Shop Talk

5 Looks for Fall 2011

2011-10-23T02:36:00.003+01:00

I recently put together a piece for Bohemia Magazine, which I would like to share with you (about time I updated my blog too!)

You might find it helpful if you're looking for inspiration to update your wardrobe this season!

Check it out: 5 Looks for Fall

Dressy

Casual

Business

Evening Formal

Evening Casual

Copy Kelly Rutherford's Spring Look

2011-03-06T22:19:00.000Z

Gossip Girl star Kelly Rutherford looked radiant at the Dennis Basso Fall 2011 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in a delicate peach and white ruffled silk dress. Cinched at the waist with a skinny white belt, this flowy dress looks fabulous on the actress’s toned and linear figure as the v-neck elongates her silhouette even more whilst the ruffles add dimension, femininity and fun. Ruffles are wonderful to create volume and fullness, and maintain balance in a silhouette. In particular, a ruffle top is a great choice for small-busted figures, and ruffle skirts will flatter narrow hips and long legs.

To complement her gorgeous spring look, Kelly picked a large cream clutch bag and beige-coloured shoes for a dazzling leg-lengthening effect. She kept the look clean overall with minimal jewellery to let the dress steal the show. Likewise her make up is natural, with shades of peach and apricot to suit her creamy complexion.

This refreshing ensemble is particularly flattering for her fair but clear and warm colouring. It is also very much on trend as nude tones come back once again as a major colour trend this spring.

See the full feature p. 50-51 of the latest issue of Stilorama Magazine (March/April 2011)

London Fashion Week - Jayne Pierson AW11 collection

2011-02-25T00:15:00.002Z

Another catwalk show I had the pleasure to attend on behalf of Stilorama Magazine was Welsh designer Jayne Pierson's with fashion showcase On / Off at Mercer Studios, just minutes from Covent Garden. Giving a rather intriguing tease about the collection that was about to be revealed to a crowd of eager fashionistas and supporters, the press pack stated: the "inspiration comes from 16th and 17th century anatomists & Andreas Vesalius, the photography of Joel Peter Witkin (1980s-90s), Nan Goldin and films by Kubrick and Cronenburg". How on earth can this be translated into fashion? Click here to read the full review on the Stilorama blog.

London Fashion Week - Aminaka Wilmont AW11 collection

2011-02-22T17:48:00.001Z

How excited was I to attend London Fashion Week yet again! Invites in hand and camera ready, my mission was simple: enjoy and review some of the shows for Stilorama Magazine, starting with Aminaka Wilmont, Friday 18th February, 3:45pm, BFC Catwalk Show Space, Somerset House.

Please click here to read the review on the Stilorama blog.

State of Grace

2011-01-20T14:48:00.001Z

Congratulations to those of you who recently got engaged! You are now about to embark on the very exciting (if not a tiny bit daunting) task of organising your big day and... finding yourself a dress - no, let me rephrase that, finding THE dress.

Once you have decided on a budget, chances are you will be browsing around and trying on different styles in order to find that perfect fitting gown that screams 'you', whilst juggling a million other things at the same time (like finding a venue, caterers... and work)

Or you could save yourself some time and have your dream dress designed and made especially for you. And your shoes. And your jewellery. And your head piece.

A couple of months ago I had the immense pleasure of meeting Lucia Silver, the founder and creative director of State of Grace, the only atelier house in London to offer bespoke garment and accessory design, styling and hair and make-up for weddings and other special occasions.

Please click here to read the full article on the Notebook Magazine website.

Lingerie: A Fashion Statement or a Necessity?

2011-01-19T19:52:00.000Z

While last year put the alluring – but difficult to pull off - underwear-as-outerwear trend to the forefront of fashion, it is worth noting that underwear can actually make or break an outfit even concealed beneath your clothes.

How to you choose your lingerie? Beyond the trends, your choice should be dictated by your body shape, your colouring, but also the type of outfit you plan to wear.

Getting bras that fit correctly is crucial not only to fight gravity but also for your comfort and posture. It is not only the busty gals who need to make sure they have support, ladies with smaller breasts can use some lift and a little more volume without looking unnatural by choosing the right lingerie. A well-fitting bra will always be flattering and make your look polished and put-together. Furthermore, you want to consider different types of bras to suit all occasions: full-coverage for no-fuss everyday wear; half-cup to wear with outfits that show a little more cleavage; seamless to wear under tighter-fitting clothes for a sleek and smooth look; push-up for drama; convertible with removable and adjustable straps, which gives the option to go strapless or to wear with cross-back styles or halters; racerback to wear with sleeveless tops as they’ve been designed to prevent your bra strap to slip; sports bra matching your activity level, in a breathable fabric.

By all means avoid an undesirably visible panty line under your close-fitting clothes by wearing seamless panties. To remain in control of your shape and keep it sleek and bulge-free, you may like to consider shapewear, which guarantees smooth lines, total comfort and a fabulous fit all round, and comes in a wide range of styles - from all-in-ones to tummy-controlling panties. No need to pull off the Bridget-Jones-larger-than-life-knickers look to shape your derrière as it is now possible to find shapewear that looks (reasonably) pretty.

The right kind of lingerie can make all the difference in a subtle way: wearing undies that are sassy and fit well will not only make you look fabulous, they will also be a great confidence booster!

Article published in the January-February 2011 issue of Stilorama Magazine.

‘Tis the Season

2010-12-22T16:27:00.000Z

Copycat: Salma Hayek in Alexander McQueen

2010-12-16T19:12:00.004Z

Lace has been gracing the runways for the past couple of seasons and it is tipped off to be a staple element of your wardrobe this winter’s festive season as demonstrated by Salma Hayek at the Alexander McQueen show during Paris Fashion Week in October. Wearing a stunning black and nude lacy cocktail dress from the Alexander Mc Queen resort collection 2011, Ms Hayek went for a look that is fresh, delicate, flirty and very dramatic all at the same time. She added a little gothic edge to her frilly dress by pairing it with opaque tights, killer leather pumps and a boxy clutch featuring a knuckle handle with Swarovski embellishment all designed by the McQueen fashion house. With such intricate detailing in her outfit, she preferred discreet and sophisticated accessories to let the dress do all the talking. Likewise, she kept her hairstyle and make-up low-key.

This pale-lilac number by TIBI with contrasting black lace in the style of Ms Hayek’s will suit a fairer and cooler complexion type. Whilst Salma Hayek wore hers with a three-quarter length black coat, another option may be to don an elegant tailored velvet jacket. Indeed rich velvet is making a strong comeback this season.

Article published in the November-December 2010 issue of Stilorama Magazine.

Interview with celebrity milliner and jewellery designer Louis Mariette

2010-12-07T13:56:00.001Z

A couple of months ago I had the absolute pleasure of meeting milliner and jewellery designer Louis Mariette in his sumptuous basement studio just moments from Sloane Square for an interview for The Notebook magazine.

Running late because of a tube strike, I finally got to the studio totally flustered and apologetic, and received a warm welcome from Louis himself, who ushered me into his magnificent world with a friendly demeanour that denoted right from the start the charm of an exquisite personality.

Comfortably sat in the elegant black room, which is home to his sparkling Bejewelled collection, we started chatting at great length about his work and long-standing involvement with the Children's Trust over Turkish delights and fresh mint tea.

Please click here to read extracts of the interview.

http://www.louismariette.co.uk/

Interview with fashion designer Emilia Wickstead

2010-11-11T22:40:00.007Z

To say that I have been busy recently is quite an understatement! The past couple of months have been a rather exciting if not a little intense whirlwind of events, of which I will spare you the details for the time being. But as a result this blog has started to suffer from a little neglect, which I hope I can make up for in the next few weeks.

I had the opportunity back in September to ask a few questions to Belgravia-based designer Emilia Wickstead for a feature in the Notebook Magazine that I would like to share with you (click here to read the interview)

Wickstead is a bright, young thing, and I mean that as a compliment, not in a Stephen Fry's Bright Young Thing kind of way. Combining undeniable talent and ambition, she is a hit among the Chelsea crowds of fashionistas and came under the media spotlight earlier this year when she dressed Britain's First Lady, Samantha Cameron. The style is feminine, elegant and sophisticated. Just take a look at her work to date on www.emiliawickstead.com and you will see...

Various Ways to Wear Your Scarves

2010-09-23T22:24:00.043+01:00

Scarves are probably the most versatile clothing accessories for men and women alike. As well as providing warmth and cover, they represent an easy way to transform an outfit whatever the time of year. They can give you a touch of swagger or add interest to a plain outfit, and they will instantly revitalise a wardrobe and add variety to it. However I notice we all tend to stick to one way of wearing them - either simply wrapped around our neck, or tied around it.

As a matter of fact I often get asked about different ways to wear scarves. When coordinating a scarf with your outfit contrast textures or play with colours by going tonal or matching one of the accent colours in your scarf to one of the colours in your outfit. There are various elements to consider when putting your scarf on: the way you want to wear your scarf will depend on the season, the type of scarf and general look of your outfit - in particular whether it's casual, formal, dressy... It will also depend on your neck length. Indeed if you've got a short neck, you want to make sure to open up your neckline and therefore avoid choking or bulky wraparounds. Instead consider draping your scarf over your shoulders.

You can create different looks by wearing your scarf in many different ways – looped around your neck, tied, knotted or draped, as a stylish turban to keep your hair in place, or even around your waist as a belt.

This autumn make the most of your shawls and knitted scarves by experimenting with various styles.

Long scarves:

Slip knot: fold your scarf in half, then wrap around your neck and pull the loose ends through the loop (as tight as you like). This classic knot looks pulled together and works well with casual and business outfits.

Neck warmer: just keep wrapping and let the ends do their thing, or tuck them underneath for a snugger fit (or go for a low-maintenance tube scarf!)

Straight hang: strictly for decoration purpose, this one is great for elongating the silhouette.

Side hang: wrap the scarf around your neck, leaving one end in the front and the other in the back for a elegant and effortless look.

Ascot knot: let the scarf hang with equal length on both sides. Cross one end over the other end, then back under before looping it around the front of the knot.

Bow tie: wrap around your neck and tie a bow at the front for a dandy chic look (works better with a lightweight scarf).

Shoulder tie: tie it in a large knot at the nape of your neck.

Twist and tie: be more creative and twist tightly, then loop around your neck and knot.

Square scarves:

Wrap around: fold into a triangle and place around your neck with the point facing down the front, then pull each end over the opposite shoulder. Let the lengths hang for a laid-back look. For a more creative variation, tie the ends of the scarf in the front.

Cowboy kerchief: fold into a triangle, place it at the back and knot in the front, or do it the other way around.

Don’t forget that, worn close to your face, the colour of your scarf will have a major impact on how well you look so choose a hue that is flattering for your natural colouring!

N.B. Article also partially available on the Notebook Magazine (click here).

