PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: GUIDE TO PLANNING YOUR SEASONAL SHOPPING

As a new season is welcomed, this may mean you need to head to the shops to get essentials for your wardrobe. Seasonal shopping is something many of us do as our wardrobes require a refresh, past pieces no longer serve us, or we want a new piece to love for the season!

While this can be fun for many, heading to the shops can also mean expensive trips that may not result in the most economical results. I am all for shopping, but shopping effectively is where my passion lies.

With sustainability so important for our environment, investing in pieces that last for years rather than one season, is something we all need to be mindful of. With that in mind, if you want to add new pieces to your wardrobe for the new season, here is my guide to seasonal shopping and how to make the best use of your budget.

Know your budget

Talking of budget, this is one of the most important things to know when you go shopping at any time of year. Understanding what you want to invest in your wardrobe during the shopping trip, whether in person or online, will help you navigate the shopping experience. It will also remove any feelings of guilt that can come from an overspend when shopping (you’re not alone if you feel this!), and make it a more enjoyable experience.

Know your wardrobe requirements

Something I always start with when having a Personal Shopping experience with any of my clients is understanding what they already have in their wardrobes. Once we know what we already have, we can then get to see what we may want or need to add to them.

For example, if you have plenty of beautiful summer dresses that you want to use into the Autumn and Winter, you may need to invest in hosiery, long-sleeved tops to go under the dress, or even thermal vests that cannot be seen but keep you warm. Other pieces may be cardigans, jumpers, or long-sleeved dresses for the cooler months. Whereas if you are going into Spring/Summer you may need lighter options like a bolero, linens, and undergarments for comfort when not wearing tights.

Go through your wardrobe as the seasons begin to change, so you can clear out any unwearable garments for the coming season, and look at outfit opportunities within what you already have, and where the holes may lie.

Play with trends (that suit your style!)

I love new trends for each season, but sometimes we can get excited about a trend that truly won’t serve our personal style. We end up buying trendy garments, that we wear once and never again. Knowing the trends that you feel will work within your wardrobe and personal style will mean they can be worn over and over, and taken into future years – because they work for your style.

Invest in the seasonal essentials

Depending on the new season you are welcoming, there are some essentials you will need for your wardrobe. For Autumn, for example, there are some pieces you’ll want to add to your wardrobe if you haven’t already got them from the previous year.

Consider the place you live, and these essentials may change. For example, in the UK, while we may welcome Summer with open arms, this doesn’t mean our jumpers, tights, and boots need to go into storage! Whereas in Italy, we tend to only keep a few light layers in our wardrobe for the summer for cooler evenings.

Play with the seasonal colours

With a new season comes seasonal colours – Autumn with its falling leaves, Spring with new blossoms, Summer with strong colours all around, and Winter with it’s bright and fresh colourings. These colours can inspire your seasonal shopping. Pick and choose from your colour wheel to add colours from the season ahead to create new outfits with just a change of colour. For example, as we approach Autumn you may want to add reds or deep hues through your accessories. Find some beautiful boots that are in the season’s colours, that also keep you warmer on the cooler days.

If you are going shopping for the new season, I hope this guide has helped to prepare you. If you want someone there to support you and guide you through the shopping process, please get in touch.

PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: TOP COLOUR TRENDS FOR AUTUMN

I love the colours of autumn. With the falling of the leaves and changing of the season come deep oranges, burnt reds, dark purples and more. For those within the seasonal colour palette of autumn, this is your time to shine! Let your skin shine with these colours all around us.

For those of us within different seasonal colour palettes, we can still wear these colours, but need to be mindful of the tones to make them suit us.

To celebrate the changing of the seasons, I’ll share with you my top colour trends for autumn and how to try them depending on your season.

If you don’t yet know your colour palette, I share my tips on finding yours here, or book a colour clinic for a personalised and confidence-boosting session in London or online.

How to wear red this autumn

Seen across an array of catwalks, this show-stopping colour is one I am pleased to welcome to the darker days. Shining brightly as the weather often makes us want to stay in over a hot cup of coco and a movie, the colour may have a great effect on our mindsets.

