I’VE ROAD TESTED THE MOST COMFORTABLE PLEATHER LEGGINGS ON THE HIGH STREET!!!

So you don’t have to 😉

Faux Leather Leggings

Faux leather leggings have been a staple of mine for years, and years.. and years, in fact as an IMAGE CONSULTANT I’ve been banging on about them as a key fashion piece for your wardrobe since 2014 as seen in this old blog here!

PLEATHER LEGGINGS ARE A PERMA-TREND!!

And they’re not just for mums, although they do elevate the most daggiest of clothes which was what I looked for when I needed a MUMMY MAKEOVER.!!

They are for every women no matter what your size, body type or age – you’ll just style them your way – and there’s SOOOO many ways to wear them for winter, spring AND autumn!

Their season is undefined!


Buy An Instant Wardrobe Makeover

If you could buy 1 inexpensive piece that instantly transforms your wardrobe for 8 months out of the year, wouldn’t you buy a version?

Oh – and they make you feel a bit more ‘cool’ & ‘sexy’ (although simply writing those words makes me feel pretty ‘uncool & ‘unsexy’. Ha)

My Personal Shopper Clients

The principal request of 90% of my PERSONAL SHOPPER clients right now, is this:

” find me a pant that’s NOT a jean and NOT active wear”

And that’s exactly what I’ve done and trust me, I’ve found a goodie, all due to a genius special design feature that as an ex-fashion designer, I know works!!

AND they’re on sale!!

Find out more details about the Karen Millen pleather legging here.

Buying Clothes You’re Actually Going To Wear

So click above for my image consultant inspo, not just on the usefulness of a pleather pant in your wardrobe, but also a long line hoodie that covers our covid kilos yet still looks ‘cool’.

I’ve been wearing my black H&M style for several winters now, not just with faux leather pants but with skirts, dresses and of course.. active wear.

Personal Shopping Via Insta

If you miss out on these brands, then check out my instagram and click on insta stories ‘WINTER 2020’ for other options of the legging sizes 8-30 and the long line hoodie sizes 8-36.

Call me and let’s create an effortless winter wardrobe that’s stylish AND practical.

Happy Shopping!

1 MINUTE WARDROBE MAKEOVER COLOUR CHALLENGES

Your mission, dear reader, should you choose to accept it, is to revamp your old clothes in to new outfits, using method 1, 2 or 3 of my mini-colour-challenges

How To Create NEW OUTFITS From OLD CLOTHES

Without spending any more money, my professional stylist skills can help you create impactful outfit simply using any of these 3 colour pairing formulas!

It’s perfect if your bored of your wardrobe but short on cash (like most of us are coming out of #ISO!)

  1. COLOUR CLASH – dramatic colour blocking
  2. TONAL SHADES – if you like a particular colour, it’s likely that you own a few versions of it so why not try wearing 2 pieces together?
  3. MONOCHROME DRESSING – create an impact by wearing 1 single colour

Capture YOUR Colour – Colour Consultant

If you’re afraid the colour will wear you, and not the other way around, it’s because you might be wearing the wrong shade for your features.

If you want to understand what TYPES of colour suits you best so you can embrace these fashion trends with confidence, then book in for my COLOUR CONSULTANT SERVICE

As a WARDROBE PLANNER and PERSONAL SHOPPER, I encourage you to buy in to those shades that flatter you to build up your wardrobe, particularly when you’re wearing 1 colour head-to-toe!

Wearing a flattering shade is the difference between YOU wearing colour, and the colouring wearing YOU!

Let’s Start Your Wardrobe Makeover!

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1. COLOUR CLASH

If you want a colour blocking fashion style that people will remember, try this trend!

This is the most dramatic of looks and suit SPRING & WINTER season clients

Actual Client Outfits:

Over different seasons working with my personal styling clients, I’ve been helping many of them create THEIR version of these looks, so here’s some actual client examples using clothes similar to what you might own to help inspire you:

Colour Clash Makeovers:

This can include an accessory if mixing 2 clothes colours feel too strong?

Who knew you had some much newness from clothes you’ve been looking at for years?

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2. TONAL SHADES

This fashion trend can look pretty and feminine, or as bold as you dare!

You can pair tonal top + jacket/cardigan and pop on with a jean for an easier-to-wear version

This fashion style works well for ALL seasons because there’s a version to suit your colourings!

Tonal Shade Makeovers:

You don’t need to spend money to create new outfits

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3. MONOCHROME DRESSING

This is the most flattering because single colour dressing makes us look taller and therefore slimmer. Read more about BODY TYPES here.

This clothes style works perfectly for softer seasons like SUMMER & AUTUMN client

Monochrome Makeovers:

You can match the colour with the top + bottom or match your layers like this lemon cami + blazer. My client loves this yellow shade and had never thought about pairing them to make such a fashion statement!

This client bought this above green outfit during our personal shopper session, has been wearing it for 2 years, get comments on it every time because the shade looks amazing on her WINTER colourings and then separates the pieces and wears with weekly with denim, black and white!

WE CREATED MAXIMUM BANG-FOR-BUCK!

Stylist Challenge

So, pick an approach depending on your colour confidence and give it a try!

What have you got to loose? Nothing.

Just lots of fabulous brand new outfits to gain!

