Autumn beauty treats to warm up your look.

Looking good is not only about sporting the latest trend. Even the simplest of outfits can be stunning if you get the grooming right. Here are a few essential products I have discovered and love this autumn. These fabulous beauty finds will lend your look some serious polish. 

Salon chic at home....

No look is complete without a perfect Mani and Pedi to match, so the increase in gel nails has been a life saver for the style conscious girl. However, all those trips to the salon can take their toll on your bank balance. Swap every second manicure for a home treatment and coat your nails in Revlon's new Colourstay formula - inspired by the gel formula it has more staying power than regular polish.  I will be wearing Fall Mood this season, the warm beige shade provides the perfect contrast to rich Autumn hues. 

Fake a fresh blush....

As the sun fades, so do our tans meaning that pale has never been so interesting. Give you complexion a youthful lift with a shot of blusher. I love Bobbi Brown Rough Pots in Pale Pink. The bright fuchsia colour looks natural and fresh on your skin, while the soft creme formula feels great and lasts all day. 

Seasonal scents that are good enough to eat....

If summer smells of coconut oil and sun cream, then surely Autumn is fragranced with open log fires and blackberry pie. Jo Malone's new Blackberry and Bay fragrance sums this sense of Autumn up perfectly. This scent will make you glad the nights are drawing in, and ready for cosy Autumn gatherings. I love it!!!

Time to stock up on toffee apples, and look out your sweaters, Autumn fun is nearly here!!

Alice Temperley adds glamour to a shopping classic

As a long time fan of Kings' Road shopping, I have always seen Peter Jones as the mecca of all things sensible- good home wear, a no nonsense beauty hall and the go-to spot for wedding gifts. 

But now there is an altogether more stylish reason to head to Peter Jones. Alice Temperley's Somerset collection, designed exclusively for John Lewis. 

This is the perfect capsule collection for autumn, boasting everything from luxe maxi dresses to perky animal print pumps. Think old school glamour mixed with town and country chic. Perfect for weekend away packing!!!

My faves from the collection are these gorgeous over the knee boots.... perfect for work or play, they are a great investment for winter. 

And looking ahead to the party season....super early I know.... I just love this pleated monochrome dress. 

The beauty of this collection is that it is totally wearable and has something to suit most shapes, and lifestyles. 

Throw out everything you own and buy the whole range, or pick a statement piece and work round it... but what ever you do try it!

Our new mantra girls.....John Lewis is not just for tights and haberdashery!!!

Fashion to go: Autumn statement pieces

Looking for an Autumn update for your wardrobe? Choose from one of these statement pieces to transform your look.

Revamp your cashmere

Johnstons of Elgin has collaborated with cutting edge, contemporary Scottish design house, Jaggy Nettle to create a limited edition sub collection of hand printed Scottish cashmere. Lending a rocky edge to classic pieces, these sweaters are sure to be a wardrobe favourite. Wear them with faded skinnys for day or with a leather mini and killer heals for a cosy and chic evening look.

The affordable IT bag

I love this little red clutch from Radley. Perfectly portable in a sumptuous autumn shade, it's no surprise the likes of Jenni Falconer and Paloma Faith have been spotted toting the must have 'Belsize' clutch. And at a mere £69 you can join them.

Let your hands do the talking

The latest collection from Daisy Knights is inspired by the Kenyan wildlife and the gorgeous Namora ring is a perfect statement piece for the wild at heart. Fabulous enough to wear alone, or team it with stacking rings from the same collection for ultra glam hands. We love!!

Slippers to be seen in

If you only make one shoe purchase this season it has to be the slipper pump. These comfy 'Heffner' inspired flats are the shoes to be seen in this A/W and if you really want to make a statement do it in animal print a la Clarks!!! Yes, slippers from Clarks will earn you style points this season... who would have thought!!

Autumn lust list complete.... but how is a girl to choose!!??

 

Catalogue Couture: The pages to turn to for a stylish autumn update

We are half way through August and autumn is fast approaching, which means the new season catalogues from my favourite stores are starting to appear on my coffee table.

I love nothing more than discovering a new glossy catalogue in my mail box, it is a fashion manual of ready-made outfits, a 'cut out and keep' shopping list to stock my new season wardrobe. With call centres and websites providing round the clock shop-a-bility, I thought I would narrow it down to just a few key pieces of catalogue couture which are worth splashing out on before the seasons change.

For a perfect transitional piece pick this shawl coat from Boden. It's fasten free, edge-to-edge style makes it the perfect cover up for autumn. Add a wide belt to cinch it in at the waist and you have the perfect winter work coat. I love all the shades but I will be placing an order for the steel grey.