What tones of red to use based on your season

Depending on your season, the tones of red to use will vary. From deep and rich, to bright and light, knowing the perfect shade will make a huge difference.

How to wear red as an autumn

Autumns need to look for deep, rich and warm reds. Think dark brick red, with an almost purple undertone. You can play with red lipstick, shoes, or all out with a red suit. Of course, starting with some accessories, like a pashmina or red ankle boots can be an easy way into the colour.

How to wear red as a winter

Fuchsia and bright icy pinks are more suited to your skin tone, as well as brighter cooler reds. With your contrasting features, you’ll want to look for deep yet bright undertones. A brighter red scarf could work to take you through to winter, while you may want to opt for some red boots for the rainier season (and to add drama to any outfit!).

How to wear red as a spring

With a warmer undertone than winters, springs look best in bright and strong colours. Think of poppy reds as inspiration. A red bag is always a great go-to accessory no matter the weather, while you can dive in head first into the colour of the. Pair with yellow or rose gold accessories, and you’re ready to paint the town red.

How to wear red as a summer

Summers have cooler undertones with soft features, and will suit more pastel or soft red tones. Pairing your red garments with lighter neutrals will help to soften the red that can be a tricker colour for you. Pinks are more suited to your colours, so this may be a more approachable way to implement this colour into your wardrobe. Why not add some edge with a leather shirt over your wide legged jeans and combat boots?

How to wear grey this autumn

For those of my client who love to wear black, they can be disappointed that this colour doesn’t fit within their season. That’s why charcoal or deep grey can be a solution for them. Grey can be a variety of tones, and it can be used as a neutral under your more unique or statement colours.

While for some, you may be jumping at the thought of a grey colour, the ways in which this tone can be used can be full and perfect for professional looks, should you need to. Make sure you pair it with your statement colours such as pinks, teals, or purples, to really shine.

How to wear charcoal as an autumn

Deep and rich charcoal and deep browns are a go-to neutral for you. You can also move into a lighter charcoal as long as it still provides a deep and rich tone for your skin. An elegant and structured jumper are excellent additions to your wardrobe for this time of year.

How to wear charcoal as a winter

Winters suit black unlike any other season, and you will shine with this rich deep colour, like charcoal. Grey needs to be as close to black as you can find, and will match with icy blues, bright pinks or emerald green. A classic grey suit trouser for work, or for a special occasion or black tie event, a strapless floor length dress in deep charcoal could look beautiful on you with a pair of emerald shoes & jewellery. For a more casual look, pair a charcoal pair of wide legged charcoal jeans with sneakers and turtleneck bodysuit.

How to wear charcoal as a spring

Charcoal is a trickier colour for you wear but paired with bright light colours you can play with this autumnal trend. Lighter grey may be a better solution for you, pair a light grey trench with pastel pinks or bright blues to really make a statement.

How to wear charcoal as a summer

A softer charcoal will look perfect on your skin tone, when matched with pastel yellows or pinks. A pair of soft grey sneakers paired with your favourite jeans and pastel coloured top are great for day to day, or why not try a midi skirt paired with heeled boots and a pink body suit for a unique look.

How to wear pink this autumn

You guessed it – the Barbie movie has been taking over and with that comes the fashion. While pink is a fun, bright, and engaging colour, it seems to be a little bit marmite. Some love it, some hate it! If you want to try out pink this autumn and feel your true Barbie-self, now is a great time to play with it.

How to wear pink as an autumn

Deep, luscious pinks are best for you. Paired with deep tones or going fully monochromatic will brighten up the darker season. When you look outside at this time of year, there isn’t much pink to pick and choose from, so you may be better suited to a peachier or more coral-colour. Try out a coral lipstick or a pink with an orange undertone for best results! These peachy, abstract ankle boots are a fun and unique accessory for your wardrobe to try out the colour of the year.  

How to wear pink as a winter

Bright pinks and fuchsias are beautiful on your skin and you can go all out Barbie! This one-shoulder maxi dress will let you party the night away in all your glory. Pair with silver platform heels and jewellery for a sparkly look. If you want to start small, a headband or a crossover body bag can be your stepping stone into the colour. 

