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28 June 2014

All White for Summer

A vision of Summer is upon us as though a white coat of emulsion has painted the stores. The fresh, pure shade is injecting the high street and following into our wardrobes. Although the colour is classic and can be teamed with a variety of existing shades, it is a very difficult colour to wear against the face.

In fact, our stylists advise to steer away from white as the colour can be draining when worn in block colour. It is wise to choose a variation of the shade and absorb a cream or ivory depending on your hair colour, skin tone and eye colour. The colour white that is usually in the stores will probably be a variation of the shade rather than an unflattering strark white. Stick to a more warmer version to enhance your natural skin tone.

Remember if your prefer to not wear white in block colour use the shade as an accent with accessories such as jewellery, bags or scarves. Alternatively, incorporate the colour into a print as the trend will be evident in your wardrobe in a subtle way. For a more daring approach wear a dress or jumpsuit in the colour in question.

If you would like to be informed about the neutrals that suit your complexion book in with one of our stylists today.



26 June 2014

Invest in a Pair of Summer Sandals

It is worthwhile investing in a pair of Summer sandals that last rather than repeatedly purchasing shoes that keep breaking at the worst possible time (we have all been there). A slightly more expensive pair will mould to your feet and provide comfort in a stylish way.

Our feet and shoes take a huge amount of pressure daily and easily are worn down. A high quality pair will last significantly longer and eventually become less expensive in the long run. It is vital to remain stylish, which is why we have picked out some Summer shoes that are functional yet desirable.

Which ones will you be rushing to buy?


24 June 2014

Style Staple: The Jumpsuit

The jumpsuit is set to be a hot fashion staple this season. With a variety of prints and styles the item can be worn by a vast range of ages as there is strong misconception that jumpsuits are for a younger clientele. If you are amongst those who avoid the stylish item please read on............

The piece is very easy to wear once the fitting is right. Try on a variety of sizes to locate a style that suits your shape and is comfortable to wear.

Team your jumpsuit with a tailored blazer and cute wedges for a smart Summer look or layer by wearing a basic tee underneath and a pair of chic boots for a relaxed style. Alternatively, simply throw on the jumpsuit alone for a minimal yet stylish look. Are you convinced yet???

The jumpsuit also is the perfect way of covering aspects of your body yet highlighting the gorgeous shape. Arms and legs are the perfect example of this - a jumpsuit manages to show the curves of a set of pins without revealing your actual legs. Perfect!

Sold? If you are having trouble visualising wearing a jumpsuit please get in touch today. We would love to help find the perfect one to highlight your body shape and individual style.


21 June 2014

Style Icon: The Duchess

Kate Middleton has been crowned as a style icon whilst fulfilling her duties as a wife, mother and of course Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. She is the epitome of sophistication and elegance in a variety of dresses, blazers and exquisite coats. The media attention that follows royalty is overpowering with the fashion industry insiders following the princess closely. 

Her outfits choices have been received with positivity and praise of how she mixes her youth with her high responsibility. Her style is contemporary yet classic, which is important due to her extreme role model status. Remembering that her duties expect a great amount of sophistication yet her age demands a sense of experimentation is cleverly applied. The skirt lengths and styles are more traditional yet the vivid colours add a youthful element to her style.

When dressing for important business or work events learn a lesson from the Duchess. She stays true to her own unique taste and style yet dresses appropriately for the task in hand. Wear a bright coloured trouser suit or a tailored dress to your next meeting. We assure you that confidence will come naturally if you incorporate your unique sense of style into formal occasions.

Need help? Get in touch today!!


19 June 2014

Beauty isn't a Size

Our stylist Amy can not resist an Urban Outfitters sale and after trying on a multitude of items she came away with three lovely pieces. As she left the changing rooms she noticed that each garment was a different size. A floral dress in a size small, her cropped blouse read a medium and her jumper came in at a large????? Crazy we know!!!