Prefer a professional stylist to come and help you workshop, then book in my WARDROBE MAKEOVER here

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RING RING… YOUR 17 PIECE #ISO WARDROBE IS CALLING!! ☎️

Below, I introduced you to the 17 cannot-live-without clothes styles you need in your #iso #wfh wardrobes Sydney, AND for living life in general – ’cause remember, I’m the type of personal stylist who encourages sustainable wardrobe choices..

And with most of us on a more limited budget at the moment, it seems the perfect time to help your money go further!

Re-styling = Effortless Wardrobe Makeover

In my video below (click here to refresh your memory), I explained the types of styles needed, many of which you probably already own, explaining the features & benefits which generate effortless styling both up & down.

Well, I know you’re dying to see the all outfits I generated..

….. and guess how many outfits I did create?

No, go on, guess?
30….35….40??

I MADE 60 OUTFITS!!! From pieces you probably already own!

You only have to wear each outfit 6 times and you have 1 years worth of clothes from just 17 pieces!!

Now can you understand the value of a professional personal stylist in generating bang-for-buck from your clothes purchases?

I’ve Just Created Your Personal Shopper “Shopping List”

And if you DON’T own similar styles already, then we’ve just identified your next shopping list!! You’re welcome!!

Read more about my Personal Shopper service here

So have a look at how I’ve worked as a wardrobe planner to co-ordinate these pieces and have a go with YOUR versions from YOUR wardrobe. See how the tops + bottoms combine because of the colour and shape I’ve chosen, plus how the pieces layer too!

Is there 60 brand new outfits sitting in YOUR wardrobe waiting to be discovered?

The Vital Role Of A Colour Palette

Sticking to a colour palette plays a HUGE role in how effortlessly these pieces work together because the TYPES of shades are similar, therefore harmonious. Read more about my colour consultant service which identifies the colours that flatters your features that you can build your wardrobe from.

You can see that only 3 pieces are in black and 2 in white so don’t let any fashion stylist tell you that you need black & white as the scaffolding to your closet. That just lacks imagination!

These versatile fashion styles will take you literally ANYWHERE inside ISO and beyond:

  • from your couch-to-gym
  • lounge-to-lunch
  • from-zoom meetings-to-dinner prep
  • cleaning-to-cocktail making
  • playground-to-office rotation
  • Saturday sports-to-dining out
  • disinfecting-to-dancing-round-your-living-room
  • banana-bread-baking-to-dinner-time-making

Did I miss anything? (All with responsible social distancing of course).

Re-style the outfit AND the Item

As well as styling these outfits ‘up & down’ to satisfy 60 occasions, I’ve also re-styled a few crucial pieces in several ways.

The black top, pencil skirt & legging, as well as the shirts are all versatile enough to create different shapes.

YOUR WARDROBE SHOULD BE AS FLEXIBLE & HARDWORKING AS YOU ARE!

Focus On Just A Few Fashion Styles?

So, I encourage you to re-run my 17 piece capsule wardrobe video, then check back through my 60 outfits, but you might prefer to focus on just 6-7 items and play only with them, and that’s fine.

My goal in doing this for you wasn’t about achieving a certain amount of new outfits, it was about showing you the process of starting to create any new outfits at all.

Contact me if you want to expand your wardrobe choices without spending a penny more on new clothes!

You’ll never say “I have nothing to wear” ever again!!

HOW TO DRESS IN #ISO WHILE #WFH

Everything you need to know about creating your #iso capsule from pieces most of my clients already have in their wardrobes. 

This Isn’t A Just A Covid Capsule

You know me, i’m all about creating a sustainable closet that lasts for years not slavishly following fashion trends.

Therefore, this isn’t a separate capsule wardrobe – but part of the essential pieces you need in your wardrobe at all times to make dressing a breeze!

Read more about the crucial role of a wardrobe planner here

Just Add YOUR Personal Style!

These are examples I’ve bought over the years to curate my capsule wardrobe according to my fashion style, so I’m not telling you that you need these exact items, but that you need this type of item that does that particular job...just add your personal style!

14 clothes + 2 shoes + 1 bag = your smart/casual capsule!

You then add a few other pieces such as a smart blazer and denim jean (don’t worry, I’m also delaying re-acquainting myself with tight jeans!) for when, and if, we return to a conventional office environment.

Some Personal Shopper Guidance

I also make suggestions about brands to buy from in-case you haven’t got similar pieces already in your closets, including the key fabric names to look out for.

Ready to give your wardrobe a makeover Sydney……?

Feel like you need some help curating your flattering mix & match capsule wardrobe? Then contact me for an online or in-person stylist session!

I’ll Prove How Effortlessly These Mix & Match

Stay tuned for me to prove how these clothes styles mix & match effortlessly when I show you ALLLLLLLL the outfits I create for you!

...and it’s probably a few more than you expect

Leave your email here to get sent these outfit options for you to replicate using your iso capsule wardrobe!

Non-contact personal styling straight to your inbox!

HOW TO DE-CLUTTER YOUR WARDROBE

…With a sustainable slant

Understanding what to KEEP is just as important as what to get rid of, particularly in this era of overzealous waste.

Over the years working as a personal stylist, I’ve realised most of my clients completely underestimate the fantastic clothes and accessories they’ve purchased, so I encourage you to TRY ON anything before you discard it…you might just have an undiscovered gem waiting to be rediscovered!?!

