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31 May 2014

Stylist's Pick: Effortless Leather Trousers

The idea of leather trousers eludes to a vision of Ross from Friends desperately trying to squeeze back into a pair in a hilarious sketch. However, the trousers we have our eye on have evolved into a beautifully exquisite item, which can be worn effortlessly.

The stereotypical leather trousers that are skin tight and difficult to fit have evolved into a luxurious, sophisticated design by Autogrpah, Marks and Spencer. The soft, manipulated leather is transformed into a light grey wide leg trouser, which are easy to wear both during the day or evening; adding a contemporary touch.

Leather now has no limitations with Hemult Langs dunagree creation and Jigsaw's soft blue pencil skirt. What will be next?

If you are apprehensive about experimenting with leather get in touch for a lesson on how to add the fabric in question subtly. 



30 May 2014

The Friday Girl's Get The Look: Emily Blunt

Here at The image Consulting Company we think that Emily Blunt is one of the chicest ladies around. When we saw her outfit at the premier of her latest film, Edge of Tomorrow, we had to see if we could recreate this striking look. One of our favourite things about this outfit is that fact that it's the classic clash of red and pink which people normally steer well clear from. But, on Emily, it looks so fresh, new and modern. We love how she's matched her lipstick to her bag, normally this would look outdated and cliched but paired with her neutral eye makeup and pared back hair, it's perfect. 





What do you think of this fab red carpet look? 

29 May 2014

What Sunglasses Do You Wear?

As we are tapping away at the keyboard there are droplets of rain running down the window pane. However, despite the gloomy threatening storms that await our stylists have been scouting out sunnies for those glorious sunshine days!! 

Now sunglasses are a stylish essential that are must each season. Luckily, shapes do not alter drastically each season allowing for you to pick a timeless, investment pair that will last the duration of each Summer. Alternatively, indulge in a few different pairs for a variety of looks for the sunglass fanatics. You can alternate your stash to ensure each style is justified!

Various shapes and styles suit each individual depending on your face shape, hair colour and skin tone. Also take into consideration your personal style and the overall look you wish to achieve -is it sophisticated, glamorous or quirky?

Try on a varied selection in front of a mirror or with a friend to discover the pair, which is perfect for you. We have gathered a range that are currently available on the high street - take a look at which pair appeal. 


Of course, if you would like help to discover the style that compliments your face shape please get in touch. 



27 May 2014

Are You Wearing The Correct Bra?

When advising our clients we always stress that wearing the correct size underwear is highly important. It is vital to ensure that your bra fits correctly as the affect this will have on your body shape and confidence is dramatic. When choosing the perfect bra, we suggest to seek out a bra fitting. Although this may seem daunting at first, the procedure is not as embarrassing as first appears. 

Firstly, choose a retailer that has the correct expertise and a high reputation such as John Lewis. The staff will have received training which will ensure your appointment is professional and friendly. Please note you do not have to remove your underwear as you will be accurately measured wearing your bra - hurrah! Retailers such as John Lewis have a wide selection of bras and sizes to suit.

Wearing the correct bra will enhance your body shape as your breasts will sit in the right place giving you the needed the support and lift for all sizes. Believe us, you will feel more comfortable and confident with your figure.

Take a look at the range at John Lewis below. There is a wonderful selection of brands in beautiful designs and colours. A new addition is the Curvy Kate range, which caters for a larger bust in style!!


Why not book in an appointment today, if you would like a bespoke service outside of a retailer environment our stylists are also trained in bra fitting. Get the support needed to feel confident about your figure from the inside out!! 


26 May 2014

The Swimwear Series: Straight up & down!

Last week we looked at swimwear for the gorgeous hourglass ladies out there. This week it's the turn of the athletic, straight up and down girls. Straight up & down ladies normally have minimal hips and not many in and out bits and they usually either like to add some curves in or just celebrate their athletic bodies. Either way, if this is you, we'll show you some fab swimwear which will complement you fabulously! 

