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28 February 2014

The Friday Girl's Picks: The Slip-On Sneaker Trend

This is a trend I'm really loving at the moment! These throw me back to being 14 with my favourite battered checkered Vans on in the park! But, this time, slip on sneakers are back with a fashion edge, in a big way. Designer examples of this bandwagon are the beautiful Celine versions but there are some fab versions on the high street for round and about £20! The perfect price for a trend-led injection of comfort and style into your wardrobe I think!

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1. ASOS Checked - £18
2. Topshop Faux Fur - £20
3. Whistles Navy - £135
4. KG by Kurt Geiger - £85
5. Miss KG Kurt Geiger - £35

These slip-ons are a huge blogger trend, check out some blogging lovelies in their favourites.


25 February 2014

How To Wear The Cape (Not The Superwoman Kind)

The newest item to be addressed in the "how to" series this week is the sophisticated outerwear garment...........the cape. No not the variety usually associated with a life saving superhero but the quirky, elegant kind that will be demanding attention this Spring!

Many may find the coat difficult to wear due to oversized nature and the unique placement of the armhole. However once the unusual garment is embraced, the cape can be take on an elegant and stylish persona.


  • The cape is great for both evening and daytime events. Simply opt for a lightweight fabric to compliment your evening frock or choose a wool fabric to match with your jeans and blouse.
  • The outerwear garment is available in a variety of colours and prints to either make a bold statement or remain subtly stylish.
  • For more colder climates team with a long sleeved slim fitting top to cover the forearm. Keeping the undergarment closer to the body will create a smooth line and counter balance the loose fitting of the cape. Choose either a jersey or fine knit item. 
  • Pair with either a pair of slim leg jeans or trousers to compliment the silhouette of the cape as too much excess fabric will not work.
  • The shape immediately screams 'style' due to the way the cape immediately transforms a simple outfit into a sensation within seconds.
If you don't believe us take a look below for yourself. Will you be purchasing a cape this season? Go on, embrace that inner Superwoman and remember take us a long for the ride!

Cape by Day:


Cape by Evening:




22 February 2014

What Happened At The Brits!!

This week has been blessed with an array of award ceremonies starting with the BAFTA's on Sunday, the Elle Style Awards on Tuesday and the Brit Awards on Wednesday. It has been a busy week for the celebrity world and has left The Image Consulting Company on tender hooks for the red carpet looks.

However, the Brit Awards left us gobsmacked as we scanned through the celebrity dresses. We can only believe that the pressure of finding the perfect frock got too much as we struggled to find a dress that left us in awe.


The neon dress highlights her gorgeous curvaceous figure but one word of advice Myleene NEVER show your underwear on the red carpet..............well EVER!!!!


Congrats Ellie on winning the Bristish Female Solo Artist Award but not on your dress choice. The floral netting looks as though the seamstress ran out of the delicate pink fabric as she made her way to the front of the gown.


Laura Mvula what were you thinking???? The triangular shaped train with tulle inserts is awkward and adds unnecessary volume. The shaping of the top works well but waist down there are some serious issues.



Lily Allen fails to impress either with her bra and skirt combination. We quite like the pairing of orange and pink but the shape is bland and uninspiring!!

We are sorry to deliver the bad news but we are hoping by the next awards these celebs will get their act together and hire a Personal Stylist from The Image Consulting Company to help them on their quest!!

21 February 2014

The Friday Girl's Picks: Bargains of the Week

A little day brightener today, it's February and touch wood, hopefully, the weather is improving but I'm sure we all need some perking up! This week, I'm bringing to you some bright and affordable wardrobe updates, all under £50. Seeing as all the spring collections are coming to the catwalk, I thought it was best to bring some colour to the table. As much as I love my neutral basics and minimalism as lovely as they are, I need some colour in my life sometimes! One of my favourite pieces from this selection is the Peter Pilotto for Target dress. This is such a popular line and it's great that we can now get our hands on Pilotto's fab prints on the high street. For only £40 from Net-A-Porter, this is a bargain guaranteed to brighten up the spring months even if the sun decides not to shine. 