Plus it saves you money AND does our bit to save worldwide resources

It’s a triple whammy win!!

How To Detox Your Wardrobe

7 pieces to consider removing
6 pieces to consider keeping

Re-style Your Clothes For An Instant Wardrobe Makeover

Remember to consider my Wardrobe Planner styling tips for giving your clothes a 2020 update!!

Or click here for Mummy Makeover style tips I wrote for the fantastic Mama Tribe on how to wear your more ‘special’ pieces for everyday.

ACTIVE WEAR THAT HIDES CELLULITE …… *WARNING* THIS BLOG WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE!!

Hello, real women of the world, how is covid-comfort-eating + slinky yoga pants going for you?

Not ‘Coronavirus’, I’m Talking About The Other ‘C’ Word

Cotton On Body Top + Seed Cycle Shorts – see Personal Shopper Section below for details

Ever since we got told to ‘stay home to save lives’, I think I read it as ‘stay home for snack time’ and when I chat to others, it sounds like we’ve all been doing the same!

This devastating uncertainty seems to have triggered a comfort eating – and alcohol drinking – pandemic in us which further encourages dimples on our skin

Aim’n Instagram

Comfort Eating (& Drinking)

I’m actually writing this whilst consuming copious glasses of red wine and enough Easter chocolate to feed a family of 20, which is the perfect reason to tell you about real-world clothes styles that compliment real-word body image issues we ALL face such as C E L L U L I T E

Now don’t get me wrong, as a fashion stylist who likes to change up looks, some days I’m ok with cellulite and couldn’t care less, but other days it’s the bane of my life and I just don’t want to SEE it.

Our mental health is being put to the test right now and if we can make small changes to see ourselves more positively and not get bogged down by the small stuff we can’t change, then I’m all for it.

You feeling me?

I’m ok with stretch marks and less-than-sexy skin on my tummy, it housed my child so I’m pretty grateful – occasionally even proud of that part of my body

However, cellulite is another thing entirely. It serves NO purpose!!

And it’s the one thing most of my personal styling clients comment on when dressing.

Comfort Dressing

The other thing we’re all doing collectively during this #iso time is living in a limited amount of comfy clothes and for most of us that means a lot of soft, stretchy fashion styles such as lounge-wear and active-wear.

I think we’re all needing a soft cosy hug right now aren’t we?

Perfect For ANY Lifestyle!

But as a personal stylist, I know that the stretchy jersey fabrics I’m introducing you to to aren’t just limited to work-out gear, but work across all product areas for inside AND outside the gym, the office, the bar and the races (remember those places we used to go to?)

Perfect For ANY Body Types!

Fabric is powerful enough to give us an instant skin makeover!

These jersey knits are PERFECT for any tighter fitting clothes you might want to enjoy more, including tops and dresses because we can get annoying dimples or unsightly skin anywhere on our bodies regardless of what body type we are and how much we try and eliminate it!! – aren’t we lucky?

(I’ve been exercising consistently for over a year now and I STILL have cellulite!?!?!?! (And eating the entire contents of my house while at home every day is NOT helping!!))

” THIS IS THE QUICKEST WAY TO GET RID OF CELLULITE WITHOUT A SINGLE SQUAT! “

This Ribbed Fabric Can Solve Any Body Image Problem!

What I’m talking about specifically is a ribbed jersey fabric.

This is what my black Seed bike shorts are made from that I’m wearing in the first photo above and left (black now sold out – because flattering product sells quickly! But see below for alternative), that will flatter any areas where you feel you’re ‘limited’ in what you feel comfortable wearing.

 

PROBLEM + SOLUTION

Cellulite around your knees = buy 3/4 or long pants in rib

Dimples on your tummy = purchase a one piece ribbed swimsuit

Dimples over your arms = purchase a sleeved top in rib fabric

ASOS Maternity Rib Top

Including Pregnancy!

Pregnancy often calls for extra support for your growing boobs and/or belly = try a ribbed body-con top

Pregnancy can mean you’re less body confident due to lack of exercise = buy a textured dress to smooth you out

Rib jersey has a large stretch and retention capacity so clothes can be worn long before, during and after baby is born. Its the perfect Mummy Makeover fabric

FASHION TIP : HOW TO WEAR BODY-CON DRESSES IF YOU HAVE LUMPS & BUMPS 1. change your underwear to high waist light/medium hold ‘big knickers’ or shorts to create a smooth curve 2. then try a textured or ribbed fabric which conceals unsightly skin


The Fabrics You Need In Your Wardrobes Sydney!

So here’s a quick crash course on what type of FABRICS to look for and what to avoid, and the great news is that jersey is one of the most affordable fabrics on the market!

“FRIENDLY” FABRICS TO LOOK OUT FOR :

1.Knitted :

This describes the construction of a fabric that creates natural stretch. ALL jersey fabric is knitted (rather than woven) and jersey is what I’m focused on today

2. Rib Jersey :

The rib structure creates a bumpy texture that conceals our small lumps and bumps by smoothing over them. Rib naturally fits close to the body & adds support

(This Cotton On Body style is the one I’m wearing with my bike shorts. I love how the heavier rib fabric holds me in and the longer length means that when I sit down, I can pull it down to hide folds of skin. If this sounds like what you need, then this is the top for you!)