Baukjen is my new on-line/catalogue fave. You may know her styles better as the doyenne of maternity wear, Isabella Oliver. Baukjen is the designer's name and the re-launch of her women's wear label. The pieces have a designer look and feel with a high end highstreet price tag. For hard working dresses this has to be your first stop, and I love love love this knitted number. Short enough for late summer with heels and thick enough for autumn with tights and boots. This merino mix shift dress is a sound investment.

So, I know there is a Sweaty Betty shop at the end of my road, they are prolific in West London, but for some reason I always get more of a kick out of their catalogue. I will leave you to pour over their sports bras and running shorts alone, but I have to highlight their new yoga one piece. This gorgeous piece of work-out wear is fabulously versatile. Yes it will make you the most stylish gal at Bikram, but wear with some converse and a denim shirt and you have got a seriously style savvy dressed down look.

Wish list at the ready girls, it is time to open your fashion textbook!!!

Short Styling: How to wear summer's most flexible item

Maybe it's the sunshine, maybe it's the sporty atmosphere at the moment, or maybe it is because I am really only 10 years old at heart but I just love nothing more than summer days spent in shorts. 

Shorts are as cool as a skirt but much more flexible and just as chic!. Whether building a sand-castle, riding your bike, or chairing a board meeting. Shorts are summer fashion set free....

So here are my top three ways to wear shorts in any eventuality.

Find a classic pair of shorts which can be dressed up or down. I love these paisley print chino shorts from J Crew. Sassy and summery, they are so on trend.

For a chilled, daytime look, team these with throw-on flats, a simple vest and a denim shirt for cover up.

Want to put these shorts to work? A gorgeous navy blazer will smarten them up for the office. Wear with an ultra crisp white blouse and some tan flats for a grown up take on this shorty look.

And for a glam evening get-up wear these shorts with some stunning courts and add some sparkle on top.

Short, sweet and super stylish!!

Simple Fash-a-matics: Style equations that really add up

When I help women with styling the most common problem they have with combining items to create an outfit is not with the colour or fabric of the clothes, but with the overall shape of the look.

This can be the trickiest thing to get right and the hardest part of styling to explain. However, if you have ever stood in front of the mirror puzzling as to why your trouser and top combo just does not work, the chances are your fashion sums are just not adding up.

Here are a few simple fashion equations which are guaranteed to equal a fabulous silhouette

Ultra wide leg jeans + fitted detailed blouse + killer day heels = a sassy take on 70's flare

This combo will give you a fabulous retro shape with a modern twist. Opt for wide leg jeans with a high waist and a pussy bow blouse tucked in. Add some killer day heels which are heavy enough to take the wide leg of the trousers; a fine stiletto would be swamped!

Super sleek pencil skirt + scoop neck t-shirt + pretty pumps = Parisian chic to go!

This is the perfect equation for a seriously pretty, yet practical look. Keep the skirt fitted and simple and embellish the look with a statement T for a gorgeous office to bar look. Ditch your usual heels in favour of some gorgeous pointed or round toed flats. The result -a modern, 'girl on the go' take on this feminine shape.

Pyjama pants + relaxed fit vest + gladiator flats = High octane 'play clothes'

This combo is all about comfort but get the balance right and it can look ultra luxe. Opt for flowing PJ style trousers with a fabulous print and team them with an equally  voluminous vest to balance the outfit. Wear with metallic gladiator sandals and a perfect pedi to complete the look.

Cropped trousers + peplum top + killer stilettos = an androgynous cocktail look

I love this combo for its boy-meets-girl appeal. The clean line of the cropped trousers provides the perfect balance to the girly peplum. Wear with perfect, classic heels, (red soles optional) for an evening look that will carry you through until autumn.

Simple fash-a-matics does not need to be taxing. Learn what shapes suit you and how to balance out your body with volume and tailoring. The result will be an overall more groomed look!

The golden rules of fashion friendship

There is more to life than fashion... it is called friendship. A thought which crossed my mind on a number of occasions recently. As a stylist and as a woman my image is very important to me. I rarely go out without thinking about my look and I am the first one to start planning an outfit when invited to an event. Yet no designer handbag or silk blouse could replace the love of my most treasured girlfriends. The fashion pack is often portrayed as bitchy and competitive, which just does not fit with my ethos of making the most of yourself. So I thought I would share with you all my four rules of fashion friendship.

 

1.

