Archive for the ‘Blog’ Category

Capsule Wardrobe Part 1 – The Trench Coat

Posted on: April 28th, 2014 by Emma No Comments

I thought I would start my series of blogs on creating a capsule wardrobe based around some key staple items, with the hardworking trench coat. It’s the perfect seasonal transition item – Winter/Spring and Summer/Autumn. It also has a darker side, all those movie seduction scenes built around the wearing of a trench and nothing else! If you get it right, it’s a timeless classic that you can just grab and go with almost any outfit.

The keys to picking a great trench (or for that matter any capsule piece) are:-

  • Spend as much as you can afford, it will make a difference to the quality and also should last you longer. Remember capsule pieces are about more than fast fashion.  If I could stretch the budget my go to would be Burberry (a girl can dream!).
  • Pick a style that suits your shape –

Be wary of the double breasted style if you are a Strawberry or Hourglass (larger bust).  Instead choose a single breasted option or better still one that simply ties.   Choose fluid rather than rigid detailing for the top half.  SYW likes  Jigsaw’s pink fluid trench  & Malene Birger’s zip up trench .   Hourglasses plump for a shape that falls from the waist in an A -line, Not The Same’s Sandra jacket does this really well

For those pear shaped among us you can go the opposite way and fully embrace the classic structured double breasted look.  Just focus on styles which emphasise your waist.  LK Bennett’s Boston in a timeless neutral and Oxford Blue’s tweed version achieve this.

Have a slim or athletic shape and looking to create curves?  Go for a swing shape in a bright colour like this orange one from J Crew .   You can also adopt the classic femme fatale look of a longer fluid line that looks elegant and smart or casual all at once. This works well on those with a taller stature too, Zara have a very covetable and budget friendly version.

  • Don’t forget whatever you choose, imbue it with a personal touch, whether a flash of your favourite colour in the lining, swapping the belt for a favourite scarf or adding that vintage brooch. Classic does not equal boring.

There are some great trenches out there for all budgets but don’t simply ditch your faithful old trench if it’s working well but simply needs TLC.  It’s worth the effort to get it re-lined, mended or updated with your personal touch. Not everything needs to be a new purchase. On the other hand if the style and shape is no longer suited to you, the investment in a new garment will be worth it. See SYW’s Trench Coat Pinterest Board Follow Shape Your Wardrobe's board Capsule Wardrobe -Part 1 on Pinterest.  for my trench coat inspiration or for help starting your own capsule wardrobe get in touch to arrange a Shape Your Wardrobe consultation.

SYW’s Little Black Book of Leamington

Posted on: April 2nd, 2014 by Emma No Comments

When friends and family visit, they all praise Leamington for its varied and different shops and individual feel. I am always proud of my adopted town (I have lived here 11 years) and am passionate about supporting our high street with its unique mix of boutiques, independents and larger retailers. The Love Leamington campaign www.loveleamington.com is an initiative which I hope will help prevent more independent retailers being forced out as a result of the recession (I am still mourning the demise of Comme Ci Comme Ca and Tiger). So here, as part SYW’s response to the #Love Leam challenge is a run through some of my Leamington favourites, old and new. The key that binds them all together is that personal touch and service you get, one thing is for sure wherever you go in Leamington there is always a warm welcome.

Lilac Rose – 69 Regent Street, L.Spa www.facebook.com/lilacrosesshop
I cannot make a trip into town without stopping in at this gorgeous boutique (in fact if I try my husband asks if I am ill!) Offering individual vintage style clothing, accessories and gifts. Staffed by a lovely, friendly, team who are always prepared to help out, offer opinions and give further information on the ranges stocked, which include Closet, Darling and Emily and Finn. Will appeal to those who like classic with a modern twist. Perfect for sourcing that great little dress that will see you through every summer event or for that go with everything pretty scarf. – Also has a shop in Cambridge.