How to wear pink as a spring

As with any season, all of us can wear any colour, as long as we select the right tone. For springs, however, jewellery in rose gold looks the best on you, playing into the pinkier hues that work with your clothing too. Bright and light pinks work well for you, too, so you can layer your pinks with your rose gold accessories. This light pink longline jacket is an essential for the season, while this pink and rose gold daisy ring is a fun and cute accessory.

How to wear pink as a summer

Barbie must be a summer as pinks across a variety of tones look great on you. Colours you see in Mother of Pearl or softer pinks are your go-to. A pastel pink blouse, hairband, or shoes are all fabulous options to add to your wardrobe for the season. This satin single breasted blazer feels “Legally Blonde” meets “Barbie” in one. While this frilly, lace-trimmed maxi dress could be layered over warmer garments to keep the spring in your step. This dusky pink, fit and flare dress is a party dress that could suit work and play!

I hope you enjoy welcoming a new season. If you want to play with new colours to brighten your wardrobe, I’d love to help.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: HOW TO DRESS FOR AN AUTUMNAL WEDDING

Autumn can be a tricky time to dress for, then add on top of that an occasion such as a wedding and you may be baffled for what to wear.

In the UK, Autumn tends to be drizzly and cool – so being prepared for these weather changes is essential for your outfit.

In this blog, I’ll be sharing some top tips on how to dress for an autumnal wedding so you still feel appropriately dressed for the special occasion, even if the weather decides to change on you!

Select a warm layer

Layering is all important at this time of year. You’ll want to have a small additional layer to pop into your handbag, hotel room or car for the late afternoon/evening. Something like a bolero, pashmina, or blazer can be excellent solutions.

A pashmina works over dresses, jumpsuits and suits, and can be a boho-chic option, while a bolero is a more formal option. A blazer is an excellent solution for your two piece outfit, and you could go all out and wear a formal suit for the wedding, or why not play with different colours to make a statement?

Another option to keep yourself warm during an autumnal wedding, particularly if you are in older venue without heating (or when the fire isn’t lit) or if you are at an outdoor wedding, is to look for hosiery. A thicker dernier pair of tights can go a long way to keeping warm, without deterring from the elegance of your outfit.

Sleeve length

While during the spring and summer you may be wearing sleeveless or short sleeved garments, an autumn wedding may call for a longer sleeve. A ¾ length sleeve is a great option for this time of year and can be excellent for highlighting your waist. Look for a length of sleeve that stops right at the smaller part of your waist so it brings the eye in.

A full length sleeve is another option, and can be perfect for outdoor weddings where you know it will get a little chilly.

For an elegant look, why not try a dress with a cape attachment? This covers the shoulders, and adds an additional layer for warmth.

Play with suiting

Suits are becoming more and more fashionable, and are a beautiful choice for an autumnal wedding. Look for autumnal colours to really pop for the season, and match with a warm, elegant shirt underneath. To really play with the suiting element, you could mix and match your blazer and trousers, and add accessories to make the look more feminine such as jewellery, heels and your bag.

I wrote an article all about how to style a suit, for more inspiration, should you want to try a suit.

Try a jumpsuit

A jumpsuit is an effective option for this cooler weather as it keeps your legs covered, while looking formal and fun. Depending on the colour, pattern and style, you can dress up or dress down the jumpsuit to match the wedding.

Look out for the right shape for your body shape to elevate your confidence. Some jumpsuits can have a shorter torso or gusset area, so I always recommend trying your jumpsuit on at the shop.

One of the most important things about dressing for a special occasion is to feel confident and align with the dresscode. If you’re unsure on what to wear, speak with the couple or fellow attendees to gauge what level of styling will suit best. If it is a black tie or more casual affair, this will help inspire you for the outfit.

PERSONAL SHOPPING TIPS: 5 MUST HAVE PIECES FOR FALL/WINTER

Autumn has to be my favourite season, I am sure for many that may seem surprising as I often am seen wearing dresses and high heels! However, layering a favourite blazer or jacket over the top of my dresses means I can transform a look even more easily, and not overheat!

