blog cover inside my wardrobe audit

Inside my wardrobe audit – what stays, what goes, and why

Posted on by Toni Carver

Like many people at this time of year, you might find yourself tackling your wardrobe. It’s a task I take on at the start of each new year, and thanks to my regular decluttering habits, it’s relatively quick and straightforward. It helps that I know the colours, styles, fabric and shapes that flatter me, of course!

2025 Audit

I start by turning all hangers in the wardrobe so they face the same direction. This simple trick helps me keep track of what I actually wear and what I don’t.

You could perform this seasonally; if you swap your wardrobe frequently, or annually, like I do.

This year, I tackled the kitchen cupboards and drawers around the house, as well as accessories. 18 garments and 10 accessories were culled from my wardrobe this year! To see this process in action, check out my YouTube video: https://youtu.be/S2L8KN193lU and last year’s audit: https://www.tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk/2024/01/15/simple-way-to-identify-clothes-youre-not-wearing/

Of these, I identified five which needed repairing or re-styling so they could go back into the wardrobe. A large box went off to charity, old towels went to a local boarding kennel, and a bin bag went to textile recycling.

The rest, in good condition, went on Vinted and eBay. A word of warning: you’ll rarely make back the money you spent, and this task is often more time-consuming than the audit itself! But, if you’ve got the time and desire, you’ll keep things in circulation and make some extra cash for yourself.

What Stays

All garments that have the hanger facing in the ‘worn’ direction are generally keepers, as I’ve been wearing them. Unless there’s a specific reason for no longer wearing it, then it stays. Throughout the year, as I wear something and hang it back up, I’ll turn the hanger round so I know it’s been worn. As time goes on, it’s a great trick to make you reach for something you haven’t already worn.

My wardrobe is organised by type and colour. All tops are together by colour, my bottoms are separately organised by type, and my dresses are organised by colour too. Visually, this works well for me as I reach for colour first so this helps me mix and match garments. It’s one of the many benefits of having a colour analysis—knowing the colours that suit you and how to combine them together. Plus, I can use my fabric swatches to check the colour or identify the colours I’m missing.

What Goes

It’s easy to identify the garments I haven’t worn with the direction of the hanger, allowing me to assess why. This way, I don’t need to review every single item I have.

Because the vast majority of my clothes are the right colour for me, they represent my style and flatter my shape, there’s usually other reasons for not wearing them:

  • It doesn’t fit.
  • I have too many similar items I prefer.
  • It’s no longer suitable for my lifestyle.
  • I’ve simply fallen out of love with it.

Sometimes I keep things on for another year, even if it’s not been worn. The key is to assess why they’ve not been worn, and challenge myself to wear them in the next 12 months.

This year, I had more unworn dresses, partly due to the weather. One has been cut into a top (more on that next week), others have either been culled or hung back up for another chance.

The Result

It’s much less overwhelming to get ready when you have a wardrobe of clothes that you actually wear!

When I’m called out to help with wardrobes, I often find people hanging on to clothes ‘just in case’. In my experience, if something doesn’t flatter you, fit you, or make you feel good, you won’t wear it. Keeping them takes up space in your wardrobe (and your head), and makes you feel guilty over what you’ve bought, not worn, and the money you’ve wasted. A simple change could be all that’s needed.

If you’re ready to tackle your wardrobe but need a little help, why not book a consultation? With the knowledge you gain from a Colour, Style and Shape consultation, we can create a wardrobe that works for you—saving you time, space, and stress!

BOOK A CONSULTATION TODAY!

Sustainable September: autumn wardrobe tasks

Posted on by Toni Carver

As September is the month of sustainability, it’s worth remembering that the most sustainable garment is the one that’s already hanging in your wardrobe. Last week, I shared some styling ideas to help you re-wear your clothes more often and you can revisit the blog here.

There’s been a nip in the air here in the UK which is a clear signal that autumn is definitely on the way. With the changing seasons, you may be switching out your summer clothes for winter ones. Your thoughts may also be turning to what else you may need.

So, on the sustainable theme, I’ve got four tasks for you to undertake to your wardrobe before you hit the shops, or start searching online. Plus, I’ve recorded a quick video which you’ll find on my YouTube channel. Keep reading for details.

What’s your most worn items?

The first place to start is what you’ve already got!