The truth is retailers have various boundaries and guidelines when making a garment so a small and medium can be very close in size. What the designers fail to realise is that women care a great deal about the size of their clothing. Here at The image Consulting Company we are ordering you to stop looking (or caring) for your own happiness. The importance in clothing is how the item fits and enhances your body shape with an importance on how it makes you feel. 

Amy feels fantastic in all her purchases and does not care if the each size is different. She admits that she may have gone for a bigger size due the look she is creating yet our point remains the same - the significance is the fit rather than the size. 

Would you mind buying three items of differing sizes? Please discuss. 



17 June 2014

Live Stylist Hour Returns.............

Tonight will mark our third Live Stylist Hour on Twitter where Amy will be available to answer any style dilemmas. Simply tweet @TheimageConsCo between 9pm-10pm with your fashion problem and we will aim to respond within the hour.

During the feature Amy will tweet style advice so tune in! Don't be shy, get involved!!




15 June 2014

Shimmering Shades of Silver



A colour that is shimmering its way through the season is silver! The subtle shade demands glamour or edge depending on the way it is worn. A full length gown will ooze luxury and sophistication in a contemporary expression whereas silver shoes or a statement top will provide a quirky edge to your outfit.

The shade spans from a matte subtle colour to a dazzling, bright version. Either variety can be introduced to your wardrobe in a stylish way. For daring experimental types try a bold jumpsuit or  skirt to stand out. A more reserved style will consider wearing a glimmering necklace, metallic nail varnish or a silver laced print. 

Introduce the colour in small ways to begin gradually building more confidence with the trend. Initially work with accessories adding more elaborate pieces later (if you so wish). Let's face it, we all have a silver necklace somewhere in our jewellery stash!! 




13 June 2014

The Friday Girl's Picks: Topshop Midi Skirts

Midi skirts are still kicking about and are looking as fresh as ever before. This week I've picked three Topshop numbers that I really like at the moment. The denim one is so pretty and would look lovely with a stripy top or a lacy white camisole and sandals. The tropical floral number in the middle is part of an amazing two piece but can of course be worn on it's own. This would look fab dressed up or down. Finally, the taffeta picnic blanket multi-coloured beauty of the last one is limited edition and the most expensive of the three is such a statement piece. 
What do you think about this statement midi skirt trend?



12 June 2014

Trousers for Summer

The vision of Summer usually eludes to floaty dresses and maxi skirts however, trousers are a strong alternative to remain stylish in the warmer season. Quirky prints, vibrant colours and different styles to suit a mix of body shapes make trousers a winner. Team with a pair of cute sandals for a relaxed vibe or killer heels for a sophisticated evening look. A casual tee or statement blouse both work with any pair of trousers you own. Why not invest in a two piece coordinate for an ultra stylish look!!! 

Which pair do you prefer? If you need advice on what type of trousers suit your body shape get in touch today!!




11 June 2014

Menswear Wednesday: Father's Day Gift Guide

It's Father's Day soon, the 15th June to be exact and it's time to treat the old guy in your life. Here's a little gift guide to give you some inspiration. For a little bit of a fashion injection into his life why not try this floral shirt from Marks & Spencer, perfect for barbecues and that family holiday. Sticking with the BBQ theme, why not get him a useful gadget like these meat thermometers? If he's into grooming, particularly shaving, then L'Occitane have some lovely products, why not try the Cade Shaving Duo to give him a taste of the brand. Something useful for the office or his business could include this slick Ted Baker notebook, you could get him a posh pen too! Perhaps a voucher is more like it? B&Q, Homebase, House of Fraser, loads of great stores do them, so let him choose his own gift and if all else fails, take him to the pub, a pint will do! 






10 June 2014

What Does A Personal Stylist Do?

The notion of a Personal Stylist is that only celebrities utilise their skills and their services are of a high cost. However, the reality is extremely different with Personal Stylists working to support real women in terms of body shape, colour and wardrobe maintanence. 