If you turn up at a party/wedding/work wearing the same thing as your friend there is only one thing to do. Laugh!! So what, you both have great taste and clearly are made to be mates! What a massive compliment! Giggle-then swap notes on accessorising your favourite piece!

 

2.

When giving advice on your best friend’s outfit, really think about where you are and when. If you are involved in the shopping or dressing process then be honest and candid, she will thank you for it and has time to put it right! However, if your bud appears at the bar, 10 minutes before a hot date looking less than catwalk ready, smile and compliment and make a mental note to hit the shops with her soon. There is nothing to be gained by denting her confidence at this stage by pointing out the flaws. (Unless of course you are the same size and willing to do a quick switch.)

 

3.

Best mates match. Know a gal for long enough and your wardrobes will start to look a little twinny, especially if you regularly shop together. On a recent shopping trip to the states with my best friend I wasn't at all surprised that we turned up at the airport in matching jackets and happily spent our dollars on identical shoes and bags. Don't get all huffy on this one. Simply tell your mate if you are buying something for a special event, and then see rule 1 for matching moments.  The only thing better than enjoying a new shoe purchase is having someone else to share the joy/guilt!

 

4.

And finally...the golden rules of clothes swapping. If you are borrowing, always ask and if you mate lends you her fave LBD...return it in one piece with a bottle of bubbles! But should the worst happen and the borrowed beauty goes astray, suffers a spill or is eaten by the dog, remind your friend it is a great excuse for a fun shopping trip. Trust me ladies there are worse things in life. Zara sells dresses, it doesn't sell best friends.

 

Thinking of your best fashion friend? Time to swap outfit notes.

Little Black Book: Style secrets from women in the know

A lot of what I do focuses on the outside image we portray to the world and finding the right pieces which not only show off our awareness of trend but also our sense of style. But what about the less talked about side of style. We all have our own little tricks to make ourselves feel confident and practical. Tips which help us navigate modern life as the style queens we are. 

Here are some of mine... But shhh....don't tell everyone. 

Lazy Girl Pants

For days when I am wearing slinky jersey dresses but don't feel like doing some early morning crunches, or sucking in my tummy all day, I swear by M&S shape wear. Far from ultra-tight Spanx, these light control pants are perfect for days when you just need a little extra help. They smooth out any bumps and the thong version prevents the dreaded leg roll/VPL.

Feet Saving Flats

No one can stand in heels all day and night and not feel the effects, but I refuse to let practicality dictate my shoe choice, especially for an important day or event. For days when I need to dash around between meetings or when I am anticipating a long journey home at the end of the night I make sure I pack some  folding pumps. Small enough to carry in a teeny clutch bag, these are feet savours and that you and your other half will be thankful for! Coco rose have just teamed up with the Royal Ballet to bring this collection of folding pumps which come complete with their own carry case! Practical AND pretty. I love!

Bag Buddies Go-Go
Are you a lady of many hand bags? I can't help myself, especially in summer. I like to ring the changes to match my mood and look. But if any of you have ever experienced the problem of switching bags last minute, only to leave a vital piece of kit (umbrella, iPod, lipstick) behind then you will appreciate my next trick. Meet the bag within a bag.  Strictly this bag inset from Muji is designed to carry note books and pens, but it's many zips and compartments mean it can pretty much accommodate all the things you need for modern life. From lip gloss to diaries, purses to iPads, everything will fit it. This carry all case can be moved from bag to bag without leaving anything behind and saving the lining of your prized Anya H to boot!

A Girl’s Best Friend

And of course, where would any of us be without our hairdressers. Not only for the fabulous styles and colours they help us achieve but also for the little moments of relaxation they provide in our hectic lives.  Bob hair on Fulham road is my best kept hairdressing secret. I love this place. This boutique salon is ultra-stylish, so friendly and it is a joy to spend an hour with Lajja and the team. Not only do I always love what the stylist do to my hair, the salon also has a great atmosphere with fab music and a glass of wine when you need it.  If you are in the area pop and see for yourself, mention Style Eyes and you will get a 20% discount.

Being a stylish, successful, sorted gal is never going to be a walk in the park, but with a few clever tricks we can pull it off!

What gets you through the day!?

Pants - Marks and Spencer

Pumps - Coco Rose

Bag - Muji

Bob Hair

One for the boys: A guide to dressing the stylish man.

As you might expect, most of my styling clients are women, in search of the perfect look or a specific image. But recently I have been styling more and more men, and with a recent study showing that many women help dress their other halves every day, I thought I would dedicate this update to the boys (and the women who style them).