A great celebrity example of a straight up and down girl in some great swimwear is Cameron Diaz. She always gets it right with her swimwear and looks effortless. Of course, you could say, that with a body like hers, you can wear anything, but that isn't strictly true. Even women like this have body hang-ups and she probably looks at J-Lo and Beyonce and wishes she had curves like theirs some days! 

These ladies can normally get away with a halter triangle bikini or the classic bandeau as they're normally in proportion with their chest to hip ratio and these look great. They can also pull the sporty look of really well. This Triangl bikini below is a great example, sporty thick fabric and a punchy print. 




If you want to add the illusion of curves then go for a detailing on the sides and the front of your bikini. Try ruffles as they're pretty, feminine and they really create the hourglass illusion. These two from ASOS are perfect for this.





24 May 2014

How To Not Get Stuck in a Rut and Dress Comfortably

Our problem pot at Bristol Fashion Week was designed for individuals to write down a question about personal style dilemmas for one of our stylists to answer.


"I'm stuck in a rut, how do you find clothes that are comfortable and you do not need to think about too hard?" 

Many ladies find themselves at a crossroads, they feel they have nothing to wear and are 'stuck in a rut.' Below are some words of advice of how to cope in this situation.

  • Ensure that your clothes are the right size and fit well. If an item is too tight or too big do not continue to wear it as you will feel uncomfortable.
  • Invest in staples that work well together and form the foundations of a capsule wardrobe e.g blazer, trousers, top, skirt, dress. You will find it easy to team outfits together with your essential everyday items that you love.
  • Do not hold onto items that you do not wear as this will distract from putting outfits together and will cause you to over think. 
  • Dressing for your body shape will make you feel confident and comfortable as lines will fall in the right place balancing out your proportions. 
  • Keep to your own personal style and do not think that you must wear the latest trend. By wearing your investment pieces and adding an accessory to represent the trend you prefer will make you feel both confident and comfortable. 
  • Choose items that are made from soft and good quality fabrics to ensure they last and feel smooth against the skin. This will avoid fabrics becoming itchy and uncomfortable. 

If you would like help achieving any of the above points please get in touch as we can explain further through a wardrobe consultation or personal shopping experience. 

Each month our stylists will be offering style tips through our newsletter. If you would like to be up to date on the latest advice sign up to our guest list. Simply send over your email address to ab@theimageconsultingcompany.co.uk and you will be instanly added!

22 May 2014

La Perla Removes Mannequins with Visible Ribs from their Stores

La Perla is a lingerie store in Soho, New York who dared to use a mannequin with exposed ribs. The power of Twitter ensured that the mannequin in question was removed due to the controversy surronding the area. The #NotBuyingIt campaign quickly spiralled and began trending forcing the store to take action.

We personally believe that each body shape and size should be represented in retail stores to visually show varying female forms and how different figures can easily wear styles and trends. This does not exclude smaller frames as some healthy women are naturally slim however, exposing ribs is going a little too far and portrays an unhealthy representation. The visible ribs will have forced women to avoid the store due to feeling uncomfortable and uneasy.

What are your thoughts on the issue? Why do you think that La Perla chose to use a mannequin with exposed ribs?


21 May 2014

Menswear Wednesday: Printed Trousers, are you brave enough?

Printed trousers are going to be a huge trend for menswear this spring/summer but it's definitely not a trend for the faint hearted. This trend was seen all over the catwalk from designers such as Gucci and Dries Van Noten. They're great as an alternative to jeans and look amazing in the summertime but you definitely have to have a level of confidence to pull these off. There's some shorts in there too just in case the full on trousers is too much! Here's a few great picks from the high street and some style inspiration from some very fashionable gents. 





What do you think? Is this a look that you'd like to wear yourself or see men wearing? Let us know, tweet us at @Theimageconsco on Twitter! https://twitter.com/TheimageConsCo

20 May 2014

A Birthday Treat from The image Consulting Company!!!