If you’re a photo-taker, check your camera roll for the items you’ve been wearing on repeat. Don’t worry if you’ve got no photo evidence as I’m guessing you know your fave, and most lived-in items. Because I turn my hangers round, I can easily identify what I’ve been wearing. (revisit this: Simple way to identify clothes you’re not wearing if you don’t know what I’m talking about!).

These items are useful to know because you’ve got your money’s worth out of them. You’ve had multiple wears and no doubt reduced your £s per wear as you’ve been wearing them lots. Your £s per wear is basically how many times you’ve worn it based upon how much you spent on it. A ‘bargain’ £10 item worn once doesn’t compare to the item you send £50 on and are still wearing after 10 times, year after year.

Layer up!

Items that you can wear through different seasons (also called transitional pieces), can help with any capsule wardrobe goals you have. This will likely mean wearing them with other items in the cooler months. So, a pair of tights with a summer dress. Throw on a fine knit jumper or cardigan over it instead. I prefer to think of these as staple items because you can wear them all year round. For me, these are t-shirts (both long and short sleeved) and vests as I’ll wear these in the warmer months but layer them underneath dresses or jumpers in the cooler months.

Fine, thin layers are always better than thick layers if you want to avoid feeling like the Michelin man. Revisit this: The secret to layering your clothes and still look stylish (without adding bulk)

The ability to layer items of clothing also means that you restyle them and wear them in a different way too.

Do you have the latest trend?

Trends do tend to repeat themselves and you might already have that new cardigan that everyone’s raving about tucked in the back of the wardrobe. Burgundy is the colour of the season, but I already know I have my colour version of burgundy hanging in my wardrobe to wear in the coming months because I’ve bought well over the years and I know what suits me! For reference, it’s claret or damson for me. If you’ve had a colour analysis, check your swatches for your version.

If you’ve spotted something in a magazine, online or in the shops and you’re thinking how much you’d like to add it to your wardrobe, just check whether you’ve already got something similar. You may have and I can give you some ideas to restyle what you already have for the new season at my next seasonal update workshop. It takes place online at 12pm on Saturday 5th October and tickets are available here.

My seasonal updates aren’t about making you fashionable, but I will be sharing what the new colours and trends are for autumn and winter. This year, my aim is to try and avoid the fast-fashion stores as much as I can with the examples I share in the workshop, Recorded Masterclass and the Shop The Look guides.

This coming season, see if you can make better, more informed decisions about what to buy and wear. If you need some inspiration, my autumn/winter guides will be available from 1 October. Join the wait list and you’ll receive discounted access to the guides five days earlier. (Select ‘seasonal updates’ and register here).

Be specific

I know it sounds a bit boring, but making a list concentrates the mind. Specifically focus on what items of clothing you actually need. What are you missing in your wardrobe? What has been worn so much that it’s fallen apart and beyond repair? The more specific you are, the more refined your searches will be. That’s why I always say to start with your wardrobe. After all, if you don’t know what you’ve got (and you can’t see it), how do you know what you need? Don’t discount accessories – these can be a cost effective way to update any outfit.

My wardrobe charts will help you work out where the gaps are in your wardrobe. Download the FREE Wardrobe charts.

Being able to identify the specifics like the colour, the style, shape, fit, fabric and how you want it to make you feel will all help to narrow your search. Clothes in the right colour and style for you that fit and flatter your shape, will always make better choices in the long run. Book a consultation if you need any help.

Watch: 4 wardrobe tasks to do this autumn to help you be more mindful and sustainable this September on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_zNtg6A4ZEE

three tips to avoid makeup mistakes

Three tips to avoid makeup mistakes

Posted on by Toni Carver

Everyone is different when it comes to makeup and as a colour, style and makeup consultant, I look at makeup as a method of enhancing your look and hiding other bits! It’s much like your clothes; choose the right colours and wear them to flatter you and ultimately to feel good!

Colour can have such an amazing impact – makeup as much as clothes! Wear wrong-for-you colours and it won’t do you any favours I’m afraid.

As with the clothes you choose, makeup is merely an extension of your overall look and the image you want to portray. Buying cosmetics is also an area I find people can waste a lot of money on. Trying to find the right shades of makeup in the shops can be really challenging and it’s where mistakes are often made. With this comes enormous guilt when you don’t wear what you’ve bought!

So, here’s three tips to help you avoid making the same mistakes.

