In this 2 minute video, Toni shows you how to create a ‘ruching’ effect on your clothes.
This could be particularly useful if you have an oversized or shapeless top. It’s a good trick if you’re simply trying to create some shape or detailing, especially to highlight a narrow waist. The effect will also help to disguise a tummy area too with the ruching.
You just need a hair band or elastic band – no sewing skills are required!
Christmas is approaching at speed so here’s some festive special offers and ideas to help you this festive season.
These gift sets are all available to order online and from the studio. These special offers end on 21st December and each one comes gift boxed making it tree-ready!
Lip sync – Your choice of lipstick, lip pencil, lip gloss and retractable lip brush – £37.30 (save £7).
Festive eyes – Your choice of volumising mascara, eye pencil and eye base – £32.90 (save £6).
Velvet perfection – The velvet touch foundation primer and your choice of morning light foundation – £33.40 (save £6).
Your Time to Sparkle – Get shimmering with two highlighters inside a magnetic refillable compact – £24.85 (save £5).
Going undercover – A concealer, a mint primer and a neutral primer – £36.00 (save £6).
Cool Compact Collection – A filled Magnetic refillable compact with shades designed for the cooler skin tone. Includes 1 x blusher, 1 x highlighter, 1 x lip cream, 4 x eyeshadows (1 is intense) and a red lipstick – £75.00 (save £10.80).
Warm Compact Collection – A filled Magnetic refillable compact with shades designed for the warmer skin tone. Includes 1 x blusher, 1 x highlighter, 1 x lip cream, 4 x eyeshadows (1 is intense) and a red lipstick – £75.00 (save £10.80).
You can view and buy them online here.
Whilst the special offers are available until 21 December, Royal Mail have advised the final day for second class post is Saturday 18 December and first class post is Tuesday 21 December. Of course, there’s no guarantee so it’s best to get organised early and ensure your loved one receives their gift in time for the big day!
All orders from the studio will need to be placed before 11am on Friday 17 December please. Collection from the studio is free of charge but postage is extra. Special delivery is recommended for items of value including any physical gift vouchers you may require for colour, style or image services. The latest date for items requiring special delivery is Wednesday 22nd December.
If you need help dropping those hints then this will help!
The gift and wish list has been updated with the festive offers mentioned above and you can download, print, mark off and supply to whoever needs it (or leave it hanging around of course). Click here to download your copy.
The shops are awash with sequins, glitter and luxe fabrics which can only mean that the party season is on the way!
It can feel very tempting to want to shop for something new and if you’re a sucker for a bargain then revisit my blog with tips on curbing your impulse buying here.
That being said, here’s five tops tips for festive outfit shopping:
Finally, enjoy the festivities and if you need help, get in touch.
Things are a little different this year and what a year it has been so far!
Christmas is also approaching at lightening speed so we’ve got a few festivities to take part in.
On Monday 7 December, we began our 12 days of colour challenge over on social media. Everyone is welcome to take part and all you’ve got to do, is look out for our daily colour post and get involved by posting a pic of you wearing that colour with the hashtag: #12daysofcolour.
Each post counts as an entry into a draw at the end of the 12 days (so you’ll need to make sure you’ve done your posts with the hashtag before 19 December). One winner will receive a free ticket to one of our 2021 workshops and another winner will receive a £10 gift voucher. We just wanted to spread a bit of colour and have a bit of fun.
You can take part on Facebook (including our Facebook private vip group), Instagram and LinkedIn and you’ll have a maximum of 12 entries across all platforms for the challenge.
With lockdown and shielding, some people have struggled to get to the shops but more and more people are also supporting small businesses like ours. We are very grateful.
We have created a festive wish list which you can download, print, mark off and supply to whoever needs it so you can ask for your favourite items this year.
Open a copy here: Colour Me Festive Shopping List 2020
This Christmas, we have a range of gift sets available online and from the studio until 17 December.
Lip sync – lipstick, lip pencil, lip gloss and lip brush – £34.30
Festive eyes – Volumising mascara, eye pencil and eye base – £31.90
Velvet perfection – velvet touch foundation primer and choice of morning light foundation – £32.40
Cool Compact – Complete Magnetic refillable compact with shades designed for the cooler skin tone. Includes 1 x blusher, 1 x highlighter, 1 x lip cream, 4 x eyeshadows (1 is intense) – £60.90
Warm compact – Complete Magnetic refillable compact with shades designed for the warmer skin tone. Includes 1 x blusher, 1 x highlighter, 1 x lip cream, 4 x eyeshadows (1 is intense) – £60.90
Glowing complexion – exfoliating facial scrub and cleansing face mask – £30
PLUS 15% off the vegan, organic and cruelty free skincare range (excluding the gift sets).
Check out the Festive gift offers or view them online here.
Of course, red is a colour being featured within our #12daysofcolour challenge and it’s very festive isn’t it?
Did you know that there are actually 445 named red shades to choose from? So, you know there’s a red out there for you. If you’ve had your colours done and your hair colour hasn’t drastically changed, you’ll be able to use your colour swatches to guide you. If you’re not sure, get in touch to book one of our colour sessions. You can choose our workshop in January, a virtual session or a face to face session.
If you’re looking for a bold lip, look no further than red. My fave red shades to choose from are Red Carpet, Red Velvet, Strawberry and Tomato.
Available from the studio and online and if you’re not sure which shade to choose, drop us a line.
A winter coat can be quite an investment, especially if you have colder months like we do in the U.K.!
So, how do you know what type of coat to choose?
How do you know that the big coat you have is fit for purpose?
Do you know how to assess if it works for you style wise?
Read our blog for some ideas on what to look for here.
In this video, Toni shares two of her own coats and explains why they work for her and what she’s assessing.
If you need help shopping or finding the right coat for you, get in touch for advice.
Are you still lusting after the elusive capsule wardrobe??
Do you love the idea of having a carefully curated wardrobe that works for you?