Right we are going to ask you a question! Now, when we ask don't be shocked or appauled we promise that it will work in your favour - a pleasant little surprise you might say.

Here goes.................when is your birthday????

Great! No ones fainted!! We don't need the year simply the date and month! Tell your friend, mum, auntie, sister, cousin......................friends cousins daughter - you get what we mean!!

Here at The image Consulting Company we love birthdays! With this in mind we will would like to celebrate everyone's birthday in style (excuse the pun). Simply comment below, email us at ab@theimageconsultingcompany.co.uk, Facebook or Tweet us. A birthday treat will be coming your way!!

We couldn't resist!!


19 May 2014

The Swimwear Series: Pear Shapes

The summer can be a minefield for us ladies and our swimwear. We have to decide what to wear for the occasion, the location, the trends and not to mention our body shapes as well! So we've come up with a helpful guide, over a few weeks that will give you a helping hand in finding the perfect swimwear for you. You may think that your options are limited, but our job is to show you loads of things that will look fabulous on you that you never thought you could wear! First up in the series is the pear shape. You're a pear shape if you're heavier on the bottom than the top. This simply means that your legs and bum are wider than your top half and you've probably got smaller boobs in comparison to your legs and you're not totally in proportion. 

A fab celeb example of pear shape and swimwear comes in the lovely package of Beyonce. 

Beyonce was seen a month or so ago on holiday with her family wearing a lovely selection of high waisted bikinis. She's rocking a fab pink mix and match bikini below but she was also seen in a more tribal print rainbow number. These are great for pear shaped girls who feel that they need to cover their hips. Embrace your larger bottom half and wear a stripe or a bright bottom half like Beyonce! This creates a focal point and you'll shine with confidence. Get the look with this fab tropical print bikini from Topshop for only £34. 


If you'd rather draw the attention to your top half, make sure that you have a more demure bottom half maybe in nude, black or tan and then chuck on a bright bikini top to draw the eye up. Don't be scared of mixing and matching bikini tops and bottoms. Make sure that you wear full coverage bikini bottoms such as high waisted or boy-shorts to make you feel more comfortable.

If you want to rock a one-piece, make sure that there is some detailing on the bust to again draw the eye towards the area that you want more attention. Try this black and cream retro style swimsuit which is also from Topshop. It's great because of the little scallop detailing on the bust and the fact that the bottom half is a dark colour! Another amazing swimsuit for pear shaped ladies is this Ted Baker striped number, it has clever vertical stripes over your heavier area and widening horizontal stripes over your smaller area so it should balance you out perfectly. It also comes with detachable straps so it can be bandeau or halter. Nifty. 


Accessories are also a great distraction away from your bottom half so why not try a hat, hair accessory or jewellery to create some interest?

17 May 2014

Join our Live Stylist Hour

A new feature that is being launched this week on Twitter is our Live Personal Stylist hour, which will be taking place on Sunday 25th May between 7-8pm. This is the perfect opportunity to interact with a stylist to solve any fashion issues instantly. One of our experienced personal stylists will be available to respond immediately to your tweets!! If you would prefer to ask your style question privately then either direct message us on Twitter or get in touch via our website.

Like: Facebook
Pin: Pinterest 

So.........head over to Twitter on Sunday and get tweetinggggg!!!!!






16 May 2014

The Friday Girl's Picks: Fruity Fashion Good Enough to Eat

The sun is most definitely out and it's time to have some fun with fashion! Below are some of my favourite picks of the novelty fruity trend. From pineapple print jeans from Topshop to a few lovely bits from ASOS including the cute watch, spotty dress and strawberry t-shirt! I especially love the two bits from New Look, the orange slice clutch and the watermelon print high waisted bikini bottoms which are fab for if you want to hide your middle area but still want to rock a bikini. 

What do you think of this trend? Will you be rocking anything fruity this summer? I've definitely just picked up the orange slice clutch for a splash of fruitiness into my wardrobe! It was only £9.99, which is a fab affordable price for a little trend injection. 