Identify your style

How you apply your cosmetics, the look and how much/little you wear is determined by your style and lifestyle. If you don’t feel like you have the time or you prefer a more natural look, then you won’t spend hours putting on a face! What’s more, if you did, you’re not likely to recognise the person staring back at you in the mirror either. If you love the art of getting ready or creating different looks then you will spend the time, the money and enjoy it too. Equally, you’ll feel bare faced and exposed going out with just a flick of mascara and a bit of lippy!

Know your colours

When you wear makeup which flatters and enhances your features and hides and disguises any flaws; you’ll feel good – nice even! Choosing shades which compliments your features is always best as they will make you look radiant rather than unhealthy or age you prematurely.

If you don’t know what colours to go for – think about how you’d describe your overall features and what colours your eyes, hair and skin tone is. During my colour and makeup consultations, I will apply the shades of cosmetics which suit your colouring type and give you a list of the shades which suit you. You can also buy the range from the studio or online too.

If you’ve got colours which don’t suit you then see if you can mix and combine them with other colours to make them work for you. For example:

 

Wrong foundation shade? Try mixing it with another shade to make it a better colour match to your skin tone. (It should blend in with your jaw line with no visible ‘tide mark’.

Wrong shade of lipstick? Wear with another shade of lipstick or apply a lip pencil underneath. Both will create a ‘new’ lip colour which could be a more suitable colour match for you.

Eyeshadow too heavy? If you’ve got lighter features, richer shades of makeup can overpower your features so perhaps try a little bit in the corner or use it as a contour rather than an all over colour.

Wrong blusher? If you’ve got a warmer skin tone you’re better with peachy shade and if you’re a cooler tone you’re better with pinky. The wrong way round and you’re skin tone and texture will look ‘off’, grey or sallow.

 

Don’t be wasteful

When was the last time you checked the contents of your makeup bag? If you’ve got items lurking in the bottom that you’ve had for years, be warned. Makeup has a shelf life too just like any toiletries. As a general guide, bin anything which is more than two years old and if something doesn’t look or smell as you might expect; bin that too.

Putting to one side the wrong cosmetic shades you might have, count up how many of the same item you have and assess how often you use them. If you store your supplies in multiple places or frequently forget that you’ve already got one (or three) then it could be worth a clear-out! You’re arguably buying more than you need and can use.

Most packaging these days has a use by date which is indicated by an open pot sign with the number of months written inside. By way of an example, if the little pot says ’12’ then the shelf life is 12 months. It’s a bit like food really – beyond this, it’s not at it’s best. Ideally, throw it out to avoid infection and keep your products hygienic.

As a guide, keep the following life spans in mind from the time they are first opened:

 

Mascara – 6 months

Lipstick, Lip gloss, foundation, concealer – 12 months

Pencils, Cream Eyeshadows and cream blushers – 18 months

Powders, eyeshadows, blushers and bronzers – 24 months

 

Finally, don’t forget to regularly clean your makeup brushes and tools too. For any help with your makeup, get in touch – Toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk

wardrobe refresh tips

Need help with a wardrobe refresh?

Posted on by Toni Carver

It’s that time of year again when we have the urge to purge our wardrobe.

Did you tackle the job over Christmas? Or is it on the ever growing to-do list?

One thing is for sure, there’s a bit more joy when you open the wardrobe doors to neat and orderly rails and tidy drawers isn’t there??

A cluttered space affects how we feel but it can actually mean less outfit choices, as you can’t see the wood for the trees. When your space is more organised, you can actually see what you have. Things you can’t see, you won’t wear. With this ‘space’ it can also help to inspire new outfit combinations. I like to have my tops above my bottoms (in colour and type order) so that I can visually identify items to match up with bottoms.

But I totally get it. Any form of decluttering is a time consuming task. Not to mention how exhausting it can be to tackle your wardrobes and drawers in one go.