---------------
Photos courtesy of Dominique Mosley

Case Study: Eva Mendes

2010-09-08T11:04:00.002+01:00

Actress Eva Mendes has proved many times that she knows a thing or two about style, and more often than not gets her colour palette absolutely spot on (I hear under the guidance of celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe).

The outfit she wore for Jimmy Kimmel Live! last month is yet again proof of how stylishly sultry and sophisticated she can look. Love her outfit? Take a look at the feature I put together for online magazine Stilorama for inspiration....

Please click here to be taken to the relevant page.

The shades of autumn are back

2010-08-23T12:26:00.008+01:00

Rich, earthy hues come back in force this season: khaki, camel, rust, tan, deep wine hues are seen everywhere, whilst leopard prints are another noticeable trend. Beware, however, for they're not everybody's best friends.

This season is fashion feast for all warm types out there as these earthy colours will flatter their complexion and harmonise with their natural colouring. Ideally you will mix and match tonal shades of colour and play with fabrics and texture - tweed, plaid in particular are big this season - for a look that is both chic and very seasonal. The deep wine colours will suit the deeper warm types and be perfect for eveningwear, especially worn in fabrics such as velvet or silk.

However if you've got a cool skin tone refrain from donning any of these colours close to your face as they will make you look faded and ashen instead of giving you a healthy glow. Definitely not a good look!

Demonstration: which of these models looks best in the colours they're wearing? My bet is, one of them would look amazing in earthy hues whereas the other should avoid them at all cost (and applying blusher won't help either).

Do You Wear the Correct Bra Size?

2010-08-12T20:48:00.008+01:00

80% of women wear the wrong bra size, apparently. Are you one of them? If you haven't had a bra fitting in the past 6 months, you probably are (sorry). But the good news is: that can be fixed! Book yourself a bra fitting session now. I mean it. You won't regret it. What is there to lose, right? Still need a little convincing? Ok... first of all consider this: wearing the wrong size is not healthy for your breasts, and the larger the bosom, the bigger the concern. Secondly, it's not comfortable - nor is it pretty for that matter: your straps might be digging into your shoulders, or your breasts spill over the top or side of your bra. The back might even feel too loose. If that's the case, seriously, get an appointment at a lingerie shop now. It turns out that underestimating cup size is not uncommon. The right fit will make all the difference in the world. Who doesn't want to feel uplifted, put together and comfy after all?

Besides it shouldn't take much of your time. I went for a fitting at the iconic Rigby & Peller shop on Hans Road in Knighstbridge and was astonished at how quickly it was done (the wait took longer than the actual fitting - it is a popular store after all). No tape measures needed, the friendly fitters are so experienced that one quick look at your cleavage will tell all. They will then bring a number of bras to try on in suitable styles so you can see what fits properly and decide what you can purchase if you want to.

A bra fitting at Rigby & Peller is free, so there is absolutely no reason for you not to treat yourself. Make sure to book an appointment, and have it done regularly as the shape and size of your breasts are likely to change a number of times during your life in response to fluctuations in weight, pregnancy, breastfeeding and ageing.

Come on. You know you want to.

-----------

Photo courtesy of Rigby & Peller

If You're looking for a Portrait Photographer Look No Further

2010-08-10T20:13:00.014+01:00

I have recently had the pleasure to spend an afternoon with wedding, portrait and lifestyle photographer Anneli Marinovich on a photoshoot with a client of mine, after she was recommended to me by fellow photographer Antonina Mamzenko (whom I had previously worked with on a series of portraits).

I had a fairly good, general idea of the type of shots I wanted to put up on my website, which Anneli understood perfectly. Having seen her portraiture work, there was no doubt she was going to capture stunning images during the shoot by using her own creative input. And it didn't fail: I just love the way she skilfully picked interesting backgrounds on location to complement the subject, and the style of the subject. Plus she was just fabulous to work with.

I am so excited about the shots Anneli took I literally cannot wait to have them uploaded on my website... but for the time being I'll just post one here as a sneaky preview...

A Small Guide to Shopping in Knightsbridge

2010-08-10T16:17:00.005+01:00

I've been asked to compile a list of boutiques not-to-be missed in Knightsbridge, which is now available to read on the newly revamped Notebook website.

What are your own favourite boutiques in the area?

I look forward to hearing your thought and recommendations!

-------

Photo courtesy of Bruce Oldfield.

A little poetry by Chanel

2010-07-15T19:15:00.005+01:00

Just enjoy...

What's so special about the French anyway?

2010-07-13T13:38:00.010+01:00

French style is often associated with chic, elegance and simplicity. Idealisation or reality? How much of it reeks of cliché?

Let's look at some French style icons (the expression "style icon" is not in any more among the fashion writing crowds apparently but you'll have to forgive me for I'm a not a fashion writer) - all are actresses by the way, which also leaves me to wonder why there is no mention of stylish French gentlemen (I could actually write another post about a few examples). Anyway what makes today's Charlotte Gainsbourg, Audrey Tautou, Vanessa Paradis, Lou Doillon, Eva Green so typically French in the way they dress and carry themselves? Looking back at previous iconic ambassadors of French style such as Catherine Deneuve, Françoise Hardy, Brigitte Bardot, Jeanne Moreau or Coco Chanel, what is becoming obvious is that French style is not about artifice, but "naturel", or natural beauty. After all, didn't Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel reject the stiff fashion diktats of her time to create garments that would be more practical, more liberal? French style is not about glamour either, it is about sophistication. It's not about wearing trends, it's about making fashion your own. It's not even about dressing up, it's about looking pulled together. In France, you will be judged for what you wear so one has to choose their outfits carefully so as to blend in... to a certain degree. One doesn't want to stand out for the wrong reasons, but one doesn't want to look like someone else's copycat either. French style is about individuality. Most importantly it is about colour coordination. And it has to look effortless.

So how does one emulate French style? How does it work in practical terms?

First of all one's wardrobe will be essentially based on basics in neutral colours (as a matter of fact you will notice that strong, bold colours are not readily available in French stores as they are on the British high street for instance). Black is, of course, the one favoured colour. Then come the grey, navy, pewter, brown, beige and other muted and earthy colours. Your outfit will either be monochromatic (black) or formed around one dominant hue complemented by hues of the same family and/or value.

Also make sure that your wardrobe includes structured pieces with clean, tailored lines (coats, jackets, trousers, skirts, culottes...) Your clothes will always be well-fitted and suit your frame and body shape.

All outfits will be worn with that little detail that makes the difference - be it a scarf, a colourful belt, an original brooch, a nice handbag, a stylish pair of shoes... None of it will look cheap even if it's not designer wear.

As for your hairstyle, it will be kept simple, if not a little on the dishevelled side. It has to look like you haven't tried too hard, yet you'll manage to make it look cute. Same goes with your make up, which will look natural, always.

If you must remember one principle about French style, it will have to be the following: over-the-top and ostentation are not the way to go.

----------

Photos (from top to bottom): Vanessa Paradis, Carine Roitfeld, Eva Green

What to Wear for a Summer Job Interview

2010-07-10T15:28:00.012+01:00

Temperatures are searing and you have a job interview to attend. Hot, red-faced and sweaty is hardly a good look for the occasion so you've got to find the outfit that will make you look appropriate for the job whilst keeping you cool on your way to the interview.

Ladies, think lightweight, natural (unlined) fabrics and light colours. Bear in mind that linen creases easily, so cotton will be your best friend, and so will tropical wool as far as suits are concerned. Unless you're applying for a job in the creative industries where you can adopt a style that is a little bit more inventive, generally prefer neutral colours such as a light-to-medium grey, blue or beige depending on your colouring, and keep white for your blouse or vest only if you're going to wear it under a jacket. Think crisp and airy.

You could wear a light skirt or trouser suit in the colours described above with a cotton or lightweight jersey top underneath, or a sharp sheath dress paired up with a tailored jacket if the job is not too corporate. The key to keeping cool is to put your jacket on right before you meet your interviewer. On that note, make sure to bring some deodorant and baby wipes in your handbag and sneak into the restroom to freshen up before putting on your jacket.

Add a little personality to your outfit by cinching your jacket with a chunky belt or adding a touch of colour with a vibrant skinny belt for your dress. However keep your jewellery simple and jangle-free so it doesn't become a distraction - little stud earrings will be perfect. If you must wear a necklace, choose one that ends right below the collarbone and isn't too flashy. In the same vein, rings shouldn't be fancy, and will be kept to a minimum.

Now is not the time to don your sexy strappy sandals. Instead, opt for mid-heel classic court shoes matching your outfit, and keep all your necessities in an elegant, yet understated lightweight leather tote.

Keep your hair neat with a low bun to keep your long locks off your face, or a fresh and modern cropped style. Your makeup should be natural. Apply some ultra light foundation, nude lip gloss, nude eyeshadows and waterproof mascara.

Men will also choose fabrics that keep their shape. A light wool 2 or 3 buttoned suit in navy or grey will be your best choice for the summer season. Match your suit with a light-coloured crisp cotton dress shirt - either white if it doesn't make you look washed out, or light blue. Fit is everything so make sure to follow these guidelines before you buy any suit. Complete your look with a matching conservative silk tie i.e. with a solid colour or subtle patterns (leave the one featuring Homer Simpson at home) and nicely polished black lace-up shoes and belt. Your socks will be long enough (so that your skin doesn't show when you sit down) and dark-coloured. Finally keep your facial hair neatly trimmed and your hair short.

To all, be careful with scents and keep them light for your comfort and that of your interviewer!

Finally make sure you leave enough time to get to the interview to avoid running late and looking flustered.

Good luck!

Life's a Beach: Know How to Choose the Right Swimsuit

2010-07-01T20:19:00.007+01:00

Are you heading to the beach this summer or planning to spend some time lounging about poolside? If you're wondering what sort of swimsuit to pack to look your best on your holiday, take a look at these guidelines.

And if you're looking for inspiration, have a look at In Style's best picks on the high street for this season's two-piece suits.

As for the gentlemen, apparently Speedos have made a comeback...

---------

Photo courtesy of Lalesso

Must Read: "How to be a successful leader with Image Consulting"

2010-06-25T15:40:00.007+01:00

I am very excited for my dear friend and colleague Executive Image Consultant Chiharu Ohsato, AICI as her first book, written in collaboration with Jasmine A. Wagner, has just been released in Japan and is now available to purchase on Amazon. The book - translated in English as "How to be a successful leader with Image Consulting"- aims to help you design a successful image strategy for your career and business.

Along with a number of other image consultants from all over the world, I had the immense pleasure of contributing a few words to their work through an interview about the image of executives in the UK and the perception of that of Japanese executives.

Needless to say I very much look forward to reading the book in its entirety!

Festival Fashion for Beginners

2010-06-14T13:07:00.011+01:00

Music fans, rejoice! The festival season has started!

If you're heading to one of the many festivals taking place around the UK or even abroad, you may be scratching your head over what to pack, apart from a tent and a sleeping bag and mat.

