar like these on tops, I think they look so cute!
 Last, a maybe actually least in this case, this incredible Studded Leather Bucket Bag, it comes in red and black, perfect colours for this seasons slight punky take on things.

Will you be picking anything up from the Karen Millen A/W 13 Collection?  This was only a taster! Head on to the website to see more of the New In stock. I know there's definitely some bits that I've got my eye on!

See you next week, Allie xxx

21 August 2013

Super Sunnies from ASOS

So with the sun still beaming bright outside, there remains a great need for those trustee sunnies. However if you are looking to trade yours in for a newer style then why not look to ASOS as your summer style saviour. Offering the latest and greatest on trend style to meet a range of budgets, this online giant really cannot be beaten for quality, convenience and cost. 

Here is my lowdown of the three key styles this season...

Round frames have seen a large boost in popularity this season. Inspired by those east end fashionistas. This alternative shape offers statement style in an instant. Although not ideal for all face shapes, those with a long or narrow shape will pull this look off with ease. 

Half frame styles have seen a similar surge in popularity. Remaining close to their prescription counterparts, this easy to wear style provides a little edge to any look whilst also adding a touch of retro styling. 

Aviators remain as popular this season as they have every other. Classic in shape and timeless in design, these summer staples are fit for both the beach and the BBQ that follows after. Worn with your favourite maxi or jeans and a tee. This style simply says cool, calm and ever so confident. 

So there we have it. A turn toward any of the listed styles will see you remain bang on trend and super cool for the rest of the season. 

For help in finding those key pieces that suit you. Get in touch with one of our stylists today. 

Until next time,

Matt x





Dates for the diary...Autumn 2013

Although the sun is still shining and we don't like to wish time away, we can't ignore the fact Autumn is just around the corner and soon we'll be heading out to shop for our new winter wardrobes. 

To inspire shoppers across the south, we are getting involved in a few fashion events this season to bring you the latest trend updates and inspire you with no-end of FREE fashion and style advice, so make sure you pop these dates in your diary...

Autumn Fashion Fix at The Oracle, Reading
6th September
One day event with fashion, style and beauty advice alongside Heart FM and beauty blogger Nicola Bonn

Bristol Fashion Week
26-29 September
4 day event alongside the popular fashion show hosted by Mark Heyes and Andrew Barton, giving fashion and style advice to shoppers

SouthGate Bath
Exciting Autumn fashion fun
More info to follow!

Final Social Stylist for SouthGate Bath


We have now entered the final week for SouthGate's Social Stylist campaign completing with the fantastically mildly-eccentric Edo Minott. Edo tells us how he felt about his time together...




Edo's entry pics!

"Lets face it, men are not the stylish ones of the species. Yes, we may have our James Deans and our David Bowies, but often when it comes to the crunch, women look spectacular and men often look pretty bad. Now you might think that men don't really need to be fashionable or even fashion conscious. But this is a grave error, as the way you dress allows you to be perceived differently and imply a strong sense of your own personality, opening more doors than you’d think. The trick is really quite simple, and it must be understood in the way we think of a book cover. Style must be, like the cover, simple, with a definite shape, and with enough colour and eccentricity to catch one's eye. It's really as easy as that! 

I have for years now played around with my style, and I've learned that you've really got to look for something special. I favour smart and dressy clothes, as sneakers and hoodies are everywhere. Not that I don't like the casual side, as a good biker jacket and skinny jeans are always the definition of cool. The real challenge is making them work to be both simple and eccentric. 
 I am an avid fan of both the pages "The Sartorialist" and the lovely British blog "Fashionbeans".  So when this style competition came around, I knew I'd have to give it a go, to prove that men don't have to be effeminate to dress well, (Yet it does help sometimes!) and I was chuffed to bits when I won! 

On the day of my challenge, I met Emmeline, my extremely friendly co-shopper, who was to give me advice and a woman's touch of style! I had to shop for one perfect spring/summer outfit and a proper festival look. I decided I’d go for two looks that could be mixed between dirty festivals and cleaner smart events. First of all, we went to H&M. Now, H&M is perfect if you want to pick up a simple bit of style without spending a fortune. After a quick scour, I came across quite a few interesting pieces. Namely, a pair of electric blue chinos, which are perfect for bright summer days (And good to cut up into shorts on the hotter ones), a blue pindot shirt, some dark blue pindot braces, and a brilliantly colourful aztec scarf. All of this together created a very casual and simple look, but with just enough eccentricity, thanks to the braces and scarf, to give it some edge. 

Next, there was Topman. Topman has always been the place to go with always a whole range of choice and different styles to mix around. This time I decided to get a bit more of a smart look going and Emmeline and I picked out a purple fleck shirt, a deep pink tie, a pair of very durable petrol blue suede derby shoes, a pair of grey chinos and of course, a really excellent cookie coloured light wool blazer. This look was full of texture and full of life, yet still kept a sense of simplicity, and would be perfect to combine with my much more carefree H&M outfit. Finally, we went to Urban Outfitters, which is always good for a few special pieces, namely a deep orange bag, to stuff any summer stuff in, and a good pair of polka dot socks, to keep the dot trend going. 

In the end, having spent the insane £300 and having taken a lot of advice from lovely Emmeline, I had created two really good outfits that could be played around with, but still weren't too complex and definitely weren't dull! 

I loved my day out as a stylist, and I think every man should step out of his comfort zone and indulge in real men’s style!"


Follow more of Edo's style tips on SouthGate's Facebook page








20 August 2013

Style Icon: Tinie Tempah

Tinie Tempah's unique style has character and a bold identity. His harmonic balance between smart and casual is genius. He explores traditional elements transforming them in a contemporary and stylish way.

