Part 2 of my Summer dressing blog focussing on taking the overwhelm out of Summer dressing with my tips on how to build a capsule wardrobe for Summer
Feeling a bit overwhelmed by your summer wardrobe? Have nothing to wear? Would you like to take the guesswork out your Summer dressing? A capsule wardrobe may be the answer for you.
Take a look at my suggestions, designed to help you build your ultimate Summer capsule wardrobe that will have you looking and feeling good.
Still feeling a bit stuck? Take a look at my suggested capsule contents and adapt for your wardrobe.
Do you already operate on a capsule basis? If so how do you find it? If not do you have any tried and tested ways to master Summer dressing? Would you like to try a capsule but not quite confident to tackle it on your own, you can always book my capsule starter service and I can help. Would love to hear from you so get in touch or leave a comment.
Tis the season and all that and whilst I just may have a blog of all the lovely stuff that is out there in the shops up my sleeve I also wanted to do a quick piece on why, when faced with occasion dressing of the Christmas variety, you could find the answer in the most unlikely of places – your Summer wardrobe.
Yes you did hear correctly and yes I probably am directing this post at those of you whose internal mercury runs higher than most (I suspect there are quite a few of us ladies). Let’s face it, most “do’s”, parties, shindigs end up being warm affairs whether on the dancefloor, packed bar or in the kitchen at house parties. I had a christening to go to last week so needed to be church and then gathering at a friend’s house as well as weather appropriate, I came up with three options and at least 2 of them included slightly unseasonal items.
First up this LK Bennett number, clearly I am not mad enough to think this would be warm enough in the face of frost and whilst I contemplated layering a fine knit or similar underneath it I decided to carry the blue from tope to toe by adding a brighter blue jumper over the top. Easy to discard once your event warms up, looks great with a statement necklace and by dressing in multiple shades of blue with the finishing touch of the M&S Cinderella shoes you will most definitely be ready to go to the ball.
Of course even I needed an outer layer option. My top tip here is to go for a luxe fabric –velvet is a great choice I went for trusty black blazer (last winter from M&S) but there are some great coloured versions this season. I also think a sequin goes a long way and this River Island one gets my vote.
Another option was the Reiss dress, that is probably the most complimented dress in my wardrobe, so what better excuse to get more wear out of it? It’s already earmarked for a destination wedding next year but was surprisingly easy to adapt for Derbyshire in December.
The secret – a great pair of knee high boots with metallic detailing and again finished with luxe velvet. If this is too light on the layers for you, layer over a fitted turtle neck.
Ultimately I went for my trusty tweed. The wool fabric keeps everything toasty but the bare shoulders created by the bandeau style neckline give it a bit of edge. For warmth add the trusty blazer and bring it all together with a pop of colour with the shoes and bag.
So before you dash round the crowded shops for your Christmas events – take a look in the back of the wardrobe. What about you? Do you need more warmth or do you like the idea of getting more wear out of those underused seasonal pieces? I’d love to see what you are updating for midwinter.
If rummaging in your wardrobe is a daunting prospect or you’d like some tips dressing for the party season get in touch to book your wardrobe reshape or your express shop.
In the first of a mini series on the blog which will be featuring what I love from the shops right now as we get involved in Autumn. I am talking those few key purchases that will give your wardrobe an updated fresh feel. This week’s faves are from good ol’ M&S who keep bringing their A-game to affordable fashion.
Straight in at the top of the lust haves is this gorgeous grey jumper dress. There is a bit of nostalgia involved due a gorgeous brown (yeah I know) jumper dress I had when I was 18 that made me feel like I was so sophisticated.
However this piece is more than that, it has no seams! This engineering feat along with the side tie detail and the cosy but not chunky merino equals a flattering dress to anchor your Autumn wardrobe. I’m seeing it with prim shoes, trainers but most of all boots, ankle or over the knee preferably in a shade of red or Oxblood. Which leads us on to the next fave……
These red ankle boots with metallic heel detail, look much more expensive than their £79 price tag, and will work beautifully with dresses, jeans (particularly the straight crop style that Autumn is ushering in) and even a faux leather legging which are not going anywhere (but more on those for next week’s Five Faves).
Sticking with shoes, tassels have not deserted us but they have graduated from blouses and earrings to shoes. These heels tick the key colour trend red but also come in black for those who prefer a neutral.
A nod to tweed and the suiting trend these trousers will bring texture and interest to your new season wardrobe and make a great alternative to your navy and black neutrals. Pair with a classic white shirt and some Oxblood courts for a smart look or red boots and a slogan tee for a more casual affair.
Last but not least – THIS jacket it’s a parka yes but it features shearling and camo which bring this staple bang up to date. Pair with pretty much anything but black denim and a statement ankle boot will see you from the school run through to gin o’clock.
What’s caught your eye in the early Autumn drops? If you don’t know where to turn, think about booking a seasonal update session with me. It’s a mini wardrobe edit focused on the key trends for the upcoming season, quote “Five Faves” and get this service for just £70.
