GUEST BLOG POST: FOLLOW THE THREE T’S TO BOOST YOUR BRAND THROUGH VIDEO

Stefania and I have spoken a lot about presenting your brand, and one of the best ways to boost people’s awareness is to get yourself out there on video. Even though we’re all excited about getting back out into the world, many business owners have seen how video has helped them over the past year so they will continue to use them as part of their marketing.

Audiences have responded too, with 81% of people saying they want to see more videos from brands. People are watching videos more than ever, on their mobile, on their tablet, sitting at home or on the go. So even with people moving around - they’ll still be watching your videos on the Tube, on the bus or in the park.

I understand that making videos makes some people feel nervous, but I’m here to make your life easier, I promise. In order to get you out of your head and make videos to increase your visibility and boost brand awareness, I propose you follow the three T’s.

What are the three T’s? Technology, Technique, Technicalities. Easy to remember, and even easier to implement, I promise.

EXPLAINING THE THREE T’S

1) Technology

If you want to create short videos for social media, your blog or vlog – you already have the technology, probably in your hand right now: your mobile phone. You don’t even need a fancy app, just your camera. Position it correctly and press record.

When you get deeper into technology, you can play around with the lens, but until you have mastered the basics, don’t worry about it.

The other thing that is vital when it comes to technology is your lighting. This is probably the single most important piece of advice when it comes to video: lighting can make or break your video. It needs to be bright yet not wash you out, and you can easily buy an inexpensive light to get the right effect. That’s if you don’t have much access to daylight.

The position of the light is important too – make sure that you’re not backlit or getting light from above you, especially if you’re concerned about looking pale or tired. Light yourself from the front and you’ll get the right effect, making you look your best.

2) Technique

The right technique will ensure that you connect with your audience, which is the aim of the game here. You want to capture their attention, deliver your message and begin building trust with your audience. How do you do that? A couple of little tricks make this possible:

a)      Position the camera around arm’s length away to ensure that your whole face can be seen. This is a great distance as it gives the impression that you are standing in front of your potential customer as if they were having a conversation with you.

b) Another trick is to put the camera at eye level, using a tripod, or even propping it up with some books! When you’re speaking to them at eye level, it creates the illusion that you are face to face, which makes people forget the screen a little.

Don’t record when looking up or down at a camera, it’s distracting, can give a wrong impression and will draw away from your message. 

3) Technicalities

When I talk about technicalities, I mean the little details. Your style is important at communicating who you are, but remember so is everything else that the viewer can see. Have you props to support your message, or do you think they will be distracting? What’s going on in the background – remember anything that can draw the eye of your audience will become part of what they think of you. It can also become an extra distraction that will have their attention as opposed to looking at you and listening carefully to what you have to say.

Essentially what I’m saying is to keep it simple. You only have a short window of time to make an impression, so ensure that it’s the right one. Here are some tips on how to do that:

a)      What you’re wearing: I suggest to only wear one or two colours at most, especially if your features are on the fairer side. Bright colours are great in person, but on video they can be distracting – pulling the attention from you and your message. As Stefania has said before, a bright scarf or hairpiece can be very effective.

b)      Your background: Position yourself somewhere that has a plain or simple background. Much like your clothes, bright colours behind you simply create something else for the viewer to look at. Don’t choose a park with children playing in the background – unless that’s part of your story and brand.

Hopefully knowing these three T’s will boost your confidence and improve your video-making skills. You can find out more on my blog, or book a 1-2-1 chat with me to discuss your video strategy and goals.

Blog link: https://ufocuspro.com/in-the-spotlight/

Let’s chat video link: https://bookme.name/eugeniaz/lets-chat-video

GUEST BLOG POST: DECLUTTERING BEFORE A SPRING CLEAN

After the many wardrobe edits I delivered over the past 5 years, I’ve come to the conclusion that one thing is to detox and clear out a wardrobe, another is to keep it tidy and organised. Many people struggle with this, so I’m very happy to host and share this blog post written by Tracy Ross, professional Organiser at Blissfully Organised, where she highlights the benefits of keeping a decluttered wardrobe.

My name is Tracy Ross, and I am a Professional Organiser. For over 11 years I have been supporting my clients to simplify their lives by simplifying their home organisation. The connection between our space and mindset is immensely powerful. If our space is in chaos we can feel chaos in other areas of our lives.

SPRING IS HERE

With the arrival of Spring, we can start to think about preparing our homes for the warmer months to come. As much as I love winter, Spring always has such a positive feel about it. Before you start your Spring clean it’s important to declutter the space first. This involves returning displaced items to the correct storage place in your home and getting rid of the things that you no longer need.  To help motivate you here are some of my top benefits of decluttering your home/workspace.

1.       SAVE TIME EVERYDAY: An uncluttered home with effective storage will save you time. There will be less to clean and you’ll spend less time looking for displaced items.

2.       BREATHE MORE EASILY: Cluttered rooms attract dust and create an environment for germs and pests.

3.       EFFECTIVE HOME MAINTENANCE: Cluttered spaces can hide potential problems such as damp or cracks. If you cannot get to the affected areas easily you can’t see or action repairs.

1.       LESS FINANCIAL MESS & BETTER FINANCIAL PLANNING:  It’s more difficult to keep track of your bills and paperwork in a cluttered environment. Important documents can get lost in piles of paperwork causing you more stress and time spent looking for the paperwork that you need to action.  With effective household paperwork organisation, you can be more proactive and feel more in control.

2.       SELL YOUR HOME FOR MORE MONEY: If you are planning to sell your home an uncluttered space will help to maximise the space that you have and help to secure a higher sale price. Decluttering before you sell will also save you time and money as you’ll have less to move to your new home.

3.       STRESS FREE ENTERTAINING: An uncluttered home means that you can invite friends and family around without having to do a ‘massive’ tidy up before they arrive (often throwing things in cupboards out of view).

4.       RECLAIM MORE SPACE: Decluttering of crammed lofts garages/sheds can create effective space for seasonal items that you need to store from other areas of your home.

5.       SAVE MONEY: Decluttering our homes can help us evaluate future purchases i.e. less duplicate buying and unfinished projects.

6.       REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE: You don’t have to feel guilty about getting rid of the things that you no longer need or simply throw them away.  There are so many options to make a difference by donating items to the right new home.

7.       HOME IS A HAPPY PLACE: Feel more relaxed in your organised space and stimulate creativity.

Often getting started is the most difficult part. You may be feeling overwhelmed and do not know where to start.

Please contact Tracy Ross at Blissfully Organised Home Organisation and Decluttering at tracy@blissfullyorganised.co.uk. She offers a confidential and trusted service that will support you to achieve your ideal home organisation.

PERSONAL STYLIST TOP TIPS TO ORGANIZE YOUR RETURN-TO-WORK(WEAR)

If you’re anything like me then you will be getting very excited about what the next few months will hold for us. Not only are we now able to once again see one another (within the government guidelines) but also, many of us will be beginning to go back to “normal” working lives. Whether it’s coming out of furlough, seeing clients face to face, or returning to the office after months at home, your wardrobe is going to need to return, potentially, to a more professional style. But how can you reorganise your wardrobe to reflect these changes?

Give yourself time

We have indulged, sat at home, and simply started to get used to the comfort of our working from home wear. This means that your previous professional outfits may feel uncomfortable or different to how they used to. Give yourself enough time to retry on your professional clothes, and permit yourself self-care should they no longer fit. Prevent yourself from holding onto clothes that are too big or too small, and just donate them. Take them out of your mind, and give yourself a little boost knowing that now you can upgrade your wardrobe to reflect your personality a little more with some clothes shopping. If you want to know my tips for making your online shopping experience successful, read my blog here.

Plan ahead

Now you have your clothes sorted in your wardrobe, and you’re ready to get back to your working routine, you’ll want to save yourself valuable time! For some, this return to work means extra early wake ups, and long commutes, so any time saved means more time in the shower, having breakfast, with the family, or just simply saving stress in the morning. Plan your outfit the night (or even the week!) before, so you know exactly what you’re going to pick up and put on.

If you are unsure on what outfits work well, then why not head to Pinterest for some inspiration (or give me a call to discuss a Personal Styling Session!) to help create outfits that you love. You can then plan them in a “flat lay” on the bed, see what accessories and shoes work well, and make some fun out of the whole planning process. Once you’ve curated outfits for the week, you can hang them all together so they are easy to pull out of your newly organised wardrobe in a flash.

You may also want to prepare a bag for your change of shoes if you are someone that does a lot of walking but needs to transform into high heels or less comfortable smart shoes for the office.

Create capsule spaces in your wardrobe

If you are changing up your routine with flexible working, meaning you may be working from home some days and then at the office on others, then you may want to create easy to access capsule areas in your wardrobe so you can easily switch between office workwear, and home workwear, as well as the fun clothing for outside brunches and, soon, date nights! When you know the area to pick and choose from for your outfits for specific days, it will make the experience so much more fun.