What are the trends this year in terms of festival fashion? The Isle of Wight festival goers set the tone with Kate Moss going for her trademark rock chick look, Alexa Chung keeping the classic country look alive and Florence Welch experimenting with light colours and cuteness. See for yourself (this link will take you to the Vogue UK website).

So what must we learn from experimented festival goers? Come rain or come shine, think comfortable, practical... and possibly disposable. You don't want your brand new designer dress all covered in mud so be sensible and prepare for all weather eventualities. Likewise, you may want to leave your favourite pair of heels at home. Just sayin'.

Wellies are a wise thing to take with you for rainy days (as is a waterproof poncho. Yes, really...you'll be glad to have it!) And trainers - or plims - a wiser option than flip-flops if you want to keep your little toes safe and happy in the sunshine. To keep with the trend, sport a pair of fashionable clogs as they're all the rage this season.

Also think about protecting your head from sunstrokes by wearing a hat or a headscarf, and of course don't forget your sunglasses (not the expensive ones, though).

Organise your festival wardrobe around layers so you can add on or strip off as you wish: vest tops, bikinis, little sundresses or this season's maxi dresses (plus sunscreen), print skirts, shorts/hotpants or cute playsuits, sarongs, oversized denim shirts or check shirts, leggings, jumpers and scarves will no doubt all prove useful and very festival-trendy. Military jackets are also great for the occasion. Then the mix-and-match fun begins!

Need more inspiration for your festival wardrobe? Take a look at In Style's picks. Also find a complete festival checklist here (provided by the NHS).

Happy festival season and stay safe!

----------------

Photo credit: ASOS

Ethical label Lalesso online store now open!

2010-06-07T14:14:00.008+01:00

I just got the news in my email inbox and I'm terribly excited about it! Those of you who discovered Lalesso at the MOTIFS Sample Sale in Covent Garden last year will probably share my excitement as the brand was a huge hit amongst our customers back then!

Ethical label Lalesso, "an exclusively summer clothing brand which uses the traditional attire of the Swahilli women of East Africa, the khanga (also known as lesso) as a trademark to all of their designs", comes back this summer with an even wider range of beautiful dresses, playsuits, skirts, swimwear and even shoes! I particularly like these cute ballet pumps...

Check out the online store here.

Note that all Lalesso garments are made in Kenya by SOKO, an eco and ethical clothing production unit, and involve as many local artisans within their designs as possible - from Masaai beadsmen to Zimbabwean refugee nuns and disabled people at the Bombolulu workshop (see Lalesso website for more details).

No Buying For One Year

2010-06-03T14:12:00.005+01:00

This is the challenge that a group of women (and a couple of men) set for themselves in September last year. The Great American Apparel Diet originally started in the US and rapidly expanded further afield, attracting interest from other women around the developed world. Their motivation? Rethinking their shopping habits - either for economic reasons or out of ecological consciousness.

If shopping more ethically remains a personal decision, one question we should all be asking ourselves before hitting the shops is: do we really need the clothes we buy?

How long could you live on your current wardrobe without being tempted to buy new pieces of clothing? Could you manage a year? 6 months?

Nautical look by Kate Moss

2010-04-20T17:23:00.005+01:00

Fashion icon Kate Moss was spotted rocking the nautical look in Paris a few weeks ago. I personally love how she's made it work in such a simple yet elegant way.

Have a look at the feature article I composed for Stilorama.com for a breakdown of the outfit.

Colour-wise, I would have probably advised Ms Moss against wearing a black scarf as it doesn't compliment her natural colouring, and instead go for a navy-couloured scarf.

This is quite a high-contrast outfit, which would be particularly flattering on individuals with a cool skin tone and high contrast in their colouring (for instance dark-haired/dark-eyed or dark-haired/white blonde with piercing blue eyes, or dark-haired/dark-skinned) such as Courteney Cox, Monica Belluci, Alicia Keys or Rosario Dawson.

Spring fashion inspiration for the family (2010)

2010-04-13T01:07:00.011+01:00

As mentioned in a previous post the lovely and extremely talented portrait photographer Antonina Mamzenko put together a very insightful guide on What to Wear for your Photo Session on her website (www.antoninaphotography.co.uk).

With spring underway we decided to produce a little mood board, which will hopefully inspire you when coordinating outfits for your family photo sessions. The outfits created have been based on current trends but I have been careful to select clothes that are timeless in style so your photos don't look too 2010!

Spring trend 1: Green, navy and denim

Denim is the big fashion favourite this spring. The great thing about denim is its versatility as it can be dressed up and down and can equally dress everyone in the family.

Rather than going for the trendy head-to-toe look, which is quite tricky to pull off and will instantly date your photographs, you can achieve a coordinated casual look by mixing and matching elements of denim with other items carefully picked in the same tonal ranges.

In this example we’ve created a fresh spring look by incorporating a splash of solid green and a touch of nautical stripes – an all-time classic – which also echoes another big trend this season.

Spring trend 2: Pinks and neutrals

Neutrals – nude, camel, beige, coffee or cream – are also a key trend this season and should work really well as a base for your outfits for outdoors shoots. When choosing your neutrals, bear in mind that it is usually recommended to avoid light colours that approximate flesh tones on your photographs. Also light colours will not flatter darker complexions on the photos, so it is crucial to pick colours that look best with your skin tone. Head-to-toe neutrals are the most on-trend way to wear the palette, however to make it all work together as a family, the neutral tones will be paired with a solid accent colour for a fun and breezy look as demonstrated in this example.

All items in the collages are from Boden, except from a pink women’s cardigan, which is from Debenhams.

Disclaimer: All clothing images in this post belong to their respective owners, and are being used for the illustrative purposes only.

Spring 2010: the denimania

2010-03-31T22:33:00.003+01:00

This spring denim is worn from head to toes. Or not. Read more here (redirected to the column I wrote for the April issue of The Notebook).

Oscars 2010: And The Award Goes To... (Part 4)

2010-03-12T20:00:00.022Z

I could go on commenting on Diane Kruger's Chanel cream and black chiffon number and SJP's Chanel Couture light yellow piece ; or Zoe Saldana's much-criticised Givenchy couture interesting choice of a gown, or even Nicole Richie's overpowering sequin gown by Reem Acra. Instead I would like to turn to men's fashion for this fourth post dedicated to the 2010 Academy Awards. Although on occasions like these nothing else but a tuxedo will do, it is interesting to take a closer look at some of the most noticeable styles on the red carpet.

The classics

Tom Ford actually dressed many of the men at the Academy Awards this year, including Colin Firth and Ryan Reynolds as seen in the pictures for instance. All wear an impeccably cut single-breasted black tuxedo paired with a white pique front shirt and a traditional bow-tie, with Tom Ford personalising his look with a pocket square and a single white gardenia for his buttonhole - my only critique may be that the combo looks a little too bus. Boutonnières and pocket squares are usually not worn simultaneously.

Whilst Tom Ford himself went for a shawl-collared style, both Firth and Reynolds sport classic peak lapels. Overall the look is sleek and sharp.

Note that the single-breasted style would suit all body types, but the slim fit is particularly well-suited for these gentlemen's slim physique.

Jake Gyllenhaal also nailed it with his elegant Burberry tuxedo, classic bow-tie and pocket square. The look is comfortable, stylish and confident.

Bow-tie v. black tie

Zac Efron states he's part of the younger crowd by preferring a black tie to the traditional bow-tie, thereby adding a modern touch to his Calvin Klein tux. The look is cool and trendy.

I'm not sure what Quentin Tarantino was trying to say, however... It is worth noticing that the choice of a tie creates a lengthening vertical line - a clever choice for Quinton Aaron's large figure.

The eccentric(s)

Well... need I say more...

Oscars 2010: And The Award Goes To... (Part 3)

2010-03-10T17:45:00.016Z

Best actress Oscar winner Sandra Bullock turned heads and wowed fashion editors worldwide in a metallic column gown with an embroidered bodice from Marchesa's Autumn 2010 collection, long sleek hair and bright fuschia lipstick.

Verdict: her look is definitely Oscar-worthy. The dress is classic, yet the combination of gold, silver and lace gives it a very contemporary feel. Furthermore it skims her body in all the right places. In spite of all I can't help but think the dress lacks depth and seems too bright and shiny for her. I'm not sure I would have recommended bright fuschia as a lipstick colour to complement the look either. But nevermind!

Cameron Diaz also wore her hair down for the ceremony and followed the gilded trend in a sweeping champagne tulle gown with gold paillette embroidery by Oscar de La Renta.

Verdict: this dazzling A-line dress suits Cameron Diaz to perfection. Not only is the colour really flattering on her, the dress also highlights her beautifully toned shoulders. The touch of red lipstick conjures up glamour and adds a jewel accent to the ensemble. Sublime.

Best supporting actress nominee Vera Farmiga went for a daring fuschia Marchesa gown with pleated ruffles aplenty, which got the crowds talking.

Verdict: this certainly is a dress for the bold-minded. Perhaps one to match Sandra Bullock's lipstick? Food for thought. I personally find the colour too brash for Ms Farmiga (what do you see first? The girl or the dress?) What I do love is her hairdo and choice of jewellery (kept minimal to let the dress do the talking), which complement her lovely features elegantly.

Meryl Streep picked a simple but stylish white draped gown by Project Runway contestant Chris March.

Verdict: the classic silhouette, with its strong shoulders, plunging neckline and long sleeves are both elegant and extremely flattering. A perfect choice for the most nominated actress in the history of the Academy Awards, except for the colour, which I find a little too harsh on her. A softer shade of white would have been kinder to her colouring.

Dame Helen Mirren looked gorgeous in a glamourous silver satin Badgley Mischka gown with sheer jewel-encrusted sleeves, paired with matching Chopard jewellery.

Verdict: 10/10! The colour, the style, the jewellery look amazing on her. Just PERFECT.

Kate Winslet looked extremely chic in a shimmery structured bustier and overflowing silk skirt by Yves Saint Laurent, and wavy locks.

Verdict: The look is glamourous in an understated sort of way. The silvery colour suits her fair colouring, and the lines emphasize her slim silhouette, but the structured bustier looks too straight-lined and restricting for her curves.

Oscars 2010: And The Award Goes To... (Part 2)

2010-03-10T11:53:00.023Z

Best supporting actress winner Mo'Nique went for a no-fuss cobalt blue gown by Tadashi Shoji, inspired by the dress worn by Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Academy Award in 1940. Like the Gone With the Wind star, she also completed the look with a gardenia pinned in her hair.

Verdict: this bright blue looks amazing on her dark complexion, and the ruched effect is quite flattering. The flower hairpiece complements this very simple and elegant dress nicely.

Best actress nominee Carey Mulligan picked a sophisticated bustier gown by Prada with intricate Swarovski crystal ornaments and an asymmetrical hemline revealing a matching pair of chunky satin heels, also by Prada.