His cool persona is enhanced by his genius fashion sense, which can be easily achieved through foundation techniques that Tinie Tempah uses.

Take a look below or alternatively book a shopping trip with one of our stylists where we can guide you into using similar techniques.


Add a quirky printed tee with formal trousers

Smart white trainers and tee add a contemporary touch

A bright scarf adds colour and interest

A bold bright colour suit is a statement look

16 August 2013

The Friday Girl's Picks; Backpacks of the 90s rejoice!

Happy Friday gorgeous people!

It seems to me, that there is an epidemic that is sweeping the nation. Again. The 90s seems to never want to go away. Now this is not a problem for me, I love the 90s! Takes me back to being oh, a baby, but it doesn't stop me loving the fashions. One of my favourites throwbacks is the backpack. Here are my picks for the 90s backback going into the A/W season. I love how they're taking on the 90s trend but in colours that are so wearable for the Autumnal weather. Pair with a checked shirt, jeans and some little boots for laid back cool.


1. Tangiers Medium Backpack - Radley £179.00
2. Colourblock Backpack - Accessorize  £37.00

3. Crocco Backpack & Shoulder Bag - Boticca.com £122.00
4. Rocha John Rocha -Debenhams £35.00

My favourite has to be the colourblock one by Accessorize, I love the cute top handle and the drawstrings and the colours are perfect for the chilly months.

Hope you guys enjoyed this post this week!
Let me know what you think by commenting or tweeting me @alliemaay.

xx

15 August 2013

Trend Alert: Contrast Sleeves

As we begin to approach the end of the summer months, brands will now begin to drop their AW look books and collections. Giving us the first glimpse as to how the seasonal trends set out by high fashion shows have been modified and made accessible to the high street consumer. 

One trend that has appeared throughout many of these collections is contrast leather sleeves, particularly on jackets and other transitional pieces. With so many to choose from, remember that versatility and practicality is key. You want this piece to work well with the majority of your wardrobe, as well as keeping you fit against the elements!

Here are three fab pieces that you may want to consider for your winter wardrobe. 


This statement coat from River Island is classic in design but made modern with its contrast sleeves and use of colour. Ideal to see you through the entire season. 


This vintage inspired varsity jacket from ASOS will add instant youth and a casual edge to any look, and will work well with jeans and your favourite Converse. 


This safari jacket delivers a more directional look that intelligently mixes fabrics and styles. With a crisp white shirt and charcoal trousers this piece will appear both trendy and wearable. 

Look out for more of this seasons hottest trends throughout the high street. Or if you need a little guidance why not get in touch with one of our stylists?

Until next time...

Matt x







14 August 2013

Creative Converse

For all the Converse wearing fashionistas out there. 
Get creative with your daps. 

Did you know, you can create your own style of Converse pumps with your name stitched on and delivered in 2-3 weeks! 
Select from a wide range of styles, including the classics such as this All Star Chuck Taylor Ox Canvas and start styling your shoes. Doesn't cost the earth either. 
I've already designed a pair for the TiCC team!

Get designing yours now...






13 August 2013

The Power of the Pastels!!

Every year the pretty pastel trend adorns our high street and this season is no exception. However, the pastel shades have set to transform our luscious locks!

Filtered down from the extreme, artistic examples from the catwalk you can achieve the look from simply dip dying the ends of your hair, subtly run different colours through various strands or dare to dye your weave entirely in a lavender or dusky pink!

The trend looks spectacular when captured in a braid or plait showing a variety of vivid colours. Which example would you try out?

Sophisticated and Subtle

Pretty Plaits

Stylish and Chic

Pink and Turquoise

Lavender Vintage Rolls


Vivid Braid

Catwalk Inspiration



09 August 2013

The Friday Girl's Picks; Hair of the Season



 Happy Friday, Ladies!
This week I thought I'd chat about hair care as we've had a bit of beauty in with the fashion recently. One of the big hair trends at the moment is the 'rebel short' choppy bob style that seems to be popping up all over the catwalk. We're so used to models with gorgeous long locks like Miranda Kerr or Cara Delevingne. Now, the new crop of models such as Agyness Deyn, Karlie Kloss and Arizona Muse show us how the new hair trend is done.






This great hair trend goes really well with the laid back Punk trend that's coming back in for A/W 13. 




Hair care is also big on my personal to do list as my hair's been through everything I could ever put it thr0ugh! I've also recently gone for the 'rebel short' choppy bob style as I needed to chop off my split ends! One of my favourite products for adding texture to day old hair is Dry Shampoo, this Limited Edition Hersheson & Batiste one is great. My favourite brush is the Denman Paddle Brush, I've been using it for years, a great investment.


I also thought I'd share a few other products that help to get this great choppy textured look mixed in with some personal hair care faves for looks after those ends.

1. Phil Smith Argan Oil Cream 
This is my holy grail for keeping hair smooth and split end free!
2. Tigi Bed Head Superstar Blow Dry Lotion
Perfect for if you like a little volume in your bob, like me!
3. John Frieda Frizz-Ease Serum
For the sleekest hair in town, like Agyness Deyn!


Have you got any favourite hair products that help keep your hair looking model healthy?

Until next week! Allie x

08 August 2013

Picture Perfect

So with graphic printed tops having reigned supreme for several seasons now. Menswear designers have given prints an edge this season. Having taken a more artistic direction, they have become a lot more illustrative with a particular focus on portraits, nature and animals. Seen both in high end designs and all over the high street, the choice is yours as to how bold you go. Below are a few of my favourites for you to consider...

Joseph Turvey
Zara 
HM
Use a focus point to your outfit and style accordingly with jeans and boots or a leather jacket. 
For help in finding your own style. Get in touch with a stylist today for a personal consultation. 

Until next time,
Matt x