MEGA MONDAY

Mega Monday, Cyber Monday, or Spend, Spend, Spend Monday - I think most people indulged in a little online shopping this week. 

I like online shopping, I like it a lot but it's not without problems. it can be just as overwhelming, time consuming and delivery can be a pain. However, on the whole, it's easy, convenient and it's here to stay but does it mean the demise of the high-street?

High-street retailers can give us customer experiences that we will never get online but for sure they have to up their game. Dynamic, energetic and knowledgeable sales staff would be a good start and clean changing rooms, unrestricted number of items when trying on and prices to match those on the internet should be the norm. However, customers love to feel special and valued and retailers need to invest in ways that show that. 

I recently took a client to an independent high-street retailer where we were warmly greeted and offered refreshments. Clothes were displayed in colour themes, well spaced out with just one of each size on display and there was room to move around. Staff were happy to fetch other sizes or to answer questions. Alterations were free of charge, a discount was given to compete with Cyber Monday, items were carefully wrapped and a free pair of tights added to the parcel.

I asked my client about her experience and she said that she loved it because it put the feel good factor back into shopping and she felt her custom was valued. Will she go back? You bet!

If we don't use it we'll lose it. Give the retailers your feedback, negative or positive!

SHOPPING THE TRENDS

My wardrobe is definitely more suited to the autumn/winter season; it's the time of year where I get to dress up and be creative with my outfits.  I love layering and indulging in luxurious fabrics. 

Exposed to all the latest a/w trends it's tempting for me to get carried away, therefore, I decide what I want to buy before hitting the shops. Wandering around aimlessly can be demoralising as well as time wasting so I make myself a wish list. The one rule I do have, no matter what the season, is that the trend must suit me. I like to be fashion savvy not a fashion victim.

The key pieces for me this season would be:

WALLIS

0844 984 0266

www.wallis.co.uk

The Coat 
Always a big style investment and a favourite autumn/winter purchase. This year is no exception with styles ranging from oversized to streamlined, tomboy to womanly. Whilst neutral colours remain a popular choice, think about investing in a coloured, bright coat as seen on the catwalks. It will give your autumn wardrobe an instant update, add a new dynamic to your outfit and bring cheer to a dull, grey day. Given the British weather you will probably get to wear a  coat for a good chunk of the year so value per wear it’s a winner.

DOROTHY PERKINS

0845 121 4515

www.dorothyperkins.com

The Flat Shoe 
Loafers, brogues and oxfords are this season’s alternative to the ballet pump. Look out for silver and gold for extra polish. 

The Sweater & the Skirt

DOROTHY PERKINS

0845 121 4515

www.dorothyperkins.com

Embrace femininity and invest in a skirt. Knee length and longer are the order of the day in keeping with the more womanly and elegant trend. Pleats are flirty and the full circle skirt reminiscent of retro glamour.

The sweater and skirt combination featured heavily at the shows. Keep the sweater on the slouchy side and go for a skirt cut to the knee.  You will find an abundance of embellished sweaters if you want to add some razzle dazzle to your outfit.

Finally, a word on colour! Pink - a welcome injection of colour and femininity to our autumn and winter wardrobes! Anything pink from the palest rosebud to dusky rose. It looks great when teamed with grey, navy or black. 
Tip: Cooler complexions look best with the icy pinks and warmer complexions with coral or salmon pinks.

DON'T SAVE IT FOR BEST

My philosophy regarding getting the most out of my clothes is:  

“Wear it and love it. Don’t save it for best, best is everyday.” 

Given that I have a few fashion years and purchases under my belt, I've had the opportunity and life experiences to reach that conclusion but I was surprised the other day to hear the same mantra from a 15 year old fashionista. 

I was admiring her jacket. She told me she had bought it at an auction and that it had once belonged to a famous singer. She went on to tell me that she never has it off her back! She wears it whether she's meeting the girls for coffee or cleaning her bike. She loves it and when she wears it she feels special. How's that for style?!

So don't put your clothes into the holy shrine of 'only for best'. If it's a fashion item chances are you will get fed up of it before you can wear it out so wear it whilst it's still cutting edge and get your money's worth.  If it's a classic, with good care and maintenance, it will serve you well for many years.

HAPPY FEET

This weekend I was lucky enough to work with a very talented group of dancers at a marketing event at the Potteries INTU Shopping Centre in Stoke-on-Trent. High energy dance routines and scorching temperatures called for several wardrobe changes but the crew nailed it! Shoppers couldn't help but tap their feet!

http://www.marilynjonesdancecentre.com

BODY LINES

Clients often ask me about bodyshape and are intrigued to know whether they are pear, apple, diamond or triangular. In the first instance, however, I encourage them to think about their overall silhouette and whether the outline is straight or curved or a combination of both.