During this practical workshop, Toni will go through the key stages involved in creating your own capsule wardrobe. One that works for you. Those attending will receive a copy of her capsule wardrobe workbook ahead of the session to allow you to follow it during the session.
This workshop has been popular in the past. It takes place virtually from the comfort of your own home so you’ll need a laptop, smart phone or tablet to join the session.
You will learn:
✅ Benefits of having a capsule wardrobe
✅ The true cost of your garments
✅ How to audit your wardrobe
✅ Guidance to help you analyse and plan your perfect wardrobe
✅ What’s inside a capsule wardrobe and how to create it
✅ Checklists of what you have and what you need
“That was absolutely valuable and a fabulous way to spend a Saturday afternoon!
The workshop was great, relaxed, informative, organised and helped so much being talked through the workbook.
I’ll be performing a wardrobe audit, doing some planning and using the capsule wardrobe checklists to get everything set up and organised.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!”
Lusting after the elusive capsule wardrobe?
Have you got a wardrobe full of clothes but still feel like you have nothing to wear?
In this workshop, Toni will go through the stages involved in creating a capsule wardrobe that works for you. Each attendee will receive a workbook which they can follow during the event, or use in their own time.
This session will take place virtually from the comfort of your own home so you’ll need a laptop, smart phone or tablet to be able to join the session.
You will learn:
✅ Benefits of having a capsule wardrobe
✅ The true cost of items
✅ How to audit your wardrobe
✅ Analysing and planning your perfect wardrobe
✅ What’s in a capsule wardrobe and how to create it
✅ Checklists of what you have and what you need
Each ticket costs £29 and includes a workbook.
Here’s what a previous attendee said:
“That was absolutely valuable and a fabulous way to spend a Saturday afternoon!
The workshop was great, relaxed, informative, organised and helped so much being talked through the workbook.
I’ll be performing a wardrobe audit, doing some planning and using the capsule wardrobe checklists to get everything set up and organised.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!”
Buy your tickets here.
This workshop session will take place virtually from the comfort of your own home so you’ll need a laptop, smart phone or tablet to be able to join the session.
You will learn:
– How understanding your style personality will help you shop easier and save you time and money
– Why you don’t feel like ‘you’ in certain clothes and outfits
– How to make your outfits work for you
– What your core style personality is
– What to look and shop for
A style sheet is included as part of the session and will be supplied following the completion of the workshop.
Buy your tickets here.
Join this workshop to discover how to wear colour in your clothes and makeup with confidence and to enhance your overall look!
The session will take place virtually from the comfort of your own home so you’ll need a laptop, smart phone or tablet to be able to join the session.
You will learn:
– The benefits of knowing what colours suit you the most
– How to wear colour to make you look younger and healthier
– Simple tips to make colour work for you
– What your core colour type is
A colour card and list of makeup shades are included which will be posted out to you following the session.
You’ll be required to supply some photographs ahead of the session for individual assessment.
Everyone can wear colour, it’s simply about finding the right shades.
Buy your tickets here.
I’m often told by clients that they find the sheer volume of makeup brushes rather overwhelming.
Unless you’re told, you don’t always know what the most effective method of application is. Sometimes, you can work it out on your own, but it’s nice to be guided too!
That was the reason for this latest video here. I talk you through the makeup brushes I regularly use during my sessions with clients. There’s just four too – mystery solved.
Watch it on YouTubeYouTube.
If you need more guidance, contact me to book a makeup lesson.
‘Big coat’ time is surely now isn’t it? We’ve got darker nights and we want to wrap up warm! I feel like I’ve been wearing mine for months now!
I’m sure many of you own more than one winter coat; I know I do. Often your winter coat can be quite an investment so how do you know if it is fit for purpose? Should you be on the hunt for a new one when the shops re-open, what should you be looking for?
Before any purchase, I’d always suggest checking your wardrobe to see what you’ve already got to avoid buying another which is exactly the same – especially if you’re not wearing it.
Ask yourself these questions:
1. Is it the right colour for you?
2. Does it fit?
3. Do you feel ‘you’ when you wear it?
4. Does it work for your lifestyle and how you spend your time?
5. Is it complimentary for your body shape?
Should you answer no, then I’d be questioning the purchase. If it is one you’ve had for a while, maybe it’s time to get rid – sell it or donate it if it’s still in reasonable condition. Can you make it work by wearing it differently or with a colourful scarf?
There’s a variety of coat styles in different fabrics and to suit all budgets. These are the three categories which I assess when I’m looking for a coat. You may find them too few or too many – it’s all down to your individual style and lifestyle.
It might sound a little boring, but this type of coat is what I’d call the every day and all weathers. Think ‘duvet coats’ or padded coats which are great for walks, commuting or donning for the school run. Choosing a coat in a colour which suits and compliments you, especially as it’s worn near to your face is always high priority for me. Try either a neutral colour which can be accessorised with a colourful scarf or if you’ve had a colour analysis; choose one of your favourites colours from your palette.
This is the coat for the times when you feel the need to dress a little smarter and you feel the duvet style coat is a little too casual or ‘outdoorsy’. Perhaps it’s shopping or lunch with friends (tiering dependent of course) and you want to be warm but not hot running round or in and out of different venues.
A cocoon style coat could be more versatile and can keep you warm. Or a simple single breasted long line coat which is less bulky and often available in a choice of colours.
Trench coats are a good option here as well and versatile as they can take you through the seasons. They tend to come in lighter weight fabrics meaning you can layer up in winter whilst still remaining stylish.
Whilst admittedly this feels like a distant memory and may be one on hold for now. This is the much smarter coat you’ll wear for dinner, drinks or a party. Likely to be less practical but makes you feel like you’ve dressed up for the occasion! It could be a faux fur coat or one with a faux fur collar to add extra an wow factor (if that’s your thing). Or perhaps leather or velvet or animal print!
In a recent video, I share two of my coat styles and why they work for me so that it helps you to choose the right winter coat for yourself.Watch it here.
If you need help shopping or finding the right coat for you, get in touch for advice.