Verdict: the style is edgy and quirky but it feels like the dress is actually wearing her. Black is definitely not a good choice for her fair colouring, and although the beautiful crystal embellishments echoed by her dainty earrings do compliment her delicate frame, these shoes look far too chunky for her.

Other best supporting actress nominee Anna Kendrick chose a soft pink off-the-shoulder draped gown by Elie Saab Couture, paired with matching platform sandals.

Verdict: The look is fresh and feminine, and the draped style is very flattering. I love how the floaty chiffon compliments the delicateness of her colouring, and how she completed her look with a romantic hairdo. Nude tones are very much in fashion this season but not so easy to pull off as they can make the wearer disappear. I would have advised to perhaps match the shoes with the clutch and wear more visible earrings to break the all-nude look gently.

Maggie Gyllenhaal wore a bold patterned satin column gown by Dries Van Noten.

Verdict: I wouldn't have expected anything less from Maggie Gyllenhaal than a very daring and unconventional choice of a dress for the Oscars! The gown is without an inkling of a hesitation absolutely stunning. However I don't see it as the right dress for our girl: the bright colours and patterns are too overwhelming. All you see is the dress! A more muted combination of colours would have been more flattering on her natural colouring.

Now hold your breath... Sandra Bullock, Meryl Streep, Cameron Diaz and more coming up shortly in Part 3...

Oscars 2010: And The Award Goes To... (Part 1)

2010-03-09T17:41:00.027Z

Whilst we've all picked our personal favourites on this year's Oscars red carpet, let's have a closer look at what worked, what didn't and why, starting with...

... Best supporting actress nominee Penelope Cruz who looked absolutely stunning in a statement crimson Donna Karan satin draped gown.

Verdict: 10/10! Deep red is an excellent choice for her. Moreover the draped gown is a classic, timeless number, which doesn't require much accessorising as perfectly demonstrated by Ms Cruz, as the dress says it all. Exquisite!

The sublime Charlize Theron went for a Dior Haute Couture amethyst and lilac bustier gown with rose and draped details, created especially for her by John Galliano for Dior.

Verdict: WRONG. First of all, I am not convinced pastels are her best colours. This lilac just looks a little too dull on her. I've seen Ms Theron look pretty dazzling in brighter colours. Shame as well about the shade of her lipstick, which clashes with the outfit. As for the style of the dress, aren't these prominent rosettes covering her boobs a little too distracting?

J-Lo donned a pretty dramatic iridescent pink silk organza gown from Armani Prive's Spring 2010 collection with a side train lined with Swarovski crystals.

Verdict: definitely one dress to make you stand out. But not the dress for our girl! This hue of icy pink just doesn't compliment her natural colouring at all. A cream, chartreuse green or bronze would have been a lot more flattering.

Wow. I do love Demi Moore's peachy nude ruffled silk organza gown from Atelier Versace. Just how gorgeous that dress is!
Verdict: the nude look is bang on trend, however, again, peach is not the best choice of colour to compliment Ms Moore's natural colouring in my opinion. A deeper shade would have worked better. Also the softness of the ruffled fabric doesn't agree with her angular features either.

Actually this dress would have suited Charlize Theron's style and natural colouring to perfection.

More dresses and further comments coming up in Part 2 very soon!

Wardrobe essentials for Men

2010-03-06T12:01:00.007Z

I've been commissioned to write a piece specifically on man fashion for the March issue of The Notebook Kensington & Chelsea. Rather than writing about this season's trends (perhaps a good subject for my next post), I thought it could be useful to go back to the basics and review the essentials in today's gentlemen's wardrobe.

Read more here...

A Round of Applause for... ASOS Africa

2010-03-01T22:13:00.007Z

As one of the organisers behind MOTIFS Sample Sale at the Africa Centre last June, I am absolutely delighted to see that the popular online fashion store asos.com has decided to start promoting fair trade fashion made in Africa as part of their recently-launched Green Room initiative.

The Green Room aims to make available to the consumers a range of "socially and environmentally aware" brands and fair trade products.

So far the new ASOS Africa brand includes a selection of colourful creations (such as the cute playsuit as shown in the picture above) made by artisans in small communities in Kenya and Tanzania for its first Spring/Summer collection. If the initiative proves successful, which we hope it will, it should certainly expand to other communities around the continent, thereby bringing even more beautiful prints and distinctive craftsmanship into our wardrobes whilst creating sustainable, fair employment and training opportunities to poorer communities in Africa.

Keep it up!

London Fashion Week A/W 2010

2010-02-22T16:04:00.019Z

London's imposing Somerset House and its surroundings have been taken over by storm by droves of fashionistas since the opening of Fashion Week last Friday, which was marked by a minute's silence in honour of the late Alexander McQueen. In my capacity as contributor to Stilorama.com I've had the privilege to attend a few of the shows and catch a glimpse of the key trends for autumn/winter 2010-11.

What is to be expected in the stores next winter? From what I've seen the colour scheme is predominantly based on muted and earthy hues, such as camel, brown, orange, tomato red, or muted tones of blue, with the odd splash of bright thrown in and of course, the perennial black. Finally I predict that, by the festive season, gold will be all over the high street as it has pretty much been a constant feature in the collections.

In terms of fabrics and materials, leather comes out as a favourite, although a lot of contrasting fabrics and textures such as velvet, cable knit, faux fur, corduroy and tweed feature throughout the collections.

The body con trend started this winter remains a major trend, with a few collections showcasing dramatic sculptured designs, but lines are noticeably loosening up and flow smoothly along the body. Note that harem pants are still very much in fashion as seen for instance at the Betty Jackson show.

Finally delicate trim and intricate details will delight the romantic types.

Sadly I've not managed to get very neat pictures or videos of the designs at all the shows I went to but hopefully the below slideshow will give you an idea of a few of the collections seen...

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Pictures taken at the Belle Sauvage, J Maskrey, Betty Jackson and Welsh Designer Collective shows.

Otherwise there's always Vogue :-)

Makeover/Photoshoot charlatans?

2010-02-10T12:57:00.011Z

Whilst we're on the subject of professional photo sessions, I would really suggest you do your research before booking with one of those makeover/photoshoot studios that lure you in with offers of free sessions. They tend to keep their pricing policy as obscure as possible and then charge you an extortionate amount for you to own the copyright on the photos.

I had a particularly unpleasant experience with new id Studios recently and wish I had read reviews before I booked with them (please take the time to read other customers' experience here and again here if you're thinking of booking a session with them). I was originally enticed by a free makeover/photo session voucher that I received as a Christmas gift from my previous employer as part of their staff reward schemes, as I was very keen to have professional portraits done to start promoting myself as image consultant with a corporate twist. Although I did enjoy the make-up and photo session itself as both the make-up artist and photographer were absolutely lovely, the paying part quickly turned into a not-so-enjoyable experience. After selecting a number of suitable shots, I nearly jumped through the roof when presented with the final price... At that point instead of trying to put the price down by selecting fewer photos, I should have just walked out and hired the services of an independent photographer for a much better and more cost-effective result!

I now own a CD containing the rough shots, and am expecting the edited version to turn up in the post within the next 7 days, based on what I was promised upon purchase of the photos. Needless to say New ID Studios haven't heard the last of me...

Cheese!

2010-02-10T11:30:00.007Z

One very talented London-based portrait photographer I know put together some very insightful guidelines to help people figure out what to wear for a photo session.

For anyone looking to have professional portraits taken, look no further... Check out Antonina Mamzenko's guide to What to Wear for your shoot.

Ethical Goes to Hollywood

2010-02-06T00:27:00.005Z

Speaking of ethical fashion, I have recently discovered Livia Firth's blog on the Vogue website and have found it very compelling so far - wife to Oscar-nominated Colin Firth, film producer and gorgeous, Livia is also one of the pilars of Eco, a one-of-a-kind store based in Chiswick, West London that offers everything you'd dream of for an environmentally-friendly home and much more. She took up the challenge to wear ethical and sustainable garments only on the red carpet this award season and documents her endeavour step by step in her blog thereby proving that ethical and glamour can go hand in hand. I particularly love the Sara Shepherd teal cocktail dress that Ms Firth sported so elegantly at the London Premiere of Tom Ford's first film, A Single Man - it suits her natural colouring to perfection!

I now look forward to seeing what dress she's going to pick for the Oscar ceremony! I could see a Leila Hafzi number as the Norwegian designer's creations are definitely red-carpet worthy with their ethereal and glamourous lines. Let the drum roll begin...

Ethical is Good For You

2010-01-31T23:06:00.009Z

Is there any reason why you shouldn't consider quality and craftsmanship when buying fashion?

Think twice.

In anticipation of a new much-anticipated edition of London Fashion Week I decided to bring the focus onto ethical fashion - which will be represented at estethica - in the February issue of The Notebook.

My humble words of advice? Be aware. Get involved!

And start asking questions...

x

PS. Photos courtesy of House of Tammam.

2010 Wardrobe Update: Focus on the Body

2010-01-22T13:31:00.007Z

This piece explores the forthcoming trends for Spring/Summer 2010. By the look of it we'd better start toning up now for the months to come... See for yourself.

The Reign of the LBD is Over...

2009-12-16T19:33:00.012Z

... or so I wish. 'Sacrilege!' I can hear crowds of shocked fashionistas scream out of sheer outrage. The LBD is an institution! The very legacy of the great Coco Chanel! Style icon Audrey Hepburn's trademark! The LBD epitomises simple elegance and chic like no other piece of clothing. It is the saviour of every woman's wardrobe, a fashion ideal... Or as Vogue put it back in 1926, the LBD would become “a sort of uniform for all women of taste.”

Alright... I admit to indulging in a little provocation to get the reader's attention here. Why question the supremacy of the almighty LBD? Precisely because Vogue's prediction over 80 years ago has come true: there is no doubt the LBD has become a uniform. Look around at your Christmas does. What do you see: LBDs everywhere! (although I suspect there will be a lot of sequins going on as well this year...) Does it demonstrate an unshakeable sense of style and chic, or has it become a sign of laziness? In any case it loses all its appeal in a crowd of LBDs. It has become a victim of its own success.

Boring!

Should we then all burn down our LBDs? Certainly not. The LBD remains a timeless classic, and dressed up or down, will certainly save your style dilemmas for many an occasion. However do make sure that the LBD is actually the best choice for your natural colouring - black can be too harsh for certain types/complexions. It is not everyone's best friend contrary to popular belief... And that's good news if you ask me! It simply gives you more choice and the opportunity to shine in your true colours. As preached on this blog in previous posts you may prefer a shade of the LDD (Little Dark Dress - I made that one up!) that is more flattering for your colouring and works on the same principles as its black counterpart.

To give an example if your natural colouring could be described as soft, ashy or delicate (say if you're a typical English rose), you would be well advised to try softer shades such as the greyed navy shown below, which is both fun and non-aggressive. A burgundy would also work well for eveningwear. Rich, earthy types (a la J-Lo, Jennifer Aniston or Cindy Crawford) might find that colours such as mahogany, pine green, warm purple will be very flattering options.