Complement the line of your body by using similar lines in your clothing. Curvier body lines benefit from a contour in the pattern or drape in the fabric whereas straighter body lines are complemented by geometric patterns and stiffer fabrics.

Once the bodylines have been identified we can then think about disguising

common figure variations or enhancing our best assets. I'll cover these in a future blog.

STRAIGHT CLOTHING DETAILS 

Jackets - square shoulder lines, square hemline, asymmetrical fastening, contrasting buttons and trims

Lapels - pointed or square, straight, stand up, piped 

Necklines - square, v-neck, slash, shirt collar

Sleeves - set in, square shoulders, cap or short sleeve, stiff cuff

Pockets - well defined, square, piped, slit

Hemlines - straight

Pleats - pressed down, stitched down

Darts - long and straight, sharply defined

Seams - well defined, perma creased, top stitching, piping

Belts - angular clasps

Buttons - angular

Fabrics - stiff, structured, crisp

Cuts - straight, angular, boxy, masculine

CURVED CLOTHING DETAILS

Jackets - curved hem, rounded shoulder lines

Lapels - rounded, notched, shawl

Necklines - round, draped, shawled, cowl

Sleeves - raglan, drop shoulder

Darts - soft

Pleats - eased, soft

Seams - curved, fine or no top stitching

Belts - soft materials, rounded clasps

Buttons - rounded

Fabrics - soft, flat, smooth with drape, flowing

Cuts - fitted, contoured

COOL IN SHADES

I'm sure the sun will come out eventually! When it does, you'll be wanting a pair of sunglasses that not only protect your eyes but look great too. 

Not sure what style of shades will suit your face shape?

Here are my tips:-

Oval face - evenly proportioned features, suits almost every style.

Oblong face - longer than it is wide, choose frames that are deep from top to bottom or have details at the temples.

Round face - avoid anything circular as these will accentuate the roundness, go for a more angular style.

Square face - broad forehead and strong jawline, go for oval or round frames or even cat-eye style.

Heart face - broad forehead and small chin, avoid frames that are wider at the top, rimless shades will flatter as will rounded or square styles.

Triangle face - narrow forehead and wider at the cheeks and chin, look for frames that have colour on the top half, you could also try an aviator frame.

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL

I saw a great quote the other day on Facebook (Quotes & Sayings) and I would like to share it with you.

"Do not underestimate yourself by comparing yourself to others. It’s our differences that make us unique and beautiful."

On the same day I heard all the publicity surrounding the tightening up (no pun intended) of cosmetic procedures. 

Working as an image consultant it's my business to help people look and feel good. I believe that everybody has the right to feel good about their appearance irrespective of age, size, shape or wealth.

Looking and feeling good impacts on all areas of our life but we need to get the balance right. It's not about looking younger or having the 'perfect' body, it's about making the most of what you've got and being the best version of yourself.

Unfortunately, we are constantly fed images and messages setting out standards of physical beauty and perfection that can make us feel inadequate. Try not to be intimidated or pressurised by these unrealistic ideals.

FORGET ABOUT THE SIZE TAG

A client was horrified when, on a recent shopping trip, I suggested she try on a garment that was labelled size 14. Okay this lady is usually a size 10 but as I pointed out to her it’s not the size that counts; it’s the fit. It fitted her beautifully and she has since contacted me to say she has never had it off her back. Job done.

Manufacturers use different sizing criteria and the fabric and cut of a garment may mean you need to go up or down a size.  I have clothes in my wardrobe ranging from a size 0 (USA) to 42 (Italy) as well as 10 (UK) even though I am generally a size 6. 

Use your 'typical' size as a guideline by all means but don’t discount an item because it says something different than you are used to.

CROCK FROCK

Fancy a cuppa?

The daughter of a potter, I couldn't fail to notice Carven's SS13 trend for Wedgwood pottery style prints! Likewise, as a potter's daughter, I can't afford Carven so I have been looking for budget versions on the high street.

Pinned from carven.com via pinterest.com

I spotted blue and white as well as blue and cream motif shirts, dresses and jackets in Primark. For a casual daytime look, wear the dress with blue pumps and denim jacket or, if you get invited to afternoon tea on the best china, pair with ladylike accessories and shoes. Topshop have some blue suede courts and if you really want to be on trend try their white stilettos.