15 May 2014

Jigsaw: Shop in a New Store this Season

Whilst choosing our Chanel inspired outfit from Jigsaw last Saturday we were amazed by the Spring/Summer collection available. In particular, our stylist Amy was blown away by the infusion of colour, texture and style within the flagship Bath store and will be certainly returning for another look.

The array of contemporary shapes that were injected with either a pop of colour, bold print or textured fabric complimented the pretty pastels and classic pieces. Jigsaw has successfully moved in a more design led direction without eliminating their existing customer base; a clever decision that will allow for them to shine! Whilst speaking to the lovely Store Manager she describes how whilst customers are shopping with their daughters they both leave the store with a new purchase!

It is important to regularly step out of your comfort zone and head to stores that you usually wouldn't shop in. Do not be limited by previous experiences or a judgement made by yourself as you will be surprised by how regularly retailers reinvent their designs and constantly strive for a new look and direction.

We challenge you on your next shopping trip to step into a store that you would usually avoid - Amy certainly had a pleasant surprise! Which new store will you be entering this season? If you would like company don't hestitate to get in touch here.







13 May 2014

Pret-A-Portea: Cocktails Meets Style at Bath in Fashion

Last Saturday marked our collaboration with The Porter and Bath in Fashion for a mix of cocktails and style. The pavillion was arranged with a set of table and chairs with scrumptious cakes and the option of coffee/tea - which soon was to be replaced with a selection of designer inspired cocktails!!!

Whilst sipping on the gorgeous cocktails the ladies had the fabulous opportunity to talk about style advice with the lovely Emmeline and Amy. Focusing on three designers in particular - Coco Chanel, Vivienne Westwood and Barara Hulanicki - we picked dresses that were influenced by the creatives from Jigsaw, Coast and Ted Baker. The drinks were carefully made with the fashion designers in mind with ingredients and even the choice of glass taken into consideration for the overall perfect look - head to The Porter for more information on the cocktails demonstrated at the event.

We were easily able to find an Chanel inspired dress and jacket from Jigsaw, which oozed elegance and sophistication. The bright pink tailored dress was teamed with a tweed box jacket with gold statement buttons, which matched our brief perfectly. Coast provided a stunning layered dress for our Vivienne Westwood number and Ted Baker supplied a shift dress with a unique pop art inspired print for our Biba look. We found it was amazing to see what great designer influenced pieces we could find on the high street!


Whilst each cocktail was enjoyed by many we were able to talk at ease about purchasing investment pieces that last, how to dress for your body shape, projecting confidence and how to inject colour into your wardrobe - plus so much more. It was great to interact with the ladies and talk about their personal style issues. We were available to talk as a group and privately about fashion preferences and dilemmas. A fantastic event!!

If you would like personal style advice or a group session with your friends please get in touch. We would love to help! www.theimageconsultingcompany.co.uk

12 May 2014

Find of The Day: The Investment Skirt

If you're on of the ladies who doesn't shop a lot but when you do, you really invest in something, be it a statement piece or a classic staple, we salute you! This is a great habit to be in, shop less but wear more, it's the whole Gok Wan mentality and it really works! Today we wanted to share with you this fabulous floral skater skirt from Marco Bologna, at £280.36 it's not cheap but it's incredibly flattering for so many body types and would suit a whole range of ages!
The large floral print would be really flattering for top heavy women as it would draw the eye away from the larger area of your body. The skater shape is fabulous on loads of women, especially straight up and down girls to give them some shape and pear shaped girls to skim over hips. The length is also really flattering at just above the knee and the fabric is fantastic quality. Pair with plain court shoes and a sweet white t-shirt for the perfect relaxed but chic look. 