The right colour will no doubt make you stand out from the crowd!

'Tis The Party Season

2009-12-13T01:29:00.003Z

Glitter is the word on the high street for this festive season... Read more on this season's partywear trends here.

Trendy and Warm for Men

2009-11-02T20:18:00.020Z

I hardly ever write about men's style and fashion for some reason. It is high time I put an end to this bad habit so this post, which I'm writing in response to Ben's recent request (see previous post), intends to start a hopefully long thread of men's fashion-related posts. Keep your queries coming!

So the question is: what styles of casual jackets should you be wearing this winter to be on trend?

I've picked three major influences on the high street.

First of all, with military styles all over men's catwalks for the Autumn/Winter 2009-10, you'll find a wide choice of smart military-inspired jackets and peacock or sailor's jackets in the shops (as featured above). The beauty of this style is that you'll be able to pull it off through a number of winter seasons as it is pretty much always in fashion. In the same vein, the classic and effortlessly stylish trench coat - worn fitted, think sexy and mysterious - remains a fashion favourite and as such, a great investment for your wardrobe.

Otherwise, biker and bomber jackets make a notable comeback in a variety of fabrics, predominantly wool, nylon and leather - this season's favourite material - and are worn in fitted cuts preferably (see right).

Finally there is also a dandy element to this winter's menswear trends as you'll find a wide choice of casual blazers in luxurious velvet. More classic versions - in traditional tweed or flannel - are of course also available. The great thing with these is that you can dress them up with a fitted pair of trousers, or down with a pair of jeans.

And remember that the fit is absolutely key to getting your look right!

How to wear vintage

2009-10-04T22:28:00.007+01:00

In anticipation of the Glam Show, which takes place in Earl's Court at the end of the month, I have been asked by the editors of SW5 Notebook to put together some guidelines aimed at anyone new to the world of vintage fashion.

Why is vintage fashion good for you? Please click here to find out!

2010 Wardrobe Update: The boyfriend jacket

2009-09-21T22:44:00.022+01:00

One thing we learnt during Fashion Week: the 80s shoulder pads are back - and with them the boyfriend jacket, which came back in style with the 2009 spring/summer collections, is set to take your fashionable self well into 2010. It is the hot item of the season, the new staple in every fashionista's wardrobe. If you haven't got one yet, it's still time to give in the trend and update your wardrobe with a bit of masculine chic.

However, it is my duty as an image consultant to not let you out of the house with one on if it doesn't do you any favours no matter how trendy it is, so here are a few things to consider...

Remember it's all a matter of proportions!

The boyfriend jacket is a long, oversized tailored jacket which can have one low button or be double-breasted. The good news is it skims over your middle area and conceals a multitude of sins. However because of its boxy shape, it can be particularly unflattering if you are heavier on top as it adds bulk. The solution? You can create a flattering vertical line down the front of your body by wearing your jacket unbuttoned and/or choose a model in vertical stripes.

A boyfriend jacket will not be the best choice either if you have shorter legs or a petite figure. As it falls down over the hips it can make you look shorter and swamp you. To avoid these pitfalls prefer the fitted styles to the slouchier styles.

How to wear your boyfriend jacket

Worn open, with rolled up sleeves in proper 80s style, the versatile boyfriend jacket will take you from day to night.

Play with proportions: keep the bottom half slim-fitting to balance out the silhouette with leggings or skinny jeans, or dare shorts or a mini skirt if you've got great legs to show off.

If your blazer is cut closer to your body, pair with looser cuts for your bottom half - think casual boyfriend jeans rolled up to the ankle, harem pants or a jumpsuit - and high heels to create a sleek look. This silhouette can work really well if you have a narrow top half and larger bottom half as it will make your shoulders look broader whilst skimming over your hips and thighs.

Soften the sharp look of your blazer with silky, drapy fabrics: wear the jacket over a sheer short dress or floaty blouse.

How To Wear Prints

2009-08-25T17:49:00.014+01:00

Season after season a new trend of prints makes its way from catwalk to high street. Abstract geometric prints, girly prints, ethnic prints...

Here are some guidelines for all of you print-lovers.

--------------------------------------------------------------------
Photo: Indiani dress by fair-trade, eco and ethical fashion brand Lalesso

MOTIFS Sample Sale at the Africa Centre, Covent Garden

2009-06-13T16:30:00.011+01:00

I have joined forces with Catch a Vibe, Atelier 26 and Rootsycom Agency to organise MOTIFS Sample Sale, an exceptional event which will take place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June, from 12noon to 6pm, at The Africa Centre in Covent Garden (38 King Street, London WC2E 8JT).

MOTIFS Sample Sale is the first clothes sale in the UK dedicated to designers of African descent and African-inspired fashion and accessories.

MOTIFS Sample Sale brings together under one roof a wealth of brand names including afro-bohemian chic Nkwo, award-winning designer Danielle Morgan, critically-acclaimed ethical label Lalesso (featured in Vogue), Paris-based duo BezemyMailan (their clients include Les Nubians, Ayo and film star Vincent Cassel) and many, many more...

Will also be available for sale a beautiful range of African-inspired silver jewellery from Kaima Bijoux and Nakai, and ethically-made accessories made in Ethiopia from Aiyda to only name a few.

MOTIFS Sample Sale aims to make these labels known to a wider public and accessible to all budgets. The event will give shoppers the opportunity to browse, try and purchase unique pieces of clothing sold at discounted prices.
The sale caters mostly for women, although menswear and childrenswear will also be represented. See full line up of labels on http://welovemotifs.wordpress.com/

ENTRY is FREE on guestlist: http://motifs.eventbrite.com/ or £2 at the door.

If you wish to jazz up your style with some original designer pieces, MOTIFS Sample Sale is the place to be!

Please note that this is a CASH ONLY sale (there is however an HSBC ATM round the corner from the Africa Centre on King St).

Please do not hesitate to get in touch should you have any questions.

I hope to see you there!

Case Study: From Day to Night

2009-05-28T23:08:00.018+01:00

I have to confess I am particularly excited about this piece, which I've written for the June issue of SW5 Notebook.

The model is the very talented Alice Gbelia, founder and editor of the online mag Catch A Vibe - ‘your guide to black culture and going out in London’ - which is a goldmine for anyone interested in Black arts, culture and entertainment in the capital.

Alice needed professional portraits to promote Catch A Vibe, so she asked me to come up with four distinctive looks for the shoot as described in the article. As it turned out the photographer she'd originally hired bailed out the day before the shoot. There was then a slight moment of panic, which prompted me to offer timidly to have a go at the shoot myself with the help of my trusted Nikon D50. Now I have to state that I am no professional photographer as you can probably tell, however I do indulge in playing around with my camera when the fancy takes me as my humble collection of shots on Flickr proves it. I therefore thought - albeit rather flabbergasted by my own daring initiative - 'To hell with it! What do we have to lose? It's going to be fun!'' And it was.
I am taking this opportunity to give my thanks to Ka-Ima Bijoux for lending us the gorgeous jewellery worn with the Day Professional outfit, as well as the manager and lovely staff at Village East on Bermondsey Street where we did the evening series.

And of course a big thank you to Alice who has been wonderful to work with on this project!

I hope you enjoy the SW5 Notebook feature as much as I enjoyed working on it.

x

Eco-friendly handbags

2009-05-10T00:14:00.010+01:00

Did you know just how detrimental to the environment the production of leather is? Without going into any gruesome details, tanning, which is the 'complex chemical process used to transform perishable rawhides and skins into durable leather' (Science Daily), unfortunately releases high levels of pollution into the water.

Fortunately there are more environmentally-friendly ways of doing it. Whilst looking for eco-friendly handbags, I recently came across Embellished Truth, a label created by the delightful Bharati Manchanda. Embellished Truth bags are all made from eco-friendly vegetable tanned leather, which guarantees there is no chromium in the leather. What instantly caught my eyes was just how beautifully crafted the handbags are, with a very stylish embossed paisley design. What's more the leather feels very soft and does not carry that distinctively strong leather smell.

These very elegant handbags are available in a variety of styles and colours suitables for all occasions. Watch out for the new collections as Bharati is working on more designs as we speak...

www.embellishedtruth.com

Wedding fashion - Part 1: The Guests

2009-05-06T00:50:00.003+01:00

Going to a wedding this summer and not sure what to wear? Let's try and resolve your wedding season sartorial dilemmas.

Please click here to read my guidelines on the matter in SW5 Notebook.

The Art of Travelling Light

2009-04-04T09:58:00.007+01:00

Packing for a trip, whether for business or holiday, can take a good chunk of fun out of your travelling experience as you try to cram your entire wardrobe into your carry-on. It doesn't have to be that way! I put a few guidelines together to prove it on SW5 Notebook.

Enjoy the journey!

Swishing* is so hot right now!

2009-02-13T15:28:00.013Z

And for a reason: what better way to give your clothes a second life whilst refreshing your wardrobe?

Check SW5 Notebook for an insight.

*Swishing is a new term meaning swapping clothes.

----
Photo credit: Ndjana

How To Create Your Capsule Wardrobe

2009-01-19T23:16:00.021Z

If you often find that you’ve got a wardrobe full of clothes and nothing to wear as nothing seems to go with anything else, it sounds like you seriously need to rethink your wardrobe to make it work for your lifestyle! Where to start? Building a good capsule wardrobe might be the answer!

That of the Capsule Wardrobe is a genius concept if you ask me. It is what is guaranteed to save you from your style dilemmas in times of crises. It is what’s left when you downsize your closet to the bare essentials. It is the actual backbone of your wardrobe and as such should work with everything. For that very reason it must be based on timeless, best-quality items (think cotton, cashmere, silk) with the most flattering cuts. Think of it as a style investment as these pieces will transcend fashion trends, year in year out. Finally your Capsule Wardrobe will be built around key pieces in neutral colours that suit your natural colouring. Of course, I’d advise you stay away from black if it is not in your colour palette (a lot of people make the mistake to wear black nearer the face when all it does is accentuate shadows on their face or make them look washed out).

According to Susie Faux, who came up with the concept in the 1970s, the ideal capsule wardrobe consists of two pairs of tailored trousers, a dress or a skirt for more formal occasions, a well-fitting jacket, a coat, and a casual jacket or smart cardie. As for the shoes, we ladies ought to have one pair of flats and one with a little heel (such as kitten-heels), and two kinds of bags - a small formal one and a larger bag for every day use.

To complete the above I would suggest you consider the following trend-defying items: a cashmere shawl, a trench coat, 2 pairs of bootcut jeans – one to pair with flats, the other that looks good in heels -, a turtleneck jumper, a classic fitted shirt, some layering t-shirts/vests, a pair of leather boots as well as a pair of high heels…

As far as your basic dress is concerned, I’d recommend the Little Dark Dress (remember what I said in a previous post about black not being everybody’s best friend?), which you can dress up or down depending on the occasion.