One advantage of the distinctly unseasonal weather is that I am already actively plotting my new season wardrobe, Usually I would be glossing over such things because I wouldn’t be able to bring myself to look at them in any form of heat
I’ve spied a few things recently that I believe qualify as anchor pieces. Specifically those pieces that allow you to segue effortlessly into the new season because they work just as well for now in this transitional period as they do for new season proper. To avoid disappointment I won’t be looking at soft suiting which is a key trend for next season that I can’t quite get on board with. I think it’s something to do with coming of age in the nineties when going out out in a suit was the thing! I had a pretty amazing silver suit from Warehouse which was worn on repeat including to celebrate my 21st birthday. It was still hanging in my wardrobe when I met my now husband, where he promptly dubbed it my spaceman suit!! I had clear early warning that he would not always understand my sartorial choices but I digress.
First up is this vibrant trench from H&M. They are calling it red but for me it’s very much fiery sunset orange. Either way it is the perfect slouchy silhouette and is heavy enough to be worn through even the chilliest Autumnal days. It also looks way more expensive than its £59.99 price tag which makes it a shrewd now buy. Plus it’ll keep some of this endless rain off.
If you are a fan of this sunburnt orange then may I recommend this French Connection dress. Still summery enough to wear now as a dress, later you can throw over your favourite pair of jeans with a biker jacket or blazer.
Pleated midis are not going anywhere but they have got bolder. For an instant update add pattern, like Louche’s floral print version (which I may have just picked up at one of my favourite local boutiques Lilac Rose). If you aren’t a floral lover then try Next’s midi with its geometric print.
Skirts earn their place as a transitional anchor because they can be worn now with a simple tee and sandals or trainers, just add boots and sweaters for Autumn proper. If pleats aren’t your thing or you want to make the skirt your centre piece (it’s going to be mine) just go for print or patchwork. I am coveting Second Female’s navy gold spotted version.
Also on my wish list is Numph’s suede zip front skirt, somewhere between slate and a softer hue. I can see me wearing this now with a slogan tee (yup they are still here) and with a jumper and boots for leaf kicking later. Both Second Female and Numph are available from another local favourite boutique, Karabo.
Block colour is still current to make a statement. I’ve opted for these slacks (slacks?!?! I know I was pondering who on earth who still used the term slacks the other week and now I know, it’s H&M). Brilliant fit and stretch plus a side zip is always more flattering for those of us wanting a smoother, flatter tum.
H&M also has two more of my wants/must haves. The first I picked up this weekend and have already worn twice. It looks like a tee because of its soft cotton body but the addition of statement balloon sleeves compete with tie, in a cotton/poly mix elevate it to so much more. It’s a proper top with interest, pair it with jeans and some jewellery and you are ready to take it almost anywhere. It’s also great to give balance to pear and apple shapes. Please please can you do it in some more colours H&M?
The other is this hot pink cotton jumper, weighty enough for cooler days but still able to wear now for those rainy summer days.
This kind of jumper always make me hanker for a beach house somewhere and imagine myself in white cuffed skinny jeans, on the beach with a dog, you know Jennifer Anniston rom com style. Just me?
So to footwear. I have come to the stage where almost all of my staple, waterproof shoes have given up the ghost at the same time, but I find buying more sensible shoes slightly dull and I am definitely not ready to crack out the boots yet, it is still officially August. Enter the T Bar shoe, which are going to be everywhere. They bring polish and poise but with a bit of fun and look great dressed up or down.
Here’s me in the bolder pleat and paired with the statement sleeve tee, proving their transitional fashion points. What are you most looking forward to updating your wardrobe with?
Spring’s officially sprung and I feel the need to bring up the “C” word – yes colour.
I have lost track of how many times I hear “Oh I don’t do colour” or “I couldn’t possibly wear ….. Insert relevant colour”. It seems evident from the sea of almost exclusively black and grey that I encounter on my regular commute (in all seasons) that this lack of colour could be an epidemic. With the high street awash with vibrant shades I challenge you to add some colour to your looks, I promise it will instantly update your look (and dare I say mood) for Spring.
Think Pink was the message loud and clear from the catwalks and its not just one hue will do but any type of pink you can imagine goes. From magenta through to the softest blush. You may not imagine yourself as a pink kind of person but it’s a very versatile colour and is much more than its stereo typical fluffy image.
Alternatively bring the sunshine into your wardrobe literally with another of the key colours of the season – yellow. One of the most frightening colours for a lot of people, perhaps because often the wrong shade can be unflattering. With the racks carrying the full spectrum from egg yolk through softest primrose to ice cool pastel it could be time to find the one that suits you.
How to Wear
It’s not what you wear but how you wear it. Injecting colour relies on the right placement for your body shape – it’s a bit like contouring in make up – wise placement of colour can work wonders.
Focussing bright and light colours on your top half with darker shades on your bottom half is a flattering way to use colour on pear shapes especially when combined with another of this season’s hot hits- a statement sleeve.
A block colour or pattern trouser really show off the slim legs of those with strawberry and apple shapes.