For many of us, a year of staying indoors as the leaves change means there are hopefully exciting events in the calendar for this autumn. So whether or not you’re heading to meetings, attending evening dos, or a brunch with friends, you’ll want to add these 5 must have pieces into your wardrobe to play with as the weather changes.

A cosy sweater

Now is the time to break out your favourite cosy sweater! A sustainable woollen jumper that is effortless can be paired with your favourite jeans or be tucked into a midi dress for a more formal look. For even more comfort, try an oversized v-neck jumper/cardigan that has large buttons and the current trend of the year – puff sleeves. I love wearing something like this with a leather pair of trousers, or even over one my favourite summer dresses to continue wearing them into the cooler months.

Bring a blazer

If you know me, you know a blazer is an item I believe should be in every person’s wardrobe, with at least one formal/plain option, and a more colourful or patterned option (here’s my full article on styling blazers). They are the perfect option for making an outfit transform quickly into a more formal look, while adding that extra layer for the cooler nights. For a classical look, you can’t go wrong with the fabulous range of colours of tweed blazers by MIA GIACCA while if you’re looking for a blazer that is more contemporary, then this blazer will work beautifully across colour palettes thanks to its neutral base.

 A great pair of (combat) boots

Now, if you’re feeling personality-filled and want to show off your rocker-aesthetic then combat boots are a great addition for your shoe collection no matter the time of year, but particularly for autumn/winter! If you want to see a few fantastic ways to style your combat boots, and some inspiration on styles, then go to this article where I share 7 ways to style combat boots. However, if they’re just a little out of your comfort zone or your personal style, then there are other options!

For example, a beautiful knee length boot, like these, work fantastically at keeping your legs warm if you prefer not to wear tights with your skirts or dresses, while these simple ankle-high zip up boots are a classic go-to for wearing with your jeans, trousers, or skirts.

A wool blend or trench coat

Why is it that the camel or trench coats make an outfit look so…effortlessly chic? Well, if you’re wanting to exude French-classical style then you should add a trench coat to your wardrobe. It’s perfectly light for just adding a simple layer in case of rain, without feeling too warm, and now comes in a variety of colours, such as navy or mint green,  if the classic nude isn’t your style!

For a little more weight to your classic coat, a wool blend overcoat is great. I love the option of a wool coat being in a neutral tone, as this can mean you can play with a range of colours beneath, particularly when the coat is unbuttoned (or has no buttons!).  Whatever you choose, a coat will be a key part of your wardrobe for, when you care for it well, many years to come, so try it on if you feel comfortable to do so in a store, and invest in a piece that will feel joyous to wear.

Get your layering basics sorted!

Finally, my biggest tip for dressing for autumn/winter is having the basics ready to rock. We often forget how important these layers can be, particularly if we are outside for some time with friends and start to feel a chill of the British evenings. I highly recommend adding a few basics like a minimal turtleneck that you can wear under shirts, blouses, and even dresses; as well as comfortable tights in a black, and a skintone, so you can keep your knees warm!

For me, I’ll be bringing out my basics, popping on my favourite jewellery over that perfect turtleneck I’m wearing under my dress, and popping on some combat boots for a little rocker edge! What are your essentials for wearing during the cooler month?

If you feel a little overwhelmed by the changing seasons and would like some help in organising your wardrobe to reflect your style & needs, please get in touch as I now offer online personal shopping experiences for my national clients!

PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: AUTUMN OUTFIT INSPIRATION FOR 2022

Autumn is here and what comes with it new outfit options! My clients can find this time of year difficult to dress for as it’s not cold enough for a full winter outfit, whereas the summer clothes feel too light. Whether it’s layering or picking the right shoes for the weather and how to style them, I share my top tips for autumn outfits just for you.

Top colours for Autumn 2022

Autumn 2022 has a great selection of colours to choose from, but which ones work best for you? As you may know, I help people discover their best colours by using the seasonal colour analysis. You can find out more about how to know yours, here. These are my picks for each of the seasons:

Spring: Zesty lime - a bright and fun colour to add to your wardrobe.