In many ways, dressing men is simple because their taste and shapes tend to vary less than us gals. In fact, most of the men I style want a simple classic look for the weekend which will work for a hot date, a rugby match or a night out with the boys. So here are a few easy pieces which should tick all those boxes.

Boys, when it comes to jeans, you really are best to sticking to the basics. Unless you are feeling exceptionally brave, or are a natural born exhibitionist, skinny jeans are not the trouser of choice. Most men feel much more comfortable in a relaxed fit straight leg. And in my opinion the most fail safe colour option is dark denim.

Most blokes spend their working week in a collared shirt so for their off duty look I suggest something a little more relaxed. I love long sleevedt-shirts on men. They show off the best bits while looking effortless and just the right side of sensible. Lovers of logo ts need NOT apply.

Blazers can look great for a smart casual image, but for something more laid back opt for a military jacket.  Avoid anything in camouflage or khaki, neutral tones of navy and grey are much more modern.

They say you can tell a lot about a man from his shoes. So what are yours saying about you? Scruffy, tired or stinky sneakers are not a good look, and if you are wearing your Nike Air Max outwith the gym you need some serious help.  Chunky brogues are a great look on men; they are smart but fun and show you have a sense of character.

Stick to the rules of keeping it simple and you will find a look which will please your girlfriend, you mates and your mum. 

Jeans - Diesel

T-Shirt - Dolce and Gabbana

Jacket - Mr Porter

Shoes -  Grenson

Black tie isn’t what it used to be

This week I’ve been focusing on dressing myself for once, as I search my wardrobe for a suitable Black Tie outfit for an event I am off to this weekend.

As a girl who loves her jeans perhaps a little too much, going to the opposite extreme is always fun. Give me heels, sparkles and layers of swishy fabric and I am like a child in a sweet shop.

However I have noticed recently, that while the invite might say Black Tie, more often than not the attending gals are decidedly cocktail in attire. There is a difference.

While summer maxi dresses sweep the high street each year in a wave of beach appropriate colours, a truly classic formal gown which isn’t ultra-frumpy is hard to come by.  Perhaps this is the reason so many of us are opting for knee skimming numbers instead.

I also worry that many of us are feeling a little self-conscious these days and perhaps don’t want to be the ‘most dressed up’ at a party or event.  Better overdressed than under dressed I say!!!!

Black Tie events are our chance to be every bit the girls we want to be, elegant and glam, pampered by our dashing gents who have exchanged jeans for DJs. Why are we not exploiting this opportunity?

So…..  do I take the ‘can’t beat them, join them’ approach and opt for a faithful strapless LBD, glammed up with perfect heels and just the right amount of sparkle or do I go all out in a floor skimming gown? I have about 5 hours to decide!!

Happy weekend to all fellow glamour gals out there!! x

Chain mail bow tie £299 by Laura B

Spring blooms with graphic florals

Flash florals are here to stay this spring and while the high street is packed with everything from Pucci scarf print to pretty chintz, I favour the more graphic prints shown on the Preen catwalks.

Fullcircle is bang on trend this week as it launches it’s new floral collection. In muted and acid tones these pieces are more fashion savvy than your average floral dress, but still pack a pretty punch for spring time weddings and parties.

The key to this look is to keep everything else pretty simple.  I love metallic shoes with floral as they toughen up the look and remove any worry about matching shades.  From Zara to Lanvin there is a plethora of high shine pumps to pick from for this spring time outfit.

Denim and leather biker jackets are perennial style favourites that will always have the ’never dies’ appeal. So this Armani takeon the denim biker is top of my shopping list for spring. Wear with an LBD and killer heels for night time or with graphic floral and pumps for day.

Sometimes the only accessories you feel like wearing are the practical ones you really need, and this look is just crying out for a bit of a masculine edge in the form of a heavy, man’s watch. Wear your oversized timepiece with this pretty dress for ‘models’ day off look’.

Easy spring styling sorted!

Dress- Fullcircle

Pumps-Lanvin

Denim jacket-Armani

Watch - Michael Kors

Palazzo Pants: A fresh and fun spring staple

Calling all pear or hourglass ladies! If you have a petite waist but are not so keen on your hips and bottom then wide leg palazzo pants will work perfectly for you.  

These trousers are bang on trend this spring and will give you a really elegant silhouette while hiding a multitude of sins.

I love these classic navy and white palazzos from PhaseEight. Simple, pretty and a great staple for a spring/summer look.

