PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: SUMMER HOLIDAY LOOKS

The sun is out, and whether you're embracing the heat and revelling in it, or feeling overwhelmed by the absence of your autumn/winter jumpers, knowing what to wear during the warmer months can be daunting. If you're seeking some summer outfit inspiration, you're in the right place! In this blog, I'll share five of my favourite summer outfit ideas for you to experiment with during the sunnier season.

Midi Skirt and a Tee

If you know me, you'll know I adore the combination of a graphic tee and a midi skirt! Not only is it perfect for feeling summery and free, but it also suits a variety of occasions. Whether I'm heading to work meetings or having brunch with friends, I feel my outfit is always appropriate with just a change of accessories.

As the weather heats up, you'll want to feel cool and comfortable. The beauty of this outfit is its simplicity and ease, perfect for those rushed mornings when you need something stylish that suits your personal taste.

You can express your style through the graphic tee you choose – whether it’s a glittery quote, a classic rock tee, or a v-neck white tee – it works across different personality types. The same goes for the midi skirt. From pleated, colourful skirts to leather-look midis that bring out your inner rock chick, there are plenty of options to make this outfit your own!

Floaty Dresses

Floaty dresses are a staple for summer. They’re breezy, comfortable, and effortlessly chic. You can choose a floral print for a classic summer look or go for bold, solid colours to make a statement. Pair with sandals for a casual day out or dress it up with wedges for an evening gathering.

Denim Shorts and a Blouse

Denim shorts paired with a lightweight blouse create a stylish yet comfortable look. Opt for high-waisted shorts for a flattering fit and choose a blouse with a fun pattern or unique details. This outfit is versatile enough for running errands or enjoying a day at the beach.

Source: an Indigo Day

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are a fantastic all-in-one option that can be dressed up or down. Choose a lightweight fabric for maximum comfort in the heat. A sleeveless jumpsuit with a cinched waist can be incredibly flattering and easy to accessorise with statement jewellery or a cute hat.

Linen Trousers and a Tank Top

For a more polished summer look, linen trousers paired with a tank top are a great choice. Linen is breathable and perfect for hot weather. Choose a neutral colour for versatility, and complete the outfit with a pair of espadrilles or slip-on loafers.

With these outfit ideas, you'll be ready to take on the summer months with style and confidence. Enjoy the sun and have fun experimenting with your summer wardrobe!

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: DRESSING FOR THE OFFICE - TOP SUMMER DRESSES FOR WORK

When the weather is getting warmer, you may be looking for outfits that work for the office that aren’t as heavy. One of the best solutions is with a dress – it not only means you can feel cooler, but most of the time it’s a quick and effective way to create an outfit. Pop on a few accessories and you are ready to head to the office with minimal stress and outfit planning. However, what are the best summer dresses to wear for work?

In this blog, I’ll share some of my top picks of summer dresses to try at the office, so you can feel comfortable, professional and stylish this summer.

Picking the right patterns and fabrics

The most important part of selecting a dress (or any piece) for work is the colours, patterns and fabrics you choose, in particular when the summer comes around. Linens are a great option, while they may require a good steaming before you put them on, as long as they are not see-through. A white linen dress can be excellent for the summer, but make sure to put a slip on underneath for additional coverage!

Light cotton or silk are also great fabrics for the summer days as they are soft, and delicate fabrics which can keep you cooler in the warmer months. While cotton can be a more relaxed fabric, you can pair it with the more professional fabrics such as a blazer to pop on when you are in the cooler office.

Colours are another way to ensure the dresses you wear are appropriate for the office, deeper colours in your season, as well as neutrals, are easy go-tos. However, I always love to recommend a pop of colour if your office is a bit more relaxed, so deep oranges, forest greens, and brighter blues can be excellent options, too.

Finally, patterns can matter! While pinstripe and graphic prints are often great options for the office, particularly more creative spaces, bold florals (ditsy florals aren’t quite right), houndstooth, and even polka dots can also be added to your professional wardrobe.

Dress styles for the office

A-Line Dresses

A-line dresses are a floaty style of dress that work perfectly for a professional outfit, without feeling too restricted. The great thing about this shape is it is effective for many body shapes as well. Working beautifully in particular for upside down triangle shapes, hourglass (make sure to get a belt at the waist!), and oval shapes (when a looser style at the waist is selected). A gentle A-line style can be accentuated with a belt, such as this navy option from Hobbs, while this wrap dress in a bold blue polka dot can be great for the more creative office. If your office is more formal, such as a law practice, this deep navy v-neck by Libby London, with loose sleeves in a mid-length would be a perfect summer option to replace the pencil dress!

