Contributions from Caryn Franklin, Jane Galpin and Claire Ginzler.

January

Jewellery Tips

Hi Caryn
It's been a couple of years since I first bought your e-book and I'm happy to say that my clothes choices have much improved!

Now that I'm feeling comfortable with the range of clothes that I do buy, I need some help with accessorising. I can translate some of my relevant e-book into the types of accessories that would be good but I do struggle with those things that 'make' an outfit go from something that is just flattering to something that is memorable (for the right reasons!!!)

Would you consider re-vamping your e-books with a more detailed section on accessories? Or do you have some general hints and tips for this tricky arena?

Thanks,
Nancy

Accessories can make or break an outfit. This season accessories have become an even bigger trend so the choices are endless. As a guide to help you select what to wear I have a few simple tips for you to follow:

1. Keep accessories subtle and non flashy if working in a corporate environment.

2. Big bracelets are a great detraction if you are top heavy.

3. If you have broad shoulders go for long necklaces to bring the eyes down and avoid chokers this goes also if you have a wide neck.

5. If you are bottom heavy or petite go for colourful necklaces or earrings to draw eye up. Avoid also colourful shoes.

6. If you are petite avoid brightly coloured shoes.

7. You can mix gold and silver, infact many designers are doing just that

8. Don't think you have to colour cordinate your shoes and handbag

9. Avoid fluorescent or really bright colours if you are over 35 years old. They will look trashy and make you look older.

10. Oversized bags are great if you are pear shaped as they help to balance you out.

11. Brooches are a great way to glam up a black jacket.

12. Finally don't ever over accessorise as you will end up looking like a christmas tree. Less is definitely the way to go.

For great accessories check out our shopping mall and click onto jewellery where you will find a great selection of online designers such as Angie Gooderham who have a good selection of big, colourful bracelets or Butler and Wilson and Mikey - bold evening necklaces and brooches or if you want the very latest fashion then go to Freedom.

Wardrobe Basics

Hi,
Can you give me some ideas about the basic wardrobe pieces that every woman should have?
Jenny

Hi Jenny,
Basic wardrobe pieces are garment items that you can wear every season and can be mixed and match within each other or updated by wearing with a fashion item. You need to spend a little extra on these items so that they last and look after them properly. The list below is a guideline for you to follow:

1. Jeans - more than one pair, I would recommend a boot-cut style and straight (if you wear them).

2. Pencil skirt (look for one with a stretch and go for a dark colour.

3. Mac (go for a colour such as red or purple).

4. Winter coat.

5. Black tailored jacket (can be dressed up or down).

6. Classic white shirts (with a stretch).

7. Smart trousers (wide leg or simply tailored).

8. Little black dress (classic that is always a good fall back for a party).

9. Suit (can be skirt or trouser).

10. Cardigan (chunky for day and bolero style for evening).
11. Floral summer dress.

12. Long boots (flat or comfortable day heel).

13. Black high heel (classic shoe for the evening).

Check out John Lewis in our shopping mall who will have a good selection of brands for you to shop under one roof. They have recently added in more fashionable brands such as Reiss and Whistles.

Jersey Shirt Dress

Hi Caryn
I always used to watch the 'Clothes Show' when it was first on, and when I was younger!!

I am a new convert to your guides, have just started looking through the e-book.

I have a real problem with shopping, it has almost got that I don't go at all, I am 47 5'5" and a size 12-14, so it's not really a size issue, more of a confidence one and I have real problems with getting the right colours.
but anyway, I am sure over the next month or so, when I get around to finishing the e-book, I will have a bit more of an idea.

But could you help me with one thing, I would love to wear a day dress with my boots and I see you mentioned a jersey shirt dress, I would ideally like a plain dress to be able to jazz up how I wanted, can you give me any idea where to look for one (not too expensive)?
many thanks
Lynda

Hi Lynda
Yes check out Austin Reed in our shopping mall as they have one called black military jersey dress and the good news is that they have a sale at the moment so it is only £65 reduced from £90.