The wide trousers calls for something more fitted on top to balance out your look and I would opt for something funky and fresh to keep your look young.  If you are proud of your upper arms then this tie front denim shirt from Oasis is the perfect complement to the modern palazzos, or opt for this capped sleeved silk T for a more understated look.  

I would avoid heels with palazzo pants as there is a lot of scope for getting it wrong and tripping over your trouser hem. Instead add a dash of classic colour with these gorgeous Tods loafers. Comfortable and pretty, pumps are the way to pull off this continental look.

Load up this stylish day time look with a bright tote like this one from Anya Hindmarch to keep the look fun and give a nod to this season’s love of colour.

And if Britain can’t deliver the weather for this look, it is a great excuse to book that sunny spring break. 

Palazzo Pants - Phase Eight

Denim Shirt - Oasis

Capped Sleave Top- Fatfetch.com

Red Loafers- Tods

Bright Tote- Anya Hindmarch

How to rock a pretty pleat

Clever styling is not about having a huge wardrobe, or even shopping all the time. The key to looking great is knowing what suits you and what to wear with what.

My next few updates will focus on one key item and share top tips on how to style it up.

This week I am looking at ultra-pretty pleated skirts which are going to be huge come spring.

This super simple skirt from Hoss Intropia might look a little like a school skirt at first but worn with the right items this can be a rocking spring look which will work for the office, a hot date or a lunch with mates.

Black and easy to wear, this is a staple which I love but the cut could look a little frumpy on all but the most model-like of girls, unless you pair it with some great heels. To keep the look from being too prim and proper I would opt for some killer points to lend a rockier edge to the look. I love these snake skin KG pumps. I am slightly over the nude shoe trend now, so I love that these have the same tones but the snake pattern makes them so much more interesting. The metal spike heels ensure your pleated skirt will look anything but school girl.

  

Chanel influences are everywhere at the moment and nothing says Coco like a little boxed blazer. For an easier spring look why not try a knitted version. This crochet jacket from Boden is the perfect tailoring to balance the skirt, keeping it pretty but not too girly. This creamy knit will also look fabulous with jeans or tailored shorts come summer.

As your shoes are really the statement for this look you don’t need to worry too much about jewellery, but a fabulous cocktail ring will always add a bit of glam and balance to the outfit. As always, less is more, so opt for a simple elegant style, such as this rose gold oval ring from Selfridges.

The sun is shining ladies, what better time to try something new. Enjoy!

Pleated skirt

Heeled courts

Crochet jacket

Cocktail ring

Stylish dressing for busy mums and mums-to-be.

Lots of my clients and friends who are mums to be or have new borns have been asking me recently how to pull off a glam look while dealing with the pressures of pregnancy or being a new mum. As a new or busy mum you might feel that you don’t often get the chance to glam up for a date night with your other half so I have put together a simple outfit which will make you look amazing without having to try too hard.

As a new mum or expectant mum you might not feel in tip top shape, or like you want to show off your figure just yet, so wearing a dress might seem a long way off, but picking the right one makes all the difference. I love Isabella Oliver’s ranges and this jersey dress from her 365 collection is perfect.  The ruched shape allows you to show off as much or as little leg as you feel comfortable with and the layers of fabric will be utterly flattering around your tummy. For all you pregnant princesses try out the wrap maternity option which is flattering and comfortable. Opt for the sky blue option which is the perfect nod to this season’s pastel trend.

Colour blocking is a big thing this season and your special date night outfit is the perfect time to show you are still in touch with what’s hot. These gorgeous apricot shoes from Carven are the perfect heel for your date night. The bow sling backs are bang on trend and will add a touch of feminine glamour to your look. Wear them with a dress just now and your favourite skinny jeans for a smart-casual look come spring. And if staying upright on heels all night sounds like too much, then pop these gorgeous pumps from M&S in your handbag for the journey home. The apricot toe colour makes them bang on trend and easy to wear.

Balance these bright pieces with a neutral coat, such as this beige double breasted number from Reiss. The colour might be less than practical but the nude tone is ultra-glamorous and perfect as a warm cover up at a spring wedding.

                                                    

Top off your look with just one statement piece of jewellery to add some sparkle without looking fussy or like you have tried too hard. I love this lace cuff from Stella and Dot. Remember, stunning accessories always look good, no matter what size or shape you are in.

And to keep your outfit from looking too girly add a rockier edge with sleek clutch bag.  American Apparel’s leather pouches are perfect clutch bag’s for a laid back look. Idea for a high octane night out, or popped inside your nappy bag to carry daily mummy essentials.

That’s the outfit sorted, leaving you time to pamper yourself before the big night!