Shirtdresses

One of the new trends coming to office wear, that in fact is inspired by the classic ‘60’s styling, is the Shirtdress. Often with a collared neck and a pleated skirt, the style is more loose fitting, meaning you will probably feel more comfortable in warmer weather. The style is best for those with a smaller bust as they are buttoned all the way to the top and can work well for those with a rectangular shape or inverted triangle shapes. A neutral toned option, like this Proenza Schouler shirtdress is an elegant option, while this blue pinstripe jersey midi shirt dress by Boden is a simple solution, with the belt adding a defined waist.

If you are a triangle shape, opt for a shirtdress with accentuated shoulders, as this will help to create a balanced shape. 

Sheath style dresses

A sheath style dress has a more traditional “office” silhouette and are very well suited for those in a more corporate or formal dress code. You can add a touch of your personality with pieces that have a colour or pattern, while minimal touches like necklines and pleating are also great ways to change up the style. For example, an ivory sheath dress with zip detail by Victoria Beckham is an elegant and summer-ready style, while this Armani navy dress with zip neckline and waist detail is a beautiful option too. If you are able to show your arms in your office, then this navy sleeveless Karen Millen sheath dress is a beautiful option, with a high neckline, front split and elegant waist details, it’s an exceptional style.

(as a personal styling note, you can see in the Karen Millen styling that the model is wearing gold strappy heels – while they are not appropriate in most office looks, it shows the versatility of the garment. You can pop on these heels and go for drinks after work, while keeping your more professional shoes on during the working hours!).

Standout Pattern Dresses

Finally, a patterned dress can feel daunting for the workplace, but it is a beautiful way to add a touch of personality to your office looks. As I mentioned above, a pattern that is more abstract is an excellent way to keep colour and pattern in your looks, particularly if your personal style is dramatic or creative.

If you have a love of abstract prints, this BITE abstract black and white maxi dress with long sleeves is a beautiful option (and can be elegantly worn in day or night). While the keyhole neckline may be best covered in the office for a more modest look, it may work depending on your profession.

Another option for your abstract pattern workwear is this Jigsaw fluted sleeve dress with camisole lining has a hand-painted motif in blues, yellows and whites. The styling is quite romantic with frills and ruching, so can work well for a relaxed office look on a warm summer’s day.

Finally, another standout patterned dress is this dogtooth midi dress from Reiss. While it is a high neck and long sleeved dress, thanks to the fabric it will remain airy and light in the warmer months, and will work beautifully for those in a more modest attire who still want to show off their personality.

No matter your needs this summer, these dresses will help you feel great while heading into the office. Make sure to stick to the guidelines on fabrics where possible, or when trying on the dress feel if it is more floaty and skims you to ensure you don’t feel to restricted.

PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: SUMMER OUTFIT INSPIRATION 2023

The sun is out and whether you’re embracing the heat and wanting to relish in it, or you’re feeling overwhelmed by what to wear without your jumpers of the Autumn/Winter, it can be daunting to know what to wear during warmer months. If you’re looking for some summer outfit inspiration you are in the right place! In this blog, I am going to share 5 of my favourite summer outfit ideas for you to play with during the warmer months.

Midi skirt and a tee

If you know me, you will know that I love a graphic tee and a midi skirt combination! Not only is it great for feeling summery and free, but it also works across all different occasions. Whether I am heading out to work meetings, or having brunch with friends, I feel like my outfit is appropriate, just with a change up of accessories.

When you get into the warmer months, you want to feel cool and comfortable. The great thing about this outfit is that you can quickly and easily put it together when you are in a rush, if it suits your personal style.

You can reflect your style in the graphic tee you choose – whether it’s a glittery quote, a classic rock tee, or a v-neck classic white tee – it works across the different personality types. You can then also do the same with the colours or styles of your midi skirt. Whether it’s a pleated midi length colourful skirt, or a leather look midi skirt that brings out the rock chick in you, there are plenty of options for this outfit!

If you are heading out and there may be a chance of cooler weather, you can pop on a blazer or a leather jacket for that added warmth.

