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This Capsule Wardrobe System Will Make Getting Dressed A Whole Lot Easier

What is a capsule wardrobe, and why would you use one?

Do you ever waste time in front of your wardrobe wondering what to wear? No matter how organised you are, the chances are you have. It’s stressful! As you stand in front of your clothes you can feel time ticking away. All you want to do is create an outfit that looks good and get out the door.

That’s where creating a capsule wardrobe can help. Susie Faux, owner of the London boutique ‘Wardrobe’, created the phrase in the 70s. The concept is to build your wardrobe around a few core pieces of clothing: pants, skirts and jackets that are classic and timeless. Then add seasonal tops and accessories to keep your wardrobe up to date. So that your clothes can mix and match, they need to relate to one another. If you can do this you’ll be able to create coordinated outfits in record time.

Capsule wardrobes gained popularity in 1985 when Donna Karan released her 7-piece workwear capsule collection. These days it’s used as a popular way to get great versatility and functionality from your clothes while reducing clutter, creating space and helping with our planet’s sustainability.

I’m showing you just one example of a capsule wardrobe, but there are many different variations. You decide how many items you need to make it work for you and your lifestyle.

How to create your capsule wardrobe

This combination of 10 garments will give you 26 outfits. Mix those 26 outfits with the sneakers, ballet flats and sandals (I’ve left the thongs out) and you have 78 outfits.

Start by choosing 2 or 3 neutral colours like navy, grey, black, white, brown, beige, tan or khaki. Buy your jackets, pants and skirts in these colours. They could be matching pieces or separates. I’ve chosen cream, khaki and denim/navy. (See diagram below) All of these garments coordinate well together. Then you add 4 tops and a dress and the capsule wardrobe is complete.

A Capsule Wardrobe of Casual Wear with Accessories. It includes 10 garments, 3 pairs of shoes, 2 belts and a handbag as well as jewellery.

A Capsule Wardrobe of Casual Wear with Accessories

You can expand or subtract from the template I’ve shown here, but this is a great start. And, you can increase the outfit combinations from 26 to 32 just by adding 1 more top.

Stock up on smaller items like jewellery and scarves that can inject elements of interest if you’re a person who needs more variety.

Use the capsule wardrobe system for your work wardrobe too (if you don’t wear a uniform). It’s also handy to use when packing for a trip (Less in the suitcase = less to lug around and more room for shopping!).

If you have any questions about creating your capsule wardrobe feel free to email me ann@imageconfidence.com.au or call 0408 108 804. And, if you know anyone who could benefit from this article feel free to share.

What are your tips for a compact, functional wardrobe?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sticky
October 28, 2018

Improve Your Style using the ‘Principle of Volume’

There are many ways to improve your style, and one of them is by using the principle of volume. It is a simple technique that makes every outfit look good. You may be using it already without knowing it.

This article explains the principle of volume and how you can use it when combining your clothes.

Improve Your Style using the Principle of Volume

A garment is voluminous when it is oversized, bulky, full or wide, very gathered or flared, or there is a large quantity of fabric. Think: palazzo pants, culottes, loose billowy blouses, tops and skirts with ruffles, peasant tops and box pleat or full circle skirts. Here are some examples:

These garments are voluminous. They are bulky, gathered, pleated, full, wide or flared. Use one of these garments and team it with a slim or tapered garment to improve your style. Combining a loose garment with a slimmer fitting garment is called the principle of volume. When two voluminous items are worn together the look becomes boxy and shapeless. The fabric swamps you and makes you look larger. The picture on the left (below) shows examples of this.

Now look at the image on the right. I have replaced the full skirt and loose, baggy pants with a tapered pencil skirt and straight cut black jeans. The slim lines of these garments balance out the oversized top giving the wearer some shape which creates a more flattering and visually appealing look. Other fitted garments that will show your shape include slim leg jeans and capri pants, high waisted straight skirts and tube skirts.