Manage your expectations

If you are feeling overwhelmed by what to wear, as it’s been a very long time for all of us living in the sort of “half professional” look, then you deserve to give yourself some time to manage your expectations for what the coming weeks and months will look like for you. Planning your outfits, getting clothes together in advance, and making sure there are no items in your wardrobe that don’t fit or suit you, will be one way to help keep the process smooth and calm. If you work in an office, or have networking events that you attend with close friends or contacts, you could all chat together before the working week to see how you’re getting on, help one another with outfit choices, and make it a more fun experience for you all.

My final piece of advice is to enjoy these changes – remember how fun it can be to dress up, create workwear outfits for a meeting, and feel professionally pulled together, and embrace that fun. If it doesn’t feel fun (or if you have always dreaded getting your clothes together for any occasion) then please get in touch – I can help you feel confident, comfortable, and make every morning an enjoyable one when it comes to clothes.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: THE GIFT OF (THE RIGHT) COLOUR

With the arrival of Spring, and lockdown being lifted, clothing brands are reacting with colour – and boy do we need it in our lives.

Something I love about what I do is helping my clients find clothes more enjoyable, with a focus on the colours that work beautifully for their skin, personal style, and personality.

So, what are the new trends in terms of colour, available to us during Spring 2021, and which colours can work best for you? Let’s dive in!

Ice cream sorbet colours

While we may only be in spring and ice cream may not be as enticing as in summer, ice-cream pastels have been a colour trend coming through fashion shows for 2021. As the name suggests, these colours have cool features, which means they work particularly well on people with cooler skin undertones.

From pinks to purples, these pallets are a great way into this fashion trend for summers and winters, depending mostly in the saturations of the hues, and will match amazingly well with silver! While if you believe, or you know, that your features are warm, but you’d still love to go for ice cream sorbet colours, don’t despair, you can find ways to “fix” them through a nice match with one of your best colours, especially neutrals (like browns, beiges, greys, navy blue..) that usually goes with pretty much everything.

Yellows

A perfect colour for welcoming the sun is yellow, and this softer hue is a gorgeous colour to embrace in your wardrobe if you want to dip your toe in bright colours without overwhelming yourself. However, be careful, yellow is not an easy colour to wear. I personally recommend this colour for lighter skin tones such as Spring and Summers. Try out the soft yellow tones with a scarf, or go all out with a comfortable spring-ready light jumper, or dress for brunch with your loved ones.

Whereas Autumns can opt for a more golden tone, or even mustard (that will be available too) and Winters may want to only wear soft yellows as an accessory rather than all over.

Monochromatic white

I love a monochrome outfit – using one colour or shades of the same colour – it can work beautifully for a pulled together, professional look. Spring/Summer 2021 appears to have fallen in love with white monochromatic outfits and this can be a stunning way to welcome a warmer season. Consider keeping the look clean and minimal, with a small number of accessories – like metals - both gold and silver work beautifully with white, one making it warmer and the other cooler, so it can be your way to make your monochromatic white outfit truly work for you.

White can be a difficult colour to wear though, and I recommend you opt for a cream if you think you have softer features, as it isn’t as harsh against your skin. While you can wear a bright white if you are a winter.

Try a stunning jumpsuit or go for separates with a lush suit that can make you feel powerful & professional.

Pretty in pink

With previous years showcasing neon hues of pink, 2021 seems to have embraced a more bubblegum shade, as well as lighter shades – and it can be a very fun colour to wear, for the right skin tones. With the multitude of shades, I recommend finding one that suits you and your personality. Light pinks can be beautiful on Springs and Summers, depending on the hue temperatures, whereas the brighter, shocking pink hues can stand up to Winters. Autumns need to stay on warmer and softer tones, like peaches and apricots.

The lighter pinks can work well with white and light denim, whereas darker shades of pink work really well with darker denim or even black. But if you have a more dramatic or creative style, you can have fun mixing pink with greens or blues in your outfits, like some celebrities are showing off proudly.

It can be a very girly colour, so if that is your style go all out and get yourself a beautiful pink dress and enjoy the spring sunshine!

Green Hues

If you are a vibrant colour fan, then this green trend is fantastic for you! If you are an Autumn, you can pick lime greens, which go fantastically with your skin tone, why not try a beautiful halter-dress for Spring to welcome the warmer weather with the green trend? You may gravitate to a flowy, lime green wrap dress (that is a little more on budget), or a lime green bag can be a less domineering step into the lime green trend. 

For Autumns and Winters, the darker green will work very well with your skin tone and I can suggest a structured strappy dress that will transition well into the Spring and Summer, if you are an abstract style of dresser. Whereas, for my Romantic Autumn and Winters a more flowy deep green dress with florals on it will be the perfect addition to your wardrobe.  This stunning Chloe bag in deep green is a great accessory to add to your wardrobe, for a green addition without having to dedicate to a full outfit, too. Whereas my Summers need to veer more towards the teal green tones, due to their colouring, like these leather trousers by PINKO, or this shirt from ASOS.

Vibrant orange

My final favourite colour in Spring/Summer 2021 fashion trends, is vibrant orange. We all need a pick me up, and this daring colour is wonderful for the soul. Different fashion houses have shared a multitude of tones, so expect our high streets to embrace orange too. Burnt orange is stunning against darker and warmer skin, whereas the brighter hues can be beautiful against Spring tones, who can try out this bright trend with a cardigan or jumper, or treat yourself to a perfect long sleeved orange dress.

For the burnt orange, an accessory like a bag or pair of heels can be very versatile (I’ve found a more budget-friendly replica on Asos here if you love those shoes!), or invest in a stunning silk shirt to work well on Zoom calls and when you go out to lunch with friends.

 Bonus – Colour match trend

Feeling a little overwhelmed with all the colours and unsure how to match them with your wardrobe? The stunning yellow colour works beautifully with caramels and browns, as well as your traditional yellows, and is becoming a trend among the fashion-conscious. It’s not a colour combination that has often been seen, so it’s perfect for those of you looking to be a trend-setter! The caramels and beiges in general also work beautifully with white, black, and other pastel tones so can be played with across outfits and seasons.

source: https://www.thetrendspotter.net/fashion-trends-spring-summer-2021/

If you want some help finding those perfect colours for you all year round, not just for a specific new trend, then get in touch, and we can organise a colour analysis or online personal style masterclass to suit your needs, personal style, and wardrobe.

Which colours were your favourite, that you’ll want to try out?

PERSONAL SHOPPER TIPS: HOW TO PLAN YOUR SHOPPING ONLINE AND MAKE IT REALLY WORK FOR YOU

My gut tells me online shopping will be the preferred options from the majority of consumers over 2021. Online shopping can be "tricky" so, while I absolutely understand that people feel safer and want to avoid stepping into a physical store (and also, most of them do not allow us to try things on during these times) I'd recommend being careful with shopping online, trying to search specific items and avoid random/compulsive purchases. So here are some tips to help make sure your online shopping experience is a good one!

Write a list

My first tip is to write a shopping list and follow it while researching items. Start your list by going through your Spring wardrobe and find the items you feel are missing that can extend your outfits. Do you have a need for new tops, or camisoles, perhaps you may need a few replacement light cardigans – whatever you feel you may need to add to your wardrobe that would actually work with your current collection will ensure you have a list that works rather than a haphazard approach to shopping.

Which clothing brands do you love?

We often gravitate to certain brands that work for us, and our wardrobe will show us those brands. So, while you’re writing your list, find out the brands that seem to pop up regularly. With this in mind, you can then visit their online stores for their new collections or sale items, that match your shopping list!

What cuts work well for your body?

Our body can look amazing in certain styles, and with a knowledge of the style of jeans you love most, to the dress types that you feel amazing in, figure out the cuts and styles you love to wear and this will help you when searching for items online.

For example, if you feel fabulous in square neck tops – look for clothes with a similar neckline that you know you’ll feel confident in. Perhaps you need a new pair of jeans (now we are finally being given the opportunity to go outside with friends once again!), consider the style of jeans you like, as well as the leg length and waist size, which you can replicate with your next purchase. Flared jeans are coming back into fashion, so if you’ve been desperate to get a pair, now is a great time to invest.

What colours will suit your current wardrobe and personal style?

Another really important part to remember when it comes to shopping is to know the colours you love to wear, and that work with your wardrobe. Many online shops allow you to categorise by colour as well as type, so use this option so you’re not distracted by items that just won’t work with your current wardrobe!

Know your budget

My final tip is to consider your budget. Fast fashion works well for quick required pieces, but with so many of us still being wary of going out quite as much, you may want to step back and consider your budget. With a higher ticket price, you will often find a much better item – and if this means waiting a little while before investing in pieces that you will love, or waiting for a sale, then you will find your wardrobe has more clothing that you want to wear more often. Invest in a few important pieces while online shopping that stay within your budget, to treat yourself, but also to know that they will be worn with love & will work with multiple items in your wardrobe (if you’ve done all the other ideas in this list!).

