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!

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).

Created on polyvore.com by larainerf

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

Via pinterest.com
Created by larainerf on polyvore.com

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!