Summer: Lilac is a strong contender for my favourite colour for Autumn 2022.

Autumn: Burnt orange is a truly Autumnal colour and can be a rich addition to your wardrobe.

Winter: Pink & cobalt blue for a cooler tone that works on your skin, while remaining bright and colourful for the seasons to change.

How to wear your Autumn trending colours

There are plenty of different ways to add colour to your outfit, from a little touch to an all out full monochrome look.

A perfect start can be a woolly hat, a leather jacket, or a pair of shoes.

The next step can be a pair of leather wide-leg trousers (very on-trend right now, and works great for most body shapes), or even a blazer.

For an all-out commitment to your colour selection, or perfect for abstract personality types, is to wear a full outfit in your colours. Whether it's a suit, or even a maxi dress, with a mesh top underneath to keep yourself warm in the cooler weather, with a handbag and jacket.

If colours feel a little daunting to add to your outfits, I'd love to help.      

Top trends for Autumn

Outfits for this time of year include great layering and light, yet warm options.

Some of the top trends coming into the season include "punk prep" - think leather, pleated midi skirts, and tailored blazers. Maxi dresses and full-length hem lines are also back in fashion, and great with a pair of over heeled boots.

One great trend coming into fashion for the season are tailored waistcoats. These are great for the androgenous look for the office, or with a pair of wide-leg jeans over a more casual long-sleeved top for a more casual look.

Statement leather is also a strong option for the 2022 season, and you can't go wrong with a leather jacket at any time of year. You could also try any of the leather trousers coming onto the shelves, or for a more approachable statement leather piece, think of a leather bag in the colour of your season.

Top 3 Shoes & Outfit Inspiration for Autumn

Now we’ve talked all about the colours and outfits on offer for Autumn 2022, we can jump to the shoes! Shoes can oftentimes be the most difficult part of the outfit to pair together. There are some unique and fun ways to play with the shoes and your outfit for this time of year.

Combat Boots: Best with cropped loose-fitted jeans, and shorter skirts

Combat boots continue to stay on trend, year on year, and they're a great piece to bring into your Autumnal wardrobe. As they come up to your ankle bone, they do need a little consideration when being styled.

One casual option can be matching them with looser-fitted jeans that are cropped or rolled up to show off up to about an inch above the top of the boot. Check out my blog for 7 ways to style your cropped jeans, here.

You can also wear them with a midi or mini skirt with tights, and as the days get cooler, even with a pair of thick socks peeking out of the top of the boot too.

Knee-high boots: Match with dresses, skinny jeans, and maxi skirts

There's something so elegant about a pair of knee-high leather or suede boots with a small platform heel!

While you can go quite nineties with the styles on offer, it's best to pick leather or suede if you prefer a more professional look.

Matching your boots with a maxi skirt will keep you warm without having to fight with tights while wearing a dress with a slit can mean you can show off your boots without getting too cold.

Another way to wear and show off your boots is by wearing them over your skinny jeans, or with a mini skirt, depending on the event.

There are some great options available for those of us with larger calves, and do opt for a boot with a zip so you can more easily put your boots on.            

Trainers: Casual chic looks with flares and wide-legged trousers

Workwear no longer has to include stilettos (as I shared in this blog) and this means you actually can wear trainers to work! There are some great options nowadays for us to pick up a pair of comfy yet professional trainers that work for all occasions.

Match your trainers with a pair of trending flares, or if you want to mix and match professional with sport-luxe, why not try with your trouser suit?  I would recommend looking for a pair of high quality trainers in a neutral tone, or go quirky with one of the colourful suede options now available to add a touch of personality at your feet.

Seasons change, and maximising your outfits and wardrobe items you already have is so important. If you’re finding it difficult to discover the seasonal outfits that work for you and bring you confidence, I can help with my Style Masterclass, or Personal Shopping experiences.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: TOP AUTUMN COATS FOR YOUR WARDROBE TO SUIT YOUR SHAPE

As the cooler months set in, and we begin to take out more jumpers and put away the summer dresses, you may be looking to find an autumn coat. Coats can be an incredibly personal thing – I know of one client who tried on 10 coats and just didn’t feel any were “right”. The outer wear in any outfit needs to be comfortable, reflective of your style, and also, importantly for this time of year, warm! There are some go-to classics that will work each and every year, so I wanted to start the Autumn with the top three classic coats I love, with a few modernised versions for the trend-setters among you!