So, what does a Personal Stylist do:

  • Discover body shapes and dress accordingly giving advice on styles that suit a particular figure.
  • Ignite confidence in those who have lost their way and struggle to feel good about themselves. 
  • Provide suggestions which are new in an informed and knowledgable way.
  • Advise on what colours suit a particular skin tone, hair colour and eye colour. 
  • Sort out wardrobes that are unorganised and full of 'I have nothing to wear clothes' helping to declutter items that are never worn or don't suit the owner. 
  • Listen to clients needs and problems regarding style and confidence. 
  • Encourage clients to wear trends in a way that suits the individual focusing on style and investment pieces rather than the latest craze.

How do I know if I need a Personal Stylist? 

  • Unsure of how to dress for your body shape.
  • Do not know what colours suit your skin tone. 
  • Has 'nothing to wear' in your wardrobe. 
  • Your closet is unorganised.
  • Has lost confidence in your personal style.
  • Items still have tags on and have not been worn.
  • Would like advice on style and how to make the most of your figure and wardrobe.



If you require a Personal Stylist please get in touch. We are a set of friendly individuals who enjoy advising those who are intimated by the fashion world and have unfortunately lost their way. See the time spent with a Personal Stylist as an investment on feeling great. Many spend money on a couple of items a month that sit in their wardrobe untouched, this money could pay for an hour with a stylist, which will allow for you to spend your money wisely. 

09 June 2014

Two Ways to Wear: Topshop Printed Folk Jacket

This season's jacket is the folk, printed, studded beauty that is this Topshop Jacket.  For only £48, you can get your wardrobe update with a folk festival twist. You might think that this little jacket has limited ways to wear but today we're sharing with you two completely different ways to wear. One, a casual relaxed look for the weekend and the other a smarter look that you could wear for work or a wedding. We've also included a statement bag to show that this can be worn in two separate ways too.  Black is a great base for a lot of outfits and this monochrome beauty has so much wear in it! It also has flattering cropped sleeves and would look great on shorter and taller ladies so no swamping jackets here. Let us know what you think about these outfits over on our Twitter page. 
For the first look we've gone for a relaxed, boho chic look with some ripped jeans, also from Topshop, some brown leather fringed sandals, a relaxed tshirt and chic black nails. This is the perfect look for day to day running errands, weekend lunch with the girls, anything! The next look is to pair the jacket with it's matching skirt and a little white shirt. Pair with flats because the skirt is quite short to keep the look sophisticated. We've chosen some black gladiator flats to coordinate with the skirt. Finish with a slick of bright lipstick to bring the look up to date and into the summer time. 



07 June 2014

Stylist's Pick: The Kimono

The latest item set to be hot this Summer is the kimono. The sophisticated piece is perfect for wearing as an extra layer to add interest and a stylish touch. The kimono is available in a variety of fabrics, colours and prints to suit personal taste. Pick from a floor length maxi to a chic cropped version and anywhere in between! 

Sheer fabrics are easy to wear as a shelter from the sun and to inject a stylish edge to a variety of looks. Alternatively, opt for a thicker fabric for warmth in a unique way. The variety of prints in various colour combinations make wearing kimonos a solution of introducing different shades to your repertoire. 

Take a look at the affordable selection sourced from the high street. Which is your favourite? If you would like advice of how to wear the kimono and the colours that suit your skin tone get in touch today. 





06 June 2014

Our Live Stylist Hour is Tomorrow

With only 24 hours to go our stylists are eager to solve style dilemmas through a simple tweet. Tomorrow (Saturday 7th June) between 10am-11am we will be available on Twitter to provide instant answers to those fashion problems. Don't miss out!!


The Friday Girl's Picks: Classic White Shirt

An article caught my eye about classic white shirts on InStyle magazine's website and I found it really interesting. These classic beauties are all famous for their white shirt wearing and I thought I'd find some modern shirts on the high-street today to see what there was out there at the moment because you can't go without a white shirt, the classic wardrobe staple!


After having a snoop on the high street, some lovely little numbers that I've picked out from some of our favourite retailers. From left to right, in the first row, Whistles come up trumps as usual with their take on the classic white long sleeved shirt with two breast pockets and piping detail. Next up, two short-sleeved beauties from Reiss, perfect for summer. One a prettier Peter-Pan version and the other a more straight cut modern affair. On the second row, Monki are putting their spin on white shirts with this two tone blue & white striped number and Vero Moda have produced this 50s style cropped shirt which is really pretty! 