Two outfits featuring voluminous garments. These looks do not improve your style.
Two outfits featuring voluminous tops and slim fitting pants and skirt. Wearing this type of clothing combination is a way to improve your style.

The last picture shows the combination in reverse. The original voluminous skirt and pants have been teamed with a red-orange slim fitting top. Tip: If you are petite wear heels to elongate your legs.

Improve your style by wearing a fitted top with a voluminous bottom. This is called the 'principle of volume'.

The principle of volume works with all body shapes and for outfits for all occasions i.e., casual, smart casual or dressy. Just by using the simple formula of mixing a slim fitting garment with a voluminous one you will create a stylish look. Add accessories to complete your outfit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sticky
September 24, 2018

5 key Corporate Styling Tips for Spring 2018

Corporate styling can be a groan. Thank heavens the ‘rules’ around what to wear at the office has relaxed over the years. As we move towards Spring the mood around dressing fills us with a sense of optimism with the promise of brighter colours and lighter fabrics. As soon as the first Spring buds show on the trees, we think of warmer weather and longer days ahead. Nature spoils us with colourful flowers and sunshine, and this year the fashion industry has wholeheartedly embraced colour, floral motifs and organic patterns.

You might have noticed these trends arriving in the shops already. Spring 2018 offers something for everyone. Here are the 5 key corporate trends to add to your classic wardrobe staples to take your workwear from ‘groan’ to fresh and up-to-date for the warmer months.

Corporate Styling with Colour

Accent colours to include in your Spring 2018 workwear wardrobe should include: Purple in all its variations especially lilac and lavender, medium pinks, red-orange, sky blue, and yellow.

Dominant neutrals will be white, ivory, chocolate, sand and khaki. Find out if warm (yellow-based) or cool (blue-based) colours suit your complexion so you look healthy, fresh and vibrant. If you’re unsure about your best colours invest in a personal colour consultation.

Alternatives to the earthy hues could be navy and dove grey which are more acceptable as corporate colours and less severe than black.

The sliver grey and lilac coloured garments shown in this image are on trend for corporate Spring/Summer styling.

Silver grey and lilac in Witchery

Examples of powder blue and red orange - on trend colours for Spring/Summer 2018

Examples of powder blue and red orange

Florals

After a long absence, florals re-appeared in the Spring of 2017 and now they are back in full swing. Brighten up your plain basics (i.e. jackets, skirts and trousers) with a floral blouse, scarf or handbag. As mentioned before, ensure the colours compliment you, and keep the scale of the pattern in harmony with your body size.

Trent Nathan floral blouse for Spring/Summer 2018

Trent Nathan floral blouse.

Soft pink and florals are on trend for corporate wear for Spring/Summer 2018

Soft pink and florals at Witchery

Dresses

Oh so easy to wear and a ‘no brainer’ when it comes to getting dressed in the morning, dresses are perfect for your Spring corporate wardrobe. Use one of your smart blazers to complete the look. This is corporate styling made easy!

Spring/Summer corporate dressing: Shell pink floral Perri Cutten dress

Shell pink floral Perri Cutten dress

This floral Country Road jumpsuit fits into the corporate styling theme for this Spring

This looks like a dress, but is actually a hibiscus print jumpsuit (Country Road)

Ruffles

For those of you whose style personality is feminine, hearing that there is a ‘ruffle revival’ will be music to your ears.
The corporate suit can often appear quite masculine with straight lines and stiff fabrics. Ruffles offer an element of softness in the form of curved lines and fluid fabrics.

Balance the ‘yin’ of the ruffles with the ‘yang’ of a structured blazer in a darker colour such as navy or charcoal to maintain the corporate look.

Corporate style trend for Spring/Summer 2018 is ruffles. Lilac coloured dressed features in this image.

Add a more structured, light weight navy or charcoal blazer to maintain the corporate look

Subtle ruffles combine with a floral pattern in this Trent Nathan top.