Revolve – 88 Warwick Street, L Spa www.revolvefashions.co.uk
High on the glamour factor and great at bringing that feel to everyday outfits, that’s how I would describe this Leamington institution. Their window displays really stand out and I long for the lifestyle they depict, whether it’s a pair of suede ankle boots teamed with jeans and statement jacket or a selection of their evening gowns (currently I am coveting a rose gold sequin number). Whether you are looking for an everyday outfit with that special touch or something more formal for a prom, posh wedding, or a day at the races (their recent Cheltenham window was genius), you are in good hands with the Revolve team to help you look and feel a million dollars.

Karabo – 40 Warwick Street, L Spa www.karaboclothing.co.uk

Small independent boutique focusing on brands that aren’t seen everywhere, mostly separates and casual dressing. One of my best purchases ever was a quirky take on the waxed jacket by the brand “Not the Same”, practical but still stylish. Great line in shoes and bags, one client I took shopping here bought the most comfortable pair of shoes she ever had. I have an orange clutch purchased here that people often mistake for designer. They have a fab selection of branded jeans including “Not Your Daughters”. My go to place when I am looking for something that lifts me out of the plain old jeans and jumper rut.

Peter Stephan – 98 Warwick Street, L Spa www.peterstephan.co.uk
For jewellery and watches Colin and Sandy bring the personal touch and make you feel as if your purchase is worth thousands even if you are spending considerably less. Extremely knowledgeable and skilled jewellers, they will always take the time to explain the differences in the pieces and products on offer. They will also help give ideas or even narrow down your choices when you can’t decide. Offering good value too, I sourced 3 bridesmaids gifts here well within my modest budget. Perfect for special occasions or just that little treat.

If you fancy something quirky or the latest must have in trendy & fashion jewellery, then Fabulous Collections, 20 Lower Mall, Royal Priors Centre, L Spa. www.fabulouscollections.co.uk
a recent
discovery is also worth a visit.

Clements & Church – 23 Park Street, L Spa. www.clementsandchurch.co.uk
The men of Leamington could do with a few more boutique offerings for casual wear but on the smart/formal side they are extremely well served by Clements & Church. Despite the rapid expansion (outposts in Birmingham, Leamington, Solihull & Oxford), you always receive personal service and recognition along with expert knowledge when you visit this store. Offering formal wear including tuxedos, suits, shirts and blazers from tailors skilled in their trade. Only a limited number of each suit or blazer is produced, meaning you feel as though you have purchased a bespoke piece without the bespoke price tag.

Sarah Horne – 86 Warwick Street, L Spa. www.sarahhorne.net
As a Chelsea Flower Show medallist you might think this would be home to the priciest flowers on the high street, not the case. The flowers are great value and are superior in quality to others I have purchased. The team are welcoming and happy to lend a hand in choosing from their array of, not only bouquets and flowers but innovative gifts such as the arrangements in china tea cups (a favourite of mine) to the outstanding range of own brand organic massage candles which I have gifted to friends and family and all have raved about them. Also Sarah has teamed up with garden designer Debbie Cooke and they are designing a garden to represent Leamington to be displayed in the Grand Pavilion at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show (www.bloomingleamington.com ), how fab is that?

McIntosh & Paul – 133 Regent Street, L Spa. www.mcintoshandpaul.co.uk
A gift for that someone special who has everything or that hard to buy for relative, stop in at this local boutique and you are sure to be able to find something that fits the bill. As with all my favourites once again it’s the excellent friendly welcome and knowledge of their products that make it a hit with customers.

