One of the many things I find fascinating are uniforms. No I don’t mean the type that involves shiny buttons and a double-breasted fastening.
What I’m talking about are the uniforms we need to get by in life. Mine include ‘Mum picking up at school clothes, ‘power meetings in town’ clothes, ‘fashion presenter on TV’ clothes and ‘meeting my women friends for dinner’ clothes. All these looks are very different and communicate different things to those I stand in front of.
I talk about all of this in my e-books, and of course I take my own advice on picking clothes for my body shape (standard and slender leaning towards a subtle pear these days). Here’s me in my ‘fashion presenter on stage’ uniform. This picture was taken a few days ago on the How to Look Good stage at the Birmingham N.E.C. where we did our three day live event which involves picking brides out of the audience (who are in their every day jeans and t-shirts) and giving them a quick make over.
I am standing next to one lovely member of the audience who had the works, why she’s practically a super model to look at! But let’s talk about me. It’s a great outfit and I always feel comfortable in it all day long knowing that it show cases me in a flattering way so let’s discuss.
Shiny leather pencil skirt: I bought this ten years ago from Jasper Conran in the sale. It’s a skirt that gives a great performance because it is a classic. Ok it’s a shiny material and that can focus the eye at the bottom half of the body (not good if you are overtly pear shaped but I can still cut it)!
Fitted waistcoat: I love a waistcoat and have about five in my wardrobe. This one I bought from Karen Millen a few seasons ago. They give the body great shape and always pull in the waist. Put together however the black runs through my body in a column like way and is very streamlining.
Bright pink puffed sleeve pussy bow: French Connection actually and they still have plenty in the stores for £35.00 a pop. See how it adds volume to the top part of my body and the bow and puff gives me a bit of softness and fullness at my upper body. NB Online they are only selling grey but there are plenty of bright colours on the rails in your local highstreet (so better to do a visit).
I’ve borrowed a shiny black corsage from Jane (I forgot all mine as often happens when you pack for a hotel stay) and this one focus piece gives a playful touch.
Yes I’m happy to report that just like you, I like to stretch my budget and my clothes are always kept for their ability to flatter my body (not portray my ability to shop for brand new trends every five minutes)! A case of something old, something new, something borrowed….
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1 response so far
1 Jo // Mar 18, 2008 at 4:07 pm
Really loving the new posts and especially liking this one. I am someone who is expected to look good all the time but this can be tricky when your day consists of so many activities requiring different looks eg. the school run (jeans and jumpers), work (current and inspiring) etc etc. Looking forward to part two!
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