Subtle ruffles combine with a floral pattern in this Trent Nathan top.

Block Heel Shoes

Versatility, increased stability and foot health are some of the attributes of block heel shoes.  They are touted to be more comfortable and better for your posture that flats, and, not surprisingly, stilettos. Block heels team perfectly with skirts, dresses and trousers, and have a level of femininity that works perfectly with ruffles and floral prints.

Patent leather nude block heel, Leona Edmiston

Patent leather nude block heel, Leona Edmiston

These scalloped edge block heeled shoes are on trend for corporate attire this Spring/Summer

Scalloped edges are the focal point of these shoes.

Statement shoes in red- orange suede

Statement shoes in red- orange suede

Stylish and versatile neutral coloured slingback shoes perfect for corporate outfits

Stylish and versatile neutral coloured slingback shoes

These corporate styling tips are 5 ways you can add interest to your workwear wardrobe. Pick and choose the ones that suit your style personality. Have some fun with them! Buy one or two pieces to keep your corporate look modern and current.

If you have any comments or questions about this article or any of my offerings please feel free to contact me or message me using the comment box below.

Sticky
August 14, 2018

Cartier Exhibition Highlights from the NGA Canberra

As you might have guessed, I have more than a keen interest in style, design and colour – so my recent visit to the Cartier exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra was a real treat. It is a beautifully curated wonderland of sparkling jewels, exquisite timepieces and luxury items. Every piece was meticulously created and crafted for royalty, celebrities and society’s elite.

The exhibition finishes on the 22ndof July and is definitely worth seeing.

Here are some of my favourite pieces:

Necklaces

Cartier diamond necklace, Nizam of Hyderabad

The Nizam of Hyderabad was a gift from the Indian prince to the Queen for her marriage in 1947.

Cartier Bib necklace 1955

The 1955 Bib necklace features plaited gold, brilliant cut diamonds and turquoise cabochons

1936 Necklace boasting total of 198.45 carats of emerald-cut peridots!

Mystery Clocks

These Asian-inspired Cartier Mystery Clocks give the illusion of floating minute and hour hands. All of the mechanisms that move the two hands are made from transparent clear crystal – amazing!

Cartier Chimera Mystery Clock 1926

Chimera Mystery Clock 1926

Cartier Striking Mystery Clock 1931

Striking mystery clock with deity 1931 – 19th century Chinese white jade

Stunning Tiaras

There were so many beautiful tiaras on display at the Cartier exhibition that I found it difficult to decide which ones to show you. I chose these four because of their intricacy of design and the amazing coloured stones.

Cartier Tiara 1905 featuring 7 pear shaped diamonds

This 1905 tiara features 7 pear shaped diamonds

Cartier diamond and aquamarine tiara 1937

Diamond and aquamarine tiara 1937

Cartier Tiara 1932: baguette-cut diamonds and emerald-cut citrines

Tiara 1932: baguette-cut diamonds and emerald-cut citrines

Cartier Indian tiara, 1923. Platinum, diamonds, sapphires and pearls

Indian tiara, 1923. Platinum, diamonds, sapphires and pearls

Brooches

Cartier Lace ribbon brooch 1906

Lace ribbon brooch 1906

Cartier Palm Tree Clip Brooch

Cartier Palm Tree Clip Brooch

Cartier Bird Brooch 1948

Uma Thurman wore this Bird Brooch to the Met Gala in 2016

Cartier and Celebrity Glamour

For me, the Twentieth-Century Icons room personalised the exhibition. The photos and stories of celebrities and royals, and the special pieces Cartier had made for them, really bought the pieces to life.

Grace Kelly wearing a Cartier necklace

Grace Kelly

Necklace worn by Grace Kelly

 

Wallis Simpson wears her Cartier peacock brooch

Wallis Simpson wears her Cartier peacock brooch

Cartier - Wallis Simpson's peacock brooch
Elizabeth Taylor wears a Cartier necklace

Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor wears a Cartier necklace

If you’ve enjoyed this article I have also written articles on luxury brands Hermes and Dior.