3. Textured Jersey :

A raised/patterned surface, sometimes called ‘jacquard jersey’ like this navy one shown here.

It acts in a similar way as a rib in terms of concealing the imperfect texture of our skin by covering it with an intentional texture

4. Elastane/lycra :

Stretch yarn that offers stretch & comfort in knitted and woven fabrics. It’s why some clothes fit well and move with you and others don’t


5. Neoprene :

Synthetic heavier weight rubbers used in wet suit fabric where the bonded structure offers better coverage for cellulite.

NOT A JERSEY but still fantastic for improving the look of our skin that’s available in active-wear and swimwear

‘FOE” FABRICS TO AVOID :

  • Lightweight stretch cloths that don’t offer decent skin coverage
  • Slinky flat fabric (slinky with a rib or texture is ok but if you have heavy cellulite I’d stay away)
  • Light colours ie. white & blush show off everything! Heavier weights are more flattering

Online Shopping Made Easy

We’ve all been forced to shop online for fashion but that creates challenges around understanding fabrics doesn’t it? So now I’ve made it easy to find the exact product because you know the fabrics to google!!

FASHION TIP : if you sew, why not look for these fabric types at fabric shops to whip up something of your own?

Personal Shopper Product Edit

During these financially uncertain times, as a personal shopper I’m not going to encourage you to shop for anything other than flattering, confidence-building fashion styles and a layer of confidence is worth it’s weight in gold isn’t it?

So here’s the products in these “friendly fabrics” that are worth investing in because they’ll make you look and feel fantastic, loooonnnggg after the coronavirus has disappeared

…and the great news,

– lots are seamless and therefore ultra comfortable

– they come in loads of different colours

– the returns policy is extended

– most are on sale!!

– these clothes are flexible to allow for a little weight gain or loss during this ‘new normal

Bike Shorts

These are a strong fashion trend and not for everyone but if you’re thinking about a new short shape, I encourage you to try them as the high waist longer length styles are surprisingly flattering!

Yoga Pants & Sets

FASHION TIP : remember that darker colours help hide cellulite more than lighter shades – BUT THIS DOESN’T MEAN YOU HAVE TO STICK TO BLACK!

Tube Skirts

A fantastic item to own that grows and shrinks with you, perfect for pregnancy too

Tank Tops

Because these are close fitting, they’re easy to pop warmer layers over in autumn and winter

FASHION TIP : if you want to wear lighter shades then textured and ribbed fabrics help them flatter and conceal

Sleeved Tops

Versatile enough to wear with jeans or out to a bar

Dresses

As a fashion stylist I know that a body-con dress is a versatile must-have that will take you anywhere. It’s a blank canvas, just change up your accessories depending on where you’re going!

Swimsuit

One of THE most confronting items of clothing to buy so feel less exposed wearing textured fabric

Maternity

I take my personal shopper clients in non-maternity stores and show you to types of styles that will flatter and accommodate a bump so you have more choice and less compromising!

Read more about my Personal Shopping For Maternity Wardrobes here

So when one of the biggest decisions of the day for most of us right now is what to wear (or what colour wine to drink), let’s make sure both are choices that makes you smile, because we DEFINITELY need more smiles right now.

Enjoy your wardrobe, and your body. Stay healthy

LET’S START WITH THE BASICS – ORGANISING YOUR WARDROBE!

So gang, how are we feeling about spending more time at home?

Considering we’ve all had to go ‘back to basics‘ with our lifestyle, it felt only right that I did exactly that with my fashion blog.

The Perfect Time For A Wardrobe Makeover Sydney?

I’m big on opportunity so I’d like to lend a hand (a sanitized one that is) to help you use this time positively to re-connect with your wardrobes Sydney!! Or where ever you are in the world at the mo!

What’s the hashtag… #wereallinthistogether !?!

FASHION TIPS : YOU CAN OWN STUNNING CLOTHES, BUT IF YOU DON’T STORE THEM CORRECTLY, YOU SIMPLY WON’T ENJOY THEM


What Drives Me As A Wardrobe Stylist

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a teacher, a stay at home mum or a combo of the two (like most of us are right now #wfh), everyone wants stress free mornings, regardless of if you’re leaving the house or not, don’t they?

” AS A WARDROBE STYLIST, ONE OF MY DRIVING PRINCIPLES IS TO GET YOU OUT THE DOOR QUICKER, EVERY MORNING !! “

And Here’s How…

Wardrobe Makeover Service Check List

I thought it’s easier to listen rather than read how best to conduct a wardrobe makeover service, so I created a couple of style videos for you as a check list, so when you have the head space, click play on part 1* and let’s start!

*please excuse the multi-tasking-mum-cum-maths-teacher interruptions


*Display* Your Belongings

There’s a reason fashion boutiques ‘display’ their clothes styles, because you can simply slip on anything and own it! Your wardrobe needs to be the same.

FASHION TIPS : IF YOU CAN’T SEE IT, YOU WON’T WEAR IT!

Think about your belongings selling themselves to you, longing to be worn.