Here’s a few tips to help you with your ‘new year wardrobe refresh’:

  1. Start by turning your coat hangers so they all face the same direction. (Revisit my hanger trick).
  2. Next, remove any garments which don’t fit you, don’t make you feel good or don’t flatter you.
  3. Feeling overwhelmed? Too much or don’t have enough time? Break it into manageable chunks and focus on one drawer or shelf at a time. Read and watch my previous videos here.
  4. Got time but not sure where to start? Download my five step guide.
  5. Identify your staple items and must-have pieces. Staple items are the ones that you wear time and time again. Must-have pieces are the ones in the right colour, right style, right shape, fit your lifestyle and feel comfortable so you love wearing them! To help you identify what you have and how you spend your time, you can use my wardrobe charts.
  6. Do attack your smalls! Get rid of old and worn items. Donate any bras in good condition and check tights and socks for ladders and holes.
  7. Jewellery and accessories are often overlooked but these items can transform ANY outfit. Tidy out and organise these so you know what you’ve got! Take pics with your clothes if it helps you create outfits.
  8. Women love shoes and bags which means we tend to hang onto them, long after we ‘need’ them. I’m betting there’s a pair of shoes or a bag which you bought for a wedding six years ago to go with an outfit that you now no longer have or doesn’t fit?! Get them all out and give ’em a good clean and tidy. Assess what might need repairing and what may need a new home.
  9. Not strictly wardrobes but your makeup and toiletries need a regular clean and declutter. Multiple bottles of shampoo, moisturiser or lipstick? If they’re years old (and been opened) they’re no doubt out of date. If you tried them and they don’t work for you or suit you then why keep them? It’s hard to let things go when you’ve paid a lot of money but you’ll never use them! There are now recycling boxes at some stores so check locally. Don’t forget to look for the little ‘open pot’ sign on your toiletries as this number represents the months each item is good for once opened. Clean your brushes and sponges too.
  10. Learn how to create a capsule wardrobe that works for you! It’s the number one thing people tell me they want to achieve from their wardrobe but just have no idea where to start or how to achieve it. Now you’ve done your refresh, book a ticket to my capsule wardrobe workshop on Saturday 22 January at 2pm! Tickets are available here..

Items you might need:

  1. Bin bags – ideally four: one for rubbish, one for the ones you’re not sure of and will review again, one for the ones you want to sell or donate and another for the ones that need repairing.
  2. New hangers – thin velvet ones are ideal as they take up less room.
  3. Boxes or organisers to help with storage of scarves, tops, vests and jewellery
  4. A laptop, smart phone or tablet to join the capsule wardrobe workshop mentioned above!

 

I hope this helps you to make a start on your wardrobe and the small changes you feel empowered to make gives you the motivation to keep going as you will feel lighter and clearer by doing this.

But, if it leaves you feeling overwhelmed- ask yourself why…what is feeling too difficult and do you need some professional help?

Do you know what colours actually work for you or is this stumping you from starting the edit as you have no idea?

Do you know what styles suit you or has your body shape changed (regardless of Christmas indulgence!)…so now you have “settled for clothes that cover but do little else to make you feel good?

An edit can be great for helping you see what the problem is and if you can identify this then I can help to solve them! Just drop me a line and get in touch to see what session would work for you.

I have nothing to wear wardrobe blog

DIY wardrobe planning tips

Posted on by Toni Carver

How many times have you uttered the words: I have nothing to wear??

We’ve all done it! However, clicking the fingers and imagining it’s different doesn’t tend to happen so what have you done to actually change it?

Here’s a few of my do-it-yourself pointers.

1. Assess your contents

Firstly, you need to know what you’ve got and if things are suitable. All too often we have clothes that just aren’t appropriate for the occasion we are dressing for and that’s when we feel like we’ve got nothing to wear. So, use these wardrobe charts to help you assess the contents along with how you spend your time. You can read this blog about what to do when your wardrobe doesn’t work and download the charts here.

2. Take the hanger challenge

This really does work! It’s as simple as turning all your hangers round so they face the same way. Then, as you wear things, switch them round to face the opposite way. You’ll soon begin to easily notice what you are and aren’t wearing! Plus, it’s a quick little tip to help you snap out of the wearing the same thing habit you might be stuck in. You might even spot some obvious things you’re not getting your use out of too. Read more here.

3. Declutter your wardrobe

This can be challenging for people and it’s often why I’m called in. But, if you’re up for the challenge to do it yourself, then here is my declutter guide which will help you spring clean your wardrobe in five easy steps. You’ll need to give yourself time to embark on this one but it will be worth it. Download it here.

4. Declutter in chunks

If a total declutter is too overwhelming, then simply try it in manageable chunks. One drawer at a time, one area at a time. It will take you longer overall but you can squeeze bits in as and when you feel you have time. Read the blog and view the videos I’ve made previously on this here: Five areas to declutter in manageable chunks!

