The life of Personal Stylist 'Karen Lowe'

Meet one of our dedicated stylists Karen Lowe. Karen has worked with us at Bristol Fashion Week and other events for the past 3 years. A successful Image Consultant with her own styling business, Karen is a professional, friendly, trendy, yummy mummy always willing to pass on her knowledge and advice to those who want to know. 

We've followed her style movements recently so you can get to know Karen on a more personal level should you wish to visit her for a FREE consultation at Bristol Fashion Week or book a style consultation with the lovely lady herself. 

Being a mother, typically Karens day starts with a school run before dashing off to meet clients, shop trends, present on Bristol TV, host womens talks and a whole list of other events she gets involved in. 

Doesn't sound like Karen has much time to think about her wardrobe - but oh no! She certainly does....

Having taken shots of herself in her own home recently to inspire other women you can see just how Karens style takes shape. Karen loves print & texture and we're often having conversations between us about her signature leather jacket & ankle boots

Take a look at Karens Facebook page for inspiration on her style, you'll get to see more of the real Karen and feel at ease when you want some good honest fashion & style advice

To book a FREE Personal Style Consultation with Karen during Bristol Fashion Week 26-28th March CLICK HERE to let us know 

Meet our Personal Stylists....

Over the course of the next few weeks, in the run up to Bristol Fashion Week - get to know our stylists on a more personal level; each of the ladies above will be blogging more about themselves so you can get to know them better. Follow us on our popular social channels; FACEBOOK & TWITTER check back to our blog or sign up to our guest list to ensure you don't miss out!

FREE Personal Stylists only @ Bristol Fashion Week SS15

Back once again at Bristol Fashion Week - The image Consulting Co are pleased to support this fantastic fashion event for the fifth year. 

If you've ever wondered how you can save money in your wardrobe, understand your clothes or simply fancy taking a professional shopping - now's your time to book a FREE consultation with our stylists at Bristol Fashion Week. 

During Thursday 26th March - Sunday 29th March only, stylists Karen & Brigitte will be on hand giving away FREE style advice to shoppers and the opportunity to spend min 30 minutes or more at a very exclusive rate. 

Bookings are taken on a first come first serve basis so make sure you book your slot soon. CLICK HERE to let us know you want to come along on one of these days and we'll make arrangements with you. 

We'll be updating our blog in the run up to the event with more details on BFW for Spring 2015 and the opportunity to get to know our stylists more personally, so make sure you check back soon or add your details to our 'Guest List' for more details. 

The Stylist Challenge: Try Something New This Summer

We've all had the realistation that appears when you are asked to try on an outfit or garment that you are unsure of and it is perfect!! An item can look unflattering when hanging lifelessly on the hanger yet when the garment is tried on the design looks amazing!! 

It is always worthwhile heading to the changing rooms if you are unsure of an item or a garment that has been recommended by a friend to your despair. However, trying on a range of styles and shapes can allow for you to identify what highlights your figure well and what doesn't quite work. It is great to experiment whilst shopping and stepping out of your comfort zone. 

As Personal Stylists we regularly encourage clients to try items that we have picked that they are initially uncertain of. It is fantastic to witness the delight and confidence that women feel in clothing that compliments their figure especially when it is designs that they never would have dreamed to select without our help.

We challenge you to try on a new item this Summer that you are uncertain of! Let us know how you get on!

This little fella sure got a surprise!! 

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. 

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!

Get your wardrobe in to Spring condition...

Behind the scenes for Spring at SouthGate Bath...

A little taster of something to come very soon from SouthGate Bath..

Your chance to showcase your style and become part of the stylish social team at SouthGate

Here's Emmeline preparing to tell you all about it!

Who's the mummy?

  

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and you’re sure to find something gorgeous to spoil her with in the fantastic stores at SouthGate Bath. But, the team at SouthGate thought, why stop there? This year they're looking for the world’s best mums and when they find them, they are going to lavish them with fantastic prizes: one of them being some extra special pamper time with SouthGate's Personal Fashion Stylist: Emmeline Stevens. 