FESTIVAL FEVER

THE SEASON IS FAST APPROACHING

Festival going is all about having fun: enjoying great music, soaking up the atmosphere, making new friends and last but not least, rocking a look around the moshpit!

WHAT TO WEAR?

A little advance planning is called for here. You need to think about what deserves a place in your rucksack!

Singer Sammy Hayes

One of the challenges you have to face is that whatever you wear has to cater for the great British weather be it hail, rain, shine or mud.

Field + rain + people = mudbath!

Okay you want clothes that are going to protect you from the elements, designed for stomping around in fields and stuff that you don't want to have to worry about getting dirty or damaged. Ladies, leave the high heels at home and guys, forget the white trainers!

Layering is key to successful festival dressing. Lightweight layers can be added or taken off depending on the weather and temperature. Otherwise, anything goes, so use your imagination, get creative and flaunt your individuality. Try floral prints, checks, tie-dye, studs, fringing and fluoro to add interest and festival pizazz to your outfit.

By all means look to celebrities for inspiration but don't try to look like one. They have access to VIP pitches, Winnebagos and the like and probably several changes of outfit!

Here's my checklist for LOOKING FABULOUS IN THE FIELD

DONT GO WITHOUT

• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Blanket
• Camping chair with drink holder-not essential but saves your beer getting knocked over)
• Torch (better still a headlamp for hands free exploring)
• Loo roll
• First aid kit
• Wet wipes
• Sunscreen ( yes let's be optimistic)
• Deo wipes/stick deodorant
• Dry shampoo (who wants to be washing their hair?)
• Basic toiletries (a little soap dodging won't hurt but you want to smell fresh for those sharing your tent)
• Lip balm
• Bottled water
• Anti-bacterial hand gel
• A few black bin bags (for wet/dirty clothing)
• A flag so that you can find your des res in a sea of other tents. Why not customise it?

MUST HAVES FOR EVERYONE

Some items you need to double up in case you get a soaking!

• Sunglasses
• Hat/cap
• Cagoule or waterproof jacket/coat
• Backpack/rucksack
• Wellies or sturdy footwear like Dr. Marten's-don't forget socks (blistered feet are not a cool look)
• Plimsolls such as Converse or Vans for if the ground is good enough
• Jeans
• Shorts
• T Shirt
• Sweatshirt/jumper
• Underwear

EXTRA THREADS FOR GALS             
Cape or poncho                                         
Parka                                                                          

Cross body bag or belt with purse attached                         

Cropped top                                                             

Denim jacket                                                                                                              

Camo jacket 
Hoody                                                               

Fringed top/waistcoat

Leggings/tights for under shorts

Printed leggings

Sarong

Long dress

Playsuits (look great but nightmare for loo)

EXTRA THREADS FOR GUYS

   Parka
   Camo shorts
   Patterned t's, vests
   Hoody
   Chinos

IT'S IN THE DETAILS GALS 
   add some cool accessories

Clip in feathers or braids

Flower crowns

Hand harness

Friendship bracelets

Necklaces with spikes, crosses

So whether you're there for a music marathon or some tent camaraderie, kick back, chill out and enjoy!

Remember, the idea is to have a good time and what goes on at the festival stays at the festival but don't throw all caution to the wind, STAY SAFE. For a festival survival guide go to http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Festivalhealth/Pages/Survivalguide.aspx

SCARF CHIC

Scarves have found favour with designers this season but they are an all time favourite of mine. 

A scarf can add instant glamour and sophistication to an outfit.  It's an easy and inexpensive way of updating or changing your look but also one of the more affordable ways of adding a designer item to your ensemble. 

You can never have too many and they will last for years. Collect various sizes, look out for colours that flatter your skin tone and experiment in wearing them in different ways.

Via pinterest.com
Created by larainerf on polyvore.com

Use as a headscarf, necktie, belt or fasten it to your handbag.

King Cool

Via pinterest.com
originally created by larainerf on polyvore.com

A male friend recently asked me to go 'jeans' shopping with him. He was on a tight budget and if possible wanted to take advantage of the sales.
I say this time and time again guys. If you can only afford one pair of jeans, go for a slim or classic fit, straight cut in a dark wash; they are so versatile. Top them off with a decent leather belt.
The ladies have learned how to take denim from day to night with a change of shoes and top. You can do the same and change your jeans from casual to smart by wearing  with a tailored jacket. Swap the footwear for a smart boot or shoe and you're good to go.
Savvy shopping - we found 3 pairs of designer jeans for my buddy, all at sale price!