5. Create a capsule wardrobe

You’ve read the articles and seen the programs saying you need just 23/35/70/insert number of items you need to create the perfect capsule wardrobe! But, rarely is there any advice over how to do so, or indeed making it relevant to you or your lifestyle.

So, if you want to shoot straight to creating a capsule wardrobe that works for you, then this workbook will take you through every step to creating one. Get it here.

Let me know how you get on and if you find you need some professional help, don’t be afraid to get in touch with me.

Good luck and let me know how you get on!

Toni x

Declutter video series

Five areas to declutter

Posted on by Toni Carver

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:

Wardrobe testimonial

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.

Introducing the new video series – how to declutter in manageable chunks

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:

Facebook

Instagram

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:

Part 1 – Sort your smalls!

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.

Part 2 – Jewellery declutter

Thanks suzanne jewellery
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.

Part 3 – Handbag Declutter

 

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.

Part 4 – Make-up and toiletries

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.

Micellar water

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.


Part 5 – shoes

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!

Virtual wardrobe workshop – Saturday 23 May

Posted on by Toni Carver

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

Sassy ever after live event

Behind the scenes at Sassy ever after LIVE!

Posted on by Toni Carver

In January, I was invited to be one of the guest speakers at a female empowerment event. It sounded like a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon and start off 2020.

Sassy ever after LIVE!

I arrived in Sheffield early and was greeted by Kate Grosvenor, the founder who also offers 1-1 coaching sessions. She showed me around the venue which was lovely, including their own lifestyle brand of clothing, candles and more.

Kate Grosvenor

After a glass of bubbles, Kate opened up the event and spoke of ways to change habits and ways to introduce new routines. Informative and useful tips but there was one specific point she made which stuck in my mind. She asked the room full of women; how do you celebrate your successes? I’m not saying you could hear a pin drop but….we were all a bit quiet. Kate said that it was important to celebrate your wins, however small and straight away. Don’t wait until you see a friend, or until you next see your partner or the moment has passed. It did get me thinking, how about you? Try saying well done out loud, tap your own back or even a little clap of the hands could be enough to reward yourself! Visit Kate’s website here.

Deepika Venkatachalam

Deepika is a blogger from India. I listened to her story with such admiration and found her incredibly inspiring! Coming from India to study at Sheffield university with a whole host of achievements under her belt for such a young age, she is definitely one to watch and follow here.

Sarah Tattersfield

The afternoon was not only my turn, but Sarah who is a nutritionalist and the owner of Rotherham’s first and the only members only weight loss and nutritionalist club. Another inspiring and very fit lady! What stuck in my mind from Sarah’s presentation was that they operate a healthy and positive change to your diet, health and fitness. Yes you can have a packet of low fat fat crisps for 90 calories, but is that the best way to eat those 90 calories? Diets are unsustainable and habits need to be changed to create long term healthy lifestyles which is really what your body needs. See more here.

New year, new you

When it was my turn, I was a tad nervous as these ladies were amazing and inspiring but I shared a bit about my background; how I came to become an image consultant and also what the start of a new year meant to me.
It may seem silly to talk of new year, new you now given that we’re in March, but really, you can press reset or pause on life whenever you want. You don’t have to wait until January!
Changing something that you’re not happy about can be hard. Especially if it feels big. Remember; you can’t eat an elephant whole so I always try and think about what the small things are that I can do and build on them, as it’s these small changes that can make the biggest difference. I don’t believe I would be where I am and doing what I love today without breaking it down and taking the steps I did to get here.

Declutter

For instance, I started a bit of a declutter mission before Christmas. I once heard someone say that your home is your anchor and everything has a home when you declutter. Without meaning to, we can all hoard things can’t we? Even if we don’t mean to, those weeks turn into months and then before we know it, it’s over two years since you moved and that room you meant to sort out after you moved in still hasn’t been emptied…(just me?).
Given the fact that I’m an image consultant, you might expect my wardrobe to be organised and it generally is. I regularly declutter, but my declutter mission extended to each room, drawer, under the stairs and even the garage! During the declutter mission, myself and my husband both agreed we felt not only a sense of achievement, but we felt genuinely calmer knowing things were cleaned, tidy and organised. More on my clothes declutter and organisation another time.
I get a lot of women who get in touch because they feel like they’ve got nothing to wear and they are fed up of feeling like it! I help them understand what suits them and why, so they can get confident in what they wear.
When you understand what suits you and why, you can avoid having those what to wear days. You can save time in the morning and stop wasting money on things you never wear.
But, it doesn’t happen overnight. You can press reset or pause and simply try and change one thing that you’re not happy with but you don’t have to do it on your own either. Making little changes all add up to big changes, especially in how you look and feel. You know that when you feel good in what you wear – this confidence shines through and people notice. Who doesn’t want to feel good in what they wear?
All in all, an amazing afternoon spent with some amazing women. Plus, I bought a wax melt burner with the Sassy wax melts called ‘Be Flawsome’. I am trying.