I personally love to elevate this look for meetings with heeled sandals, or for more casual events I wear platform trainers or slide on sandals, depending on the weather forecast!

Linen two-piece set

For a beautifully chic yet cool look, linen is the perfect way to go. This works well for people who are more of a Classic or a Creative personality type. If you are a Classic, you can make a clean, crisp yet comfortable look with a white or neutrally toned two-piece set. Whereas, if you are a creative, you can discover sets with patterns or colours that reflect your personality.

With linen looks they can sometimes feel a little more casual, so you’ll want to embrace the flowy nature of the fabric. However, fashion designers have worked to take away the usually flowy nature with more figure hugging options, to help bring you in at the waist. You also don’t have to reside with wide-legged trousers and an oversized blouse, consider finding a skirt and cropped top option for a unique look.

Cropped jeans and a blouse

Cropped jeans are a must try style as they work beautifully for both petite and standard height people with a range of body types (depending on the cut). When you pair them casually with a blouse the look is very chic and laid back. If you want to go for Classic styling, wear a fully monochromatic look of white cropped jeans, a white blouse, white heeled sandals and a crossover body bag in white with hints of gold to elevate the look. Whereas, for a romantic look, bring some of your favourite ruffles or bows with your blouse – also a great option if you are more pear shaped to balance out your shoulders!

For more inspiration on how to style up your cropped jeans, visit this blog!

Midi dress with sandals

If you love to dress up and dress down a look in a flash, without having to worry about what works with what, a midi dress is a great option to add to your wardrobe. Thanks to the length, it is suitable for both professional and relaxed events. Paired with sandals you can style up or down the look with just the change of heel! Flat sandals, with a sun hat and your midi dress are a great option for late afternoon drinks, whereas heeled sandals with a laptop bag and perhaps even a blazer works well for meetings during the day.

Midi dresses come in all shapes, styles and patterns so you’ll want to check out which style of dress may work best for your body shape. For pear shapes, a dress that comes in at the waist, with structured or detailed shoulders are a good option for you. For ovals, you will want to have a more flowy option around the waist and have perhaps a v-neck or wrap dress style. If you are a rectangle, you’ll want to find a shift dress shape. For inverted triangles look for a midi dress, that has minimal details at the top while adding volume at the bottom to create balance.  

Wear the shorts!

Finally, my summer go-to for us is to wear the shorts. Many clients I work with feel overwhelming fear of wearing shorts (myself included!) but this is because we hadn’t found our perfect style or length.

If you have thighs that touch – which is many people by the way – then you’ll want to invest in shorts that come down long enough to prevent any discomfort. There are plenty of excellent styles of shorts that you can try out in a variety of fabrics that work for the summer weather helping you feel cool and comfortable, as well as confident.

A few of my favourite types of shorts, depending on your body shape, are:

Rectangular: Straight cut or Mom shorts. Finding a pair of mid to short shorts work perfectly for you, in a straight cut. This is because they ensure your shorts aren’t too tight, but continue to show off your leaner legs. Whereas a Mom cut will add definition to your hips where you may want to add a little volume to create an hourglass effect. If you have slightly shorter legs, this will also help to elongate them. Match with a pair of heels or platforms to lengthen, or just go all-out summertime and pair with your favourite sandals and a loose tee.

Hourglass: High rise shorts. Because you go in at the waist, you want to show this off. Look for high or mid rise shorts that cover your thighs about half way between your pelvis and your knee for an elegant option. Look for trouser-style fabric shorts, to keep the look feeling professional, and match with a blouse in a monochrome style for a chic option.

Apple shapes: Short shorts to show off those legs! When you are an apple shape, you tend to have longer and leaner legs. This means you can go for those shorter options to help show off the length of your legs. Look for a pair with an elasticated waistband too, to make you feel more comfortable. Match with a flowy top tucked in loosely for a casual option.

Pear shapes: High waisted looser shorts with minimal detailing. You may want to look for shorts without pockets, and definitely without pleats. Feel confident and comfortable with shorts that are tailored to feel slightly “wider”. Paperbag style shorts are great for pear shapes, as they bring your eyes up to your small waist. Look for a pair that come with or allow for a belt to add that extra oomph to your waist and make sure the fabric is soft, rather than stiff. Elongate your legs with a pair of neutral stilettos, and add definition to your shoulders with a blouse that has volume at the top.