If you are feeling a little overwhelmed by the thought of shopping online, or perhaps you have bought clothes in the past that you’re not using, please get in touch – I can help you with my online personal style masterclass where we will work together to create a perfect personal style for you. With this in hand, your shopping (online and offline) will be a much more enjoyable experience!

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: 10 WAYS TO WEAR A BLAZER

After the announcement by Boris, you may be getting incredibly excited about the future of potentially going outside with friends, or heading into the office. Even if you aren’t planning on going out, but need some ideas to freshen up your Zoom meeting looks, I wanted to share with you a few ways to style up one of my favourite crossover pieces – the blazer!

Why I love the blazer

Let me first share with you why I love wearing a blazer, and recommend at least 1 or 2 in my clients wardrobes.

They can upgrade a look without having to feel stuffy or overdressed; they come in a fantastic range of shapes, colours, styles & patterns; and they can add a dash of style to a casual look or personality to a traditional office outfit.

So, let’s see some ways you can wear your blazer…

Traditional Blazer Styling – with your suit

This is where the blazer was born – to be put over your suit. Whether it’s your tailored suit trousers and a shirt, or a pencil skirt, your blazer works perfectly over a suit and is the optimum meetings/professional outfit.

Over a dress

For those of you who love to wear your dresses to meetings or on Zoom calls (or like me, are dressing up once a week during this lockdown with a lovely dress!) you can always add a fabulous blazer to finish off the look and keep yourself a little warmer in the cooler months. Try to add a pop of colour or statement patterns if your dress is a neutral or simple style.

Draped over the shoulder

Ahh, the gorgeous and ever-sophisticated “over the shoulder” look and one that can work fantastically to add a touch of warmth without the restriction of arms. Pair with a hand held clutch, your favourite pencil dress, or suit, and you are heading for French-girl chique. For a more relaxed way to wear this, I recommend platform sneakers, a pair of your favourite wide-legged trousers, and a casual tee tucked in.

Over your favourite t-shirt

That brings me perfectly onto one of my favourite ways to wear the blazer – over your favourite casual t-shirt. Instantly you will upgrade your outfit to a  more professional one, and can work really well for brunch, or networking social events where you can be a little more smart/casual with your look. I recommend a graphic t-shirt to add a touch of style, but you could also have a plain white tee and have your blazer do all the talking.

With jeans

Time to get a little more casual with your outfit, and this can work really well for seeing friends or going for drinks (when we are able to do so!). Pop your blazer with a shirt or simple top, and then pop on your pair of jeans to help make the outfit a little less formal. You could wear this with heels or trainers, depending on the type of event you are heading to.

Make it sexy…

If you are planning to go on a “date night” indoors, or even to a restaurant when they are open, you can go really sexy with your double or single-buttoned blazer, and wear a beautiful piece of lingerie and nothing else. This isn’t for the faint-hearted so if this feels a little too much, try starting with a deep v-neck top underneath and see how you feel. Pair with a statement necklace or earrings to really finish off the date-night look.

Clashing prints

If you have a few suits, with blazers and trousers or skirts, and they have clashing prints, this modern and quirky look can be a fun way to add a little personality to your outfit. Pop on your blazer that is in one pattern, and clash it with the trousers or skirt. This can be a difficult look to try out, but once you find the pairing you love, you’ll definitely stand out from the crowd.

Keep it monochromatic

If clashing prints feels a little too much, then you can keep your fresh look to a monochromatic style – which means in the same colour or similar colour shades. This is a simple and easy to throw together look, especially if you know your colours that are already in your wardrobe.

Wear your blazer over a slip dress or maxi-cami dress

With the warmer weather coming, you will probably be getting out your spring/summer wardrobe – with that, comes your slip dress or maxi cami dresses which continue to be in-fashion. This can be a great way to feel a little more comfortable in this body-skimming style of dress, as well as add a touch of warmth. Pair with colourful stilettos, and you’re ready to go out for a party or a gorgeous date.

Layer over your comfortable trousers

While we have all been living in our comfy tracksuit bottoms or loungewear, this is actually a style that can work (with the right bottoms, of course!). Pop your sophisticated blazer over your comfortable lounge items for a way to Segway into the more professional styling of being back outside.

To make sure you feel more professional (if you need to) pop on a pair of heels which can elevate the look.

So, will you be trying out some of these blazer outfits? If you’d like to know the ways to make your wardrobe work for you, rather than against you, I’d love to chat. Arrange a free call, and we can see how I can help.

HAND CONFIDENCE AND SANITIZING

Have you ever stopped thinking about the importance of your hands in your everyday life and style?

Hands are the parts of the body that are always exposed and clearly visible (even more than the face at the moment). If you look down at the keyboard, the first thing you see is your hands; whenever you grab something, your hands are there in front of your eyes; during an online meeting you move your hands and people can still see them; when you meet someone (not now maybe but it'll happen soon again) your hands are the first point of contact between you and someone else - and that's also why some people define them as the very first business card. Besides, well-groomed nails have always been considered synonymous with beauty.

At a personal level, having beautiful hands makes us feel presentable and "right". Whilst when we have old, half chipped nail polish, bitten nails, or cracked hands, we just don't feel comfortable. Not by chance is hand-beauty a million-pound industry, which sees lots of people (not only women) investing into it every year.

And yet, I find that many people still overlook their hands and their nails, and over the last months, the constant use of hand sanitizers and aggressive detergents has surely not helped people in taking good care of their hands.

This is why I thought to interview a true expert: Sabena Malik founder of Nails Haute Couture, who has helped countless numbers of clients look after their own nails.

Here are a few questions that I asked Sabena to help us have beautiful and tidy-looking hands and nails, without too much fuss.

Q: What can we do to take care of our hands and nails on a daily basis? Especially now that we are using hand sanitizers all the time.

A:  Luckily there are hand sanitizers available for sensitive skin, some with Aloe Vera so you can find one that suits your skin best.

Using natural hand cream without mineral oil or alcohol maybe before bedtime is a great way to help your hands and nails recover from the stresses of hand sanitizing.  Shea Butter is super absorbent and coconut or olive oil is hydrating for the nails and cuticles. If your hands are exceptionally dry, wearing cotton gloves during the night can really help lock in the moisture and condition the skin. Organic Aloe Vera Gel is very soothing and healing too.  We keep ours in the fridge and apply under our hand cream for extra hydration.

Q: How important are our hands in our general style and presence?

A: Tony Robbins once told his story about how his nail biting cost him a very valuable business relationship because the person saw his blood-covered fingers from biting his nails and she said she couldn’t work with someone who doesn’t have the discipline and self-respect for himself!

Nail biting is a sign of insecurity and basically a bad habit.  If you’re in business, everything from shiny shoes, clean teeth and manicured hands can be an indication of the level of your self-respect and confidence.

Q: Do you have some quick and easy tips on how to have good looking hands, even if we have no time to have a manicure?

A: Just bringing your nails into shape and giving your hands and fingers a little massage with a good hand cream at the end of the day in front of the TV can do wonders.  Our hands do work hard for us and deserve this little treat at least!

Q: Which products would you suggest to use to keep hands hydrated and help nails grow strong and look nice, even without nail polish?

Alcohol and mineral oil ingredients in skin care products will block the pores and will just sit on top of your skin without being absorbed.  Any good skin care product will not have these ingredients so watch out for them.  I love anything with shea butter and aloe vera.

I also drink a collagen-boosting supplement every day which is great for healthy skin, hair and nails. 

Q: Is cutting your cuticles bad for the skin?

A: Cuticles are designed to protect your nails from bacteria and cutting them makes your nails vulnerable.  If they are cut so much that they are red or bleed, open or irritated skin can contract all kinds of bacteria and can lead to nail fungi and skin infections.

The best way to treat your cuticles is to just leave them. When they are soft from a shower or bath, gently push them back and using a cuticle nipper just nip off any loose skin.
Hydrating with a good cuticle oil is great to keep them conditioned.

This article is not intended as medical or scientific advice. If you have any concerns, please consult a GP or skin specialist.

If you liked Sabena's tips and would like to get in touch with her, her details are below:

www.nailshautecouture.com

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabena-malik-09091128/

or Sign up for Nailtime Stories at nailshautecouture@gmail.com  

7 TIPS TO FIND THE PERFECT PAIR OF TROUSERS

In this article I am delighted to have a guest post from tailor, Dara Stringham, who shares her advice on how to find the perfect trousers for you, and how to use a tailor to help make them fit perfectly.

Why is it so hard to find trousers that fit?

7 tips to get the perfect pair of trousers

I’m sure that most of us have asked ourselves this question: Why is it so hard to find trousers that fit? And perhaps we’ve taken it further to think: What is wrong with my shape?

The truth is that trousers are one of the most difficult garments to get right - especially for women. We all carry our weight in different ways and as we age our shape changes too. I am certainly seeing a difference in my waistline now that I have reached my forties. Partly it’s having had children, but it’s also natural metabolic changes that occur as we grow older.