Fashion vs style and sustainability

Posted on by Toni Carver

“Don’t be a slave to trends, find your own style and you’ll always be the height of chic! Fashion is what you’re offered four times a year by designers. And style is what you choose.” Lauren Hutton

I always say to people that dressing well is not about buying expensive clothes, or about being at the cutting edge of fashion. It’s simply, knowing what suits you and why so that you can dress with confidence, every day.

80/20 rule

We can all have those days when we feel like we have nothing to wear. You’ve probably seen the statistic that says that we typically only wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time and with the ladies I meet, the majority all nod their heads in agreement.

It’s not exactly true though is it? We often do have things to wear but we don’t like them / they don’t fit / they don’t suit you / they don’t make you feel good / it doesn’t go with anything. Sound familiar?

If this is you; don’t beat yourself up! But you can change it.

Declutter

Your first port of call is to review and declutter your wardrobe. It can be as simple as this:

  1. Get rid of any items that no longer fit
  2. Anything that’s really worn, damaged and not repairable
  3. Anything you don’t like or hate yourself in.

Now, this might not help but you’d be surprised. Especially if you take the emotion out of it! If everything left it still good enough to wear, ask yourself why you aren’t wearing it.

If you’re serious about cleansing those wardrobes, then try following these simple steps:

  1. Check if it’s the right colour for you; if it doesn’t lighten and brighten your features then get rid
  2. Does it fit? Is it comfortable? Have you worn it in the last 12 months? If the answers are no; get rid
  3. What’s the condition like? Does it need a minor repair and are you prepared to do it? If not; get rid.

Use my free guide to help you declutter in five simple steps. Download your copy here.

Old favourites

Often, it’s not that you’ve actually got nothing to wear, it’s just that you’ve either lost your way or you don’t know what suits you. Instead you end up reaching for the same few favourites or buying another pair of black jeans / trousers / jacket / top that happens to be identical to the other six you have.

When you know what suits you and why; you’ll have a wardrobe full of clothes that are in the right colours which suit you, in the styles which suit your personality and lifestyle, in the right shape and fit for your body. But, it won’t happen overnight and if you need help, that’s where I come in as I have a range of services to support your journey which you can find here.

Fashion shouldn’t cost the earth

Textile waste is becoming a major problem. According to a government report published in February 2019 – 300,000 tonnes of textile waste end up at landfill from households. If you’re decluttering, please consider alternative ways of disposing your items. Try giving to charities, selling on, restyling or swapping.

Swapping events are becoming more popular. They give you the opportunity to exchange your items (providing they are in good condition) for others. They may not be new, but they’re still new to you. If this appeals, you may be interested in a Style Swap event which is being held in Leeds on 23 January. Tickets can be bought from here. The organiser has also asked me to attend the event and do a talk so why not book your ticket and come along? More details of the event can be found on my events page.

Take the 30 day challenge

Another trick is to turn all your hangers so they are facing the same way. Then, every time you wear something and it goes back in, turn the hanger the opposite way. This way, it’s more visible about what you are and aren’t wearing. I tried this last year for 30 days and you’d be surprised what difference it makes. Revisit the blog here and give it a go.

£s per wear

If you’re a regular reader, then you’ll be familiar with my motto. It’s not how much you’ve spent on something, but how many times you’re going to wear it. Before I buy anything, I always ask myself: what do I have that I can wear it with?  Ideally, if you can make three different outfits with it then it’s a good buy in my book. But, it’s got to be the right colour for me (soft, cool and deep), right shape and style (natural/classic neat hourglass) too. Get something in the sale for £10 which you wear once and it’s £10 per wear. Spend £50 on something which you wear 10 times and it’s £5 per wear. I’ve got things in my wardrobe that must be pennies per wear but I regularly declutter too.

 

If you’d like some help sorting through your wardrobe or simply understanding what works for you and why, then get in touch. Most people start with a colour consultation because it’s the easiest way to update your look, but have a browse and contact me.