So if you have (or know of) a brilliant mum, nominate them now by clicking the link below and completing the entry page, telling us why they deserve a little extra love this Mother’s Day! (Then sit back and bask in the glory of being the best son/daughter in the world. Well, you must be, if you’ve got the best mum in the world…)

ENTER HERE

New Year, New Wardrobe?

After the festive time of the year, when organisation of your wardrobe is least important, does your wardrobe now look like this? 

Or this?

Start the New Year the way you mean to go on this year. Why not get organised before the sales end and the new season starts? 

We can help you organise your wardrobe, create new outfits, discover things you didn't know you had,  show you how to wear your clothes to suit your body shape and the best colours to flatter your figure. 

All from the items in your wardrobe! 

Get in touch to find out how we can help you 

  

Vintage Amy at Bristol Fashion Week AW12

Here are a few of my favourite things about Bristol Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2012.

John Lewis Advert: As I sat down with my glass of bucks fizz and chocolate chip muffin, I got the chance to admire the cute girl’s outfits whilst listening to Paloma Faiths beautiful song. Definitely an enjoyable moment whilst waiting for the fashion show to start. Make sure you check out John Lewis’s new advert, a favourite in our household.

Waiting for all the bloggers to arrive!

 Autumn Florals: I adore floral prints (as you already know) so I was excited to discover that florals are to continue in an autumn colour palette.  I certainly will be hunting down a cute dress or blouse in this seasons floral pattern.

Florals by John Lewis

Return of the Peplum Trend: The popular peplum trend is making an appearance this season. The feminine flattering shape that highlights the waist and skims over the hips is perfect for your party dress or blouse and skirt combo. 

Ladylike Chic: Knee length pencil skirts with cropped tailored blazers create a ladylike, feminine silhouette. The classic suits come in textured fabrics with silver thread lines to inject a contemporary feel. Teamed with a delicate lace blouse this seasons ladylike chic trend is complete. Luckily, I already have my Chanel-esque blazer hung neatly in my wardrobe.

Ladylike Trouser Suit by M&S

Hair Advice: The part of the show where Andrew Barton shares his expert hair advice. I was pleased to discover that either; a short blunt fringe, a beautiful bun or hair full of body bounce are perfect hair styles to compliment this seasons look. Seeing as I already love fringes and high buns then I will be investing in some heated rollers.

Heritage Trend: I am a huge Downton Abbey fan so the interpretation of the heritage trend was one of my favourite scenes. The autumn leaves, wool dresses and fur collars in shades of brown and maroon created a warm, cosy feel. Knitwear in autumnal colours is one of the reasons why I enjoy this season.  

Heritage Trend by M&S

 Style Advice: Working at the Personal Style Pod for The Image Consulting Company was certainly a highlight for me. I got the chance to share my style advice on body shape, trends and colour, which was rewarding and great fun!   

Goody Bag: I always like to collect my Bristol Fashion Week goody bag! After a good rummage through all of the treats inside I always find a purpose for the tote bag. I usually use the canvas bag to carry my knitting, lug home my shopping or for storage. I love the purple floral writing this time! Bang on trend!!!

Fashion Show Venue

So, no matter what your style is I am sure Bristol Fashion Week will be able to offer great advice to enhance your style. Whether this is new fashion trends, hair advice or just a family day out you are bound to have fun! I certainly did!

Fabulous Images by Bristol Fashion Week at The Mall Cribbs Causeway.

Spot this seasons trends,

Vintage Amy xx

 

I've got nothing to wear!

Is it time to de-clutter your wardrobe?

Clearing out your wardrobe can save you time and bags of money!

“I have nothing to wear” is a comment many women make when they open their wardrobe. 9 out of 10 clients tell us they have many items in their wardrobe they never wear. Sound familiar? 

Before you move your summer items out and your winter items in, the turn of the season is a good time to de-clutter. You may have heard of the capsule wardrobe, this concept works well if you want your wardrobe to work for you. 

All you need to do is take a few tips to get started.

Allow yourself a couple of hours. Pull everything out of the wardrobe. As you do, justify each item and it’s reason for being in there. 

Does it need to be there? How often do you wear it? 

Put the items in to one of three piles: 

To Keep: You wear these items often or know of an occasion you will

To Go: Now you’ve pulled them out of the wardrobe, you know they’ve had their day!