Read more on my Wardrobe Planner page that includes some real life client case studies


Closet Organizer

I advise all my personal styling clients that, apart from your active-wear, jeans and knitwear, organize ALL your clothes in the hanging part of your wardrobe by product type, for example sleeveless tops together, pencil skirts together.

This way you can quickly identify where you have duplicates – or holes in your wardrobe – and these holes make getting dressed even more challenging!

If you don’t have the essential building blocks of your closet, outfitting WILL be challenging

How To Organise your Clothes

  • Hang in order of weight starting with lightest weight at one end, through to heaviest, as we have to dress based on the temperature/conditions of our day ahead
  • Ideally tops hanging on the top rail
  • Bottoms on the bottom rail

Some people organise their clothes by colour but that’s an instant thing we can see, therefore be practical first – dress for the weather – then emotional – choose the colour you fancy


FASHION TIPS : hang suit jackets separate to the skirt or pant in your ‘jacket section’ so you consider wearing it with a different bottom of body, or even over a dress?

Your Virtual Personal Shopper

You don’t want your wardrobe to cost more than the contents, do you?

So as your virtual personal shopper, here’s LOADS of affordable space-saving storage and innovative ways to organise your belongings … and none of these items are currently rationed!

HANGERS

Target

I outlined the best hangers in the first of my style videos, but a few of these particular hanger styles shown here are handy as they can hang strapy tops, blouses as well as clip skirts AND pants!

You need this versatility for closets that evolve season after season!

Click here to buy at Target

Or visit Kmart to browse their collection

Pinterest

DIY PINTEREST IDEAS

If you’re a bit crafty and have some time during the lock down, why not consider some homemade storage solutions?

These work particularly well for fashion accessories.

Click to be inspired by hundreds of DIY ideas on my Pinterest board

Remember, if you don’t have the appropriate space to house all your belongings, create the appropriate space

Space Saving Style Advice

Most clients that don’t wear accessories are those who have them shoved in a draw and can’t see them. Sound familiar?

FASHION TIPS : IF YOU’RE SHORT ON SPACE, TRY ROTATING YOUR ACCESSORY FOCUS IE. DISPLAY SCARVES NOW WHILST IT’S GETTING COLDER SO THEY KEEP YOU WARM, THEN SWAP FOR NECKLACES IN THE SUMMER?

DRAWS

Ikea Komplemet

Not Just For The Bedroom

As a personal stylist, my advice isn’t limited to just the bedroom! Here’s details of the flexible bedroom draw dividers I found to be helpful across all areas, including tidying kids bedrooms or the cleaning cupboard – and because I’m home A LOT atm, I’m feeling the need to tidy A LOT!

Click here to purchase


Ikea Komplement Dividers

Ikea Bespoke Wardrobe Systems

Here’s the wardrobe systems I suggest to all my personal styling clients, even the celebrities!

1. Elvarli Wardrobe System

This is the system I have on the video I introduced you to. It’s brilliant. Click here to view the different set-ups or design your own!

2. Pax Wardrobe System

This is a slightly more conventional wardrobe style but can also be designed to fit your needs. Click to see more

Ikea Pax Wardrobe $492 (reduced from $580)

3. Komplement Glass Front Or Metal Draws

Choosing glass fronts on draws or glass shelves allows you to see what you have at a glance, or wire can work well too!

Click here for the Komplement system

4. Jewellery Displays

This is one of my favorite items that separates jewellery and watches whilst displaying them beautifully!

Ikea Komplement $125

I visit lots of clients that don’t wear necklaces they love purely because they’ve got tangled!

Temple & Webster $68

Another idea is a free standing jewellery display like this one from Temple & Webster.

These work well if you don’t own so many pieces, prefer delicate styles or want to rotate your jewellery for a focused look.

Click for details.

Howards Storage is another shop to try that’s delivering throughout is lock-down period

Fashion Tips : You can buy all these online during lock-down for delivery or free contactless click & collect

A Few Do’s & Dont’s

  • Don’t hang heavy knits, they mis-shape quickly. Fold or roll them
  • Don’t over fold your clothes, you’ll make ironing for yourself
  • Don’t overfill your wardrobe

Have questions? Click here to book in a online catch-up to solve any problems you might have that prevents you from creating your easy-to-use ENJOYABLE wardrobe x

THIS SHIRT IS THE THERMOMIX OF THE FASHION WORLD !!

There’s nothing it can’t do!!!

Personal Shopper Fashion Tips

Here’s my personal shopper fashion tips on the BEST non-iron white shirt that will take you ANYWHERE …and all without an iron!

This could be the very last shirt you ever add to your wardrobes Sydney!

I love that it has inclusive sizing and made available in XXS-XXL, I’m wearing size S.

As a wardrobe planner, I know this shirt is a wardrobe essential you’ll be throwing on with skirts, pants and shorts for years, so give it a try when your next shopping for clothes or buy on-line.

Click here to buy

Personal Stylist Tip – It’s All In The ‘Styling’

personal shopper sydney

Look how different this shirt looks on me with just a little bit of ‘styling’ compared to if you saw it on line like this…looks a little dull on the model doesn’t it? (this is probably the first & last time I can say I look better than a model ;-))

Uniqlo should really have another photo showing how relaxed this shirt can look as this is what ‘styling’ is all about, showing the different ways a garment can look.