18 February 2014

The Battle of the BAFTA Awards

As countless celebrities attended The BAFTA Awards on Sunday night there was one fierce contender that dazzled the red carpet. Lupita Nyong'o shone in her gorgeous emerald green Christian Dior gown leaving the rest of the celebrities trailing behind in the style stakes - especially Lily Allens unusual pink head piece. 

The strapless dress hugs her tiny frame perfectly allowing the gown to dramatically widen into a lavish train gliding behind her. The large train did not become overbearing for her petite figure as she confidently posed for photographs. The beautiful colour gives Lupita Nyong'o a glowing complexion complemented by her subtle eye make up. Finally, the statement gold cuffs and belt highlight her slender arms and accentuate her slim waist. 

We are eagerly awaiting more red carpet appearances from Lupita Nyong'o as she adds a vibrant edge to the sea of black and white frocks at events such as these. She didn't disappoint to deliver at the SAG Awards in her unique, striking blue number and at the Golden Globes here

Take a look for yourself at the stunning dress in question below. Do you agree?




Lupita Nyong'o at the SAG Awards




15 February 2014

How To Wear Culottes

SS14 is about to embrace the return of an item that, yes, played a vital part in the Brownie uniform and, yes, may have earned a bad reputation, but rest assured CULOTTES are most certainly going to fight for their rightful place as a versatile and chic staple and we for one are going to support their plight.

First of all let's wipe away the memories of the awkward brown and yellow combination and dream of a chic, sophisticated pair that can created an elegant yet playful look. 

  • Due to their loose fit shape ensure you team with a cropped tee or tuck in a cute knit to create a balanced look. Add a belt to create extra definition.
  • Teaming the culottes with a smart blazer or leather jacket will adopt a more formal, sophisticated approach. 
  • If opting for a pair in block colour add a patterned top or statement necklace to give the outfit a lift.
  • Your footwear choice can range from a pair of chunky boots, chic heels or cute flats depending on the occasion and body shape. For the smaller ladies maybe wear with a heel to give the illusion of a longer leg as the culotte may fall at an unfortunate place. 
How do you feel about the return of the culottes? Have we managed to convince you? If not get in touch we would love to demonstrate in person!!! 

Alexander Wang SS14 Collection (below) introduces the culotte trend effortlessly.



14 February 2014

The Friday Girl's Picks: Valentine's Night Outfit Inspiration

So, today is Valentine's Day and whether you're off out tonight with your one and only, on a first date or are out with the girls free and single here's a little bit of outfit inspiration if you need a last minute pick me up! The main outfit is all from River Island, so a little bit of a brand focus this week as I'm really liking their new collection. This monochrome checked dress is really striking and is such a flattering length at just above the knee, so great if a midi skirt is slightly too long on your leg length. This pink biker jacket reminds me of Grease and I love it! It's quite retro yet has a great modern twist on the classic black biker and in the pretty not too in-your-face shade of pink it's perfect for keeping those February chills out on Valentine's Day! Accessorized with classic black courts, simple watch and a chic chain mail strap bag, all you need is a great manicure and a nude lip to top it all off. 
I hope you all have a fabulous Valentine's night whatever you get up to!

Dress, Jacket, Shoes and Watch: River Island
Lipstick: Charlotte Tilbury in K.I.S.S.I.N.G Nude Kate
Bag: Vivienne Westwood

11 February 2014

SS14 Trend Watch: Week One

The only way to survive the stormy weather is too look to the future.............and beyond to SS14. We promise that the new colours, designs and silhouettes will leave you forgetting the howling winds that literally carried you to work this morning.

Okay, let's start with the 90's inspired minimalism trend.


  • Clean, definite lines give a fresh, futuristic edge.
  • Ultra light textures and sheer layers adopt an easy to wear attitude.
  • The sharp angles endure a sleek, androgynous look.
  • Simple and understated designs attract a classic, sophisticated feel.
  • Contrasting, sharp colours primarily focusing on black, white and grey. 
  • Relate to the minimal trend by opting for a sharp, structured dress or team a pair of tailored trousers or fitted pencil skirt with an oversized, square top for the ultimate stylish on trend look.
Whilst exploring the striking trend our first thought was Zara for their trusting minimalistic silhouettes and well executed tailoring. Explore for yourself with our runaway to Zara comparisons.

