FASHION FOR HER

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Summer Q&As

We are travelling to a wedding in Corfu its fairly formal but I don’t really want to take a hat with me could you suggest an alternative? Jan Mac

This sounds like a perfect occasion for a flower corsage or sparkly hair jewels. These alternative headpieces are a subtle yet elegant and inexpensive way of adding a glamorous touch to your overall look. Check out Harvey Nichols heir jewels range or if a flower and feather are more your style then take a look at hair stunners in most department stores as an option..

I would love a yellow summer dress where can I find one? Jill Grant, Glasgow

This is the right season for yellow and depending on occasion, style and size there are a few I can recommend but be quick as production is limited and once sold most are not replaced; these are some options:

If you are willing to compromise on a floral design that includes yellow then take a look at Alberta Feretti and Dolce Gabbana’s selection of long and short floral dresses.

I am going on a long haul flight soon and am always envious of those who look glamorous at airports - how can I achieve this look? Dianne T. Wood

The “look” you are referring to is based on having the right accessories… If you think about it, what makes the impact is the complete effect of shades, jacket, shoes, bag and the way they are worn together.

To make a strong summer statement choose a seasonal coloured t-shirt, structured blazer (great selection in New Look this season) wide leg jeans, trendy mules / wedges and top it all with a Calvin Klein’s soft white long jacket or a cashmere travel wrap from White & Warren. Most important is a quality overnight, timeless bag like Balenciaga’s giant weekender in leather & cotton print. Remember to refresh your lip gloss and hair before landing and cover your tired, jetlagged eyes with large shades.

My days of wearing a bikini are over but I still want to look sexy and not take too much with me on the beach what should I pack? Carol Deans

Beach holidays are the best in terms of capsule packing. You can literally travel light, think key colours, add a summer dress and sandals and you can face most locations. I personally think a one piece style swimsuit such as Gidon Oberzon’s designs can look very feminine and more seductive then a bikini; go safe with a monochrome or fun & sexy in animal print; it’s a matter of preference and having the right figure, you can also opt for a tankini to feel less exposed. Replace the sarong with a light pair of semi-sheer beach trousers, an Alegra Hicks kaftan or a silk paisley dress from Miss Selfridge or New Look and a pair of glam flip-flops.

I am looking for sunglasses that will suit my face and keep with the current styles, any suggestions? Fiona M

Bigger is trendier in this summer sun glasses so ask yourself whether you suit big shades and if you do go for it. However, it is all about line and proportion, if your face is small framed you will have to seek a smallish pair regardless of trend. In this case opt for an unusual design in the spirit of Cavalli, Joseph or Gucci to set you apart from the crowd.

I am off on holidays to a sunny resort. What and how much footwear do you think I should take along? Lindsey Robb, Edinburgh

The answer lies with your itinerary. If you intend to mostly relax, swim and read then you just need a pair of luxury flip-flops to take you from the room to the pool, a flat pink pump for lunch and a slinky heel to dress up for dinner. If you plan on site-seeing, shopping and dining out you will need to add a few comfortable walking footwear such as the multi functional Nine West glam wedge.

I am worried about showing my cyclist legs off in public as I feel they are too masculine. Would you say that skirts are better then shorts in my case? Claire W

I would say both. If your legs are toned then why not show them off? This season you can choose from a wide range of shorts styles that do not necessary have to spell Kylie such as the high-waist knee length Warehouse denim or Mexx’s white. Shorts however, do look more casual then skirts so consider the occasion, location and degree of exposure you are ready for and choose accordingly.

Timeless Style

How to create a lasting signature style

At the start of every year many feel a desire to transform. They make unattainable New Year resolutions and feel inadequate when realising that the hunt for the latest Balenciaga bag or a hot limited edition Cavalli sun glasses is not enough to make them happy. Some will say it’s a start and I would agree if you, like my friend Maggie, only uses one seasonal bag. But if you need a different bag for each outfit one simply will not do.

We are all familiar with unique personal style statements such as Audrey Hepburn’s black dress, John Snow’s ties, Gwen Stefani’s lips, Bono’s glasses and Marilyn’s goddess style white dress. The desire to manifest a sense of individuality is a natural part of our human make-up, how far one goes in search and creation of it is connected to their personality and the level of attention they give to details which distinguish their style and compels others to take notice. There is nothing wrong with it.

When thinking of reinventing or revamping your look, ask yourself what is the message you want your style to convey. Examine the reasons behind the drive for transformation in order not to feel trapped in an image that doesn’t suit your life & personal style.

It does not have to mean big changes, these tips will help you on your way:

The above can easily apply to all aspects of your life but if you are starting out or changing jobs be advised to take caution when considering your image in the work place. Some industry personnel might not react kindly; "If it is too extreme or unconventional it can work against you" says Karen Molloy, director of international recruitment agency Thorpe Molloy, “Wear clothes that are a smart version of what would be worn by people working in that industry. The norm is a suit. Ensure you feel comfortable wearing it - if you feel great then this will certainly help with confidence levels."

The pursuit of perfection / celebrity trends can leave you breathless and sometimes penniless trying to keep up. Concentrate on your positive attributes and set realistic goals, most importantly: take a more forgiving look at your body as there is no such thing as a perfect shape. Celebrate your individuality and avoid becoming a fashion victim by creating a singular, lasting personal style.

© 2008 DressYourWay Style Consultancy

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Dressing Down

Dressing for a casual day at the office might prove to be a difficulty. Replacing the suit is suddenly a challenge and the question is: How to “dress down” and maintain your professional look?

Here are some tips that will apply to the dress code policy of most companies:

These general guidelines will hopefully assist you when the time comes to make the transition. Examine your personality and your office setting, than draw your conclusions accordingly.

© 2007 DressYourWay Style Consultancy

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