When you need a rest from all that shopping, you are spoilt for choice for relaxing with refreshments
As proclaimed by this week’s Stylist magazine, tea is the new coffee and Vinteas, 16 Park Street, L Spa, www.vinteas.co.uk
has capitalised on this trend, serving from an extensive tea menu in a retro setting complete with mismatched vintage china, I always feel as though I should dress up 1950’s style with white gloves, a pill box hat and a Grace Kelly style handbag. It offers full afternoon teas or just a pot for two. In my opinion no visit is complete without a slice of their red velvet cake, heaven. If tea isn’t your thing you could get the South American vibe by visiting Havana,
48 Warwick Street, L Spa. www.cafehavana.co.uk. With its Cuban inspired décor and small but perfectly formed outside areas, I always feel like I am on holiday here. Serving sandwiches, salads and tapas and the best coffee in Leamington, it’s equally perfect for breakfast, lunch or a coffee stop in the daytime or sipping fizz and sangria and dinner in the evening, on Wednesday nights there are even salsa classes. Alternatively you could
try Restaurant 23 & Morgan’s Bar,
34 Hamilton Terrace, L Spa. www.restaurant23.co.uk for a more formal lunch or early evening cocktails. A
gorgeous setting in a restored regency villa, you can almost pretend the bar complete with table service is your own living room (well I can dream can’t I?).

So what are your Leamington favourites? Share them here and on the #loveleam campaign. Don’t know your favourites? Take the Love Leam challenge this weekend. Let’s keep Leamington as a high street to be proud of.

Spring is in the Air

Posted on: February 24th, 2014 by Emma No Comments

I love this time of year, the feeling of everything being new again and the inspiration for the possibility of personal re-invention that comes with it. I was a Spring bride, so it always holds lovely memories and celebrations too. Whilst the global fashion weeks have had us looking forward to Autumn and Winter looks, outdoors we are being teased with the first glimpses of springtime weather coinciding nicely with the S/S 14 drop in the shops.  There is something for everybody from the muted pastels, through the florals to the zesty brights, where to start?

Get some inspiration from magazines and shop windows, note what you like and are drawn to. Then look at your wardrobe with Spring in mind. Does it already contain some of the trends or colours that with the addition of one or two pieces or even simply new accessories will put the Spring in your step? If so work on identifying some Spring outfit combinations for both work and play and then shop for the missing elements. Alternatively if you feel that your wardrobe doesn’t contain any suitable items, make a list of the types of events/activities you will be involved in the coming months. Identify two or three key outfits you may need, then work on creating these with mix and match items, working around two Spring inspired garments. Don’t forget whilst the sun may be shining its likely to remain cool for a little while longer so layering is always a good option.

Key trends very much in evidence on the high street right now are:-
Florals but ditch those ideas about this being old lady territory. This season florals are bright, big and bold and feature on shift dresses through to trousers. Some even combine the zesty bright trend, my pick of the bunch (excuse the pun) are:

Darling Clothing’s Layla Dress – bold bright and includes a hint of zesty brights too – also comes in a pencil skirt and trousers
Ted Baker’s Sugar Sweet Sweater Cute & dreamy
Louche’s small floral print trousers – for something a bit on the quieter side

Don’t worry if pattern is not for you Zesty brights are also a winner. Whilst orange and bright blue are featuring heavily I just can’t resist the zesty yellows and greens, they stop just shy of neon and for me reflect the colour of the season (Spring is always yellow for me) but with a twist. They can also easily be added to your Winter wardrobe staples for an instant update. 
Karen Millen’s relaxed lace panel knit is great to team with your jeans
Or try a skirt – both J Crew’s flippy number and Wishbone’s Lola pencil skirt will add instant zest

The ultimate in ladylike chic Muted pastels – My absolute favourite of which is dusky pink, viewed as a neutral it’s so versatile and easily can replace or brighten all those blacks and greys you may have been wearing all Winter.