Unsure: Don’t spend too long thinking about which pile to put the items in, if you really can’t decide or want to keep the item but not sure why, put them in this pile 

Next...put all of your ‘To Keep’ items back in the wardrobe in order of type (bottoms together, tops together etc). Try clothes on as you go to help you find new outfits you wouldn’t normally choose in a rush, this is often the only time you’ll do this and when your wardrobe is in good order, you’ll find it much easier to select a different outfit each day rather the the same things over and over again.

Then, go to your ‘Unsure’ pile and be brutal in your decisions to keep or ditch the item.

Finally, put the pile ‘To Go’ in a bin liner out if sight and decide which good home you would like it to go to. Consider having a clothes party, giving it to charity or if you’re creative make something you will wear!

It takes a little practice putting outfits together but will always save you time on the day you want to wear it if you plan ahead. To inspire you, below are a few ideas of using just one item in different ways. Apply this to many items in your wardrobe and you’ll be on your way to a capsule wardrobe opening the doors to 

“ What shall I wear today?”

HELP! Let an expert do the work for you...

If you need help in the wardrobe department, would like to know how to make the most of the clothes you own and save money click here to get excited  about our Wardrobe Consultation with a Personal Stylist of your own!

Avoid costly wardrobe mistakes..

Want to be in the know? Or can't view properly? 

Get your copy of our latest 'no junk' news mailed directly to your inbox. 

Contact us now to add your details to our 'Guest List' 

Bristol Fashion Week 21-25 March 2012

Find out how to dress your body shape, get some top style tips and talk to a professional about your fashion dilemma's! Emmeline Stevens will be in The Beauty Zone at Bristol Fashion Week for 4 days answering your questions giving FREE Personal Style Consultations. 

Hurry, this is a popular event so  book your FREE consultation now! 

Last chance to enter £600 make-over competition!

 Today is your last chance to enter our competition in association with Centrecourt Shopping Centre in Wimbledon to win 
a £600 Personal Shopping day!  

All you have to do is enter your details here to be in with a chance to win!

Here's what you can expect:

– Personal Shopper: Emmeline’s expert fashion advice for the day
– £200 to spend in any fashion store at Centrecourt
– Lunch at Pontis
– A Mini Make-up Makeover with Smashbox
– Hair Styling at Toni & Guy

Register your details before the end of the day!!

Visit www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk for more details

Please take note of terms and conditions on the Centrecourt website. 

Best buys - Neutral basics

It's not too late to bag a sale bargain, in fact most retailers have their lowest prices NOW!

From just 3 High Street retailers, we've found some great neutral basics in the sale to work with your wardrobe all year round. Cool or Warm - your Spring wardrobe starts here!

Dorothy Perkins Oyster Dolly Coat £15 (was £59) and Oatmeal minimal cape £25 (was £75)

Moda in Pelle Daniel 'Alanya' court shoes £59.99 (was £119) French Connection 'Apollo' trousers £41 (was £82) Moda in Pelle 'Elinah' pumps £39.95 (was £55.95)

French Connection 'Cheetah spots' dress £51.50 (was £77) and 'Maple Magic' tunic dress £16.75 (was £67)

Dorothy Perkins cable cardigan £12 (was £32) French Connection 'Fanfare' dress £45 (was £67)

Moda in Pelle 'Carme' boot £29.95 (was £65)

Get them now before they're gone!

Moda in Pelle

French Connection

Dorothy Perkins

Spring is on it's way...really, it is!

Out with the old - in with the new
Start your wardrobe detox early and be inspired by some fantastic new colours for the season..SS12 preview on it's way, in the meantime, H&M is a good place to start. They have a fab range of classic, basics items that you'll get lots of wear out of through the season...

If you want help with your wardrobe, to create a stylish look this season, click here for more information about a Personal Style Consultation, or why not try our new Online Stylist service?

H&M Jacket £29.99, H&M Dress/Top £9.99, Topshop yellow jeans £38

H&M Shoes £29.99, H&M Scarf £4.99

H&M Bracelet £3.99, Oasis bag £40