Pages

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!!


Get yourself on our guest list for party perfection and the ideal gift!


Subscribers to our 'Guest List' receive less junk and more information they want to read
Such as this: Party perfection in 3 simple steps, the ideal gift and a special offer for subscribers only. Read on for more. 


Want to be on our guest list? Simply click here to add your name and email address. 
That's all! No catch, no junk, easy to add, easy to leave

If you can't view the image properly, please click here for the full version


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.