Here are the links: ‘Hermes at Work’ Exhibition: Artisans share their talents and skills

and

Australia and the House of Dior 70 Years On

 

 

 

Sticky
July 10, 2018

Your Wardrobe Audit in 5 Easy Steps

Your Wardrobe Audit in 5 Easy Steps is for anyone who leads an outrageously busy life, and isn’t that most of us? It’s also for those of us who have stood in front of our wardrobes thinking, ‘I’ve got nothing to wear!’

The solutions I’m offering are simple, yet very effective. Complete them at your own pace, it’s entirely up to you. Getting dressed will be quick and easy after your wardrobe audit. Less time spent in your wardrobe equates to more time for life’s adventures.

A selection of coloured coat hangers for the blog Your Wardrobe Audit in 5 Easy Steps

Where to start -Step 1

Only keep what fits you now. Most of us have experienced fluctuations in weight at some time in our lives. Items that are too small or too large for our current body size are taking up valuable wardrobe space and wasting your time.

What do you do with them?

Donate

Alter

Sell

Gift

Stow in a storage tub or in the spare room wardrobe

Step 2

Let go of any items that are ripped or damaged beyond repair, any woollens that are close to threadbare, and any clothes that are permanently stained. Collars and under-arm areas are notorious for stains. Try soaking them in a bucket with Australian made, Sard OxyPlus Laundry Soaker or a pre wash stain remover  to see if they can be revived. Reminder: Check the care label on the garment beforehand.

Step 3

Remove any garments, shoes or accessories that haven’t be worn in over 2 years or that still have the shop tag attached. (Evening wear excluded) You may have spent $300 on that shirt, but if you never wear it, for whatever reason, it’s time release the guilt and any other emotions and let it go. Refer to Step 1 for ideas of how to move it on.

Step 4 of Your Wardrobe Audit

Multiples. Yes, 7 white tee shirts are too many! Think about the items you gravitate towards and keep those. Find a new home for the others. If they are in great condition, stow them away until your current supply becomes unusable, then bring them out. Or, if you feel you can part with them you know the options (listed in Step 1).

Lastly…

Only keep the clothes you love and feel good wearing. You know, the ones that when you look in the mirror you get that, “Yes, that’s a winner” feeling, and it boosts your confidence which equates to a having a good day, feeling less nervous about the meeting or job interview or having an amazing time at the party. Feeling good about yourself works from both the inside and the outside. Simplifying the ‘what to wear’ part of your outside promotes positivity and confidence for you as a whole.

Well, your wardrobe should be looking considerably less cramped by now. Let me know how you went with your wardrobe audit. Did you find it easy or challenging?

Does the mere thought of doing your own wardrobe audit fill you with dread? Ann at Image Confidence will help you declutter your wardrobe, make better use of your existing clothes, create order and function in the space, and identify ‘gaps’ in your wardrobe i.e. items to purchase. You’ll feel lighter, refreshed and energised within three hours. Read more

Book your Wardrobe Audit with Ann today.

Messy, disorganised clothes in wardrobe before Your Wardrobe Audit in 5 Easy Steps
Tidy, organised clothes in wardrobe after Your Wardrobe Audit in 5 Easy Steps
Sticky
June 30, 2018

Your Top 10 Winter Style Tips

These top 10 winter style tips will have you feeling cosy and looking fabulous all through the chilly months. It doesn’t matter how cold it gets in your neck of the woods, these tips work for mild, cooler weather right through to freezing cold temperatures.

A woman displays her winter style by wearing an elegant coat, scarf and gloves.

Layering adds an element of flexibility to your     winter style.