The Trench Coat 

This is a pure classic, and one we have seen throughout the years. Often in a camel tone, it can be an effortlessly chic option to layer on top of your clothes. Usually with a large belt to bring in the waist, this style can work incredibly well for many body shapes. If you are more curvaceous I recommend utilising the belt to show off your waist, whereas if you are tall and slender, keep it open to add more dimension to your shape.

For a similar shape and military style, but with a more elegant look, you could invest in this Danielle Frankel Allegra corded lace-trimmed organza and tulle trench coat – it is definitely an investment, so make sure you truly love the style. If you’re more colourful, you can try out a colourful trench coat, like this Topshop piece in mustard, which are becoming more and more popular and are a great way to add some colour to the darker days.

 (Bottega Veneta – convertible crinkled glossed-leather trench coat)

The trench coat really is the most classic of all coats, it can be worn in a chic way with all black underlayers, all the way to a modern take with a casual t-shirt and maxi skirt underneath.

The Aviator Jacket

An Aviator jacket is a true classic, vintage, boyfriend-esque vibe, while also being super comfortable and most importantly, warm! There are a range of new styles being brought to the fashion world this year, with oversized options by Pieces, to this classic shearling zip-up black jacket by REISS as well as their reversable version which means you have 2 jackets in one!

With most aviators, no matter whether they have the added belt at the base or a shearling interior, the style works perfectly for hourglasses due to the way they are shaped and often tapered in at the waist with their classic pockets. You can also style this jacket as a pear shape as long as the coat is more cropped in style, and finishes above your hips.

Teddy bear coats

You may have seen these blasting across the fashion world last year and they are here to stay again. A warm, luxurious, and comfortable overcoat, the teddy bear coat can come in a range of lengths. The classic teddy bear coat is by Max Mara, and comes in a range of colours to suit your preference.

The great thing about a teddy bear jacket is that it can work for every body shape. I suggest that if you are petite then look for a version that is specifically catered for your height, or a cropped option like this mint green teddy coat by ASOS Design. If you are an hourglass or pear shape, as with many oversized styles, you may loose your shape, so if you can get a belted version or wear it open rather than buttoned, you can still bring in your waist.

If you’re looking for a colourful option, rather than the neutral version, this baby blue Reclaimed Vintage option is a unique choice. You could also invest in this Stand Studio midnight blue faux fur option, that follows the similar styling as a teddy coat, this is another very easy coat that can be good for every body shape, although hourglasses and pear shapes might lose their waist definition by wearing this. It is still considerably cheaper than the Max Mara Teddy, but feels very similar with potentially a more mature fabric.

Double breasted coats

Military has such a wonderfully androgynous styling, and if this is your go to look, or you are looking for a coat that can toughen up your more girly style, then a double breasted jacket can be a great option for the autumn. Keep yourself warmer with a coat that is woollen, like this Balmain option.

A double-breasted coat is perfect for people with a more rectangular shape, who need to define their waist as the shape of the buttons, particularly on the Balmain option, create an optical illusion of a narrower waist. It also works incredibly well on hourglasses, as your naturally defined waist will fit perfectly within this coat. Tommy Hilfiger have also created a checked double blazer that is great if you love a professional pattern that is always a classic.

The belted jacket

If you like a coat that is truly a waist definer, then you can’t go wrong with a coat that has a belt! For added warmth, you can go for a quilted option as with this olive green creation by Alexa Chung – if you choose a similar style to this, be cautious of the quilted style if you are a more oval shape, as the belt may not do your shape justice.

If you are looking for a more classic option, perhaps without the quilted pattern, then & Other Stories are well known for their fabulous belted coats, such as this neutral alpaca option which also has buttons, as often just a belt on a jacket can still let the chill in!