Is there such a thing as a perfect capsule wardrobe? You may actually find you need different capsule wardrobes for different seasons or occasions: summer/winter, business travel, holiday… It will all depend on your lifestyle and personality.

The bottom line is: invest in classic pieces that are both essential and versatile, and add on to your basic wardrobe with pieces that are unique to you.

How to Stay Stylish in Bad Weather

2009-01-14T13:42:00.013Z

Eugh... Another damp and cold day... How exactly are you supposed to keep your fabulous looks in the drizzle?

A few clues here...

-----------
Photo credit (above): Ndjana
Photo credit (in Notebook SW5): Anne-So@Cachemire et Soie/SwanDiamondRose

Happy 2009!

2009-01-03T16:26:00.006Z

Dear Readers,

I wish you all a very happy and stylish New Year!

I look forward to hearing about your style resolutions for 2009.

Best wishes,

Lexi x

An Ode to Dresses

2008-12-08T22:58:00.030Z

I love dresses. I wasn't much of a dress wearer before, that is until I realised just how versatile, feminine and uncomplicated dresses are. One single dress can take you from desk to dinner and sort your fashion dilemmas at once. Mini, maxi, knee-length, loose, tight-fitted... there is a dress for every body type and for every occasion.

This is how it goes...

The shift dress
Loose-fitting, usually knee-length or shorter, with little or no waist definition, this cut is very flattering as it hides problem areas around the tummy. It is also the most versatile as it is so easy to style to create different looks. It can be belted to define the waistline.
Ideal for: almost every body type as it does not cling.
Stay well clear if you have... a fuller figure as this cut will do nothing to create the illusion of a defined waistline and will make you look like you're wearing a sack.

The sheath dress
With its figure-hugging cut and well-defined waist, it is a great dress to have in your wardrobe to dress up or down depending on the occasion.
Ideal for: slender figures, tiny frames, toned hourglass figures who want to flaunt their curves.
Stay well clear if you have.... an hourglass figure but are figure-conscious;
a square figure (this clinging dress will do nothing to create the illusion of curves); a full figure; wide hips and narrow shoulders (i.e: pear-shaped). Top or bottom-heavy figures will look off-balance as this cut is very close to the body lines.

The wrap dress
Introduced to the world of fashion by Diane de Furstenberg in the 1970s, this cut is very flattering and ultra feminine as it skims the hips, cinches the waist and enhances the bust with a slim-fitting top and a looser skirt. It flatters all ages and more than any other cut requires to be worn with the right underwear!
Ideal for: slender body types, rectangular or straight figures (the waist-cinching tie creates the illusion of a curvier shape), busty figures, hourglass figures (accentuates existing curves) as well as expectant mothers as a fluid, stretchy fabric will flatter a pregnant body whilst the tie can sit just below the bust line.
Stay well clear if you have... small breasts and no curves.

The slip dress
Originally designed to be worn underneath sheer dresses, it is made from thin material and has spaghetti straps.
Ideal for: lean and trim figures with a light, delicate frame.
Stay well clear if you have... a larger frame as it will make you look heavier than you are; broad shoulders as the spaghetti straps will make them look even broader.

The empire dress
With a waistline raised as high as right below the bust and a wide, flowing skirt which begins at the seam of the bust, this cut camouflages a bottom-heavy figure whilst enhancing the bust and lenghtening the overall figure.
Ideal for: small busts, boyish figures as well as those with a heavier mid-section (i.e. apple shape), fuller figures or pear-shaped bodies as it conceals the hips, stomach and thigh areas whilst emphasising the bust.
Stay well clear if you have... an hourglass figure as you may look disproportioned in this style (it would hide your best features).

The A-line dress
With its narrower bodice and skirt that flares out, this cut hides a larger lower body.
Ideal for: larger breasted figures, figures with a shoulder area that is wider than the hip area; bottom-heavy figures.
Stay well clear if you have... a bit of a tummy to conceal or a small bust as it will draw attention to that area.

The corset dress
It lifts up the bust, wittles the waist and flattens the tummy, creating curves on more slender bodies and adding shape and structure to fuller figures.
Ideal for: hourglass figures
Stay well clear if you have... problems breathing...

The halter-top dress
With straps that wrap around the back of the neck, this type of neckline leaves the shoulders and arms bare.
Ideal for: broad-shouldered types as it shows off your shoulders.
Stay well clear if you have... a bony collarbone and very thin figure; or a top-heavy figure (apple shape).

The bubble dress
The bubble hem creates volume and can give the appearance of a larger lower body.
Ideal for: skinny types, boyish figures, long legs.
Stay well clear if you have... shorter legs or a fuller figure. This style of dress is not an easy one to pull off!

The maxi dress
The big advantage of maxi dresses is that they cover up areas that you may not want to show off. Whether a maxi dress suits your body shape or not will depend on the fit of the bodice.
Stay well clear if you have...a petite frame as floor-long gowns can be overwhelming.

When choosing a dress - or any other piece of clothing for that matter- you should always accentuate what you like about your body.

Your Own Personal Shopper: Because You're Worth It!

2008-11-27T13:14:00.013Z

Shopping can be a distressful experience, particularly when we cannot seem to find what we are looking for and feel urged to buy something to not leave the shop with the impression that we've wasted our time. This is usually when our best judgement lets us down and we end up buying that unflattering dress, which seemed quite sassy on the rack but in the harsh light of reality makes us look like we're wearing a tent... Sometimes we also tend to buy clothes that are similar to those we already own, which shows we're stuck in a sartorial rut.

Have you ever considered hiring the services of a personal shopper to take the pain out of your shopping trips and avoid those expensive mistakes as you get expert advice on what works and what doesn't for your body shape? Or would you do with some help picking the perfect outfit for a special event? Perhaps do you just not have the time and struggle to get to your local shops during business hours.

Hiring an independent personal shopper may sound quite extravagant but it will save you time, money and stress as you will get truly objective professional advice, sensitive to your needs and budget. Commission-based personal shopping services in departement stores on the other hand are there to make you shop till you drop literally, whereas independent personal shoppers will keep your best interests at heart whilst taking you on a shopping trip.

A typical personal shopping experience begins with an interview to determine a client's needs, lifestyle requirements as well as his or her personal preferences when it comes to style and colour. The image consultant then draws a purposeful shopping list with the client, advises them about brands, colours, fabrics and takes them on a shopping expedition, or even does the shopping sans client, delivering garments to their home or office for a private fitting.

So what are you waiting for to improve the way you shop and create a fabulous wardrobe that works for you and only you?

-----------------------------
Photo Credit: Kanaka's Paradise Life

Further writings...

2008-10-29T17:44:00.009Z

Thanks to the wonderful and tremendously talented Caroline (dear reader I urge you to check out this lady’s remarkable songwriting and singing!) along with the tlc team, I have recently embarked on a rather exhilarating writing adventure, which has had me literally jumping with excitement: I have started contributing a regular feature to SW5 Notebook, a local magazine distributed in the Earls Court area - now available to the wider world!! - where I get to develop various topical subjects related to personal fashion and style.

You can read my monthly contribution to SW5 Notebook here and please do feel free to drop me a note should you have a style or fashion dilemma or would you like to suggest a particular subject.

Yours truly :-)

What I've learnt about Ethical Fashion

2008-10-15T17:03:00.017+01:00

I like to think of myself as 'ethically minded' as I believe in a greener, fairer world and try and do my bit to support that belief. However I readily admit that I am a novice in matters of 'ethical fashion'. That's why I was particularly keen to attend the 5th edition of the Ethical Fashion Show, which was taking place at the prestigious Carrousel du Louvre in Paris ( October 9th to 12th) in my quest to understand what makes garments ethical.

On the first day of the event, I attended a conference, which meant to evaluate the past 5 years of Ethical Fashion Shows and identify the challenges the ethical textile industry has yet to face. Were taking part in the debate the Director of Sustainable Development at LVMH; the Department Manager in charge of quality and subcontracting for textiles at Monoprix; the Founder of Veja, an ethical sneaker brand; the Coordinator for the cotton programme for Pesticide Action Network UK, and the President of the Fair Labour Association. Most of the issues addressed catered to a well-informed public of initiates and hardly answered the most important question of all in my opinion: how to attract more customers to ethical clothing? It seems to me that ethical fashion, which is reputed to be costly (yet those same people who would argue about the cost are willing to pay extortionate prices for a label), remains fairly obscure as the very definition of an 'ethical' product is about as clear as mud due to the confusing multitude of labels we can find in the shops. Does organic clothing qualify as ethical? What about Fair Trade? Through the discussions I realised that the 'perfect' ethical product is in fact still very much work in progress.

So what does 'ethical fashion' actually mean? The Ethical Fashion Show manifesto first states that it is 'fashion that is designed and produced in conditions that respect people', which means that not only must it respect working conditions as promoted by the International Labour Organization but it must also contribute to the development of communities through sustainable actions, and respect intellectual property by mentioning the designer's name. Secondly, is ethical fashion that respects the environment from fabric design to manufacturing (by favouring the use of raw materials and agents that have minimal impact on the environment) and finally recycling. Last but not least ethical fashion must preserve traditional skills by 'promoting partnerships with local artisans'.

Ethical fashion may have suffered from an image problem in the past, being judged unflattering, unappealing and only suitable for neo-hippies and eco-warriors, but it has now nothing to prove in terms of design and style. Having a look at the exhibitors' stalls around the venue and seeing stunning models showcased on the catwalk (as shown below), I wished these designers could get more exposure as I realised the variety, beauty and quality of the garments available on the ethical market.

Dress The Part

2008-09-19T12:15:00.027+01:00

Taking the Tube at rush hour in the heart of the city, I see a worryingly large number of men - presumably lawyers, bankers, accountants and the like - wearing suit trousers that are poorly cut, being either conspicuously too short for them or far too long as the hems/turnups bunch up around the ankles looking like an accordion. Believe me it does not look good, and as a consequence your professional image may well suffer from it. Ill-fitting clothing will never work to your advantage as they will never scream professionalism and quality, quite the opposite in fact!

Remember that the quality of the fabrics as well as the cut and the finishing are the most immediate indications to the quality of clothing, so don't sabotage your image! Get your trousers altered to fit properly!

Unless the length of your trousers is meant to somehow be a fashion statement (you may well be a disciple of Thom Browne after all), it is best to keep it classic especially when working in a corporate environment where a neat, put-together professional image is crucial and will give you an edge. The perfect cut would make the trouser hem fall down at the back of the shoe to sit just above the heel (check that the crease on the back of the trouser is straight from the buttocks down) breaking the shoe once on the top of the shoe. By no means should the leg fall below the heel of the shoe.