You’ve heard the stat; we only wear 20% of the clothes in our wardrobe 80% of the time.
So, how do you stop reaching for the same thing every day? Here is my nifty little trick for you to try out!
First up, I’d recommend a quick assessment of any obvious items hanging in your wardrobe which need to go.
Clothes you never wear because:
– they’re scruffy
– falling apart
– unflattering
– totally wrong for you
– don’t feel good in
– wrong colour, style, fit and shape.
If you don’t feel good wearing something, why bother to wear it? And please, don’t ‘save’ these clothes for the chores and jobs such as cleaning, gardening or exercising! It won’t help your mindset, so as tough as it sounds; get rid!
Next up, turn all the hangers round so they are facing the same direction.
Why? Well, each time you wear an item and hang it back up (whether worn once or after washing); turn the hanger round to face the opposite way.
This way it’s a visual reminder of what items of clothes you are wearing and also, which ones you aren’t.
You’ll begin to see a pattern emerge.
I’ve done this exercise many times myself and recommended it to my clients and always recommend it to attendees my capsule wardrobe workshops.
It’s a really simple way to challenge yourself to stop reaching for the same thing every day. Think about it as a way of identifying what you’re not wearing – that’s those hangers facing the opposite way.
Be creative – I’m not talking pink tutu, striped shirt, pair of trousers and a fascinator (unless that’s really your style). You’re still you and they are still your clothes. Just try to reach for the items you’re not wearing and see if you can wear it with something else in your wardrobe.
Visibly seeing the hangers a different way makes you consciously more aware of what you pick out without any thought. We can all get lazy, bored and complacent. You might find that you’re not wearing things because you don’t like them or they don’t suit you, by which point at least you know and you can remove them!
Choose something different to wear tomorrow and the day after! You’ll soon be wearing more of your clothes and have stop wearing the same things every day.
Try it, you might surprise yourself by what you find.
If you would prefer to watch a short video, check this one out which I created on Youtube.
If you do need any help, get in touch about my wardrobe audit services.
Is it just me accumulating A LOT more loungewear??
Are you putting your recent purchases down to isolation necessities or could you try incorporating these new items into post-lockdown wear too?
For me, this feels easy so if you’re similar with a Natural Style Personality, you’ll already have a fair few easy-wear comfortable pieces in the wardrobe.
I’m betting you Romantics might have felt rather alien in elasticated waistbands, hoodies and relaxed t-shirts.
Ask yourself if you can work any loungewear pieces into your existing wardrobe.
City Chics and Dramatics could try wearing a hoodie underneath a smart blazer for effortless chic. A more fitted pair of joggers or leggings, worn with a smart blouse and heels will create a preppy outfit. Or pair with trainers or flats if you’d rather skip the heels.
Speaking of trainers, wear with your dresses too, even if you may have normally have worn heels. I also have some classic personality and felt totally comfortable as you can see:
A sweatshirt or T-shirt can work really well over a summer floral maxi dress, giving the illusion of a skirt, and providing an extra layer on cooler days. Put your jeggings or thick tights underneath: think Alexa Chung. This is a look you creatives have being carrying off with ease.
Try a t-shirt with a skirt, tucked in, semi-tucked or un-tucked. The choice really depends on your body shape and the most flattering way to wear it.
Do you have anything in your ‘saving for best’ or holiday wardrobe that you can switch up to style differently?
If you’re joining my capsule wardrobe workshop next month or doing a detox with my five simple steps, then you may have a healthy pile to donate to charity.
Just make sure you’ve thought about restyling them or wearing them in a different way first. That way, you’ll get more outfits and wear from your existing items.
If you need any colour, style or wardrobe advice, book one of my online sessions during lockdown.
Lusting after the elusive capsule wardrobe?
Have you got a wardrobe full of clothes but still feel like you have nothing to wear?
In this workshop, Toni will go through the stages involved in creating a capsule wardrobe that works for you. Each attendee will receive a workbook which they can use to follow during the event, or in their own time.
This session will take place virtually from the comfort of your own home so you’ll need a laptop, smart phone or tablet to be able to join the session.
By joining this 90 minute workshop, you will learn:
✅ Benefits of having a capsule wardrobe
✅ The true cost of items
✅ How to audit your wardrobe
✅ Analysing and planning your perfect wardrobe
✅ How to create and what’s in a capsule wardrobe
✅ Checklists of what you have and what you need
The event will take place online on Saturday 7 November at 2pm. You’ll receive a link to access the event when you book.
Each ticket costs £29 and includes a workbook.
Tickets can be purchased here.
If you’ve found yourself wearing more denim lately, you’re not alone!
You could argue that Jeans are the most basic of clothing items. A wardrobe staple, but they can also be difficult to get the right fit and style too.
Here’s my guide to denim.
Like most items of clothing, finding the right fit and style for you is a must.
We are all different after all, which is why there’s so many different styles out there. But, having choice doesn’t always make it easier to find a pair which works for you. I always say that size doesn’t matter but shape does. It’s really important to remember this, as there is no uniform guide to clothing sizes. It’s not just your waist size but also think about your inside leg length and the rise (from the waistband to the crotch).
The skinny jean is made with stretchy denim so they have a fitted shape which stretches and finishes on the ankle. Also available in super skinny which has much more stretch and a much closer fit. Can be dressed up with heels or down with trainers.
This style can flatter the hips and thighs and they are fitted, with a straight, clean cut through leg and a looser ankle. Sits between a skinny and a straight jeans style.
Jeggings are leggings made of denim and are an alternative to skinny jeans as they tend to be less rigid than traditional denim jeans but more comfortable to wear. Designed with an elasticated waistband and are stretchy so they are fitted through the leg, with a skinny ankle and sewn-down pockets so they also avoid bulk at the hip. The more curvy you are, the more stretch you’ll need! Jeggings tend to have lots of stretch so give them a try as they’ll skim your curves rather than constrict them.