1. Embrace Layering

Layering adds an element of flexibility to your winter style. Use layers to create your outfits. Start with a light weight undergarment like a cami or singlet. Add a three quarter or long-sleeved top, maybe a light weight jumper (cashmere is my pick) or cardi, a jacket, scarf, hat and gloves. You can add or subtract pieces depending on the weather.

2. Get smart with scarves

Scarves add an element of interest to any outfit and will have you looking stylish with a minimum of effort.  They take up very little space in your wardrobe (or suitcase if travelling), and can be used as a source of inspiration for the hat and gloves colours you choose.

Winter style tips: pink beanie, sunglasses and watch with pink numbers go with the multi coloured scarf

Winter style tips: The golden colours in the scarf inspired gold loop earrings and tortoise shell sunglasses

 

3. Invest in a great pair of boots

Boots rate high in the winter style stakes. Not only do they keep your feet warm and dry, there are just so many to choose from: ankle boots to calf length, long to ending above the knee. Flat heels to stilettos – there is a boot to suit everyone.

4. A quality coat is essential

My personal favourite of my winter style tips is to search high and low for your perfect winter coat and when you find it be willing to pay the price – this item will be in your wardrobe for a long time, so quality is key. Find it in a colour that compliments your hair colour, that way it will be truly versatile. When trying on coats make sure there’s enough room to accommodate the layers you’ll have underneath.

Winter style tips: this wool blend coat will keep you warm

Trenery wool blend coat in dark plum

5. Slim fitting jeans

A pair of skinny or straight leg jeans (depending on the shape of your legs) will be a great way to keep your winter style current. With all of the bulk and volume you’ll be creating with your tops and jacket, the narrow fitting bottoms will create a slimmer silhouette.

Tuck jeans into your boots or have them hemmed to where they hit the upper foot area of the boot on the outside.

6. Love Leather

If you don’t already own one, put ‘leather jacket’ on the top of your winter style shopping list. They are versatile, durable, timeless and classic. Consider colour, fit of the jacket, texture of the leather and comfort factor when buying. This is another item that will last for years, so invest wisely.

Winter style tips: woman wearing a sand coloured leather jacket.

My favourite ‘go to’ leather jacket is a soft sand colour.

7. Stylish Sneakers

For running errands, comfy weekend wear and for travelling, a stylish pair of sneakers will give you a break from your boots and keep your feet warm and dry.

All leading high street shoes outlets stock stylish sneakers. Remember to take your socks when going to buy – depending on their thickness you might have to go up a size.

Winter style tips: 3 sneakers from Sam Edelman

8. A Slouchy Sweater

A loose-fitting jumper will tick the ‘warm’ and ‘comfy’ boxes as well as looking on trend. You can choose from the finest merino wool to more bulky cable knits. Add accessories such as a scarf to elevate the look.

9. Terrific Turtleneck

Also known as a roll neck or skivvy, these knitted gems are the epitome of style. Think Jackie O (Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis), Marilyn Monroe or more recently Taylor Swift and Rihanna. They are great as a stand-alone garment or as a layering piece.

10. Stunning Statement Earrings

The last of our winter style tips is to complete your outfit with some statement earrings. They will be the centre of attention whether you’re wearing high necks, low necks, scarves or cover-up jackets and coats. Your outfit will look complete and you’ll be ready to brave the cold weather with panache!

There is often a sea of black, white and grey that dominates the clothing stores during winter. That’s great if you can wear these colours well, but what you if can’t? In winter when we are at our palest it is especially important to wear the colours that harmonise with our hair, skin and eyes so that we appear healthy and look our best. I offer personal colour consultations and small group Colour Your Life workshops so that you can discover the best colours for you. These sessions are great fun and are a ‘gift to self’ that lasts for years.

Are there any items you feel should be added to my top 10 winter style tips? Let me know in the comment box below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sticky
May 28, 2018

Women’s Accessories – Your Essential Guide

In this month blog, ‘Women’s Accessories – The Essentials’ I share the key items you need in your wardrobe to transform a basic outfit into a stylish one. The choice of colour, size, shape, pattern and style of these items is entirely up to you, so allow your personality and preferences to shine.