When drafting a pair of trousers for my clients, I take into account a variety of factors that go beyond simple measurements. For example, the shape of the hips, tummy, thighs, and seat. Are they round or straight, what is the angle of the hips from front to back, left to right, the overall posture?

Conventional ready-to-wear can only accommodate a basic symmetrical shape - and if you’re lucky you’ll fit into it. However, it’s far more common not to, which is why I’d like to share a few tips on getting trousers to fit better, and what to consider when purchasing a pair.

1.     Always fit your largest measurement.

When purchasing clothing, it’s a good rule of thumb to fit your largest measurement and then work with an alterations tailor to fit the rest of the garment to your shape. So, if your hips are wide, make sure you have enough room in the trousers to sit comfortably and not have unsightly creases cutting across your thighs. Then have the waist taken in to fit.

Have a look at the waistband on the trousers, and ask yourself these questions:

·       Does it have a centre back seam?

·       Are there belt loops that might get in the way?

·       How easy is it to open and detach from the trouser legs?

·       Are there pockets in the side seam which could make taking it in at this point more difficult?

Considering these questions when you are shopping will help you decide whether it will be an easy alteration or a more complex one. If you’re not sure, buy them and take them to a tailor for advice.

2.     Find a tailor that will do a fitting with you.

Following on from my point above, I would suggest finding a tailor or dressmaker that will do a fitting with you. So, rather than going in and saying, “I need the waist taking in by 4cm”, have your tailor look at the fit with you. Often in addition to taking in or letting out the waist, adjustments need to be made to the crotch and inside leg seam. Having an expert give you advice is the best way to achieve a good result. For tips on how to find a good tailor you can read my blog here.

3.     Consider the seam allowance.

Most conventional garments only have 1cm seam allowance to save on production and material costs. However, better brands will have a deeper seam allowance of around 2cm for the leg seams, and 3+cm on the centre back. Taking note of this at time of purchase will give you more scope for alterations in the future - especially letting out your favourite pair of trousers should it become necessary. (And after a year at home this is increasingly the case!)

4.     Buy more than one pair.

As a good pair of trousers are so difficult to find, I recommend buying more than one pair of the same design if you find ones that fit. I have so many clients who come to me disappointed that their favourite pair are no longer stocked. Retailers change their collections, even their basic styles, on a regular basis. So don’t rely on your favourite design being available forever.

5.     Find the best style to suit your shape.

Finding the perfect trousers begins with understanding which style suits you best. Are you long or short waisted? Are your legs long or short in comparison to your torso? What is your overall body shape? A personal stylist such as Stefania can give you expert advice on which styles are best for you and more importantly where to find them. For example, if you are long waisted, high rise trousers are ideal for you. They optically shorten the torso and lengthen your legs bringing your body into proportion. Or if you are wider on your top half than your lower half you could choose wide legged trousers to balance this out.

6. Consider the pockets.

Pockets and their placement can play a big role in the fit of trousers. If you have a round tummy slanted pockets on the front are more likely to gape open and add bulk where you don’t want it. Instead, having pockets in the inseam or choosing ones that can be closed with a zipper can be a better option.

On the back, the placement of patch or jetted pockets with flaps can help break up the area. Again, considering your shape and knowing what will work best for it is important.

7. Trouser Pleats.

Pleats or sharp creases are a great way to define the leg and make sure it looks neat and long. The vertical line creates length. The direction of the pleats is also important. If they are facing towards the middle, they draw the eyes inwards, minimising wide hips. Folded towards the outside the reverse is true. So, a simple reversal of the pleat direction can make a big difference to the look of the trousers.

I hope the above tips are useful and give you some ideas on how to achieve a better fit. If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch.

And if you’d like to find out more about the most common fit problems when it comes to trousers you could also read my post here.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: HOW TO WEAR COMFY CLOTHES AND STAY STYLISH!

Style is changing, we have seen during the last year that fashion and style has evolved into a comfortable, practical form while we stay home and stay safe. However, for many of us, the “comfy” look can feel frumpy, and unstylish, so in this blog I wanted to share with you a few ways to make your comfy clothes feel & look great!

Go for colour!

Often the first thing I recommend to any of my personal styling clients is the importance of colour, and there is never a more important time to consider colour than when you are looking at your comfy wardrobe. While remaining comfortable, you want to feel put together, and a splash of colour really can help to bring through your personal style. Whether it’s a bright hoodie, or a colourful headband, bring some colour to your comfy wardrobe to feel more stylish.

Bring in texture

Something I find important about comfortable clothing is the textures. From textured velvets to wool, the textures you can find in your clothing will not only add an extra layer of comfort, but also work really well in adding a little style to your look. Velvet, for example, can look fantastic when on a video thanks to the different ways it picks up the light. Find some great textures & fabrics to add to your wardrobe and upgrade your comfy style.

 Add a blazer!

If you want to upgrade your athleisure look in a flash, add a blazer! The added layer works beautifully over many different casual looks – from over a hoodie and jeans, to upgrading your workout top if you need to jump on a video call. I recommend having a few different styles of blazer in your wardrobe, a formal muted blazer, a fun piece that showcases your personality, and a thicker (perhaps wool) blazer for colder days.

Indulge in high quality comfortwear

While you may feel that the classic active wear you want to wear to work out in can be a budget piece, I highly recommend investing in some key comfy pieces that will last a lifetime. When you invest in a high-quality piece, you instantly feel more put together. This isn’t to say you have to spend thousands on a designer item, but looking for something that isn’t fast-fashion priced will mean your piece will last longer, and feel a better quality too. Knitwear is one category I recommend investing in and you can find some stunning items from the high street that are built to last and look unique. I also recommend getting a few “casual” pieces that can also transform into work-ready items like a matching set.

Embrace comfort

My final tip is to embrace that many of us are having to deal with a huge amount right now, from looking after the kids, living through a rollercoaster of changes, and our lives genuinely changing almost every day, you should give yourself the permission to embrace the comforts in your every day life. Whether that’s giving yourself time to yourself, or living in your favourite snuggly jumper and yoga pants, giving yourself the permission to be comfortable is just one way to help build your wellbeing during these trying times.

If you would like some advice to upgrade your comfort wear, or want some advice on how to create a wardrobe that is stress-free, I’d love to chat.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: HOW TO LOOK AND FEEL CONFIDENT, FROM THE WAIST UP

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: HOW TO LOOK AND FEEL CONFIDENT, FROM THE WAIST UP

With the recent announcement meaning many of us will be continuing to work from home for a while yet, I wanted to share some more tips to help people look and feel their best for the online meetings we will continue to be hosting!

Brighten up your mindset with some colour

Winter is often a time of year when many of us feel quite grey and perhaps even a little moody. For those of us without the joyous snow, it has been rainy and cold which means plenty of layers and perhaps our summery florals & colours are impatiently waiting to be pulled out for summer. My thoughts on winter are that this is the time of year that we most need colour in our wardrobe, and I feel this couldn’t be more needed than while we are staying at home. With an addition of colour to your outfit you will start to feel more uplifted, and they will also help you stand out when on a large online meeting!

You’ll want to know the best colours for your skin tone but a few ideas I can suggest for online meetings are pinks, blues, oranges, and bright yellows – they stand out really well on camera.

You could even go for a really bright and fun pattern like this jumper from House of Sunny, which will definitely perk you and your fellow online meeting attendees’ up!

Boost your confidence with a touch of make-up

Working from home can feel like bliss for those of us who had to get up hours in advance of starting work to not only get the kids ready and commute to the office, but also for the extra time-savings of no need for make-up. However, make-up can be a wonderful confidence and mood-booster. Whether it’s a colourful lipstick, or a dash of eyeliner, or even just a sweep of mascara, they can go a long way to helping boost your mood and help you look put together if you are asked for a surprise online meeting that you thought would be just a telephone call!

Go for an easy to apply, long-lasting lipstick in a shade that works for you, or a water-proof mascara that can survive the rain if you nip outside for a breath of fresh air on a walk or jog during the day.

Add an accessory

My final tip for boosting your confidence from the waist up is to add a favourite accessory to your outfit. Something that has sparkle, a lovely memory, or feels special to you. From a colourful silk scarf, to a fun pair of earrings, you can bring an accessory to your outfit quickly and easily to upgrade your casual work from home look to a professional business meeting outfit.

If you are feeling a little uninspired or overwhelmed on how to feel more confident when you attend online meetings or events, then I’d love to invite you to join Mel Byron and me for our “Confidence and Style from the Waist Up” webinar on 18th January where we will help you elevate your look and learn how to speak with professionalism & confidence.

NEW YEAR NEW YOU - TOP TIPS TO KICK START 2021 AND FEEL YOUR BEST

As a personal stylist I love helping my clients boost their confidence through their personal style and with a wardrobe that they feel truly showcases their personality. This year has been a tough one for so many of us, so I wanted to share some of my confidence boosting tips to help you start 2021 with a growth of confidence and feel your best!