Designed to elongate the leg, fitted through the hips and thigh with a subtle kick at the knee so they are slightly wider at the ankle. Designed to fit over a pair of boots and so have extra width in the calf and ankle to accommodate the boot. If you’re more petite and want to appear taller, a boot cut or flare that skims the floor will do wonders.
Mention flares and everyone thinks of the 70s! They have a slim fit around the hips and thighs and flow into a wider hem below the knee.
These fit at the hips but fall down in a straight and loose style and fit. Much wider in the leg from the hips down the leg. Could be cropped in length like culottes or fall to the ankle.
Tend to be higher waisted with a slim fit through the leg. Relaxed, slouch and loose fitting. Like you borrowed them from your mum. Apparently.
A traditional style which has a simple straight cut with no stretch in the fabric. The width is the same for the length of the leg so they’ll fit more at your thighs than they do the ankle and calf.
Named assuming you’d borrowed your jeans from the boys; this fit is loose and slouchy for a more relaxed style. Tend to be low rise so they sit on the hips.
Another straight leg style but with a more relaxed fit. The girlfriend jeans have some stretch in them (unlike the straight styles) so they are fitted on the waist but relaxed fit in the leg.
This is the measurement from the waistband down to the crotch. Essentially, it’s how it will sit on your waist and hips. Not everyone is equal and balanced in their body proportions. Go for a rise which works for your shape and proportions so think where your waist needs to be visually in order to balance you out, if needed.
Sits higher in your waist area. Typically, worn up to or above the belly button. If you’re long in the waist area, this style will trick you into thinking your waist is higher than it actually is. Might help you hide a tummy too. If your jeans gape at the bag, the fit and rise is too high, so try a lower rise style.
This style sits on the belly button or slightly below.
Will sit lower on the waist and hips and below the navel, often sitting on the hips.
If you happen to be conscious of your bottom and don’t like to highlight it, stay away from jeans with detailing such as contrasting yellow thread detailing the pockets. Instead look for a tonal blue or black trim. Detailing on any garment on an area you don’t want to highlight will have the opposite effect.
Pockets. Traditionally, jeans do have pockets but if you have wide hips that you wish to minimise, don’t opt for hip and coin pockets. A plain front will work so much better for you. Also check the placement of the pockets (the nearer together, the slimmer you’ll look).
If you need more help dressing your shape, why not book a style and shape session (also available online), so you can learn the tips and tricks for dressing your shape.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people tell me ‘they have nothing to wear’!
Of course, most people, especially women, feel like this. And it’s also not always because they have no clothes; it’s more the fact that they don’t feel like they have the right clothes for them.
We‘ve all felt a little lost in what to wear this year. Colour is the easiest and simplest way to boost your mood and feel good, but choose the wrong shade for you, and it can have the opposite effect.
Recently, I asked some of my clients if they’d be willing to send me a picture of them looking and feeling fabulous wearing their best colours so I could create a video. Using real women and real people to help me demonstrate how positive and uplifting colour can be and how amazing you can look and feel when you know what suits you.
This video showcases just some of my clients who agreed to take part and I’m very grateful that they agreed.
Don’t they look fabulous?
Does the thought of a declutter fill you with dread or enthusiasm? No time to do it? Or is it just too overwhelming?
Perhaps with lockdown, it seems to have been an area of focus for many people. In May 2020, I worked with a professional declutterer to bring you our first virtual wardrobe workshop. We recorded a tutorial which you can watch if you missed it which comes with our top ten tips, simply drop me an email if you’re interested.
There’s also been a surge in the number of people who have been downloading the free five step guide too so they can declutter following my simple advice.
I’ve helped numerous people as well: this is what Helen had to say after our declutter session:
Not everyone has gained time during lockdown to dedicate to the task. Some people tell me they simply feel like it’s a job too big to tackle and they aren’t quite ready to let go and let me help.
I decided to record a series of videos covering just five areas to focus on and declutter. You can watch the video series on social media and YouTube here:
Youtube – Part 1 /Part 2 / Part 3 / Part 4 / Part 5
Splitting things down into manageable chunks makes it easier to tackle and takes less time so it doesn’t feel as overwhelming. Typically, these areas are often left untouched making them ideal to focus on for my declutter series.
Here’s a summary of each video in the series:
Given how frequent we open and close these drawers, you’d think that we’d clear them out more frequently. This drawer is often neglected the most.
Throw away any old, worn or items with holes. Remember, bras in good condition can be donated to charity.
Tighten your bra straps as they ‘give’ with time. A well fitted bra can give you a much better posture and shave inches off of your figure! Try stacking them with the cups one behind the other to save room.
Why not colour code your pants or sort them into everyday and going out piles? Just remember that if it’s organised then it’ll be easy in a morning. There’s lots of organisers and folding techniques online.
Now move on to hosiery and socks. I was surprised by how many tights I had and yet did not wear (it even happens to me!). Throw away any that are snagged or have holes. Sort into colours and again dividers can help to organise depending upon your drawer. Give the drawers a wipe or vac before putting everything back in.
Rather embarrassingly, I’d let my jewellery boxes become somewhat untidy and taking a bit of time to look through each box can uncover a potential treasure trove!
For now, you may not be going out or dressing up as much, but you’d be surprised at the joy sparked when you uncover an item you’ve not worn in a while and forgotten about. That’s what can happen when everything is tucked away. If you have room to display your necklaces and you like it that way, then do. Or, for a tidier approach, keep them safe and use jewellery boxes. The ‘stackers’ system allows me to store everything away to keep it tidy.
With your sentimental pieces which you can’t bear to rid of them, simply clean them and store them. For everything else, just like your clothes, ask yourself if you’ll wear it again? What with? Try and play dress up if it’s something you love so that you can find a way to wear it.
When was the last time you checked or emptied your handbags before putting them away? Upon undertaking the task myself early into lockdown, I discovered a lipgloss, lipstick and hand sanitiser; so it was a worthwhile task!
No matter the size of your collection, get them out and empty each one in turn. Vacuum the insides if they need it and wipe them down before putting them back where you store them.