Women’s Accessories – Jewellery

– Real or fake diamond stud earrings. These are good all-rounders – you can dress them up or down.

– A pearl necklace or bracelet. These will always say style and elegance like Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Women's accessories: Thomas Sabo fresh water pearl bracelet

Thomas Sabo fresh water pearl bracelet

– Some statement necklaces. These will turn any plain outfit into something ‘wow’ and interesting. Experiment with wood, metal and semi-precious stones.

Women’s accessories – Shoes

– Nude or black pumps. Select a medium to low heel so they match nicely with pants or skirts.

– Ankle boots. You choose the colour, style and heel height. Ankle boots will see you through autumn, winter and the early stages of spring.

– Stylish Sneakers – for dashing to the supermarket, travelling to and from work etc.

– A pair of nude coloured strappy sandals with medium to high heels will be very versatile and take your outfits from day into night.

Women's Accessories: Strappy sandals by Stuart Weitzman

NuNakedStraight Sandal by Stuart Weitzman

– Stylish low heeled sandals. Elevate a basic outfit of tee shirt and jeans from your feet up!

– Beautiful ballet flats. These are your comfy ‘go tos’ and like your pumps, they will go perfectly with pants or skirts.

Women’s Accessories – Bags

– Tote bag. Your everyday bag should be made of good quality leather to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. Invest in another more structured bag for work.

– A beautiful black or metallic evening bag. Stick to these options as they will go with everything.

– A wallet that is in good condition. If yours is tatty around the edges or falling apart, it’s time to replace it. Think of cost per wear. If your wallet cost $300 and you used it for 300 days that equates to it costing you $1 a day!

Women’s Accessories – Other

– Sunglasses. These should suit your face shape, compliment your natural colouring and have good quality lenses.

– a silk scarf. These are the perfect weight: light enough to wear in summer and warm enough to use during the cooler months.

– 2 lipsticks: 1 for day and 1 that is a little bolder for night. Find your perfect shade here.

Women's accessories: Lipsticks on black background

– Shapewear. Not for every day use, but perfect for under clothes where you want to create smooth, sleek lines. Ensure your shapewear fits comfortably: it’s about flattering your figure, not about making you look a size smaller.

– A good quality leather belt. Use it with your pants and jeans or over a loose blouse to cinch in your waist.

– A Pashmina – Great to wrap around your shoulders when the nights get nippy or when travelling on any form of transport that is airconditioned to subzero temperatures.

– Leather gloves – a must for those who feel the cold, and they are a stylish addition to any coat and scarf ensemble.

– Hats. There are so many practical reasons for wearing hats, like protecting your face, hair and scalp from the harsh sun’s rays, but they are also a great opportunity to make a style statement.

Woman modelling accessories - sun hat and pearls.

Source credit: bikinimuse.tumblr.com

 

Want to know more about how to create stylish outfits using your accessories and a small capsule of clothes that all mix and match together?

SAVE THE DATE because 2nd June is the next Shop Your Own Wardrobe workshop. If you are ready to look and feel fabulous with less clothes and be able to travel lighter and still look stylish, this fun 3 hour session is a must attend.

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Get 25% off your Shop Your Own Wardrobe tickets when you book with a friend before 14 May 2018. This offer is only available if tickets are purchased directly through Ann: ann@imageconfidence.com.au (Pay just $112 each – saving more than $35 off the regular price of $149.75)

After this date, tickets can be purchased at Eventbrite for $149.75 per person.

I’m always interested to hear the style topics you would like me to cover. Send me your suggestions in the comment box below.