Thakoon 




DKNY


Calvin Klein


Jil Sander


How would you incorporate the sleek, asymmetric trend? A classic coat or perhaps a simple dress is more your style? Let us help you make the decision by booking a personal consultation today.

08 February 2014

Master The Art of Layering

The transitional season is beginning to slowly approach with one telling sign - the weather!!! The heavy sporadic showers clash with the beautiful sunshine rays leaving many confused and unsettled on how to dress for that days adventure. Layering is the key to surviving the ever changing climate providing depth and originality as well as a practical element to your wardrobe.


  • Start with thinner layers building up to heavier items e.g. wear a cotton tee followed by a cute sweater, finishing with a thick blazer or leather jacket.
  • The cotton layer is close to the skin allowing for breathability whereas the jacket provides a shield from the elements.
  • The jacket or sweater can be removed at the hotter moments and then replaced when the cold wind appears.
  • Wear with a pair of trousers, skirt or shorts or even use a dress as your base layer. Remember to add tights and socks during the colder months. 
  • An umbrella should be a permanent resident in your bag to avoid being drenched in the downpour. In addition, a hat, scarf and gloves are useful essentials to add warmth to your well styled outfit. As Spring approaches the weight of the scarf and hat can become lighter to reflect the climate. (This can relate to the thickness of your clothing too). 
  • The art of layering can see you through from day to evening with a careful selection of pieces.  
  • Experiment with a variety of textures, prints and colour to create a fun look, which will allow you to brave the day in style. 
  • To complete your outfit add a pair of stylish, chic boots to keep your feet warm during this season. Remind yourself of our How To Wear Ankle Boots post. 
If you would like further advice, get in touch. There are so many great items available ready to be layered in style!!!!

Find inspiration below:


07 February 2014

The Friday Girl: How To Wear Leather in Your 20s

This is the third and final in the how to wear leather series, this week, your 20s. Now I'm in my 20s and this is a personal favourite outfit of mine. Leather with camo and denim is just a dreamy combination for me and paired with white basics such as a t-shirt and Converse it's the perfect running around outfit, stylish and casual.

This dark wash denim shirt is a perfect layering addition to your outfit and camo is a great alternative to blue denim. This is a fab Whistles real leather jacket and at £350 it's a real investment piece. You can get some amazing faux-leather jackets on the high-street for a lot less so don't let the price put you off trying this look out!




I hope you've enjoyed this series, if there's anything else you aren't sure on how to wear for your age or your shape, let me know, send me a tweet @alliemaay!

04 February 2014

How To Know Which Colour Suits You

Now, we all have to agree that Coco Chanel knew a thing or two about fashion and style. This quote "The best colour in the whole world, is the one that looks good, on you" is very true and represents what we believe here at The Image Consulting Company.

As we all know, each season there are new colours that are 'on trend' and fill the high street. However, if that particular colour is not suited to your skin tone, then don't worry you are not obliged to wear it (honest). Good news!!! There are various shades within each colour spectrum, which may be perfect depending if you suit warm or cool tones.

Top Tip: Try introducing colour through inexpensive scarves from either Primark or H&M to discover which colours work for you. Remember this is personal to each individual and takes time to really know what works.

If you are struggling with analysing colour within your wardrobe why not let us help you. We can offer a concise and informative colour analysis, which will answer all your colour queries and dilemmas.


01 February 2014

100 Years of Style

I stumbled across this endearing video that celebrates the evolution of 100 years of style. Dance through the roaring twenties, stunning forties, swinging sixties and experimental eighties (to name a few). Through seamless scene changes the costumes transform into a representation of that era alongside the choreography.

It is fascinating to witness the dramatic changes from 1911 to 2011. Take a look for yourself. Which era is your favourite? I have a few!! I'm glad we have no restrictions nowadays - I might wear a sixties inspired outfit today. How about you?