Colour me beautiful Makeup

Makeup – choose your colours wisely!

Posted on by admin

As with the clothes we choose, makeup is merely an extension of our look. There’s a vast array of cosmetics on display at makeup counters, but how do you know what to choose?

It can feel rather daunting at some of the brightly lit with un-natural light in some department stores. What seems to look good in the shop, may not suit you best when you get home. This can be both disappointing and costly.

 

Heres my three tips to avoid making those mistakes

First, understand and determine the needs of your skin. Adopt a good skincare routine together with a good, balanced, healthy diet. Oily skin requires different products to those with dry skin.

Secondly, your makeup look and choices will be determined by your style and lifestyle in much the same way as your clothing choices. If you don’t have the time or you prefer a more natural look, then you won’t want to spend an hour putting on a face! What’s more, if you did, you’re not likely to recognise the person staring back at you in the mirror either.

Third, choose your makeup colours wisely. Your makeup should flatter and enhance your features and can be used to hide and disguise any flaws too. Choosing shades suited to your colouring type will make you look radiant whilst others can make you look unhealthy or age you prematurely. You don’t need me to tell you to avoid this look!

What next?

When was the last time you checked the contents of your makeup bag? If you’ve got items lurking in the bottom that you’ve had for years, be warned. Makeup has a shelf life too. Bin anything which is more than two years old and if something doesn’t look or smell as you expect – bin that too.

Most packaging these days has a use by date which is indicated by an open pot sign with the number of months written inside. By way of an example, if the little pot says ’12’ then the shelf life is 12 months. Beyond this, it’s not at it’s best so be sure to throw it out to avoid infection and remain hygienic.

 

As a guide, keep the following life spans in mind from the time they are first opened:

  • Mascara – 3 to 6 months
  • Lipstick, Lip gloss, foundation, concealer – 12 months
  • Pencils, Cream Eyeshadows and blusters – 18 months
  • Powders, eyeshadows, blushers and bronzers – 24 months

Good hygiene is a must so wash your makeup brushes regularly. I use a brush cleanser and a ‘brush egg’ which allows me to give the brushes a proper clean between clients and they are very cheap to buy online too.

Throw away any disposable sponges once used or wash after each use. Any velour sponges should be washed weekly and replaced regularly.

Finally, give the bag a clean too!

 

If you’d like help reviewing your makeup bag then get in touch. I offer a free makeup assessment in which I prescribe the cosmetic shades which compliment your colouring type based upon the Colour me Beautiful tonal panel system.

Book before 1 August and receive a free Colour me Beautiful purple branded zip up pouch.

Learn your best makeup shades and book today. Call or text 07958 657032 or email me toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk

Is it time to detox those wardrobes?

Posted on by admin

Every so often, it’s worth opening those wardrobe doors and having a clear out!

This type of detox can be a time consuming task and one which usually fills people with dread! Make sure you give yourself enough time to do this!

Often clients ask if I can help them and of course I am more than happy to do so. In my experience, people find it easier if someone else helps as it can be quite an overwhelming task. Click here for more details.

If you’ve heard me at a talk or had a consultation with me then you may have heard me mention the 80/20 rule. This is that most women only wear 20% of the clothes in their wardrobe 80% of the time. Plus, I have found that there are many women who have more than one wardrobe full of clothes!!

The key thing here is about ensuring that what you have in your wardrobe is right for you. If you’ve got five identical items and nothing to wear them with, then they won’t get worn.

It’s the same with sale shopping. We all love a bargain! But it’s only ever a real bargain if you actually wear it!

If you have clothes languishing in the back of your wardrobe and *shock* still with labels on…then something has gone wrong!

Here’s some tips on detoxing those wardrobes:

  1. Is it in the right colour for you which compliments your features and characteristics such as your skin tone?
  2. Does it fit? And I mean properly!
  3. Is it in good condition? If a button has fallen off or the hem stitching has come undone, can it easily be repaired? If it can, make sure you do or you won’t wear it!
  4. How do you feel when you wear it? This is key as if you don’t feel good wearing something, you won’t even leave the house.
  5. Have you got at least three other items in your wardrobe that you can wear it with?

If the answer is no then I’m afraid it’s time to say good bye.

If you need some help, please get in touch with me and I come and help you to detox those wardrobes with pleasure!