See my  Pinterest Board – Spring is in the Air Follow Shape Your Wardrobe's board Spring is in the Air on Pinterest.for my inspiration and favourites. I’m going to be channelling a ladylike preppy look for Spring. I’ll be combining an H&M dusty pink midi skirt (new purchase, winging its way to me) with my Autumn/Winter grey embroidered sweatshirt (also courtesy of H&M) for those earlier chillier days. Once it warms up I will be replacing with my cream chiffon top with lace front detailing from Louche and a Yellow Spring Cardi. Both looks will go equally well with my tan brogues (I am a recent convert, despite my husband’s reservations, to grown up flats) and my Ash suede ankle boots. Although, I am sorely tempted by a new pair of kitten heels to see me through to sandal season. Voila, my capsule spring wardrobe.Spring is in the air capsule photoDusty Pink HM Skirt60735df2802d399c924d13f44ccb8f26[1] Hopefully this has given you some inspiration but if you need a hand revitalising and moving your wardrobe into the new season, Shape your Wardrobe can help. From a seasonal edit to a shopping session or any of my other services just give me a call or take a look at the website. I’m off to buy some daffodils and freesia xx.

Sales Shopping – The Shape Your Wardrobe Guide

Posted on: January 19th, 2014 by admin No Comments

Sleeping outside overnight, the queues, the frantic rampages to get the best bargain. Just watching the annual coverage of the Harrods sale, where this year they actually hired performers to entertain the crowds (how civilized), made me want to crawl under the duvet and hide. This, from someone who loves shopping and loves a bargain even more.

If, like me, the traditional sales shopping frenzy is not for you here’s my guide to successful sales shopping, which these days is applicable all year round.

Timing
Controversial – but don’t go right at the start of the sales. That way lies the insanity of queuing overnight and planning strategies of how to get to the rails first (mostly involving bodily harm of your fellow shoppers). There is only one exception to this rule, and it applies to both online and in store. If you have had your eye on a particular piece for a while and that is what you have set your heart on and you know it will be a steal. Then I urge you to join in, embrace the glorious madness and do whatever you have to. Otherwise the sales tend to get better as mid January (or mid sale period, if at another time of year) approaches. Further discounts are given, the crowds thin/the website stops crashing just as you want to check out – making it a more pleasant shopping experience.

Prepare
Review your wardrobe before even thinking about entering a shop (real or virtual). Without doing so it’s all too easy to have your head turned, only to return home with another pair of black trousers to add to the 10 you already have. Make a note of items you love but rarely wear because you can never seem to find anything to go with them. Think about the type of thing that would complement them and focus your shopping on those “missing items”.

Shop Local
Often the independent boutique style shops can be a great bet in the sales. Generally, offering a more personal service and more unique items of stock. It can add a certain additional feel-good factor knowing your purchase is supporting your local high street.

Go equipped
It’s a little dull and sounds like advice your Mum would give you but it’s worth repeating:

  • Dress practically, neutral separates are ideal when it comes to easing the changing room experience. They provide something to go with other separates you may try. Even better wear that item you are desperately trying to find a partner for.
  • Sore feet will not assist in your bargain hunt, so comfortable shoes are a must. (Comfortable does not equate to boring, just saying!);
  • Hydrate whilst on the go by carrying a bottle of water in your handbag;
  • Plan pit stops, not only to slake hunger and thirst, but useful for reviewing items already seen and planning the next shops to visit and really what’s shopping without the added reward of cake?

Don’t get bargain fever
It’s that sinking feeling, you have yet to make a purchase despite shopping for what feels like hours, everyone else has a bargain and you don’t, the shopping will be an epic fail, this must be avoided at all costs so you reach for that……………….neon vest top, only £10, sure to be a winner on the beach. Never mind it doesn’t fit properly, you hate neon and it will be relinquished in 6 months time to someone in need of 80’s fancy dress, you will have got a BARGAIN. Mission accomplished.

Sound familiar? To avoid this common affliction keep in mind that clothing purchases (sale item or not) barring those boring essentials like socks etc – should make you joyful at the thought of wearing them and that joy must not be solely linked the price tag being lower than it should be. Whilst that can be part of the allure don’t let it be the only reason you buy an item.

Happy shopping.