Remember that just like clothes; what you can’t see you won’t use, so don’t tuck them and hide them away. Check for any repairs as if you have any high end or designer bags, there are services available to repair them.
Finally, don’t hang onto bags you won’t use or don’t ‘match’ any more. They just clutter up space. Donate or sell them if they’re in good condition.
If you tend to store things in multiple locations, it’s easy to lose track of what you have and what’s being used. Be realistic about how much you have – there isn’t any point keeping 20 lipsticks if you forget to wear it or that cleanser or moisturiser if it doesn’t agree with your skin. Equally, anything you don’t use or doesn’t flatter you, is worth getting rid of too.
It can be tempting to keep things if you’ve spent a lot of money, which I totally understand. But, just like clothes, if it’s not flattering for you/you don’t like it/it doesn’t like you, then why keep it if you’ll never wear it?
Clean and wipe down any containers or makeup bags, using anti-bacterial spray or wipes if you prefer. Note the little picture of a pot with a number underneath or on the label of your toiletries and cosmetics. This refers to the number of months an item is at it’s best once it has been opened and can vary between manufacturers and products.
Has it got a funny smell? Ages since you first opened and used it? I’m afraid my advice is to bin it – you don’t want an infection and it certainly won’t be at its best anymore. This is where I tend to see the most waste; usually because the shade isn’t right – everything from lipsticks, foundations, mascaras, blusher and face creams.
Contact me for advice on the shades which suit your colouring if you find this is an area that you spend and waste money on.
Regularly wash your brushes and sponges too with a makeup brush cleanser. I use a brush egg to really get into the bristles too which are available on the high street for £1. My Rose Micellar water (see my video last year) also does the job. Sponges (again cheap to buy) can be popped into a mesh net bag and washed in the washing machine but when they begin to break, put them in the bin.
Use trays or organisers rather than have your cosmetics loose in a drawer to keep them tidy and stop them getting damaged. My magnetic compact is perfect for this and allows me to keep my eyeshadows, blushers and highlighters in one handy box and using less space too.
We do love shoes don’t we. I’d say this is the area that can totally show your personality type as well as being in need of a declutter and sort out.
Some people tend to keep things for certain occasions: that wedding 4 years ago that you’ve never worn them again. Another pair of black boots, more worn than the current pair you’re going to start wearing. Or, the shoes you simply can’t walk in/kill your feet but you love them so much, you can’t possibly let them go!
Be realistic and honest with yourself. If you’ve got 5 pairs of black shoes or boots which are pretty much the same, do you need to keep them all?
Prefer matching your footwear to your handbags or outfits? Maybe you’ve still got the items you matched the shoes with (ie the wedding from 4 years ago). If not, can you wear them with something else? If you can’t or you won’t, then is it worth keeping them? Again, you can donate any or sell any if good condition.
These are areas you just don’t get to aren’t they? When life is a bit hectic or you weren’t as tidy as you’d like to be. It certainly does take less time to declutter this way and is still equally as rewarding!
Neutral colours – do you love them or hate them?
Some people are more comfortable with neutral colours than others.
They do help you combine items together in your wardrobe and tend to be more versatile. They are more likely to last throughout the seasons and be easier to shop for throughout the year.
A neutral colour can act as a base for your more exciting colours – think navy, black, greys, beiges, browns, whites. Not all will be your friend, so make sure you know which are the most flattering.
If you’ve had a colour analysis in the past and you have your colour swatch wallet, take a look as these will be marked with a little ‘n’.
On occasions I find some people tell me that they find it difficult to ‘match’ things in their wardrobe. Or, things don’t ‘go’. They often aren’t always short of clothes and outfits options, but chances are, they haven’t got enough neutrals in there.
Watch this video with my suggestions on performing a neutral audit.
After you’ve watched it, go and have a look inside your wardrobe and be sure to make a list of any gaps that you may have.
Do you have a neutral coloured coat or a pair of trousers?
Have you got a leather/pleather jacket which you can style up and dress down?
How about a few jumpers that work with everything? Trousers, jeans, skirts for example.
Making a note on your phone or in a little book in your bag, or within your colour swatch wallet means you’ll always have it handy too for when you do go shopping.
If you need help, get in touch to begin or continue your journey.
Us women do love shoes don’t we! For me, shoes aren’t very different to clothes – you still want to find something that’s in the right colour, style but perhaps most importantly; fit. Sometimes, this can be the biggest challenge of all!
Earlier this year, I got chatting with the owner of a very niche shoe business here in the U.K. She is a champion of finding the right shoes to tick all the boxes – colour, style, fit and personality and so I asked her if she’d like to guest feature in our blogs and she accepted!
After taking early retirement from my previous career, I trained to be a Colour and Style Consultant. When I first started as a Personal Stylist, I went to promote my business at a Wedding Fair. Whilst there, I was surprised to hear a number of women my age saying that they dreaded looking for shoes. Up until that point I hadn’t given much thought to the styles of shoes that women wore to weddings.
Then I found myself in exactly the same position – desperate to find these elusive coloured shoes to go with my outfits for both of my daughter’s weddings!
I have lots of Natural in my own Style and really struggled with the style of shoes that were available in the shops. I spent hours searching for shoes, but they were never quite right. Too high, too elaborate, too shiny or peep toes – all lovely, but frankly just not me at all!
Then one evening whilst looking for some navy shoes for a client, I found a picture of a Belgium based Brand of handmade, Italian leather court shoes in a variety of colours. I had to find out more! I rang the owner of the company the next morning and told them that I was a stylist and struggled finding shoes for my clients.
They suggested I go to see them and I didn’t stop to think about it – I booked a flight and went to Antwerp! They were fascinated by what I was proposing and sitting there surrounded by 88 colours of leather; I felt like a child in a sweet shop!
As it turns out, that conversation was my light bulb moment and a turning point for me. I founded ‘Colours by Ell’ as a mobile shoe shop – a play on my christened name – Ellen.