Find colours that you love and wear them more often

Do you find that sometimes you put something on that is in a certain colour and you just feel more confident? Colour can be a truly transformative element to our confidence. Bright colours, especially during the colder months, can be a wonderful way to make you feel a little more bright and fun. Try adding some colour to your outfit with accessories like a hat, scarf, or if you’re feeling really adventurous a coat or go for a classic with some bright and beautiful shoes!

Dress up for yourself

With everything that’s been going on in 2020, many of us have been staying indoors, living in our yoga pants, or pyjamas unless a meeting calls for it. Although this was fun at the beginning, it can feel a little repetitive. I find dressing up can really improve my mood, and is something I am actively doing at least twice a week. Whether it’s for date night indoors with your partner, a meeting online, or just to get yourself some coffee, going the extra mile with your outfit can be a great way to improve your confidence.

Whether it’s a demure long dress for the evening, or a glamourous shirt that you feel great in, treat yourself to an outfit you love and wear it.

Actually treat yourself!

Relaxation and self-care are ways to help build your confidence, and are important parts to helping us feel our best. For me, having a relaxing bath is a really lovely way to treat myself, and makes me feel great – I get to read a book, light some candles, and have some wonderful smelling body soaks to unwind. For other ideas you can treat yourself by painting your nails, reading a book, taking a break for coffee, calling a loved one, or using some wonderful body care items.

However you are planning to spend the last week of the year, and planning for 2021, I hope you spend time on yourself too. If you would like to treat yourself to the gift of a wardrobe that brings you joy, please do get in touch and we can organise an online Personal Style Masterclass together! Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

PERSONAL SHOPPING TIPS: HOW COVID-19 HAS CHANGED FASHION TRENDS

2020 has been a strange year for all of us, and as a personal shopper and stylist I have seen many changes within the world of fashion. From access to sustainability, and even the trends that reflect the mood of the world right now, we are seeing huge changes in the industry. Within this article, I wanted to share some of my findings as well as the winter trends that we have seen previously, versus the trends we are seeing right now.

2019 Winter Fashion Trends:

In 2019, fashion during the winter was all about sparkles, dresses, and formal wear with fun at their core. With many people having special events to attend and parties to go to, fashion during this year, as with many years previously, reflected these events within their clothing ranges.

You will have potentially invested in some party dresses, sparkly jumpers, a long beautiful coat or gorgeous shoes for a special occasion in the past and either re-used them with a few additional accessories to change up the look, and hoped to do the same this year with a diary of events with work colleagues, friends, or family. To say our diaries probably look a lot different now is an understatement, and fashion houses are showing these huge changes within their collections.

2020 Winter Fashion Trends.

The real puzzle, after working from home which, for many, was a completely new thing this year, as well as shops being closed, parties being a no-go (at least in person) and gatherings not on the cards for the near future, your plans will undoubtedly look different. The truth is that fashion trends adapt to times and people’s needs, and nothing has been seen more this year than the need for comfort, but with a twist. People are becoming fed up of wearing their yoga pants and pyjamas, the element of enjoyment and fun wearing these items seems to have tired, and people now want to dress up, if even for an online gathering, small social event outside, or a date with their loved one in the home.

Here are some trends I have seen for this winter, from head to toe, from high street to high end!

Comfortable & Luxurious Sweaters

Countless companies have been adding loungewear to their collections, and there is no difference for the Winter styles, however, a touch of sparkle is being brought in. From cosy jumpers with a touch of sparkle,  to luxurious yet comfortable loungewear sets, expect to make comfort & luxury a combination that will remain this month!

Upgraded Loungewear

Countless companies have been adding loungewear to their collections, and there is no difference for the Winter styles this year. Luxurious materials, unique colours, and comfort at the heart of each design, these loungewear designs have changed the way we can look at these comfortable styles. From luxurious yet comfortable loungewear sets, to a beautiful dusty pink set in soft cotton-jersey  expect to make comfort & luxury a combination that will remain this month.

Fun & inspiring words

I’ve seen the classic sayings on tops and jumpers for a few years now, and with 2020 being as it has been, we all need a little bit of positivity, if even on our clothing to remind us & bring a smile to our faces, and to those we connect with through VC or in person. From eco-cashmere jumpers by Alberta Ferretti with a range of positive quotes, to colourful rainbow sweatshirts that are more casual, clothing is working to bring a smile to your face during these colder months.

Leggings and Jogging bottoms get an upgrade

With many of us only needing to dress-up from the waist up, we are seeing many designers creating luxe-joggers and leggings. From suede effect joggers by Max Mara, to cream knitted joggers by Mint Velvet, expect your jogging bottoms to feel amazing, and perhaps even work outside of the home (if you so wish).

Keep your feet warm!

If you’re foregoing the stilettos this year, or perhaps having your work Christmas do online, then you’ll be pleased to hear that keeping snuggly and warm for your feet is top of the agenda. Whether it’s gorgeous shearling-lined slip-ons by Porte & Paire, or cosy knitted booties from Mint Velvet, expect the most comfortable year yet – at least for your feet!

Glam but Comfortable

If you are on the lookout for a party-ready look, then designers have a huge host of comfortable yet glamourous styles that have come to retailers across the globe. So for those of you looking to dress up this Christmas, why not try a beautiful lace shirt by Dolce and Gabbana or a more budget friendly version by  & Other Stories to add some drama to your look? If you love dresses, then there are countless comfortably glam styles to choose from. I think a knitted dress is  great way to feel comfortable and warm, yet stylish, and with the right care they can last for years, so when we are able to go out once again, you can re-wear them. From a casual-chic cashmere and wool-blend midi dress by Isabel Marant with balloon sleeves, to a zebra patterned jersey midi dress with turtleneck and A-line silhouette, there are some beautiful options to get dressed up while remaining comfortable this season.

So, will you be dressing to impress this season, or will you be investing in some comfortably chic items to add to your Working from Home looks?

PERSONAL SHOPPING TIPS - CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

As Christmas approaches, I am sure many of us are wondering what a different style of Christmas this will be. If you are looking for some inspiration for gifts you can send to your loved ones, that can be wrapped and lovingly curated by you, without having to leave your home, then I wanted to compile some ideas that may work for your 2020 Christmas.

Stylish Christmas gifts for women

Skincare gift set

You really can’t go wrong when you look for a gift when it’s indulgent, relaxing and something that perhaps your loved one wouldn’t get for themselves, but will adore when they receive it! I love being able to find indulgent spa items such as face masks, body soaks, and lotions. One idea for an “all in one” gift can be a “pamper kit”, with many of these on the market you can be as indulgent as you like, plus they often come with sample sizes so your friends can try out the items. Upcircle have created a lovely pamper kit with a range of their best sellers; as an alternative option, Kiehl’s ultra facial favourites skincare gift set is wonderfully indulgent. For any friends that are vegan, you could create this personalised Aphrodite & Ares pampering & relaxing kit from notonthehighstreet, which includes options such as a fragrance, bath salts, towel, candle, and exfoliating mitt.

Jewellery gift ideas

For a little sparkle at Christmas, jewellery can be a wonderful gift idea for your loved ones. I recommend making sure you know which type of metal your loved one prefers before investing in a jewellery item for them – gold, rose gold, and silver are often the go-to, but you can also see pearls and even quirky colourful jewellery. If you’re looking for a quirky jewellery item, then these colourful sea horse raffia earrings which are hand woven are a fabulous and unique item. This choker necklace in gold with beautiful leaf detail is another unique piece but with a more classical edge – it is a beautiful piece and one that is sustainably created by Smilla Brav. Finally on my recommended jewellery items for Christmas gifts is a bracelet – this can be a more approachable option, and a simple bracelet can be a lovely gift to give to your loved one. I love this silver double drop bangle which comes in 4 different colours, by Rosaspina Firenze, or this Love & Positivity spinning stone bracelet in recycled silver or gold by Amy Russell Taylor Jewellery is a beautiful gift idea.

Letterbox flower subscription

If you have a friend that deserves a regular smile, then a flower subscription box could be a beautiful idea for them. There are lots of incredible suppliers in the UK, and some of my favourites are Bloom & Wild and Freddie’s Flowers. Each of these providers offer a regular subscription that you can have in a 3 month or 6 month option, depending on how you would like to gift. They are seasonal, beautiful, and in my experience last an exceptionally long time, so they brighten up your loved one’s home as a reminder of you.

Accessories

As a personal stylist, I’d be amiss if I didn’t recommend accessories as a great gift item for Christmas. From headbands to scarves, you can find a wonderful item for your loved one this Christmas that can work across seasons for their wardrobe. For a long haired friend who loves colour, this silk scrunchie in pouncing leopard pattern is a beautiful & fun gift idea, as it is made of silk it can make sure that their hair doesn’t go static, too! For a more classic piece you could gift a bag that your friend can use for years to come. From a classic crossbody in black, to an indulgent Alexander McQueen shoulder bag, you really can have some fun finding the perfect bag for a Christmas gift for your loved one.

