Hey Rudolph!

Christmas just wouldn't be the same without the festive knit! Okay guys you don't have to do the reindeer look. There are some great alternative designs including my favourite snowflake design from Reiss (bottom left).

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PARTY TIME

I'm off to my first party of the season tonight. Dressing up for me doesn't necessarily mean a dress. I believe that my black catsuit and white smoking jacket will look just as good as any frock I have in my wardrobe. I love the simplicity of the suit with the dramatic colour combination. However, I've got another 3 events lined up and for those I am planning to wear a dress. Before any event I always check if there is a dress code and then road test my outfits for comfort, fit and accessories. I don't want to be rushing around at the last minute.

So, have you got your party outfits sorted? Here are some ideas to get your started:

The Little Black Dress – a tried and tested formula that works for most. A great choice of styles and it's easy to change the look and mood with accessories.

The Bright Frock – of course it doesn't have to be black and indeed black doesn't work for all complexions. Create an impact and lift the mood by going for a colour. Try bright red, plum, emerald green or sapphire blue.

The Shiny One – metallic, sequins and sparkle can all give a glamorous look. Don't go for too much embellishment – if your dress is razzle dazzle keep the accessories simple.  

Choosing the best dress for your figure:

via pinterest.com
created by larainerf on polyvore.com

Curvy - go for a fabric that drapes rather than clings and steer away from anything baggy. Look for a semi-fitted style that follows your curves. Try to define your waist.

Wide hips – look for soft 'A' line style with a lower, wider neckline in a fabric that has movement. Look also for details that add width at the shoulders and draw the eye upwards.

Petites – simple silhouettes such as a fitted sheath will work but don't be afraid to try a fuller silhouette with a well defined waist. Look also for vertical details and monochromatic styles.

Large bust – Choose deeper necklines, look for v or scoop necks. Avoid ruffles and trims on the bust.

Small bust – Ruching, pleats and frills over the bust can add fullness. Defined or belted waists can also give the illusion of a bigger bust line.

Boyish – go for a simple shift or A line. Create curves with a belt or seaming at the waist. Draping, ruching and frills also work for this bodyshape.

Tummy – if you are conscious of your tummy avoid any style that accentuates the waist. Avoid stiff and bulky fabrics. Draw attention away from your middle with an open neckline. Clever gathering and carefully placed ruching can also camouflage a tummy.

Have a great Christmas!

GOLD RUSH

It seems that we will never tire of gold in 2012! At a recent shopping event I was helping ladies find their perfect party dress and this gold number from River Island was certainly on the podium. What I like about this dress is that it has a life beyond the party season. I can see this dress easily fitting in with a holiday wardrobe. If it needs to be black RI also have a similar one in black which when accessorised with gold looked fab.

Images via pinterest.com

Versatile Biker

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I have to confess that my biker jacket is really old but if there was ever a jacket that has served me well it's this one. This wardrobe staple can go from rock chick to tough luxe from boho to 9 to 5. If you haven't got one I suggest you put it on your Christmas wish list!

BOMBER

The iconic bomber jacket would make a great addition to your autumn wardrobe. It ticks the boxes for looks and functionality. This reversible one comes with a hefty price tag but you will find budget versions in the high street stores. You will also find bombers with contrasting textures, colours and patterns which give a a modern twist to this classic jacket.

Nicolas Andreas Taralis Men's Leather Bomber Jacket

via pinterest.com

COAT?

I recently met a client to help her choose a coat. She told me she had been looking for years to find the perfect coat but as I pointed out to her there is no such thing. One coat won't meet all needs or all occasions unless you live in a very temperate climate.
I suggest building up a a capsule wardrobe of coats.

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Apart from keeping the elements out, a great coat can add instant style, pull a look together, accentuate your best features or cover up figure variations. It needs to earn its keep in terms of practicality, versatility and longevity so it's worth giving some thought and time to your investment.

Ideally, your coat wardrobe would include:

raincoat
daytime coat
evening coat
casual coat
cold weather coat


If you need to prioritise I would start off with a raincoat such as a classic trench and another coat that would make the transition from day to evening.

Here are a few things to consider when buying but contact me if you need further help with your purchase:

If you wear a lot of neutral colours choose a bright and colourful coat for some instant style and to add a new dynamic to your outfit.
If you want it to last for years go for a classic shape and colour.
Think about the climate you most want to protect against and prioritise accordingly.
A bulky coat will get in the way when you are driving.
Think about what you are going to wear underneath. You may need to go up a size if you want to wear it over a jacket.
For versatility go for a coat that falls on the knee or just below. A soft, belted style suits most shapes.

Beyond Rubies

Last night I had the pleasure and privilege of being the style adviser to these fabulous girls at Rubygirl UK's charity fundraising event 'Rubylicious'. 

Rubygirl UK helps girls and young women reach their potential and overcome hurdles that can influence their self esteem and self worth including confidence in their appearance.

The challenge for the girls last night was to design and create their own outfits from black bin liners and then to model them on the catwalk in front of an audience of 400. We had some incredible creations from puff ball skirts to capes. Each girl also had to come up with one word to describe how they felt about themselves. 

The bin liner idea was to get the girls thinking about to express their individuality and to show that looking and feeling good doesn't depend on having a big budget or being tied to unrealistic ideals.

Well done girls. You were amazing!
For further information about the work of Rubygirll UK go to www.rubygirluk.com