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The great news is that there is such a variety of styles in the shops, that there’s sure to be something to suit you and that will add to your developing wardrobe.

Compared to last year the predicted colours are quite subdued, easy for the ‘lights’ and ‘softs’ but creativity and understanding will be needed by those with deep and clear colouring.

COLOURS

Neutrals: this is a popular trend with the designers, so it’s worth thinking (before you go shopping) about which neutral pieces will add to your wardrobe’s wearability. Also, what neutrals are good for your colouring? You’ll see a range of whites and a range of greys. Would a white shirt help your wardrobe? If so which white? This could be a great investment piece for this season as there will be a variety of designs to chose from. There are also a variety of nudes. Nude colours can be great but beware you’re not so nude that you will go unnoticed. Well chosen accessories may be just what you need to team up with your nudes. There are lots of variations of blue around, so even if you have a ’warm’ colouring you’ll be able to find a blue to suit you. As in previous seasons, if there’s been white and blue you’ll also find red and this season is no exception. So spruce up any nautical pieces you already have in the wardrobe.

THEMED LOOKS: You’ll find:

Elegance- think Chanel jacket, boyfriend blazer, long dresses with high slits

African/jungle prints as a continuing trend from last year but only good on some skin tones

Geometric – lots of prints. Some are in gorgeous fabrics, but before you get carried away think ‘scale’ – is the print a good size for your scale and check you are not being overwhelmed or understated.

Sporty – very comfortable clothing but do think ‘occasion’ and ensure you match your outfit to suit. There’s much truth in the statement ‘you can’t be wrong by being too smart’, watch out that you don’t fall into the opposite category!

Military – a continuing trend. There are some great structured jackets around if they suit your frame

MY ADVICE:

As always do lots of browsing for ideas and don’t forget that lots of this can be done online. Once you’ve browsed check the wardrobe and I suggest physically writing a list of items that will really add to (not duplicate) your developing wardrobe. Then hit the shops armed with your list and your colour and style advice! Once the purchases have been made, take yourself quietly to your wardrobe, and try them with a range of your current clothes. When you are sure you have bought wisely, then you can remove the labels from your new pieces.

Now, it’s time to get started on your wardrobe re-vamp!

Being well dressed is not being a fashion slave. It is all about understanding yourself – your colouring, body shape, your own distinctive dress style and the life you lead. Take a look at my services. Whether you choose an ‘entry level’ consultation, a style update or a group workshop you can be assured each will be tailored to your needs …more details.

‘I can’t believe what a difference you made just by altering my sleeves! I was also inspired by your creative ideas and have now made myself many corsages. You have made such a difference to how I look. I now enjoy waiting for new clothes in the shops. I actually know what to add to my wardrobe, not like before when I bought lots and then wore little of it! It has saved me so much money & I feel so much better about myself.‘ D.H. Cheshire