A stylish notebook

For the friend that loves to jot down her ideas, you can’t go wrong with a beautiful notebook to add to her collection. From the stunning jaguar hardback pack of 2 hardback notebooks, to these beautiful handbound leather notebook in a range of colours, a notebook can be a beautiful gift to give to your friend this Christmas.

STYLISH CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR MEN

Men can be really difficult to buy for (or is that just me?) so finding the perfect gift for the men in your life may feel more daunting than any of the other gifts you look to get this year! Here are a few of my masculine favourites that you can get online to treat some of the men in your life.

A watch can go a long way

My husband loves watches, and they are a classic piece that can be added to a man’s wardrobe to work with their fashion preferences. If you are looking for a life-time investment piece that your loved one will adore, this PORTUGIESER CHRONOGRAPH with blue face and sapphire glass it’s a beautiful investment piece for that truly special person in your life. Tag Heuer are another fabulous watch maker for men, renowned for their unique sports and classic watches, I love the look of this beautiful Carrera watch with leather strap for the more classic style. If a metal strap is more your loved one’s style, this Longines Conquest Chronographs is a beautiful piece (and under £1,000!). If classic is what the man in your life is all about, then you can’t go wrong with a Rolex. They are an investment piece, but they last a lifetime and are impeccable, my husband’s favourite is the Oyster which has a range of beautiful face colours to match their fashion preferences.



I completely understand that these watches are in the higher spectrum of budgets, but you can find amazing finds through vintage stores and there are countless online stores that specialise in preloved watches such as Watchfinder and Goldsmith’s have their own pre-owned selection. From a beautiful pre-owned Longlines La Grande Classique for just £850, to a TAG Heuer Monaco piece at just £1,925 (they retail at £4-5000) you can truly find a wonderful piece that has history, lasts a lifetime, and will look fantastic.



Create your own Christmas hamper

I recently found this fabulous independent small business that creates a host of incredible indulgent gifts that you can send to your loved ones. They recently launched their Christmas gift offering and one of them is specifically for men. From delicious chocolate treats, to a Gentlemen’s Sheet Mask, you really can get a gift together that feels personalised and fun, all in a neatly wrapped box. You can also indulge your loved one with a Fortnum and Mason gift hamper, which can range from £60 to over £200, and they’re perfect for the foodie friend in your life that deserves a gorgeous hamper as a treat this Christmas.

Cookery Kit

If your loved one is a dab hand in the kitchen, and wants to increase their knowledge then a baking kit can be a great idea. I found this fabulous Pasta Making Kit that gives you all the ingredients and tools you need to make your own pasta, for just  £25. Another fun cookery gift set is the Create Your Own Gin Cream Tea set by The Alphabet Gift Shop, which is a fun quirky option for your sweet-toothed friend.

Men’s toiletry gift set

I have had the privilege of helping my male clients with their personal styling in the past, and something they often ask about during our experience is how to take better care of their skin. If you know someone who deserves a box full of fabulous goodies that will take care of their skin then this organic toiletries set could be perfect, plus it comes in a gorgeous wicker basket that they can use for picnics in the future! For a relaxing and indulgent option, you could treat them to the Morris & Co Men’s relaxation gift set, which includes candle, vegan leather case, nourishing hand wash, and hip flask!

Socks

We’ve all heard that socks are a regular go-to item for men, but let’s move away from the classic styles and bring some fun to your friend’s feet. There are some incredible styles and comfortable options that will keep their feet warm yet stylish this Christmas. For the fun and quirky fashion-lover, these Look Mate London Super Socks in bright blue are a fabulous & fun gift idea. If bright blue with multicoloured patterns may feel a little too much for your friend, then this gift box of bamboo socks can be a great option.

BONUS CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS!

Elegant Pyjamas & Loungewear

We all love to be comfortable, and with more of us working from home, investing in good lounge wear is imperative. If you want to treat someone to some luxurious lounge wear that can double as workwear on Zoom meetings, then you could gift them loungewear items they’ll love.

Luxury pyjamas for women

There’s nothing quite like putting on warm, luxurious loungewear or pyjamas, but often we don’t treat ourselves to these beautiful items. That’s where you can come in! These glorious pyjamas by Fable and Eve are soft to the touch while remaining warm for winter and cool for summer, are a fun print that feels beautiful on the skin. For serious luxury, you can’t go wrong with Olivia Von Halle’s loungewear collection, such as this beautiful 1920’s inspired set with mother of pearl buttons and French seams in the classic white and black colour palette. For a more budget friendly option, take a look at Hush’s pyjama collection which has some elegant and fun patterns, including this beautiful “oriental bird” print pyjama set which could work perfectly on a Zoom meeting acting like a blouse!

Fabulous pyjamas for Men

These brushed-cotton pyjama trousers from Derek Rose are a great option, as they are comfortable and fashionable. For a little more fun, these rhino print organic cotton trousers by John Lewis are a cute option.

I hope these gift ideas have inspired you for your 2020 Christmas, and beyond, and if you are looking for a personalised gift that can truly make a difference for your loved one for years to come, then I’d love to recommend my Personal Styling and Personal Shopping gift vouchers.  Whatever you get up to this Christmas I wish you a safe and wonderful end to the year.

HOW TO USE BRANDING APPS TO GROW YOUR SMALL BUSINESS

Most entrepreneurs are always on the lookout for ways to save time. Running a business can be challenging. There’s a lot to do, and it can be hard to juggle all your tasks. But, luckily, there are loads of apps around to make life easier. 

From managing content to creating invoices, there are plenty of tools to help. And, branding is no exception. If you’re looking for ways to work on branding your business, here are some of our favorite apps - keep reading to find out more!

Content Management 

Small businesses often rely on content to get their brand message out there. If you want to make this process as efficient as possible, using content management apps are essential. 

For example, a blog management tool like Wordpress can be helpful in drafting posts, as well as getting key insights into SEO and readability. Or, if you use email marketing to send out content, Mailchimp gives you the power to create and manage campaigns very easily. 

A well-crafted brand identity goes hand in hand with strong online visibility. Many businesses work with an SEO agency to ensure their brand gets the exposure it deserves.

Visual Content 

One of the most important aspects of branding is visual content. However, research shows that. For nearly a quarter of content marketers, designing visual content is their biggest challenge. 

This doesn’t necessarily need to be the case. Luckily for businesses, there are now lots of apps available to create professional graphics, images, and videos. These can be used to improve engagement in social media posts, blogs, emails, and more. 

There’s plenty of choice when it comes to tools. One of the most versatile is Canva, which has a range of features. Alternatively, tools like Adobe Lightroom are great for editing images. 

If you use social media to publish posts and find new readers, you can download apps from the different platforms to do this. Alternatively, to manage your social media content in one place, apps such as Hootsuite provide tools to manage profiles and drive results. 

Logo Design  

Never underestimate the importance of a professional logo. This is crucial in your branding efforts, as it’s your logo that will reinforce your brand identity and ensure your business is instantly recognizable to your customer base in the future. 

For businesses that don’t have a logo or need to give their current one a revamp, there are lots of tools available to create one. Apps like LogoCreator are ideal for creating logos that can be used on your website, social media, blog, and other platforms. 

Podcasting Tools

Podcasting is known to be one of the most effective marketing tools. They are more popular than ever, and they are an amazing way to showcase your brand and expertise. 

When using podcasting as part of your branding strategy, no doubt, you’ll be looking for the best tools. Tools like Anchor can help you make recordings and other audio clips, including voice clips, which can then be shared instantly with your audience. 

Analytics Tools 

For any business owner trying to track the success of branding efforts, there’s a multitude of tools available to help with this. 

One of the most commonly used is Google Analytics, which has features like tracking visitors to your website and generating marketing reports. 

For entrepreneurs trying to grow a small business, maximizing efficiency and productivity are key to success. Apps are a fantastic way to streamline processes and simplify the everyday running of your business whilst maintaining strong customer service. 

If you’re looking for the best options, the tools we have listed are all awesome for saving time and cutting costs, yet staying professional. This gives you the freedom to work on growing your business and boosting sales. 

PERSONAL STYLIST TIP: THE CROSSOVER PIECES EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE IN THEIR WARDROBE

I love a tidy, organised, and season ready wardrobe, which you can learn about here, but there are often pieces that we call “crossover” pieces that can stay in our wardrobe during all seasons. They are items of clothing that you love, and can be timeless in your wardrobe.

Crossover clothing examples

I wanted to share with you a few of my favourite crossover pieces in my own wardrobe to help inspire you, and recommend some items you can add to your wardrobe that will work for Autumn, all the way to Summer!

Leather jackets

A leather jacket can be a staple in your wardrobe, and will always stand the test of time. I recommend investing in a really good jacket that you adore, if you are vegan there are countless faux-leather jacket options you can get nowadays, such as this Melrose vegan moto jacket, or this bright cobalt blue BB Dakota biker jacket, for those of you who just love a splash of colour! There are also the classic leather jackets that age with time and become softer and more classic with the years, such as this black All Saints moto jacket or this DOUBLE-FACED BIKER JACKET by Zara.