It’s been a bit of a revelation and the experience and knowledge I have gained over the last seven years means I have become something of an expert! It’s great to be able to work with independent stylists around the country.
Helen has a range of shoes and brands available through her online shop which you can browse here:
If you’d like some assistance choosing the right colours and styles for you, either Helen or myself will be delighted to assist you.
If you get in touch with Helen directly, be sure to mention Toni Carver at TLC Style & Colour sent you.
Have you found yourself dressing more casually these last few months?
It’s been the subject of many conversations recently as many of us have gotten used to a more casual dress code.
With the kids back at school and many people returning to the workplace or socialising more; are you glad to ditch the elasticated waistbands? Or, are you dreading stepping into formal trousers, shoes and tight jeans?
It could be that you have found that your style has changed a little. But, this is ok as it’s so easy to incorporate this newer style of dressing into your wardrobe.
For the City Chics amongst you, with a more Parisian vibe; choose to pair your smart blazers with a sport-luxe style of jogger or trousers.
You Classics might prefer a more relaxed fabric such as Ponte, which has a little bit of stretch and becoming widely available.
Dramatics may well ditch the heels and pair their midi dresses with a cool pair of trainers.
Just think how you can incorporate what you’ve been wearing into everyday.
The more you can mix and match items in your wardrobe together, the more you’ll get your wear out of them and create more outfit choices. Winner.
Help is on hand if you need a little TLC, so don’t be afraid to get in touch and book a session with Toni.
In our video section, there are three easy tips to dress up a simple top which you can revisit here.
You’ll also find more styling tips on our Facebook page.
A navy jacket (or cardigan) is often seen as a wardrobe staple for many people.
The trick, like many things in your wardrobe, is knowing how to wear it successfully and repeatedly.
Don’t worry too much if the jacket you have isn’t navy. It could be another neutral colour like black, brown or grey! In fact, if you’ve seen my recent video about dressing up a casual outfit, you’ll see that my jacket staple is a grey check. It’s the theory of how to wear it which you should think about, as this is still the same.
How to wear your wardrobe staple sorted by colouring type:
Lights: Balance the depth of the navy with a lighter colour such as pastel pink.
Deeps: Team with a darker shade such as teal for a sophisticated look.
Warms: Balance out this flat neutral with warmer undertones such as daffodil.
Cools: Add contrast and pink tones such as rose pink for a fresh modern look.
Clears: Contrast your navy with bright clear colours such as light aqua.
Softs: Wear tonal colours with little contrast such as sky blue for an elegant look.
If you’re not sure which category you fall into, or you’ve changed since you were first analysed then it’s worth making an appointment for either an online or face to face colour session.
Have you found yourself dressing a little bit more casually now? You’re not alone!
If you’re finding it difficult to get out of the comfortable or casual clothes and you’re not wanting to go all out and be suited and booted again, this video is for you.
I am showing you three ways to switch up your outfit and look a little more dressed up.
When it comes to dressing, there’s two things I get asked all the time:
So, in answer to both questions, I featured my style tips on both aspects for a quick video over on social media.
To help illustrate the points, I wore a comfy / slouchy dress.
Today is the day that the use of face coverings and face masks is compulsory to wear in shops across the country.
Early into the pandemic of the coronavirus, there seemed to be a little spike in the fashionable take on these. From matching swimwear to clothes and I wasn’t sure I was wholly comfortable with the idea of this fashion trend emerging if truth be told. After all, these were largely intended to protect others against the spread of the infection.
The pros and cons over their use has been well debated and whether you agree or not, if you’re venturing out from now on, you’ll need to wear one. Here’s my take on choosing and wearing one.
Like any clothes, we want to feel comfortable wearing them and a mask is no different. Should it dig in or be too tight then it really won’t be comfortable.
For the purpose of the outbreak, your face covering should safely cover your nose and mouth. This doesn’t have to be a face mask as you can use a scarf, bandana or any other cloth garment. Make sure it fits securely around the side of your face. The government website suggests using material which is breathable and comfortable such as cotton with at least two layers of fabric. But, the World Health Organisation recommends three layers depending upon the fabric used. You can also buy masks and add your own filters for extra protection.
Let’s be honest, face coverings are not the most flattering of garments you’ll wear! Therefore, wearing something which is in a pattern or colour can elevate their appeal. I had a white one in the very early days and did feel as though I was an extra for a hospital show! A client of mine was making them so I ordered a purple one which I had to agree, did look much better, less scary and was more complimentary.
Being able to choose a colour which compliments your skin tone, hair colour and eye colour will actually make your eyes stand out too!
We all have our own sense of style so there’s no reason why your face mask should be any different. Choose something which feels more ‘you’ and it will help to make you feel more confident wearing it.
If you’re more creative, then chances are you’ll have designed or created your own, but if this isn’t you, there are plenty out there who have so I’m confident that you’ll find something that works for you and your personality. Whether it’s print, plain, unfussy or disposable, there’s lots of options available now to suit all budgets.
Let me know what you choose and feel free to send me pics on social media.
2020 hasn’t really shaped up to what we would have expected has it?
Next week, the clothes shops are expected to open their doors once again, with many weeks having passed since closing them. I’m also not sure what to expect. Will you be rushing out to the shops?
For those of you who love the joy of shopping; perhaps a leisurely browse with a coffee stop, this is unlikely to be the case for some time. For those of you who despise shopping, then I’m sure you won’t have missed it in any event!
There is the prospect of queuing, just like we do at the supermarket as shops limit the number of customers at any one time. Sanitise stations on entry and exit with one way systems likely to be in place. Of course, there will be no changing rooms either and strict social distancing in place too.
Contactless payments have already increased their limit to £45 in many stores and shunning cash payments, clothing retailers are likely to follow.
Without changing rooms, you’ll need to buy and try on at home. The benefit of this is the comfort of your own home with your own mirrors and lighting! Though, the added inconvenience if you need to return them.