All over block colour works well on hourglass shapes, include texture and a v neck to ensure shape is enhanced not lost.
By combining colour and prints, athletic builds and rhubarb shapes can create curves on their frames.
A common question – if I wear colour what can I wear it with? Here are my tips for colour combos.
Blush + Neutral = Pared Back.
My choice at the moment is khaki/olive green, it’s an underused neutral and adds just the right amount of polish to a look.
Bright + Blue = Colour Pop
Bubblegum pink and magenta both play well against navy and gives a classic combo just the right amount of pop.
Colour+Layers = Chic Impact
Layer your pinks, starting with a blush base and adding hot pink accents or vice versa.
Yellow +Navy = New Nautical
I still love the freshness of a nautical vibe for Spring. I think navy and yellow take it up a notch.
Colour + Classic Details = Colour Lite
If colour is outside of your comfort zone, try combining with classic detail. This Cos jumper is the perfect hack with its white shirt detail. Layer over a Breton stripe and wear with a cigarette trouser and trainers.
Pastel+neutral = Luxe
Yellow with grey particularly a pastel yellow is the perfect Spring combo.
Bright + Denim =Instant Update
Yellow begs to be a bright be brave. Throw this pretty Warehouse sweater with back strap detail on with your favourite blue denim. Guaranteed instant Spring.
Colour+Trend = Update Plus
Embrace colour incorporated into another trend to give your wardrobe a super boost.
Try a retro floral print incorporating one of the key colours like this pretty Emily & Finn shirt or Warehouse’s Wisteria print (comes in a blouse and a dress too) or take get 3 in one with this shirt dress (key dress shape of the season, in double on trend yellow stripes.
Go Bold or Go home with this great neon yellow jacket.
Or you could be uber daring and wear pink and yellow together – did I go too far?
If all of that seems a step too far and not really you -try coloured accessories, a great bag or show is a simple way to elevate your look.
So now the train platform will be brimming with colour, Right?
If you would like to embrace some colour or refresh your wardrobe or look – get in touch to book your styling session, I’d be delighted to hear from you.
I’ve seen various gadgets for our tresses come and go through the years, each promising to make the haircare of someone with thick moderately wavy hair easy peasy. Its fair to say though that I haven’t been this excited since the advent of the hair straightener.
So what was it about the new Dyson Supersonic Hairdryer that had me all hyped up? Was it the £50 million and 4 year investment in the development of the product by a brand that already revolutionised the way a lot of us undertake household chores? Perhaps. But mostly for me it was the genuine innovation. All my life hairdryers have come as standard with motors in the barrel. Guaranteed to make your arm ache trying to recreate that perfect salon look or your favourite stylist to be off with hairdressers elbow. (Not sure if that’s an actual thing but they must have an equivalent).
Finally someone had considered that maybe there was a better way. So Dyson have put the motor in the handle, giving some big plus points – more balanced in your hand and a shorter barrel making directing the hairdryer at your barnet (when you haven’t been trained as a top stylist) much easier. It’s also much smaller which makes it easier to travel with.
Then there’s the hairtech – yes using ions to smooth the hair shaft is not new, but this time they have actually looked at the airflow too. Hold your hand above or below the air stream on the Supersonic and you can feel nothing, meaning instead of air-drying the room around you, its actually focussing on your hair.
An added plus for those of us who need to get ready, whilst other members of the household are slumbering – virtual silence compared to your standard model. It comes with 2 attachments, the smoothing nozzle to style and smooth as you go and the other styling concentrator for concentrated styling for those more intricate do’s. There’s a diffuser for those with curls. Pretty standard, but Dyson have paid attention and instead of relying on plastic clips, which invariably break after a while, the attachments are fixed by magnets.
But the £50 million question is, does all this actually make a difference to drying your hair? More importantly, is it worth the £299 price tag? (I have to confess that would have been my biggest stumbling block had I not had some John Lewis vouchers burning a hole in my pocket).
Although I was sceptical initially and had every intention of returning if it didn’t deliver, my answer is a massive YES. I have really thick hair that even in a short style takes an age to dry. Not so with the Supersonic. it takes me less than 10 mins to dry my almost bobbed hair, relying on a great variable speed and 3 heat levels. I haven’t used the top speed or heat yet, so no doubt it’s even quicker with those. The manoeuvrability is head and shoulders (excuse the pun) above your run of the mill dryer, no crick neck or dead arm. As a result of the smooth styling nozzle and the cool shot that is actually cool immediately, my straighteners have become somewhat redundant, surely better for the health of my hair.
Only a couple of points from me, I think the cool shot would be even better if you didn’t have to keep your finger on the button to operate it. The other is that it’s best not to wear a necklace whilst using it. It heats up the metal surprisingly high and I slightly burnt my neck the first time I used it, ooops!!
For me the Supersonic is a game changer. Yes, its expensive but then when I think how many sub standard hair dryers I have had and worn out over the years, its probably pretty good value.
For me there is no looking back, it’s the start of a lifelong love affair with the Supersonic.
Have you tried it out, what do you think?