It is also important to ensure that the trouser is sitting on your waist and that you are wearing the correct shoes AND socks (meaning socks that match your shoes and/or trousers. White is NOT allowed).

Now I've also seen some funny looking jacket sleeves...

Everybody Loves Purple

2008-09-12T14:52:00.019+01:00

This season the colour purple is all the craze. Absolutely EVERYBODY is wearing purple: purple macs, purple tights, purple jumpers, purple shoes. Purple, purple, purple. The model featured on the ad campaign promoting short breaks in the Norwegian fjords in the London Underground is wearing purple. And the one on the Specsavers posters too. I even saw a dog with a purple collar for heaven's sake! No kidding.

The colour is full of symbolism: it connotes mystery, magic, wisdom and has been traditionally associated with royalty since Roman times, as well as mourning. Purple conveys wealth, sophistication, extravagance and creativity. Deep, bright purples suggest riches while lighter purples are more romantic and delicate. The colour notably combines blue's calm and red's stimulation. It is supposed to be able to uplift the spirits as well as to calm the mind.

I love purple. Violet, lavender, orchid, lilac, plum, aubergine, psychedelic purple... The colour can be found in a wonderful range of shades and tints to suit all types. The tricky thing as usual is to find the right hue to compliment your natural colouring: I have seen many mousy types around flaunting overpowering dark bright purples when they should stay well away from them and prefer more muted shades to flatter their overall softer look. As a fellow image consultant would say: 'don't wear a colour that is darker than the darker part of your body' (especially close to the face as it will be unflatteringly overwhelming). Pretty good rule of thumb.

One interesting fact to bear in mind is that dark purple has a similar effect on slimming down the body as black and navy. It will also add a touch of glamour for eveningwear and is therefore a wonderful alternative to over-rated black. Generally, wearing purple will always make a statement. It is the colour of non-conformity. But is it really this season?

Know Your Shape Before You Shop

2008-09-11T16:36:00.013+01:00

I've recently come across Trinny & Susannah's online Shape Advisor for both men and women. I find it's an absolutely brilliant concept: it seems an easy-and-fun-enough-to-use tool and helps shoppers select the most flattering clothes for their body shape on the retailer site. You can even refine your search results by selecting the occasion: casual, smart or formal. Very clever application for an online shopping website, isn't it?

However something's missing: I feel there should be more explanation of why certain types of clothes are preferable for certain body shapes. The other downside is that the system doesn't take into account the shape of the face, which bears some importance with regards to the type of neckline that suits you (as well as the type of lapel on jackets): according to the site round-neck jumpers will flatter a 'column' body shape, i.e one where the shoulder width is the same as the hip width, the waist is slight and the legs longer in proportion to the rest of the body, à la Nicole Kidman. A word of caution here: I would say this all depends on whether your face is 'contoured' or more angular, and also, theoretically, whether you are endowed with a long neck or not (I am saying theoreticlly as slender 'column-shaped' women would assumedly have a long neck). A round neck on an angular face will look a little jarring - and shorten an already short neck - regardless of the fact that you may have balanced shoulders and longer legs in proportion to the rest of your body.

You Know When You've Been Tangoed

2008-08-05T22:39:00.013+01:00

These past few weeks I have been busy packing in preparation of an impending flat move (amazing how much one can manage to stuff in a tiny closet... Note for later: I want a proper walk-in wardrobe a la Bradshaw!!) and managed to fit in a few days off in Italy (aka Style Paradise) where I picked up a few fashions tips that I must remember to share with you in a later post. In spite of the chaos which seems to characterise my life at the moment, there is one imminent and highly topical subject that I would like to discuss here: the (appropriate) use of bronzer. Like me you may have felt robbed of a proper summer here in England and as a result your complexion has shown signs of serious sun deprivation. In order to make up for our so noticeable lack of tan some of us may have ben tempted to resort to bronzer to get that Californian-like sun-kissed look. I would like to stop you right here: beware Milady for the orange look has never been fashionable.

The basic rule of course is to choose bronzer that is only a couple of shades darker than your skin tone and complements your skin undertone (depending on whether it is cool or warm). How did they let that Fox News TV Presenter I incidentally saw on telly the other day go to air with an orange face still amazes me! Obviously cooler types will stand way CLEAR of orange-based shades by all means: pinker shades will suit fairer complexion a lot better than peach for instance The second rule is to apply it lightly to the areas that the sun would naturally hit (i.e. forehead, cheeks, nose, chin). The key word here is 'natural'. What you want is a healthy glow, not look fake and bimbo-like (see picture: I love Christina, but that's just wrong).

Right, I had to say it.

Case Study: Angelina Jolie

2008-07-22T23:36:00.012+01:00

Angelina Jolie has been a constant feature in the media this month: first with the theatrical release of her latest flick, Wanted, then with the much-awaited birth of her twins in the South of France. Anticipating this she made the cover of the July issue of Vanity Fair, which displays gorgeous photographs by Patrick Demarchelier. This is my chance to start a series of case studies illustrating the concept of personal branding.

It is interesting to see how her image in the media has evolved since she started getting public attention (and winning numerous awards) with her roles in Gia (1997) and Girl Interrupted (1999) in particular, and with her much publicized marriages with Billy Bob Thornton and later Johnny Lee Miller. To me she is the perfect example of a strong personal brand.

Whether we like it or not, whether we are a public figure or not, the way we present ourselves to the outside world conveys a message. Everybody has a personal brand. The good news is we can choose what we want to say about ourselves. What I find particularly interesting about Angelina Jolie is that she seems to live her life on her own terms and have total control over her public image. She exudes independence, strength, passion and compassion. Both her personality and her unique looks prevent her from blending in. She allegedly doesn't have a publicist to manage her image in the press, which means that she must be pretty good at it. The way her public persona – and style – has evolved over the past 15 years or so is testament to her expert skills: from outspoken tattooed wild child, she morphed into a vocal goodwill ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees while maintaining a sophisticated yet approachable image as a woman. She is described as extremely professional on film sets, a dedicated charity worker and a doting mother to her now 6 children. After going through many extreme phases (which again emphasize a strong personality throughout) her style has become sleek, elegant and classy. She truly oozes glamour and knows how to remain true to her unique self. Meanwhile she remains reasonably discreet considering her high profile and much discussed relationship with Brad Pitt, which is the whole point: while she’s one of the best known celebrities around the world (she features amongst the Time 100 in 2006 and 2008, and is also described as one of the world’s most beautiful women), her image is now based primarily on her human qualities (through her humanitarian work), her 'normality' regardless of her superstar status (through her family life), and the balance that she's tried to strike in her life.

When Recycling Meets Style

2008-07-08T23:43:00.016+01:00

I have received some very valuable feedback about this blog and take this opportunity to thank you for your interest and support. I was notably made aware in the most elegant manner of the fact that my views on the matter of de-cluttering (see earlier post: Savvy Shopper Must Declutter) may have been a little extreme, especially when it comes to saving clothes for one's offspring. Your children may indeed thank you for your perceptiveness and your good taste! I have recently met a very stylish and creative young lady who could testify to this state of affairs. Her style - unique, personal and authentic - is everything I would encourage my clients to embrace, whether they feel drawn to classic, more avant-garde or even dramatic and extravagant styles. A style that is totally individual is compelling, and as such, forms a vital element of your own personal brand. What makes it so unique in her case is the inventive and skilful combination of items from the 60s, 70s, 80s raided from her mother's wardrobe with contemporary pieces.

Of course only good quality items, cut in the best materials will stand the test of time. The most important thing is that they don’t look worn out or old. Generally vintage clothes hunting can be a tricky endeavour as you may find the sizes available are on the smaller side (after all our body shape has changed over the last century) so clothes may need altering, re-adjusting or even transforming. Alternatively you may prefer to browse the accessories to find an elegant clutch purse or an original piece of art deco jewellery to give your wardrobe an original twist.

The reward is invaluable: first of all vintage items are limited, if not one of a kind and you will undoubtedly get complimented on your look. Secondly - and I ought to say last but not least - wearing vintage has the added advantage to contribute to environmental sustainability as it involves reusing, recycling and repairing rather than paying for the natural resources used in the production of a new item and then throwing it away!

En Vogue?

2008-07-02T07:51:00.007+01:00

Over the last couple of weeks the word has gone around in full circle: 'Italian Vogue shows black models only' hollers the Telegraph, 'Italian Vogue's black issue breaks fashion barrier' ventures the Guardian, which then goes on to explain that the magazine "has broken one of the fashion world's taboos by featuring only black models in its July issue". What year is this? That's right, 2008. Nearly 40 years after YSL first used black models on the catwalk. Outraging. That's why on this one occasion I've decided to digress from the personal style orientation of this blog to voice my opinion about a problem which unfortunately persists in the fashion establishment (and other industries, let's face it): racial discrimination. Allegedly black models are not used because they "do not sell". Says who?

It remains to be seen if this new focus is just a fad or the beginning of a revolution in the world of fashion. However whether one thinks that Vogue's initiative is a mere marketing stunt or a true statement of their commitment to stamp out racial prejudice in fashion, I am going to get myself a copy of this issue: first of all because I look forward to taking a look at Steven Meisel's work with models such as Iman, Tyra Banks, Liya Kebede, Alek Wek and many more (the acclaimed New York based photographer who regularly shoots for both US and Italian Vogue worked on the whole 100 pages' worth of photos, including the four-photo foldout cover); secondly because I want to take action and make a point. Yes, black models DO sell. It sounds like a small thing to do in the grand scheme of things but it may make a difference, and I encourage each one of you to do the same this month. Go to Borders, WH Smith and the like and ask for the July Issue of Italian Vogue! In the meantime you can take a peek at some gorgeous photos from the issue here.

Savvy Shopper Must Declutter

2008-06-26T22:51:00.035+01:00

We’ve all stood in front of an overflowing wardrobe panicking at the unbearable thought that we had absolutely nothing to wear, throwing clothes all over the floor in a bewildered attempt to find the right outfit for the occasion and ending up walking out late and frumpish! We all hold on to those “slim” clothes for when we shed those few pounds. This shows us that we generally hold onto clothes that no longer fit our bodies or suit the lives we live.

So let's stop procrastinating at once and finally sort out our wardrobe... We’ve all heard the golden rule: “if you haven’t worn a piece of clothing for over a year, ditch it”. Ouch. Although I understand why this is an important one to bear in mind when de-cluttering your closet (after all you have to be ruthless when tackling your wardrobe weed!), I am actually not sure this is necessarily the way it should be and I can prove it: I was recently very pleased to find a pair of smart summer trousers that I’d left aside for a few years (and that miraculously still suited me!) to wear as a perfect complement to a blouse I’d just bought to attend a professional meeting. So there. What this really taught me is how important it is to build one’s wardrobe around a number of simple and timeless good quality pieces of clothing as they can save you from any style crisis (this is the famous “capsule wardrobe” I’ll get to talk about in more detail in later posts – watch this space!)