One of the many benefits to understanding the colours, style and shape of clothes which work for you, can help to minimise this as you will shop better knowing what to buy and what suits you.
If you do buy something, get it home and it’s not right for you, please don’t feel that you need to hold onto it! It’s only a waste and you’ll regret the purchase every time you see it hung up with the label on!
Statistics show that during this period, people have taken to online shopping and it will be interesting to see if the spending ratios tilt again.
Many people have been encouraged to ‘shop their wardrobe’ during this period and I’ve spent time with many clients helping them assess their wardrobes. Don’t discount what you might have lurking at the back of the wardrobe!
This period has also brought about more awareness to sustainability again with their clothes. Buying less items but spending more on quality is certainly a positive effect.
But, if you can’t resist a bargain – beware! I do predict that there could be huge sales emerge from some retailers who have been unable to sell their current range of spring and summer season stock. This can be both a positive and a negative.
Do you adopt the smash and grab approach in your local budget store: a pair of shorts for a fiver, a swimsuit reduced by 80% and those faux-leather sandals that you’ll ‘bed in’ on a buy one pair, get one free offer which you’ll save for your holiday next year?
Or, do you use this opportunity to invest in better quality items that will last for years to come? There may be an opportunity to look at retailers that have always been slightly out of your price point as they may offer discounts that you can afford to treat yourself to now.
The choice is yours!
My tip is always to go with a shopping list of items you need and fill what gaps you have. Remember, that something is only ever a bargain if you actually wear it. My £s per wear motto also means that the more you wear something, the more use you get out of it and the lower cost per wear. Compare spending £5 on something you wear once versus spending £25 on something you wear 10 times – the latter is better value.
Before buying anything, ask yourself if the item concerned will go with at least three other things in your wardrobe. If you have to buy ‘around’ the item to make an outfit, chances are it isn’t really a bargain. It may be that there is a coveted item that you’re lacking in your wardrobe and which you’ve been searching for. That one item that transforms other items to create multiple outfits. This could be a good purchase. Have a look in your wardrobe and really look closely. And, if you’re trying to match up something then take it with you.
I believe that everyone should feel good in what they wear.
Understanding what suits you and why can help you shop wisely and avoid making more wardrobe mistakes. If you need any help then please do get in touch as I have a range of services to offer.
If you’re keen to update your wardrobe without making more wardrobe mistakes, consider booking my seasonal style update. The session addresses the key colours and styles available in the shops and what will specifically work better for you. This isn’t always about what you should buy, but what you have and how you can update your wardrobe to work better for you and be more current. Sessions are available individually or as a group and a handy seasonal style guide is included.
You can purchase the handy seasonal guide separately. Please get in touch to get your copy.
One final point, it is highly unlikely that you will be able to test make-up at the cosmetics counter or experience a makeover. Don’t leave your purchases to chance. Let me help, guide and recommend the best shades of make-up to enhance your features. Plus, theres 10% off until 3 July. Visit the online shop to make your purchase and an additional 10% will be donated to NHS Charities together.
Welcome to a series of videos on how to wear colour!
It is so easy to wear colour. Not only can it transform your overall look but it really can boost your mood too! Not knowing or understanding how to wear colour is something that many people tell me they struggle with. Sometimes you can’t put your finger on why something does or doesn’t suit you.
As an image consultant, my colour consultations are by far my most popular session. These are available Online; from the comfort of your own home for when we can’t meet in person as well as in person at the studio in Wakefield, West Yorkshire.
If you don’t know what colours to choose, or how to wear them, then these videos give you some tips on how to do so and also why it can make such a difference.
How to wear yellow
How to wear purple
How to wear blue
How to wear green
How to wear red
How to wear pink
How to wear neutrals
How to wear black
This is a guest blog written by Suzanne at Thanks Suzanne who we have worked with locally and offers a wonderful and unique collection of handmade jewellery.
You might think that in the UK, we are a nation of tea drinking addicts and as a true Yorkshire girl, you really can’t beat a cup of Yorkshire Tea. But, like the majority of brits, I have fallen in love with the café / coffee culture. Pre lockdown it had been fully adopted in the UK, with a surge of independent high street coffee shops and the more well known ones. The freedom to meet a friend, colleague or family member for a coffee, chat and maybe that sneaky piece of cake is something I’ve certainly missed throughout lockdown. Not necessarily the coffee itself, but the social aspect of the café culture, the ability to have a face to face conversation and engage with people rather than via social media.
In the UK, we now drink over 95 million cups of coffee per day. As a family, we have really embraced the café culture; not just for two tired parents to get their caffeine fix but it also plays an important role in our family social life. Weekends are normally consumed with walks, bike rides and activities, all of which end up in a café.
Lockdown may have put an end to the café culture as we know it for the time being, but it is estimated that now over a third of the population owns a coffee machine, with single use coffee pods leading the way in popularity. The queue outside our local Costa Coffee Drive Thru last week reflects how us brits really do need our daily caffeine hit!
As a Nespresso Owner, I must admit that I do love the convenience of single use pods; a variety of flavours and barista style coffee all from the push of a button. In the UK, Nespresso have a recycling scheme for their pods and up to the launch of my business, as a family, we were regular users of it, finding it a convenient and easy way to recycle. However, after some research I was still shocked to discover that even with coffee pod companies offering recycling schemes, over 29,000 per year still end up in landfill.
My daily morning Nespresso caffeine fix soon became my inspiration to build my business on. I launched Thanks Suzanne last year, as an online ladies boutique. I love shopping, clothes and accessories and as I was building the business, I began researching the impact of fast fashion on the environment. As a shopaholic, I knew that the market was already becoming saturated with amazing independent high street boutiques, so not wanting to re-invent the wheel and repeat what had already been done, I wanted to create my own individual brand. I knew I wanted my brand to be as sustainable, and eco friendly as possible and after many morning Nespresso fixes, I started looking at the pods, wondered what else they could be used for.
This year we launched our own Jewellery Collection out of the coffee pods, and in doing so we have put a great deal of effort into making sure that every aspect of the coffee pod gets re-used.
