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!!??

 

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.

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

Smart Casual

Smart Casual by styleeyes1 featuring purple tops

Beat the chill with a stylish scarf

With temperatures dropping just in time for the weekend how can we stay warm without missing out in the style stakes? Luckily the scarf is having a stylish resurgence. With a variety of colours and fabrics on offer there has never been a better time to wrap up warm.

The Navajo trend made its name in Autumn/ Winter and is still worth investing in if you want to look chic and laid back. This beauty from Theodora and Callum has a fabulous geometric print and the earth tones make it true to trend, while it is big enough to wrap around a slouchy sweater or a leather bomber.

The classic scarf print is set to be a big deal for Spring/Summer this year, with designers taking inspiration from silk scarfs by the likes of Hermes and Pucci. It might be a little much to wear top to toe paisley this weekend but it is super easy to try this trend out in a scarf.

If you want to invest in the trend then no one does it better than Emilio Pucci, I love the turquoise in this cashmere number.

But if you would rather try the trend without spending too much then this House of Fraser scarf square has a great mix of chintz and paisley.

If you are a fan of animal prints then a scarf is the best way to add an accent to your outfit without looking over done! The muted tones in this Reiss scarf bring the print up to date for the new season. You’ll be wearing this right through to spring.

And if you’re already dreaming of summer, then this Breton stripe snood from Topshop is the perfect way to lift your look with summer’s perennial nautical style.

Wrapped up against the cold, it's time to rock your weekend look!! 

Luxe Leather

Ultra sexy leather was all over the AW fashion week shows as models slinked down runways for designers including Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs in leather clad looks.   

Now it goes without saying that this look is not for the faint-hearted wearer with latex, PVC and leather playing a starring role in the trend.  So how can you embrace the subtler side of this trend? Details and accessories. Think leather cuffs, belts or items with leather panels rather than top to toe leather. 

If you are feeling brave then this is one look when I don’t think you can go cheap. A pleather, fake leather skirt is never going to look anything but tacky, and that sentiment times 10 if you are thinking leather trousers. 

Boy Meets Girl

I love this trend and think there is nothing as stylish as androgyny, as seen in the Ralph Lauren, Channel and Ferragamo and Celine

I would advise that you aim for a playful take on boy-meets-girl style this season with masculine coats, and elegant trouser suits.

Mix it up with feminine touches to avoid looking too manly, gloss it up with jewellery or gorgeous high heels or work in feminine colours.

This look couldn’t be easier to pull off. Think straight leg trousers, tailored blazers , all with clean straight lines.

For an added touch Invest in a pair of loafers- either heels or flats or ultra on trend brogues- to complete your boyish look.

The StyleEyes guide to adding accent pieces to your wardrobe.

 

 

 

 

The StyleEyes guide to adding accent pieces to your wardrobe.

 

 

Building on my style uniform blog from last week, it’s time to look at accent items. The talking point of any outfit.

I often see clients who own some really stand out items but don't feel they have the know-how or confidence to wear them.

Instead we often stick to safe outfits, in which nothing really stands out. OK, we might not be wearing the most interesting clothes, but at least we know we aren't making a major boo-boo right??? Wrong….!

Finding some amazing accent items and wearing them in the correct way can take a look from so-so to so wow, and it's very easy to get right.

So, think of that style uniform which you have tried and test. Now imaging substituting one of the items for something truly fabulous and daring.

Not only will this kick your look up a style notch or two, it will start getting you noticed for all the right reasons.

Here are a few easy wardrobe substitutes to get you started...

Shoes

Switch your black courts or pumps for a colour, print or texture. Animal print heels will take any office or evening look to a new level, while red patent pumps look super cute whatever the weather. These LK Bennett beauties are on my autumn wish list.
http://www.lkbennett.com/shoes/courts/Shilo_shoe_naturalsnake

Blazer

Tied to your suit for work? No problem, just invest in a contrasting blazer. Black trousers are a great staple, so team them with a white tux jacket, or bright box blazer. I love this look, keeping it corporate but adding in a pinch of your style personality. The look is much more polished and creative overall. This boucle blazer from Zara has a wonderful Chanel vibe. http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product/uk/en/zara-W2011/118141/424540/BLAZER%2BWITH%2BZIPS

Bags

If money is tight stick to tan or grey rather than black, but if you can afford to play around then invest in a metallic leather or snake skin tote. Practical but just a little bit fabulous. This tote from Michael Kors has it all. Wear it with everything from your sharpest suit to your jeans and converse… you won't be disappointed.
http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Michael+Kors+Jet+set+ns+tote+bag/153320141,default,pd.html

Jewellery
We all have our favourite pieces with sentimental value, but try wearing one piece that is a little more fun. Large cuffs are a really great way of refreshing an outfit, while small details on earrings and rings are a wonderful way to make a subtle style statement. I am loving skulls a la Daisy Knights or try this Whistles horse shoe ring for some old school glam.
http://www.daisyknights.com/collections/kim/skull-stud-earrings
http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/Accessories?resetFilters=true#ID=id_903000056722_accessories-jewellery&category=accessories-jewellery

 

Happy styling ladies...be brave!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Essential accent items to add colour to your wardrobe. by styleeyes1 featuring Zara

Office wear that works.

7am Monday morning, time for the first task of the day, getting dressed!

It shouldn’t be that hard given that your wardrobe is fit to burst and you spent Saturday melting plastic at the sales. So why do we find work day outfits so hard to put together?

Here is my guide to office wear that works.

Keep it sleek.

Straight leg trousers are a great staple. Cigarette pants are not as casual as skinny jeans but not as frumpy as black bootleg trousers. Slimming and ultra flattering opt for a high-waisted pair to be on trend or a cropped length for a summery twist.

 Top it off

The addition of a jacket will smarten up any outfit and the high street is FULL of great options for summer which will take you regular office trousers or jeans to new levels.  Feeling brave? Go for one in a statement colour which will make your work-day look pop!

Get shorty

Summer is a great time to experiment with tailored shorts. Professional and trendy - shorts are a great look if you don’t mind baring some leg (and your office dress code allows) this suit from quirky French fashion brand, The Kooples is the perfect way to pull of shorts at work and a great day-to-evening outfit.

Think in colour

Wearing colour to work isn’t a crime, even in the most sober office environment, and stepping away from blacks and greys will make you stand out from the crowd.  Try out navy or nude tones for your basics and add splashes of coral, cobalt and brights for your accent items.

Easy dressing

Dresses are the perfect throw on and go item for work days. No need to think about matching items, these all in one pieces are super easy, especially in summer. Dresses in jersey material are versatile and comfortable for all day in the office, opt for hems that sit on the knee to keep a professional but feminine look.

Shoes matter

Block heels are a no-no and tottering on too-high heels never makes for a professional impression. Opt for pretty as a picture flats which compliment your outfit, or if you need a bit of height aim for a 3 inch heel or a built in platform which will lend you a bit of stability. Nude shoes are a bit hit this season and will be a perfect addition to your summer work wardrobe.

Now off to work you go!

Dress Mango £49.90 reduced to £24.95 http://www.mango.com/
Cigarette Pants Reiss £89 http://www.reissonline.com/
Cropped Blazer Zara £69.99 http://www.zara.com/
Short Suit The Kooples
Jacket £ 220.5
Shorts £ 81 http://www.thekooples.co.uk/
Shoes Jones the Boot maker £69.00http://www.jonesbootmaker.com/