The fact is we are conditioned into impulse buying by our society’s get-more-be-more culture. We dedicate ourselves to the pursuit of ever more stuff: more gadgets, more clothes, more beauty products to cure this and that... Do we actually need all that stuff? Some may say they do but mostly we find a shameful 80% of it all will end up unused at the back of the closet or at the back of a drawer... Not only does this leave a pollution footprint, which you may not necessarily realise but it’s also a considerable waste of space and money, which is directly measurable! We ought to be more mindful about shopping and curb those wasteful spending routines.

Ideally your wardrobe should hold fewer clothes, but offer a lot more outfits to wear for any occasion. By “fewer clothes” I mean: get rid of all the “slim” clothes you still wish you could fit into (when you do lose those few pounds, you’ll be happy to treat yourself to some brand new clothes!), those that have outlived their season (you just know you are never going to wear them again), items you bought on sale but never wore (the fact is you will NOT wear them, ever), items you want to pass down to your children when they grow up (who are you kidding??), items that still have tags on them (I mean, seriously!?) and old favourites you secretly hope will come back on trend one day (to be fair in some cases they do, but you may wish they hadn't...)

Your wardrobe needs to offer flattering items that make you feel good about yourself i.e. clothes for the body you have now (you may want to learn to love it) and that suit your lifestyle, so you'll have to work out the different types of occasions you attend and the type of clothes you need to suit these occasions (work, formal, party, clubbing, sport, etc). Anything extra is perfectly unnecessary…

And if you want to fill in your wardrobe at no cost while clearing out your wardrobe of all your unwanted items, why not try ‘swishing’?

All in the Detail

2008-06-20T13:46:00.039+01:00

I was recently asked to write about accessories, which I’m particularly excited about because I think they are (or should be) an essential part of the wardrobe for anyone who cares about style. By definition the role of accessories is to adorn, embellish, enhance, even complete an outfit. Think shoes, hats, bags or briefcases, belts, braces, scarves (my personal favourites), jewellery including watches, hosiery, hair accessories, glasses, cufflinks… Accessories offer endless possibilities. They can transform the simplest outfit from casual to dressy or create different looks depending on the occasion and on your mood (for instance the ladies will achieve a classic daytime look by tying an elegant silk scarf around the neck, whereas for evening, a long sheer scarf draped around the shoulders will complement a dress without fuss). For men and women alike it is the little things that will make an outfit stand out. Accessories are essentially a statement of your individuality by adding that little je-ne-sais quoi (you could find your own signature piece and mix it up with different looks for example). What’s more accessories can help you update your existing wardrobe without splashing out on new clothes.

I would like to write about each type of accessory more specifically in future posts but for now will stick to general considerations as wearing accessories requires a little attention, which is what I would like to focus on here.

First of all, consider the scale of the accessory: bear in mind that small accessories will make a plus size person look even fuller while large accessories will emphasize the smallness of a petite individual as a result of optical illusion (see circles below: which white circle is larger? The left or the right?... Are you absolutely sure?)

Secondly, you may want to find out what the most flattering colours are for your natural colouring – you will thereby identify your metal and gemstone colour palette for jewellery in particular (for instance you will find that warm skin undertone looks better with gold jewellery than it does with silver, and stones that have warm and earthy hues will complement it wonderfully).

Finally know what effect you want to create (and whether it is appropriate for the occasion). You may want to use one piece as a focus – this will be your statement piece – which will highlight a particular part of your body. For example, belts worn just below the bust line will enhance the bust while low-slung belts draw the eye to the hips, chandelier earrings (worn with an up hair do) will draw attention to your neck. Statement-making pieces of jewellery will be worn on their own to avoid looking like a Christmas tree(!) For instance, if you wear a bold or elaborate necklace, you might want to either consider wearing pieces that don't compete with it - such as simple stud earrings in a stone that complements the stones or beads in your necklace, or a simple ring or discreet chain bracelet - or skip the additional jewellery altogether so the focus remains on your main piece of jewellery. Likewise, if you go for a multi-strand necklace, keep the outfit simple and pattern-free as demonstrated here or conversely, let your outfit speak for itself with minimal jewellery as seen here .

As for the question of matching accessories… opinions diverge and trends change. I think it depends a lot on personal taste. I can therefore only encourage you to try and see how your overall outfit looks and if your accessories compliment one another. The most important rule of all is that you feel comfortable with what you are wearing, and wear it confidently.

So today’s final word is: get creative, have fun - and don't forget headscarves for your bad hair days (to transform a dull mane into a fashion feature, guaranteed)!

The Truth about Black

2008-06-14T12:54:00.023+01:00

Today black is predominant in fashion, and everyone wears black. In fact some people feel very strongly about black - to the point where they refuse to wear any other colour. As a matter of fact there are many myths around about black in fashion. It is said to be chic, stylish, timeless, sophisticated, dramatic, safe and has a reputation for making people appear thinner. It is considered to be a very formal, elegant, and prestigious colour. In Western cultures more generally black is also associated with authority and power, formality, death, evil and mystery.

But let's take an honest look at the colour applied to our wardrobe.

First of all, is black such a safe colour? It may look fabulous on models that have been styled for glossy magazines but it doesn't always work outside of photographic studios. Worn close to the face, black can be overpowering and have an ageing effect on people whose both complexion and hair are fair. It will create a pale, sullen or washed out look especially on people with warm undertones in their skin because it is too harsh and cool. And for those with the darkest shade of skin, black tends to darken their complexion even more. Quite clearly black is not flattering for everybody. This may sound disappointing, but wait: this means we all have a broader colour palette to play with and that's pretty good news.

For that same reason I would like to demystify the famous Little Black Dress (LBD) - daringly introduced to the world of fashion by Coco Chanel in the 1920s - that every woman is supposed to have in her wardrobe. I am a fierce advocate of the versatile smart little dress - for instance a knee-length sleeveless sheath - that can be dressed up and down depending on the occasion as a staple of the wardrobe. Does it need to be black? Absolutely not if black doesn't suit your natural colouring. You want to wear the dress, not the dress to wear you! Because everyone has a palette that works best to support their natural colouring and personality, I believe your smart little dress should be in your right dark colour, i.e. the one that will be most flattering. I would like to demonstrate how you can benefit from wearing alternatives to black that are more flattering to your natural colouring, and in which you will always look and feel good.

Do you wear black because you want to look slimmer? The good news is there are other ways to achieve the same effect by using optical illusions and colours. Dark colours are mainly slimming but attention needs to be paid to what suits an individual's colouring and personal style and taste. It will also depend on your size and where you carry your weight. Likewise the cut and style of the clothing need to be taken into consideration. Generally if you wish to look smaller on your bottom half, then this is where you should wear black or your dark colour (for instance your correct navy blue), and visa versa. Worn head to toe your dark colour can also be slimming and elongate the silhouette as a monochromatic look helps create an illusion of length (in that case you may want to consider using brighter colours as accent colours to avoid looking like you're going to a funeral).

Wearing the right colours is the ideal way to look younger, healthier and groomed. So for those days where you're just not in the mood and black seemed the safest option you can pick the most neutral colours in your colour palette instead. The bottom line is: you can (in fact you will) look stylish wearing the right colours for your personal colouring without resorting to black!

What is Style?

2008-06-10T23:04:00.033+01:00

A close friend of mine recently gave me a beautiful book dedicated to Audrey Hepburn's fashion sense ('Audrey Style' by Pamela Clarke Keogh, with an introduction by Hubert de Givenchy). Best described by her elegance, grace and simplicity her style still undeniably influences fashion today, just as Jackie Onassis' impeccable style (and sunglasses), Brigitte Bardot's sultry femininity or Grace Kelly's sophisticated and ladylike style do. That is why they are considered as style icons. Their style has transcended decades because it was sui generis - i.e. unique in its characteristics - and as such has also become their trademark.

The media push us, image (and body) conscious consumers, to dress like such and such celebrity - the Kates, the Siennas and the like - deceiving us into believing that style is about being a copycat and mimicking fashion regardless of our body shape rather than being our true original (and fabulous) selves.

Style goes beyond trends as style remains while trends pass by - or in the famous words of Coco Chanel, "fashion fades, only style remains the same." What's more being in trend, or wearing designer clothes for that matter, does not guarantee style! That's precisely what I think we ought to learn from fashion icons: instead of trying to steal their style, we ought to define our own taste and look, and wear it confidently. In marketing terms, this could be compared to developing a brand, which is why I also like to use the term 'personal branding'. Finding one's style is identifying what makes us truly original and expressing our personality through the way we dress and present ourselves to the world. It's about making fashion ours and going our own way. It's a statement of our individuality.

Can we all develop our own fashion style? I believe so, because having style is essentially being able to be oneself without following others, thereby creating a distinct individual look. Of course, it requires a great dose of self-honesty: not only does it require a clear grasp of who we are (including how old we are), what are values are and how to translate it into fashion, but also a good understanding of our body and visage - the shape, lines and proportions - and what suits us best in terms of cuts, fabrics, finishes and colours. This process happens over a period of time, sometimes with the help of a personal stylist or image consultant, but always through trying, testing, experimenting... and for those who feel so inclined, accessorising and customising.

So today's final word of advice is: know yourself, be yourself and enjoy!

Vive Yves Saint Laurent!

2008-06-02T20:45:00.010+01:00

I was incredibly sad at the news of the death of Yves Saint Laurent on Sunday 1st June 2008 in Paris. I have always admired the man for his creative genius and bravery, and for the fact that he was the first designer to use black models in his runway shows. To me his creations, innovative, even revolutionary at the time, epitomise classic style and timeless elegance so it made sense to start this blog dedicated to fashion and style with a humble tribute to the great artist.

His legacy - from androgynous tuxedo jackets (or "smoking") to safari jackets, peacoats, trapeze dresses, smocks, transparent blouses and glamorous gowns - can be found in every woman's closet nowadays. Saint Laurent defined how contemporary women dress. To him "fashion was not only supposed to make women beautiful, but to reassure them, to give them confidence, to allow them to come to terms with themselves." And what he truly did is empower women by introducing trouser suits as an elegant staple of their wardrobe. By doing so he caused quite an uproar in a society where women had to be dressed in skirts or dresses in the workplace. He broke social rules, bringing equality in the workplace, and transformed women, creating a sharp and linear tailored style that would become a symbol of changing times. Yet, he demonstrated that women could wear masculine clothes without sacrificing their femininity.

Although one may remember Saint Laurent for his trademark black suits, it is worth mentioning that he was also a daring colourist who proved bright colours like fuchsia, green, blue or yellow could be combined in one outfit without looking garish. He also often used ethnic prints and designs inspired by the art world in a series of remarkable collections.

From him we must learn a very important rule: "The silhouette counts more than anything. It should never be overloaded."

Take a look at his fashion sketches by clicking the link below:

Croquis d'Yves Saint Laurent
LEMONDE.FR 02.06.08