 

Sticky
April 26, 2018

Guo Pei: ‘Legend’ extravaganza at the NGV

The National Gallery of Victoria’s impressive inaugural Triennial exhibition featured displays of contemporary artists from 32 countries. A stand out for me was the collection of wonderful creations from Chinese born fashion designer Guo Pei. The stunning costumes were from her 2017 Spring/Summer ‘Legend’ couture parade.

All of the ‘Legend’ pieces were on loan from a private collection. These amazing gowns showcased Guo Pei’s remarkable imagination and design prowess. Bringing her phenomenal concepts to life took hundreds of skilled artisans thousands of hours to complete.

Pei’s inspiration came from her visit to the baroque cathedral of St. Gall in Switzerland. She was mesmerised by the stunning ethereal murals, its dome and the rich gold ornaments. And so began a two-year journey of inspiration and creation leading to these impressive haute couture gowns.

This display was a feast of sparkling crystals, sumptuous embroidery and silk. As well as feathers, metal, PVC, dazzling gold thread and organza.

Here are some of the photos I took during my visit.

Ensembles

Black chest piece and lace gown Guo Pei

Black chest piece and lace gown

Lantern sleeve gown Guo Pei

Lantern sleeve gown

Deep green and gold dress Guo Pei

Deep green and gold dress

Feathered gown Guo Pei

Feathered gown

Angel gown with gold Guo Pei

Angel gown with gold

Skirt of Angel dress with gold Guo Pei

Skirt of Angel dress with gold

White Goddess Guo Pei

White Goddess

Luminous spirit Guo Pei

Luminous spirit

Fantasy Footwear

Suede and beaded shoes from Guo Pei's Legend collection
Feathered fantasy footwear Guo Pei Legend collection
Gold fantasy footwear Guo Pei Legend collection

Fabulous Fabrics

Sequinned and beaded lace Guo Pei
Red Goddess dress metallic fabric Guo Pei Legend collection
Heavily embroidered fabric Legend Collection Guo Pei
Dazzling emboidered fabric from Guo Pei's Legend collection
Silk, polyester, pvc and emboidery used to make a Guo Pei Legend collection dress
Feathers on fabric Guo Pei Legend collection

The Finale

Guo Pei’s ‘Legend’ couture fashion show ended spectacularly with this Red Goddess gown. Carmen Dell’Orefice, octogenarian and American model, paraded the gown which is said to symbolise blood.  Made from metallic fabric, silk, crystals and embroidery, this sculptural piece makes a dramatic statement as you enter and exist the exhibition.

Guo Pei Legend collection Red Goddess ensemble
Close up of Red Goddess dress Guo Pei
Red Goddess ensemble with train Guo Pei Legend collection

 

Ann Vodicka is a Sydney based image consultant and personal stylist. She believes that all her clients have their own unique sense of personal style and she delights in helping them express it!

Image Confidence was created to help you look your best with minimum effort and maximum impact.

Contact Ann to start your transform to image confidence.

Sticky
March 21, 2018

‘Hermes at Work’ Exhibition: Artisans Share their Talents and Skills

Hermes is a family run business spanning 5 generations. The brand is synonymous with luxury and quality workmanship. The ‘Hermes at Work’ exhibition at Melbourne Town Hall was a feast for the eyes. Artisans offered us a rare and privileged look into how each items is made.

Is was a wonderful interactive experience. Each skilled crafts-person explained and demonstrated how they transform materials such as leather, silk, precious gems and ceramics into stunning handbags, gloves, scarves, watches, jewellery, saddles and finely painted porcelain. One of the highlights was looking through the jeweller’s 15x magnifying glass at the piece he was working on; a Galop Hermes bracelet featuring 2,500 plus diamonds – dazzling!

It was a fascinating world to experience. one which requires incredible skill, time, patience, an eye for detail and a passion for excellence.

‘Hermes at Work’ is at Melbourne Town Hall until 17 March (closed 12 March). If you’re in the CBD it is definitely worth a visit.