05 June 2014

The Ultimate Survival Guide to Living in England

The weather in England is extremely difficult to predict with sunshine rays filling the sky one minute to heavy downfalls the next. We appreciate that it is worrying getting dressed in the morning as your sandals exposing your toes could be the next victim of an unexpected drench. Ruining your beautiful shoes or perfectly curled hair is not the best way to start the day! Don't worry we have all been there, so our stylists have compiled a survival guide to living in England.............with style!!! 
  • Always carry an umbrella in your handbag to prepare for those sporadic downfalls. 
  • Wear layers, which can be easily removed depending on the climate. A small cardigan can slip underneath a blazer or jacket to add extra warmth.
  • Carry a brush, grips and bobble to tidy up your hair from the harsh wind.
  • A small sample of make up can brighten up your face if your morning appliance has started to disappear.
  • Ankle boots are extremely versatile and can be worn with Summer outfits, so if you feel that the weather may change opt for a sturdy boot over a sandal. If you have room pack a pair of alternative shoes or leave them in the car if parked near by.
  • Invest in a large size bag that can carry your survival guide essentials or a fold away lightweight tote to spread the load.
  • Pack a pair of sunglasses to look extra chic on those rare sunshine moments.
  • A pack of tissues or wipes are very useful to solve those fashion weather mishaps.
 For more tops tips and fashion faux pas' head over to @theimageconsco. Even stylists have those dreadful moments from time to time............ and it appears that celebs do too!  








04 June 2014

Style Advice at your Finger Tips!!

Did you catch our #LiveStylistHour on the 25th May??? Don't worry if not as our next instalment is on Saturday 7th June at 10am-11am. During this time a live personal stylist from The image Consulting Company will be available to answer any queries regarding style and fashion.

Do you have a dilemma about your style, wardrobe management, what colours to wear?

This is a unique opportunity to get an immediate response from a Personal Stylist - make sure you use it wisely and head over to our Twitter page!



03 June 2014

Have You Heard of the Thigh Gap??

The thigh gap has become a craze that has swept into young minds creating a new ideal to strive for. The trend is to shave weight from your upper thighs to produce a gap when stood upright and feet together. Some girls/ladies naturally have the thigh gap whereas many obsess to achieve the look through exercise and dieting - a worrying thought for the young generation. 

The craze has introduced another area for women to adhere too. The pressure to ensure your figure includes this feature has become as important as having a slim waist or pert derrière - which have concerned many over the years. Essentially, the thigh gap does not enhance your figure yet allows for your legs to appear too slim in comparison to the rest of your body if achieved unnaturally. 

What will be next? The ideals are constantly changing in the wrong direction. Our role as personal stylists is to allow for women to feel comfortable with their body shape and rest assured if you don't naturally have a thigh gap you are on the right track.

How large should the gap be? There is always competition to present the best possible figure, which will apply to the matter in question. So, does the biggest gap earn an award? A round of applause from friends, a pat on the back or envious pals striving to follow in your footsteps. Does the trend have limitations? When will it become dangerous?


What is your opinion on the craze? Are you personally aware of the pressure to possess a thigh gap? We would love to hear your thoughts?



02 June 2014

The Swimwear Series: The Apple Shape

Last but not least in our swimwear series we're talking about the Apple shaped ladies. If you are Apple shaped, you're heavier up top (which means you usually have fab legs!) with broader shoulders, a bigger bust, narrower hips and a less defined waist. Therefore, with swimwear there are a few things that you need to focus on and we've picked out three swimsuits that will look great on Apple shaped ladies. 

- Thicker straps or halter necks for more support and to make your shoulders appear narrower.
- Underwired cups to also provided more support.
- Stomach control if you need it.
- Plain design on the top & patterned bottom if possible
- Dark, solid colours to create a lean silhouette