Summer shouldn’t be a time of year where you are feeling daunted by the prospect of what to wear. Your clothes should be an extension of your personality and help you feel your best no matter what the occasion! If you are feeling conscious that your wardrobe isn’t reflecting your personality, or you want support from someone who can help you discover outfits that help you shine with confidence I’d love to help.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS - HOW TO PACK FOR THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Summertime is here, and for many of us, the first opportunity for us to get out and enjoy the holidays away from our own home. With this, comes the need to pack!

I have a confession – I went on holiday in spring to see family in Italy – and I didn’t do some of the tips below. It meant that I had to rush out in unexpected high temperatures, to get a whole week’s worth of weather-appropriate outfits. I wanted to make sure you don’t have this problem, and also give some advice on how to pack for your summer holidays so you’re confident every day.

Check the weather forecast

The first tip, and one I will make sure to never forget, is to check the weather forecast! While it isn’t a 100% accuracy, it will help you to see if that rain jacket may just be needed in the Caribbean holiday where you expected no rain. When you know the general weather of the week/s to come, you can then know which wardrobe essentials you need with you, and you can pack just a few “just in case” items.

This also helps with planning outfits for your holiday. If you know the weather requirements, you can plan out the outfits to put together, as well as how much space you may need. If you are expecting colder days you will potentially need to have a bigger bag, due to the thicker jumpers and extra layers.

Know the activities you’ll be enjoying while on holiday

Now we know the weather (and you won’t be rushing around with your family trying desperately to find appropriate clothes!) you can think about the activities. Your outfits will be dramatically different if you are on an active holiday versus a beach break. This will help you know what to pack in terms of footwear, underwear, and full outfits.

If you are planning to lounge by the swimming pool, go on date nights with your partner, and get drinks at the bar, then you will want to pack those essentials. A few bathing suits, and swimwear cover ups are great for by the beach. You may then want to have one or two pieces of jewellery (be mindful though not to take the family jewels!), and your date-night dresses & a pair of heels for the evenings. With beach holidays, you may go on a few excursions, so don’t forget the comfy wide leg linen trousers and a camisole top to go over your bikini or swimsuit for venturing out.

If adventuring around the city is top of your list, then flat comfy shoes, comfortable outfits, and a bag for your essentials will be the things you’ll want to pack. I know when I am heading on a city-break, my bag is filled with flowy midi and maxi dresses, with a pair of comfortable sandals or trainers (or both!). As it is a city break, I do also usually want to head out in the evening, but this will mean needing a few extra layers to keep me warm on the cooler nights. I usually pack one blazer, as well as a few cardigans to throw over my shoulders.

For hiking, skiing and other sports – your athletic wear should be top of the list. Then you’ll need all the essentials to keep you warm/cool, and comfortable!

Plan the outfits before packing them

Too many times do we pack things we love into our suitcases, then unpack them and have nothing to match them with! Take a little time while you are packing your bags to create the outfits and make sure you’ll wear them before packing them. If you have time, you could try them on before packing them into your suitcase for extra knowledge on how to style them. You can then see how many outfits you can make with each garment.

While tops may need to be changed daily (or more depending on your activities), your trousers, shorts and skirts could be worn a few times. So matching them with your tops, your swimwear, and your extra layers before you pack them will help when unpacking and knowing what to wear.

With this understanding of the outfits you’ve packed, it can help you when you are getting and ready to go in the morning, so you’re not fretting about mismatching garments, or not feeling comfortable.

The most important thing to remember when you are packing your outfits is that you feel confident and comfortable! You’re on holiday, so you don’t want to be second guessing the outfits you have in your wardrobe.

Remember the accessories!

While I’m not saying you need to pack your jewellery collection (far from it!), there are some essential accessories to pack for your holiday, depending on where you’re going. Sunglasses, waterproof watches, comfy walking shoes, and flip flops are just a few of the must-haves depending on where you are going. You may also want to pack hair ties, scarves, and bags for the day and the night.

If you are planning a trip and need to get a few essentials, it’s often the accessories that are missing. Think about all the things you’ll be getting up to, and the other tips above, to help you pack the things you’ll need.

Packing for your holiday should be something that means with a little extra time spent on planning, you’ll have items and outfits you’ll feel fabulous in when you arrive. I hope these have helped inspire you for your holiday, if you are having one. If you are feeling overwhelmed by your wardrobe and not sure what to pack, or feel like your style has lost it’s spark, please get in touch – I’d love to help.