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.