10 May 2014

Wardrobe Top Tips: Footwear Storage

Whilst preparing tips on how to maintain an organised wardrobe we came across a useful and efficient way to store your flip flops and sandals. With the Summer months fast approaching it is important to have your footwear essentials to hand at a moments notice. As demonstrated (see image) this technique will create the perfect way to keep your Summer shoes in great condition and arranged in a neat way. All you need is a pair of pliers and a few wire hangers!!

What do you think of the storage technique? Will you be giving it a try? Let us know, we would love to see the results!!





09 May 2014

The Friday Girl's Picks: Summer Raincoats!

This might not be what you want to hear, but today, it's raining. We all know that in Britain, good old Blighty, we get a bit of rain every now and again! So, to keep all our lovely clothes dry and stop us getting soggy, occasionally we'll need a coat! I've trawled the net and found a lovely little selection of raincoats perfect for the summer months and great if you're heading off to any festivals too! 


08 May 2014

A Perfect 14

A Perfect 14 is a new Canadian documentary by James Early O'Brien and Giovanna Morales Vargas featuring 'plus-size' models Kerosene Deluxe, Laura Wells and Elly Mayday. The exploration of their experience in the fashion industry is discussed and the actual term 'plus-size' is challenged. Their success and celebration of their curvaceous figures has begun to change the perception of the 'perfect' silhouette in the fashion industry.

Take a look at the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbujJRAT4l8




As Personal Stylists we aim to dress all body shapes and sizes. We very much welcome the realistic perception of feminity and the affect this will have on the fashion industry. The concept that women  can look to magazines or fashion shows and see a truthful representation of the female form is a movement that we wish to see in the future.

What are your thoughts on the documentary?

07 May 2014

Menswear Wednesday: Get The Look - Mark Wright's Take on The Perfect Spring Look

Spring is in full flow and the party season is almost here again. Whether it’s an up and coming graduation party, a summer birthday or a barbecue on a sunny Sunday we’ve got you covered.

Rather than rushing and grabbing the closest pair of shorts why not think of ways to smarten up a bit when the sun is shining? By going for lighter colours and shades it’s entirely possible to wear longer length trousers and sleeves without getting too stuffy. Now is also the perfect time to ditch the socks, show a bit of ankle and have a play with different material footwear i.e. lose the leather!


Whilst out for a meal recently a friend of mine was sporting an outfit that ticked all of the above boxes and I was surprised when he told me his inspiration for the outfit was Mark Wright of TOWIE fame.

 Now I’m not a massive fan of the typical ‘Essex look’ but do have to hold my hands up to watching the show from time to time.  I do have to admit however that Mark does look good in the above photo and so I’ve decided to use this as the inspiration for my choices below. Don’t worry if you’re on a tighter budget, all of these pieces are available from ASOS at very, very reasonable prices and if the occasion is a graduation party (maybe your own) then now is the time to reap the benefits of having your 10% discount while you can.





 



06 May 2014

Bath in Fashion 'Pret-A-Portea' with The Porter and TiCC

In collaboration with Bath in Fashion and The Porter, Emmeline and Amy are presenting a talk to a selection of exclusive guests about how to get designer looks for less on the high street that suit your body shape and skin tone. The designers covered include Coco Chanel, Vivienne Westwood and Barbara Hulanicki, which are complimented with cocktails that represent the particular creative. The making of the cocktails will be demonstrated by a team of experts from The Porter and all donations will go to Breast Cancer UK. The event will be held at the Bath in Fashion Pavillion (outside the Roman Baths on Stall Street) on Saturday 10th May.

Photo Source: WWD (Chanel), Vogue.co.uk (Vivienne Westwood), www.barbarahulanickidesign.com


If you would like one/two of our stylists to host an event for your business, private party or special occasion, please get in touch. We are available to attend the event and give an interactive presentation to show the latest trends, provide body shape advice or demonstrate a colour consultation. We will take into consideration your specific needs and tailor the presentation/event to your requirements. Does this sound like something you would consider? Get in touch!!