The Power Of Styling

As a wardrobe stylist, I know the power of a tweak here and there to improve the look & feel of your clothes, ultimately transforming them in an instant!

WHAT TO WEAR IN SPRING SUMMER 2019

Country Road SS19 Campaign

If you’ve only got 5 minutes and want a quick run down of the key fashion trends to have in your wardrobes this spring summer 2019, then as your Sydney personal shopper, I’ve collated it all for you, right here….and ps: spring summer is looking good!!:

PERSONAL STYLIST TIP:

All my personal styling clients have a different approach to dressing depending on their personal fashion style, so here’s my stylist advice:

– If you want to look ‘on-trend’ buy in to 1 or 2 pieces
– If you want to look edgy fashionista, buy in to a few

– BUT MAKE SURE YOU CREATE A FULL OUTFIT, NOT JUST ITEMS!


Combining the above pieces to create a brand new outfit!!

SPRING SUMMER 2019 PERSONAL SHOPPER FASHION TREND REPORT:

——— MACAROON HUES ———

> This isn’t about dull pastels, this is about zingy sorbet & macaroon shades and because they have more colour, they’re generally more flattering on your skin tone!!

> Think structured semi-tailored shapes for events and or lighter weight fabrics for day

>Feminine details such as architectural ruffles or folds to keep this look modern and clean

>This isn’t about boho or girly lace, this are solid colour statements

>Complete the look with strappy-barely-there sandals particularly with squared off toe

>Shows how softer shades can still create impact

>Perfect look for minimalists or those who like to look more feminine

>Mango is the newest colour for the more fashion savvy

> I’ve also included knitwear to show to you how this trend will progress in to Autumn 2020 (you all know i’m not a one-season kinda girl)

MAIN PERSONAL SHOPPER BRANDS:

Sheike

Zara

Scanlan Theodore

*click through to my instagram style.sense to see more detail on each trend board including brands & prices

How to make the trend works for cooler months

KEY FASHION SILHOUETTES:

  • One shoulder
  • Tie dye
  • Ruffles & folds
  • Trends that continue: slip dresses & chunky sneakers
David Jones – these shades could sit in either colour trend group!

———– NEARLY NEON ———-

>Fun fluro shades in clean silhouettes

>Some colours aren’t quite neon, but strong statement vivids

>Great way to update our swimwear for a flash of newness

>The key colours are sunset hues, think bold orange, hot pink and bright yellow

>Use these vivid shades to highlight a feature you like ie, bust

>If you’re less colour confident, then try in an accessory

>The perspex shoe is the ideal way to limit colour to just your clothes


KEY FASHION SILHOUETTES:

  • Puff sleeves
  • 80’s mini dress + sleeves
  • Structured t-shirts
  • Teva style chunky platform sandals
  • Bike shorts
  • One shoulder


MAIN PERSONAL SHOPPER BRANDS:

Country Road

ASOS

Camilla & Marc


MONEY SAVING FASHIONTIP:

With these 2 major colour trends, have a look in your wardrobe first before heading to the shops as you might have pieces you can combine already to create a new look, or 1 piece you can build on rather than having to buy an entire outfit?


——— BLENDED BLOOMS ——–

Belle & Bunty

>The perfect fashion trend for those less body confident

>Pattern camouflages areas of your body you feel less confident about

>Asymmetric hemlines help to flatter ALL body shapes

>Patchworking is the most exciting way to update your florals and because you buy the item already mis-matched then it’s taken all the guess work out for us!

>Go for a mix of 2 if you want a more subtle nod to the trend or go for pieces with 3 or 4 florals mixed if you’re a maximalist

>Feminine, floaty and fun


>Perfect way to refresh your dresses in particular because there’s so much choice!

>These clothes work really hard so you don’t need to even think about accessories

>Works for day and event dressing so could be perfect for Christmas day!?!

KEY FASHION SILHOUETTES:

  • 70’s vibe continues…still
  • Maxi dresses
  • Mini dresses with sleeves
  • Asymmetric hemlines – UBER flattering

MAIN PERSONAL SHOPPER BRANDS:

Rixo London

Zimmerman

Spell

WHAT PIECES WILL EARN THEIR PLACE IN YOUR WARDROBES SYDNEY?

So ladies, I hope I’ve shown how you can buy in to these looks regardless of your confidence, fashion appetite and budget?

WARDROBE PLANNER FOR SS19

Rixo London

As a wardrobe planner, I suggest that before you hit the shops, you have a look inside your wardrobe – right to the back including that pile you haven’t touched in forever – and plan how you’ll be refreshing it for spring summer 2019 as I often find gems inside the closets of my personal styling clients which reduces the need to buy brand new product.

Call me for a quick personal shop if you need some help with which fashion trends would work best for your features, body shape and lifestyle!


Enjoy spring summer 19!!





HOW TO GIVE YOUR WARDROBE A “SPRAY TAN” MAKEOVER

WARNING : THIS ARTICLE WILL SAVE YOU HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS AND MAKE YOU LOOK AND FEEL BETTER – ARE YOU READY TO KNOW HOW?

Don’t get me wrong, there was nothing technically ‘wrong’ with these pieces (I actually LOVE these fashion styles or I wouldn’t have bought them, I am a wardrobe planner after all) but they just didn’t work as hard in my wardrobe as they should because of their shade.