As someone who truly believes that eco fashion is something we really need to be conscious of, you can get some incredible vintage leather jackets from vintage shops in London or surrounding areas, so if you are able to visit a vintage clothes shop, I recommend having a browse for one that has been preloved and is much softer to use. You can also try out one of the online vintage stores such as Vestiare Collective, hardlyeverwornit.com, Thrift.plus, houseofvintageuk.com, or Vinted – which is an app you can use to sell or buy preloved items. Whichever place you go to, I truly love a leather jacket as it can last a remarkable number of years in your wardrobe as long as you take good care of it. You can wear these in the Winter as your top layer, or in the summer as outerwear over your shoulders to add a touch of protection for the evening.

Classic tee

A good t-shirt is hard to find, but when you have the go to shape and style that works for you, then you can utilise them as a great crossover piece in your wardrobe. I have a selection of white and black t-shirts that can just be thrown on in the summer, or added as an extra layer in the winter, that can I go to in my wardrobe when I need them. A cotton t-shirt is best for all weathers, like this one from & Other Stories, but if you are looking for something a little more trendy, you can look for a vintage band t-shirt, or a graphic tee with a cute design on it like this one from Lanvin that can add a little flair to your simple outfit of jeans and trainers, or keep some casual fun to your midi-skirt and heels.

One of my favourite t-shirt stores is Happyfern, a new sustainable brand launched by Gosha Doubtfire, that makes t-shirts and sweatshirts in recycled cotton, for women, men and kids. We’ve even collaborated to create a one of a style tee too!

Crossover dresses for all seasons

Dresses can be a really easy way to dress up or dress down in a flash, just using the right accessories. There are of course dresses that work specifically for summer or winter, but with the right additions you can change up your favourite dresses with a simple knitwear item over the top, or a long-sleeved top underneath. You could even add that excellent leather jacket or a blazer in autumn and winter to keep yourself warm. A simple strappy dress, such as this one from & Other Stories or this slip style dress from Envelope1976 can work beautifully for summer with a light blazer on top, as well as in winter with a lovely big high neck jumper over the top. If you prefer to keep your arms covered during the summer and winter, then this long sleeved polka dot midi dress can also work with a cardigan, or a cropped jumper to keep your waist the main focus while remaining warm.

If you like items that come as pairs, then this season, All Saints have already done all the hard work for you, with their jumper and dress combinations. I love this black feather print strappy dress with luxurious over jumper, both of which can be used separately or together so you truly have several outfits you can make with just 2 crossover items in your wardrobe!

I hope this has inspired you to not only see the benefit of having crossover items in your wardrobe for all seasons, but helped you know how to maximise those items already in your wardrobe. If you’re unsure on where to start when it comes to personal styling, then I’d love to chat with you.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: TOP AUTUMN COATS FOR YOUR WARDROBE TO SUIT YOUR SHAPE

As the cooler months set in, and we begin to take out more jumpers and put away the summer dresses, you may be looking to find an autumn coat. Coats can be an incredibly personal thing – I know of one client who tried on 10 coats and just didn’t feel any were “right”. The outer wear in any outfit needs to be comfortable, reflective of your style, and also, importantly for this time of year, warm! There are some go-to classics that will work each and every year, so I wanted to start the Autumn with the top three classic coats I love, with a few modernised versions for the trend-setters among you!

The Trench Coat 

This is a pure classic, and one we have seen throughout the years. Often in a camel tone, it can be an effortlessly chic option to layer on top of your clothes. Usually with a large belt to bring in the waist, this style can work incredibly well for many body shapes. If you are more curvaceous I recommend utilising the belt to show off your waist, whereas if you are tall and slender, keep it open to add more dimension to your shape.

For a similar shape and military style, but with a more elegant look, you could invest in this Danielle Frankel Allegra corded lace-trimmed organza and tulle trench coat – it is definitely an investment, so make sure you truly love the style. If you’re more colourful, you can try out a colourful trench coat, like this Topshop piece in mustard, which are becoming more and more popular and are a great way to add some colour to the darker days.

 (Bottega Veneta – convertible crinkled glossed-leather trench coat)

The trench coat really is the most classic of all coats, it can be worn in a chic way with all black underlayers, all the way to a modern take with a casual t-shirt and maxi skirt underneath.

The Aviator Jacket

An Aviator jacket is a true classic, vintage, boyfriend-esque vibe, while also being super comfortable and most importantly, warm! There are a range of new styles being brought to the fashion world this year, with oversized options by Pieces, to this classic shearling zip-up black jacket by REISS as well as their reversable version which means you have 2 jackets in one!

With most aviators, no matter whether they have the added belt at the base or a shearling interior, the style works perfectly for hourglasses due to the way they are shaped and often tapered in at the waist with their classic pockets. You can also style this jacket as a pear shape as long as the coat is more cropped in style, and finishes above your hips.

Teddy bear coats

You may have seen these blasting across the fashion world last year and they are here to stay again. A warm, luxurious, and comfortable overcoat, the teddy bear coat can come in a range of lengths. The classic teddy bear coat is by Max Mara, and comes in a range of colours to suit your preference.

The great thing about a teddy bear jacket is that it can work for every body shape. I suggest that if you are petite then look for a version that is specifically catered for your height, or a cropped option like this mint green teddy coat by ASOS Design. If you are an hourglass or pear shape, as with many oversized styles, you may loose your shape, so if you can get a belted version or wear it open rather than buttoned, you can still bring in your waist.

If you’re looking for a colourful option, rather than the neutral version, this baby blue Reclaimed Vintage option is a unique choice. You could also invest in this Stand Studio midnight blue faux fur option, that follows the similar styling as a teddy coat, this is another very easy coat that can be good for every body shape, although hourglasses and pear shapes might lose their waist definition by wearing this. It is still considerably cheaper than the Max Mara Teddy, but feels very similar with potentially a more mature fabric.

Double breasted coats

Military has such a wonderfully androgynous styling, and if this is your go to look, or you are looking for a coat that can toughen up your more girly style, then a double breasted jacket can be a great option for the autumn. Keep yourself warmer with a coat that is woollen, like this Balmain option.

A double-breasted coat is perfect for people with a more rectangular shape, who need to define their waist as the shape of the buttons, particularly on the Balmain option, create an optical illusion of a narrower waist. It also works incredibly well on hourglasses, as your naturally defined waist will fit perfectly within this coat. Tommy Hilfiger have also created a checked double blazer that is great if you love a professional pattern that is always a classic.

The belted jacket

If you like a coat that is truly a waist definer, then you can’t go wrong with a coat that has a belt! For added warmth, you can go for a quilted option as with this olive green creation by Alexa Chung – if you choose a similar style to this, be cautious of the quilted style if you are a more oval shape, as the belt may not do your shape justice.

If you are looking for a more classic option, perhaps without the quilted pattern, then & Other Stories are well known for their fabulous belted coats, such as this neutral alpaca option which also has buttons, as often just a belt on a jacket can still let the chill in! 

PERSONAL STYLING TIPS FOR ENTREPRENEURS - WHAT TO WEAR FOR A BRANDING PHOTOSHOOT

As the world begins to re-open, and countless entrepreneurs are starting up new fantastic businesses, or wanting to rebrand and announce their business reopening, there are lots of people coming to me asking for advice on what to wear at their business photoshoot.

Photos are a pathway into getting people to notice you for all the right reasons. I know the importance of photography, particularly for my business, as my service is so personal, I want people to trust, like, and get to know me just by seeing my business images. With just a few correct selections, your business photos can convey the perfect message to your customers!

Here are just a few of my tips that I share with my clients in advance of their business photoshoot.

1) Define the message you want to give through your image and choose outfits and colours that'll help you express the right message. If you haven’t read it already, you can read my article on How Colours Affect your Mood, which can be a really useful piece to help when you are deciding on which colours convey your business in the best way. It’s incredible that a colour can instantly make someone feel a certain way, so if you haven’t gone through the process with a branding expert in terms of the right colours for your business logo, or just haven’t got there yet, then the colours you choose to wear in your business photos can make a huge difference, and should reflect your business in the best way.

2) Define your target audience. Understanding who are you talking to will have an influence in your image and looks choices. When you have a branding exercise, knowing your perfect clients is essential to your entire business. Who are your perfect clients? What do they expect from someone delivering your service or product? How do you want to be perceived by them? When you know your customer avatar, you will be able to attract them to you with the right outfit choices and image options through your photos.

For example, if you are a business coach working with women in corporate jobs, you may dress in a more formal pencil dress with a colourful necklace to show that you are professional, but with personality. On the other hand, if you are a make-up artist, you will want to show colour and flair, to show you know the current trends and how to work them. These are simple considerations you can have when thinking about the perfect outfit and styling to choose for your business photoshoot.