05 May 2014

How to Wear: Spring/Summer Boots

Boots used to simply be a thing of the cold months, useful for making sure that your toes don't fall off from frostbite! Now, we're seeing a little influx of spring and summer boots worthy of the sunshine! Clearly these aren't the ones for a day at the beach but in this transition period of May where it could still rain at any time, they're perfect. 

The first of the spring/summer boots that are in the style spotlight today are these vibrant beauties from Topshop. These are called the Allied Desert Boots and also come in a fab poppy red colour. We just loved the vibrant cornflower blue of this pair, they make such a statement. Paired with your favourite skinny jeans and a bright summery shirt you can do no wrong. 


Next up is the classic Western inspired cowboy type boot that comes out every year, without fail! This lovely pair are from ASOS and look lovely paired with a ditzy floral dress or in this case, a little pair of dungarees from Monki and a denim jacket. Perfect for festivals and parties in the park!  


Lastly, a more sophisticated and on trend pair of boots. These open toed (& heeled) Kurt Geiger boots are great for a night out or drinks with the girls and look perfect with an all black ensemble. Being a really versatile nude colour they'll look great with almost any colour too which means they're technically an investment piece!


What do you think? Will you be rocking one boots this spring/summer or will you be sticking to sandals? Let us know @Theimageconsco on Twitter! 

03 May 2014

What Is Colour Analysis?

Our dedicated followers may have witnessed our stylists discussing what colours suit different individuals. This is known as colour analysis, which is a service we provide at The image Consulting Company. Have you ever considered having a colour consultation?

By taking into consideration the individuals skin tone, hair and eye colour we can determine which colours are best suited. Using colour drapes and the process of elimination we can indentify which reflect the light onto the face giving a radiant glow and a boost of confidence. The wrong colours can immediately make you look drained and add years.

We can then determine whether you suit cool or warm tones and indentify what season you fall under.  When wearing colours next to your face is it extremely important to have the right knowledge of what works for you and translating that to current season trends to lift your wardrobe.

If you enjoy wearing different shades then book in with us today to see which ones work for you. If you don't, still book a consultation as we can demonstrate how to experiment with colours easily and effectively!

Add colour to your world this Summer
Photo Source: © Picture Molo SS11 for Harvey Nichols via Vida Kids

02 May 2014

The Friday Girl Thinks: Should Women Wear Trousers?

Quite clearly, I think women should wear trousers if they want to. I love trousers, it's no longer an issue, women have been wearing trousers for 100s of years or something so people such as this crazy UKIP man who thinks that it's 'ugly' and he's even written a book about how much he thinks it should be illegal? Why is there still people in the world that are seriously this sexist? So in honour of this crazy guy, I've put together a little collection of my favourite trousers from the year so far. 

Because I LOVE TROUSERS. I especially think he'll hate the camouflage print ones! Well at least, I hope he does. I wonder what he thinks about jumpsuits? 

We can wear what we want, when we want and we won't have tunnel-visioned men like this telling us not to. Tweet me your thoughts about this post to @Theimageconsco or @alliemayredmond!






01 May 2014

How To Transform Your Wardrobe

We dare you to stop what you are doing and go to your wardrobe. Take a long hard look! What do you see?
  • A carefully arranged closet seperated into garment type and colour?
  • New purchases that work their way seamlessly into the array of clothing?
  • A selection of clothes that are ALL worn?
  • Items that work well together creating new, exciting outfits all week?
  • A burst of colour that add a sense of energy and interest to your style?
  • Neatly arranged accessories to transform your look?
What's the verdict??

Is your wardrobe as organised as this?
 If you answered yes to all the above - well done - you have got it sussed!!

However, if the answer is no take a look at our previous posts (below) on how to achieve the perfect wardrobe step by step. Or get in touch we would love to help! We provide wardrobe consulations that will result in an organised, efficient closet that works for your requirements. What are you waiting for click here.

Wardrobe Top Tips:

Week One
Week Two
Week Three
Week Four
Week Five
Week Six

Good Luck!!