WARDROBE MAKEOVER MADE EASY

So rather than go out and buy almost identical piece in a deeper colour which as a personal shopper I know could take up LOADS of my time and energy, using less money, I gave what I currently own an instant wardrobe makeover !!

COLOUR CORRECTION

When training to become a personal stylist, studying colour was the essential cornerstone which taught me not only how to analyze my personal styling clients, but my own features as well, hence why I then realised that these pieces could look and feel even better on me:

  • They’re too grey (grey DOES NOT suit me, makes me look & feel like an old women)
  • Now I know that earthy forest colours flatter my features best, i’ve evolved my wardrobe and nowadays, these greyish items don’t pair easily with the rest of my clothes
  • Therefore I don’t wear these fashion styles as much as I should

I’m building my mix & match dream wardrobe that works effortlessly together and this is part of the process

WHAT’S IN YOUR WARDROBES SYDNEY?

Image from Pinterest

So you probably share a similar problem with items in your wardrobes, wherever you live in the world, I bet you have a few clothes styles that almost work, but that could benefit from a ‘tweak’?

Maybe you have a grey knitted jumper you love but your partner turns up his nose every time you throw it on because it’s a little ‘drab’, or maybe a cream pant you never wear in case you spill your lunch down them and would prefer a shade of khaki. Sound familiar?

Or maybe you bought something on sale for a bargain price but you don’t wear and would like to dye it grey because it’s your favorite colour, well now you can give it a second life!

Image from Pinterest malegroomingacademy.com

I liken dying clothes and shoes to a ’spray tan’ because by enhancing the shade, you achieve the best results like I have here.

Of course you can make dramatic changes too but you would need more than 1 pot of dye and there’s a few elements to consider so keep reading…

LET’S TALK ABOUT GREY

I know from working years as a personal stylist that a lot of my clients, male and female, own a lot of grey. Now, I totally ‘get it’, it’s a reliable, safe and versatile shade, however, it actually only flatters about 1/5th of the population – and I’m being generous with that number. On most of us, grey makes us look, well, “grey”. And if we look grey, we can feel grey and that’s the opposite of how I want you to feel in your clothes.


CONFESSIONS OF A FASHION DESIGNER

Now, I hold myself partly responsible for the amount of grey in the shops…

Image from Pinterest

When I used to design ladies fashion, I would put most of my designs in at least one shade of light grey, mid grey or charcoal, basically because I knew it would sell.

Based on how I was churning out clothing designs for international fashion markets for 15 years, that’s a lot of grey clothes in store and if we see it, we buy it, not really thinking much about whether it actually FLATTERS our features, and the chances are that only 1 in 5 (or 6) of you reading this will actually look great in the colour grey.

…BUT NOW I’M A PERSONAL STYLIST

Now I work on the other side of fashion as a personal stylist, I’m much more concerned with the types of colours that suit you as an individual and actively steer clear of grey when dressing most of my image consultant clients!!


STYLIST SECRETS

WHAT I ACTUALLY USED TO MAKE OVER MY CLOTHES

So let’s get down to the practical details.

For my clothes I use an everyday hero – DYLON MACHINE DYE POD 350g. This new incarnation are pretty idiot proof, they even contain the salt, the only downside is that the pod is unfortunately made of plastic.

I’ve tried other brands but Dylon are by far the best, easy to use with fantastic results even for those of you dying clothes for the first time. So erase the images of streaky fake tan you might see and replace with seamless, even coverage with NO MESS!


THE BEST PART – IT’S ALL AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON!

You pop the pod in the machine with your damp garment, wash at 30 degrees, wash again, remove and dry. Then wash your machine on a hot wash to remove any residue and you can use it straight after without fear of dying any of your whites!

FASHION TIPS: Try buying Dylon dyes online if the shade you want isn’t stocked at your local supermarket, Lincraft or Spotlight and they’re often cheaper at stores like Ebay and Amazon too!

NB: I often dye a couple of things at the same time because changing the colour does use 3 wash loads of water so it makes me feel better about my water consumption.

However, when you compare how much water I use to machine dye versus the amount of water to make a new product (8,000 litres to make just 1 pair of jeans) ((I know right)) then there’s really no comparison!

FASHION TIPS: The only risk is working out the amount of dye to use to create your desired shade so my fashion advice is to always start with less dye and add more to the pod the second time around to add intensity


HOW I TRANSFORMED MY JACKET

wardrobe makeover sydney
  • I LOVE this piece, it’s inexpensive and I’ve had it for around 9 years (before I became a professional colour consultant) but I’ve only worn it a handful of times.
  • The light weight makes it perfect for Sydney wardrobes
  • The shorter length pairs effortlessly with my higher waist styles I’m currently living in
  • Yet still works with longer layers underneath for lower slung pants & skirts
  • The stretch panels mean it’s comfortable
  • Also fits me regardless of whether I put on or loose a little weight

It’s an *ALMOST* perfect style. Does that sound familiar?

Just the colour wasn’t working for me so I combined 2 shades of Dylon dye to achieve the look I wanted without making it too dark because the stitching lines are likely to remain the same tone

I used : 2/3rds Espresso Brown + 1/3rd Rosewood Red and I only half filled the dye container as this jacket only needed a light spray tan

FASHION TIPS: You can even mix 2 or even 3 shades to achieve your desired colour so your in total control of your personal style!