3) Enhance your personality. Remember, your personality is a unique selling point and can help you stand out, so always express it through your style. So, if you are a bright, bubbly, and excited person, let that show through the outfits you wear. If you are a reserved, professional, then you can choose more muted tones.

4) Wear colour shades that work best for you and your features. Although you may be overwhelmed right now with all the options of what to wear to get the best results, the most important thing I believe on top of all of this, is to make your feel confident and shine brightly. The way to do this best, is by choosing the colour shades that work best for you.

If you are feeling overwhelmed with the thought of your upcoming business photoshoot, or perhaps you have a team photoshoot coming up and want your business to be reflected appropriately, and want to organise a group session to help get everyone ready, then please do get in touch. I am always so delighted when I can help my clients feel their best, look fantastic, and show their business in the best light through their photographs. Besides, you’re investing in your business with a professional photographer, so you should invest in yourself to make sure the photos look the best they can!

TIPS FOR WEARING YOUR FACE MASK WITH STYLE

Perhaps not everyone is wearing a face mask each and every day, but they have become an essential item to wear. However, with these safety measures that are keeping us all safe and allowing us to finally get out to the office, to shops, and to see friends at a safe distance, I have heard that people are struggling with certain aspects.

Here are my top tips to help you wear your face mask, without having the issues I have heard my clients share with me.

Make-up tips when wearing a face mask:

1. Focus on your eyes. As wearing lipstick is pretty useless when wearing a face mask as it can smudge, or people just aren’t going to see it, now is a great time to bring focus onto our eyes.

2. Use fun colours to help bring some joy into your and other people’s days, by showing off your personality through your eye make-up!

3.  Use concealer to help cover any redness or dark circles[Stefania 1] , so that your eyes can remain the focus of your face, whilst making you feel your most confident.  

Tips for choosing your face mask:

1.  Choose a mask in one of your best colours. What colours go best with your personality, your skin tone, your eye colour, and your wardrobe? With so many face mask options out there, you can be spoiled for choice, so make sure it is working for you.

2. Make your face mask a part of your accessories. Sequins, patterns, different shapes – these are all elements that are now being added to face masks by designers, so you really can have fun with your face mask, and make it a real accessory.

3. Consider eco-friendly, and washable options. There are some great designers out there who are giving back through the sale of their face masks – which can be a great way to give back to the community, whilst also caring for one another through wearing this essential safety item.

Where to buy your eco-friendly and washable face masks, in the UK:

To help you find some more fun, colourful, and eco-friendly face masks here are a list of shops I have found.

Pucker Masks

These colourful masks are all created by UK seamstresses who have been out of work due to Covid and are paid a living wage. They also have an adjustable nose bridge and a pocket for a filter, should you wish to add one. Added onto this, they also give 25% of their profits to charity.

NotJustClothing

This UK brand is offering a truly bespoke experience with customisable face masks. You can have a UK tube station, a word, or initials added to these minimal face masks. They are also made in the UK, are carbon neutral, with 50% of their profits from their face masks (and their t-shirts) going to Masks for NHS Heroes.

Isabel Manns

This UK-based womenswear company create their face masks, as well as all of their clothes, with fabric cut to minimise waste. Each of their face masks are reversible, and profits from their sale goes to the NHS. With an incredible range of patterns and colours, you really can let your personality shine with these masks.

Migrate Art

The charity, based in the UK, have created a range of reversible, reusable, and washable face masks in collaboration with 10 artists. They have a campaign called #masksformeals which has been set up so that 100% of the profits from sales of their masks will go to Refugee Community Kitchen to help them feed the homeless in the UK.

During these uncertain times, it can be worrying to consider what to do next, and you are not alone. I hope with these tips, you will feel more confident prior to your next shopping trip, and will have a face mask that truly reflects your personality. If you would like assistance with a personal shopper who can maximise your time, and make your experience less stressful, then please get in touch.

PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS - HOW TO PACK SMART

HOW CAN YOU PACK SMART TO BUILD CONFIDENCE ON YOUR HOLIDAY?

With the country coming out of lockdown, and many of us yearning for even a few days away from the day to day lives we have been leading during these uncertain times, you may be thinking of taking a short break. The most important part of making a trip the most enjoyable experience, other than the location and the company, is, in my opinion as a Personal Stylist, a selection of clothes you feel great in.

In this article, I wanted to share a few of my tips to help you pack smart, and make your break the most enjoyable it can be.

Make sure you really need the item/s you are taking

Research is a key element of planning for a holiday, the same goes for packing! Make sure all of the items in your luggage will actually be useful where you are going. What are you planning to get up to during your time away? If you are planning lots of walking and rest, you probably won’t need the stilettos. If you are looking to break by the beach with cocktails and date nights with your loved one, then the walking boots may be taken out, and the stilettos put back!

Really research what you will be expecting from the location you are visiting, the weather that may be expected, and what you are planning to get up to, to help you maximise your luggage space.

Only take items that bring you joy

The clothes you want to take with you are those that really make you feel great. Ask yourself if you will wear the item, and take the first response as your true answer. If there is doubt, then don’t pack it. Make sure that you feel comfortable, confident, and know that the items you are taking are joy-bringers. Don’t pack items you haven’t worn for ages (unless, of course, it’s a bikini that you loved on last year’s holiday!)

Capsules are essential

It’s best to have less in your baggage, than a confusion of items. Making a capsule packing structure will help you to see multiple options of outfits from only minimal items. Bring clothes that work together in palette, and ones that you know you wear together regularly. This will help you maximise space and prevent stress when picking out your clothes.

Plan your outfits

If you have the time, I highly recommend you plan your outfits, especially those that are for fun nights out or special occasions. When you plan ahead, your stress levels will dramatically reduce, and you will find you will feel joyous about what you pick out of your holiday wardrobe for each of the events you have prepared for!

Tissue paper is a great way to prevent creases

The old trick of using tissue paper (the type you wrap with) is actually incredibly beneficial! For some breaks, especially when you are visiting somewhere for only a small amount of time, you will not have access to an iron. You also probably won’t want to spend your valuable time getting those creases out of your beloved items! One way to stop the creases is to use tissue paper when you fold your clothes, especially those that crease easily.

Have fun

After all this time in lockdown, and only just being able to take breaks around the UK, the last thing I recommend for packing smart is to have fun. Embrace the time you have on your holiday, and let your clothes bring confidence, joy, and the ability to truly enjoy your time away.

 What are your tips for packing smart?

PERSONAL STYLING TIPS: 3 STEPS TO STYLE SUCCESS

Style can feel a little overwhelming as an aspect – many of my clients feel they don’t know their own style before coming to me. They do know that they like certain fashions and styling, but are unsure where to start.

In this article, I wanted to share 3 steps you can take to help you start your journey to finding your own style, and make it a pleasure rather than stressful.

Step 1 – Colour can make all the difference!

Have you ever noticed there are certain colours you may gravitate to? Perhaps there are patterns and colours that make you feel your most confident? These are often the best colours for your wardrobe and for your skintone, which can be a great starting point to your style vision.

Look at your wardrobe and see which colour/s you see most of in there. Do these colours make you feel confident, beautiful, even sexy? These are the colours that you can go towards for the future investment pieces that you make.

I do suggest a more in-depth colour analysis to truly know the colours that work best for you, but to help you for the short-term, this step can be really helpful!

Step 2 – Consider what your day to day life looks like

Now that you know the colours you want to include in your style, you can think about the types of clothes that will work for your every day life.

What do you get up to each day? Are you running to the office and require professional looks to maximise your confidence and feel appropriate for the office?

Perhaps you are a business owner and head to meetings with clients, as well as needing comfortable clothes to work from home, but that can instantly swap out to work for the virtual meetings?

When you know what your daily needs are, then you can look at what can work for your wardrobe. Your style doesn’t have to follow the rules that others impose, but they do need to work for your needs. If you are a busy mother who runs your own business, 6 inch stilettos and pencil skirts may not be the most appropriate thing for your day to day style needs! However, you could have a pencil skirt and wedges, if that feels right for you.

This takes me onto step three!

Step 3 – Who are your style icons?

Something I often ask my clients in our Personal Style Masterclass, is who their style icons are. What makes them your icon?

Knowing who dresses in a way that you love can really help you find clothing that is similar, and can help you create a style that works for you. There can be several icons you can find that can have similar styles, so it can help you really drill down and see what styles are the ones you gravitate to. One of my clients I worked with recently shared that her style icon was Cate Blanchette, with an androgynous style and blazers that stand out, this helped her curate a wardrobe with outfits she loved.

When you feel your wardrobe sings your personality, and works towards building your daily confidence, dressing can be a pleasure each morning. If you are finding it difficult each day to plan an outfit, or go through clothes overwhelm, I’d love to help you with my Personal Styling Masterclass, where we will have 2 hours to create a style, learn your body and face shape to enable you to find the styles that work for you, and make you more confident each day.