The Leatherworker

Hermes artisan makes a Kelly bag

Making the handle of a ‘Kelly’ bag

 

Hermes artisan makes a Kelly bag

Picking up the main bag section

The Tie-Maker

A lady hand stitching a silk tie

Hand stitching a silk twill tie

A lady hand stitching a silk tie

Sewing a single thread slip stitch

The Glover

The Hermes glover at his work bench

Softened leather to be transformed into gloves

colourful leather and the glover

Rainbow of colours to be made into gloves

The Silk Printer

Man using the flat frame silk printing technique

The ‘flat frame’ silk printing technique

Man uses 'flat frame' silk printing technique

The Porcelain Painter

A selection of hand painted porcelain plates

Hand painted porcelain plates

Artisan painting a porcelain plate

The artisan uses a fine sable-hair brush to paint the plate

Ann Vodicka is a Sydney based image consultant who is passionate about style and design. She believes you can be stylish at any age, and loves helping people dress to express their individuality, and, to dress for success.

 

Sticky
March 09, 2018

Stylish Comfortable Shoes for Women

Let’s face facts ladies. There comes a time in every woman’s life when putting up with uncomfortable shoes is NOT an option. You’ve limped, laboured and languished for decades with sore, blistered feet. Corns and bunions abound, and the stilettos hiding in the back of your wardrobe are covered in a thick layer of dust.

We lead busy lives: have places to go and people to meet. There’s absolutely no time for sore, aching feet!

But, thankfully, there are plenty of stylish, comfortable shoes for women. It’s easy to find shoes that look current and modern, not nanna or frumpy.

I’ve photographed some of my favourite comfy shoes to show you the variety on offer. Keep in mind these may not be your preference of colour or style, but it’s the type of shoe or heel that’s important.

 

Ann’s version of stylish comfortable shoes for women

  • Block heels (stable and sturdy, have equal width from top to bottom, can be high, low or somewhere in-between) … and an ankle strap makes it more secure and comfortable to walk in.

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: red suede sandals with block heels       Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: faux leopard skin shoes with low block heels

 

  • Kitten heels and sling backs – it doesn’t have to be the combination of the two, but the combination does speak of elegance and sophistication. Kitten heels are comfortable to wear all day or all night, and are perfect for both casual and formal occasions. Sling backs give you support around the back of your heels.

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: sandals with kitten heels    Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: sling back shoes with kitten heels

 

  • Wedges: mini and higher heel (great if you want to add height and the full sole makes them easy to walk in)

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: espadrille wedges          Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: patent leather wedges

 

  • Lace-up sandals

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: lace up sandals

 

 

  • Fun, colourful sneakers

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: gold and blue sneakers        Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: red sneakers

 

  • Ballet flats (buy some with interesting detail like the tassels and perforated suede)

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: ballet flats with tassels

  • elegant flats (in a neutral or your best metallic)

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: gold flats with sling backs

  • T-bar – the straps give you loads of support and you can get away with a higher heel. Mary-Jane styles that feature a strap or two across the instep will also keep your feet firmly secured in the shoe.

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: tan and cream sandals with t-bar

  • Enclosed and high vamp (a more closed in shoe that covers the foot)

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: tan, high vamp, peep toe sandals

  • Walking shoes that are not runners (I wore these light weight Ecco walking shoes nearly every day during a 4 week trip to Spain) Other brands include: Merrell and Vivobarefoot.

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: black walking shoes

  • Boots : Whether long or ankle, low, medium or high heeled, boots give maximum support to the whole/entire foot. Comfort factor = high.

Stylish, comfortable shoes for women over 40: tan and navy ankle boots

 

So, the moral of the story is … There are plenty of stylish comfortable shoes for women so you can look fashionable and not suffer in the process. What a relief to know that you can have the best of both worlds: style and comfort = win/win!

Ann Vodicka is the principle style coach at Image Confidence. She helps women and men dress for success. For more information regarding the style experiences she offers visit the Home page of her website.

Sticky
February 11, 2018
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