This jacket is a great example to show you because it has several elements:

  • Fabric shell
  • Metal zip + zipper tape
  • Rib jersey panels
  • Top stitching – the visible dotted lines of sewing of which there’s a lot on this jacket

Each of these are made of a different textile and will soak up the dye differently and therefore end up a different shade so consider this, hence why I gently enhanced with a ‘spray tan’ approach on this particular garment, rather than a complete colour change

Now this richer shade looks SO much more flattering on my features, helps my skin glow and works with so much more of my wardrobe. I’ve given it a new lease of life, all for $17!! (Amazon)

FASHION TIPS: The caveat is that synthetic fibers don’t dye – although you can get specific Dylon dyes for synthetics – therefore tops sew stitching usually remains the same tone because it’s often polyester thread


HOW I RE-COLOURED MY PANTS

Now I LURVE these $80 Topshop high waisted pleat front pants, like, to death, but I was struggling to find all the right elements in the 1 pair, the right combination of:

  • Shape
  • Fit
  • Length
  • Pleats
  • AND
  • Colour

So as a fashion stylist, I knew I could compromise slightly on one thing – in this case the shade – because I knew I could change it!

I often talk to my personal styling clients about CHANGING their clothes and accessories to suit THEM, whether it’s a small alteration to better fit THEIR BODY TYPE, or giving the colour a make over. Just because you bought it in that shade doesn’t mean it has to stay like that. Change it! Make it YOURS!! Make it UNIQUE!!

Think of yourself less as a ‘consumer’ and more of a ‘customiser’

I used a small amount of Emerald Green Dylon Machine dye for these pants, just 2cm worth of dye in the pot as I only wanted to take off that masculine brown-ness and make them more fun and feminine


ANKLE BOOT REFRESH

When you can’t afford Chloe, there’s Kurt Geiger

These ankle boots were the closet pair to the Chloe Susanna boot I have ever found based on an international search (read : man hunt) for well over 7 years.

Saphir Suede Spray + Colour 19 Fawn

These were bought from Kurt Geiger for around $180 rather than shelling out $1,520 from Chloe and when they arrived in the post they were a little paler than ideal but comfortable, stylish and totally gorgeous so I kept them and have worn them lots …but I knew they could look better.

So obviously I couldn’t chuck these ankle boots in to the washing machine (but trust me, the thought did cross my mind!) so I wondered if there was such a thing as a suede spray with colour, and low and behold I found this at the first cobblers I tried in the Strand Arcade Sydney CBD!!

colour consultant sydney
Saphir Suede Spray Colours

The fantastic thing about a spray is that you control how many layers you give them and build up your ideal tone over time.

Just tape over features such as metal and off you go!

PLUS, you add to the water resistant protection which is key in Sydney wardrobes!

FASHION TIPS: First spray to the side of the shoe away from the material, then slowly move it on to and across the boot which ensures a more even coverage

The result is a richer suede which in turn makes my legs appear browner and god knows they need it!

So it’s like I’ve just bought a whole new piece of footwear that means I can wear shorter skirts and dresses too, rather than just pants and longer length clothes. They also pair better with my hand bags and belts. Result!


HIGH VOLTAGE FASHION MAKE OVERS!!

Whatever the fashion trend in colour, there’s a Dylon to match (22 shades in fact)!! You can create maximum impact with a variety of hues so harness your inner fashion stylist and give it a go!

There’s also a ‘Pre-Dye’ to change from one strong colour to another or if you want to achieve a lighter colour

To match your dress to your powder blue blazer, try Dylon’s VINTAGE BLUE shade. Click here to see my Pinterest MONOCHROME OUTFIT board



And why not make a statement with bright pop of pink to pair back with your denim? Try PASSION PINK.Click here to see my Pinterest COLOUR CLASH OUTFIT board


Maybe go head-to-toe with deep bordeaux separates worn together for maximum impact using the PLUM RED shade.

Split these pieces and wear with orange, blush or white for spring summer


Or create a softer look with a knit & pant using the same shade DUSTY VIOLET but will look slightly different because of the different fabric bases. Click here to see my Pinterest TONAL COLOUR OUTFIT board


And there’s even a JEANS BLUE dye (i’m yet to try) to make over your fav denim!

When you’ve found your perfect fitting jean and prove your love for them by washing and fading them too much or your denim jacket that could do with a refresh, give this one a go!


AND ANOTHER USE…. RESTORATION!

LEFT – new ‘shacket’ in rose gold
RIGHT – faded bolier suit in rose gold

Dylon machine dyes are also amazing when you want to get your clothes back to the shade you originally bought them in, like my boiler suit above I wear (and wash) weekly or, your favorite black clothing that’s turning the wrong shade of sort-of-black after too many spins around the washing machine like mine below.

Spend $17 to restore your clothes rather than hundreds to replace them!!

FASHION TIPS: Black Dylon dye refreshes your hardest working wardrobe multi-taskers to look like new!

So I hope this article gives you the inspiration to realise that you can change what you don’t like, plus the detail you need to feel confident about trying these techniques on your clothes & accessories?

Let’s face it, everything looks better with a spray tan right?

Contact me and we’ll refresh your wardrobe with a capital “R”