StyleEyes

StyleEyes

Thursday 23 February 2012

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!

Monday 13 February 2012

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!

Thursday 9 February 2012

Easy going Sunday style

Sundays are my day off. I don't want to do anything but read the Sunday Times Style over a croissant and a coffee, walk in Richmond Park and cook a lovely roast! I don't want to try too hard with what I'm wearing and I certainly don't want to wear heels! But does that mean I totally give up on looking stylish? Absolutely not! And you shouldn't either! Here are my top tips to looking Sunday cool without having to try! 

Come spring cream Converse trainers are my Sunday faves but with the weather set to perma frost I opt for something with a little more tog! My regular clients know I am not a fan of uggs! So what are the options for these cold days? Sorrel boots are about the cosiest and most practical footwear around, and yet they have a sense of Alaskan chic about them which I just love. Invest in a pair of these and you will never know cold toes again.



if you are desperate to get some spring into your wardrobe then you can work in some bright jeans to your look now. I love these pink skinnys from gap. They will look fab and fun tucked in to your winter boots and when the weather finally warms up you will be bang on trend in brights and heels.


If you are going bright on the bottom then layer up win neutral tones on top. Natural fibres keep you much warmer than man made and I always advise my clients to invest in the best where they can. Johnstonsof Elgin is my best kept cashmere secret. They only use the highest quality cashmere and their collection has a modern take on classic looks.


Keep the chill out with a smart but casual jacket. These padded coats from Joules keep the wind out, are super cosy when layered up but are still light enough to wear through spring. I swear by mine and always find the feminine cut ultra-flattering.


Top your look off with a cosy faux fur head band and you’ve got your Sunday style nailed. 

Smart but laid back, stylish but low effort, Sunday stroll anyone?



Cashmere roll neck www.johnstonscashmere.com
Padded jacket http://www.joules.com
Faux fur head band http://www.white-stone.co.uk



Thursday 2 February 2012

Stylish dressing for a winter Saturday

Saturday is nearly upon us and this week it is going to be a cold one. In the next instalment of my weekend dressing series I want to give you all some tips for a perfect Saturday daytime look. Whether you are shopping with friends, visiting an exhibition or people watching at your favourite coffee shop, I’ve got the perfect look.

With temperatures dropping below freezing and snow on the horizon the only way is cosy this weekend.
And nothing says warmth like a woollen jumper dress. This greyfunnel neck dress is his right mix between sensible and warm without looking frumpy. Team your fave sweater dress with thick tights and a vest underneath for added insulation.
Cold toes are never in style so look out your boots this weekend. Opt for a day boot with a chunkier heel to avoid looking top heavy. These DVF knee highs are a perfect example. High enough to be sexy but the chunky heel gives extra stability, so you will be able to walk around all day.
It is certainly going to be coat weather for a few more weeks this year, but why not opt for a lighter shade to herald the start of spring (a little in advance). Stay away from blacks and navys and work some nude tones into your outerwear. I love this blush shade coat from Reiss because it is the perfect colour to work now and with a spring palette.
Snow is pretty to look at but you really don’t want it ruining your hair, so pop on a hat this weekend to protect your locks while sporting a hot trend. Fedoras just scream laid back style. And if it is good enough for Ms Moss, we are all over it!!



Top off your outfit with an oversized day bag. Perfect for carrying all your Saturday essentials, this slouchy tote from Jill Sander is a wardrobe staple. Seriously chic. 



Saturday dressing sorted! No excuse for Ugg boots now ladies!! x


Grey Dress www.coggles.com
Knee Boots uk.dvf.com