The aluminium pod itself is the main component of our jewellery and provides the start of each piece of jewellery which we handmake. Obviously, we need to clear the pods out from the coffee, this is quite a lengthy and time-consuming process, which leaves me with a lot of coffee! The coffee goes straight into our compost heap or directly onto the garden as a fertiliser. Yes, coffee can be used as fertiliser! We also hope to begin to send you some coffee for your plants and gardens when you place an order and making our whole process even more sustainable. Watch this space!
Our collections are named after coffees; from Cappuccino to Mocha and we will also be launching an Expresso Martini Collection for those of you like me who love handbags, shoes and cocktails!
Whilst our daily Nespresso Fix has helped get us through lockdown and homeschooling, we are definitely looking forward to embracing the social aspect of the UK’s café culture once again in the near future.
If you own an independent Café or can recommend any throughout the UK then please get in touch as we are creating a directory on our website for independent coffee shops. Email: suzanne@thankssuzanne.co.uk.
10% offThank you to Suzanne for her guest blog about the sustainable jewellery collection. We love the range of earrings and necklaces available with some lovely colours and patterns. For the entire month of June, she has agreed to offer a 10% discount against any orders when you use TLC10 at the checkout. Happy shopping and if you need any advice on colours or patterns, please do get in touch and I’d be happy to help.
Visit: www.thankssuzanne.co.uk or email Suzanne at suzanne@thankssuzanne.co.uk.
As an image consultant, the number one thing I hear from potential clients is “oh, I’d love to wear more colour, I just don’t know what suits me”.
There are many reasons why people feel this way:
– the fashion world is obsessed with black
– there’s actually more than one shade of a colour
However, everyone CAN wear colour and with a little knowledge, everyone can learn how to choose and wear the right shades which suit them. Even if you feel that you don’t have the confidence to wear colour, you can still introduce it and build up to what you’re comfortable with.
You’d be surprised at the difference that colour can have on your mood (see our previous blog here). I believe that everyone should feel good in what they wear.
Let’s talk about the colour yellow.
It can be a really tricky colour to wear. Some people will suit it far more than others but, as with all colours, there is a shade for you.
For those of you who have previously had a colour analysis consultation, your colour swatch wallet is the best place to guide you and remind you of your best shades and the top tips on how to wear colours that would suit you best. Your colouring type will also be noted on the bottom of the card and fabric inserts. Get in touch if you need more help.
If you’ve never had your colours done, these celebrity examples demonstrate how different shades of yellow compliment their physical features the best.
Lights: Reece Witherspoon – Don’t overpower your colouring, wear with light or mid tone neutrals such as taupe and avoid too much contrast. Try Buttermilk.
Deeps: Michelle Obama – Wear with navy or charcoal to create as much contrast as possible. Avoid mixing two pale shades together. Try Daffodil.
Warms: Nicola Roberts – You’ll look amazing if you combine the shade such as mustard with either olive or golden brown.
Cools : Jamie Lee Curtis – Avoid any ‘warm’ tones. Any yellow is best worn away from the face. Mix with navy or any of your greys. Try Icy Lemon.
Clears: Zooey Deschanel – The brighter and clearer the better for you! Citron worn with either light, bright or dark shades.
Softs: Kate Winslet – A tonal combination can look so elegant on you. educe the contrast feel by teaming soft yellows like buttermilk with stone, pewter and grey.
Other colours will be covered in future blog posts, so be sure to check them out.
There is also a series of videos which you can watch here.
If you’d like to learn what shades of colour suit you, book a colour analysis consultation. Both online (virtual) and face to face sessions are available. No appointments for face to face sessions are being taken until July at the earliest.
Working remotely is the new norm now after weeks of being in lockdown.
Many people, including myself have been doing it for weeks now, but some people will be more familiar with it than others.
With the advent of technology such as Zoom, WhatsApp and Skype, it means that we can connect easily with our work colleagues, friends and family. A common question I’ve actually heard is – how do you dress for online video calls?
And so, here are some pointers for you to be camera ready at all times:
1. Now is not the time for ‘neutrals’ such as beige, taupe, camel and stone. These types of shades don’t fare well in front of the camera. Instead, try opting for a bold colour shade from your palette. Navy or charcoal grey would be better than black too.
2. Busy patterns can be distracting, and stripes are a big no-no as they tend to strobe on screen. Go for block colours.
3. If you can, try and sit in front of a plain background.
4. Accessories can be annoying particularly layered bangles that jangle; keep them to a minimum! Dangly earrings can also be distracting so try opting for smaller studs and wearing one (quiet) necklace!
5. Check your buttons and neckline before going ‘live’ to avoid an embarrassing faux pas.
6. Make-up can look different online so it’s a good idea to view yourself via your computer screen beforehand. Shimmery eye shadows and highlighters can look just that… shimmery! Opt for matte finishes instead.
7. As tempting as it may be to wear loungewear all day, it would certainly be a boost to your confidence and your mood if you wore something smarter. There’s probably no requirement to wear full business dress but dressing up a little will definitely make you feel better about yourself.
Why not take a look and watch our video here.
Have you got a wardrobe bursting at the seams and yet have nothing to wear? Fear not!
We are collaborating with A Tidy Mind West Yorkshire to bring you the ultimate virtual workshop to make your wardrobe work for you.
If you want your wardrobe to make you smile this is the workshop for you.
Join us at 2pm on Saturday 23 May from the comfort of your own home and we’ll inspire you with our super advice on decluttering, storage, colour and style. You’ll also receive ten top tips from us following the event too.
This is a ticketed event which must be purchased in advance of the session.
The price of your ticket is just £10 and get ready to feel fabulous in your clothes!
To obtain a ticket, please email: Toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk
We’ve been invited along LIVE to The Mummy Circle to give you some top tips for looking and feeling great during lockdown.
Tune in at 2pm on Wednesday 6 May through Facebook. Click here for the event details.