Mention fashion and what comes to mind? New looks, colours and cuts which usher in each seasonal collection.
All of us are being confronted twice a year with new images and collections in the shops. But looking up-to-the-minute thankfully need not involve embracing every style fresh from the catwalk or becoming a slavish follower of fashion.
In fact, doing just that may be very costly and may not achieve what you desire. The latest looks may not suit you, your lifestyle or even more importantly in today’s economic climate, your pocket.
It is wiser to adapt and update your own wardrobe by making skilful use of your outfits, seeking out items to plug gaps in your collection and adding a few wise buys which will revitalise jaded items.
Begin by taking a look at magazines to see what is in vogue. Then think about ways of revamping what you have got. Your goal is to achieve a basic wardrobe which will take you from day to evening and which you can update easily.
Perhaps what you need this season is a pair of black trousers or a tailored coat to get you through the autumn months in style. Or maybe a cheery scarf which will provide an injection of colour. Or you may be down at heel and stepping out in boots which have seen better days. There are some great bargains in the shops right now so spend time finding good value footwear which will keep you cosy all winter long.
‘Play around with different shades to see which ones suit you and bring
your face alive.’
White shirts are a wardrobe essential and you will get repeated use from these throughout the seasons. But beware! Some shades of white look better on some people so consider pure and soft white, cream or opal.
If you are tired of the rain and dreary summer and want to bring life into your wardrobe then aim to incorporate a fiesta of colour in your seasonal collection. If you want to leave dreary neutral colours behind then get ready to welcome the rich autumnal shades, the rusts, the mosses, the cranberries, vibrant reds and blushing pinks. Go one step further and inject a dash of yellow to remind yourself of sunny days long since gone.
While the correct shade for your colour palette will make you look vibrant, the wrong one will drain colour from your face and give you a tired appearance. Play around with different shades to see which ones suit you and bring your face alive. You can do this by holding particular garments close to your face or trying them on in the shops if you have the time.
The layered look is always popular at this time of year and is a winner on all fronts. It allows you to wrap up to ward off winter chills but also helps you to cool down swiftly by just removing one garment.