HomePage-Blog

March 15, 2022

In HomePage-Blog, Reviews

The Three Body Types and Choosing Fabrics that Flatter You

Are you familiar with the three body types called ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph? Officially they’re known as Somatotypes. These body types are hereditary traits based on your skeletal frame, muscle mass, how much fat your body stores and where you store it.

Three women stand together wearing white bikinis. They all are different body types or somatotypes.

Body types from left to right: Endomorph, Mesomorph, and Ectomorph.

American physician and psychologist Dr William Sheldon devised somatotypes in the 1940s. You can read more about his research here.

Today Sheldon’s body types go further than just describing a person’s physical build. Most people are a mix of two somatotypes. The most common combinations are mesomorph-endomorph for women and endomorph-mesomorph for men. There are recommended diets and exercise programs to benefit each physique.

That’s very interesting, but how does this information relate to the clothes and fabrics you wear?

Well, there’s a range of fabrics that flatter each somatotype. Having a good idea of which materials suit your body type will help you make great choices when you’re shopping for clothes. So, not only will you love how the garment looks and fits, you’ll feel good too!

Discover Your Body Type(s) and Fabric Recommendations

Tip: If you are one somatotype on the top and another on the bottom, use the fabric recommendations for both. E.g., If you are ectomorph on top and mesomorph on the bottom, wear fabrics for ectomorph from your waist up, and then use materials that suit mesomorph from your waist down.

Endomorph:

• Your body has curves. It looks round and soft.

• Body fat settles in the lower half of the body, e.g., tummy, hips, thighs, and bottom.

• Endomorphs typically have shorter limbs, and often, narrow shoulders

• Your body tends to carry extra fat by default (this body type has a higher body fat percentage than the other two body types)

Famous endomorphs: Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Sophia Vergara, Oprah, Marilyn Monroe, Russell Crowe, and Chris Pratt.

Models wearing soft, floaty fabrics which are perfect for the Endomorph body type.

Shop these items by clicking on the image.

Recommended fabrics for Endomorphs

Fabrics that drape and skim (not cling) over your curves are ideal. They should be fluid to medium stiffness – anything stiff or bulky material will add visual weight to your curves. Think soft and flowy.

Best fabrics include cotton jersey, viscose, bamboo, rayon, silk, lightweight wool, wool challis, chiffon, crepe de chine, fine gauze, silk crepe, silk jersey, velour, fine cashmere, most types of knits, and fabrics containing elastane (including denim).

Mesomorph:

• Appears muscular. You have more muscle than fat on your body.

• These people find it easy to gain and lose weight and are naturally strong.

• Usually has a medium frame and tends not to be overweight or underweight.

• Their bodies are often rectangular with an upright posture. (Sometimes they have broad shoulders)

Famous mesomorphs: Madonna, Janet Jackson, Halle Berry, Jessica Alba, Chris Hemsworth, and Mark Wahlberg.

Models wear clothes made from fabrics that are suitable for the mesomorph body type.

This shoppable board is for those of you with a mesomorph body type. Click here or on the image.

Recommended fabrics for Mesomorphs

If you have a Mesomorph body type, look for fabrics with some fluidity and a ‘hint’ of stiffness, i.e., nothing too soft and flimsy, but also nothing too heavy or rigid. You can get away with clothes that cling because often, your body is toned.

Look for these fabrics: linen, medium weight cotton and cashmere, denim, knits, wool crepe, fine wool gabardine, flannel, suede, wool jersey, boucle knits (think Chanel jackets), chenille, velvet (beautiful for evening and winter wear), and anything crocheted.

Ectomorph:

• Lean, slim build, often with long limbs (sometimes with protruding bones)

• Finds it challenging to gain weight

• Low body fat

• Has a fast metabolism

Famous ectomorphs: Cameron Diaz, Taylor Swift, Gisele Bundchen, Kate Middleton, Zac Efron, and Tobey Maguire.

Models wear garments made by fabrics suitable for someone with an Ectomorph body type.

Click here or on the image to shop this board.

Recommended fabrics for Ectomorphs

Stiffer fabrics with structure will add visual weight to your lean silhouette. Anything materials that are tight or clingy will draw attention to your bones.

Suggested fabrics for this body type are leather, cotton, pure linen, organza, raw silk, Thai silk, taffeta, brocade, corduroy, stiff lace, wool gabardine (often used to make coats and suits), microfiber blends, and denim.

Next Steps

Are you curious about your ideal style and how to achieve it? Your body type is just one piece of your overall style. A Personal Style Consultation covers everything from your personality, lifestyle, and the way you want to be perceived, to body shape, proportions, line, scale, patterns, face shape and jewellery (plus more!). It’s a fun and highly informative session that is specific to YOU. (No more trawling the internet for hours trying to find information that might be relevant for you.) In three hours you will have everything you need. You’ll find out what you love and want to change and have all the tools you need to make it happen, so you feel ‘style confident’ every day.

Sticky

February 15, 2022

In HomePage-Blog, Wardrobe

Statement Necklaces to Liven Up Your Outfits

Statement necklaces provide an attractive focal point and turn a boring outfit into something special.

Eye-catching necklaces are a simple way to express your personal style. From classic to quirky, feminine to playful, there are plenty of designs, colours and styles to choose from.

Are you finding it hard to find accessories to go with your outfits?

People often ask me to find unique jewellery pieces for them or want to know where to find them. I thought you might like to see some of my suggestions.

Here are 10 statement necklaces to add to your jewellery collection.

Tip: Click on the image to take you to the source.

This handmade necklace in cool blues is made from Tagua nuts. It would look gorgeous with a scoop neckline. I love the organic shapes and adjustable cord (which can be lowered or raised depending on the top or dress you’re wearing).

Here it is in beautiful warm greens.

Now here’s a very versatile piece! Multi-coloured links made from resin. I can see it working with a great variety of outfits from super casual weekend wear (tee and jeans) right through to an office environment.

It’s handy to have a long necklace in your accessory stash. This style comes in 13 different colours including sunny orange, tradition black, and warm and cool reds combined. Don’t get too hung up on the silver beads if you suit warm colours – it’s far enough away from your face and in such a small quantity not to matter. Just make sure the coloured beads are in your palette.

If you’re looking for feminine sophistication, this Kate Spade ‘Lady Marmalade’ short (16″) necklace is a perfect choice. It will team nicely with a V neckline or an open collared blouse.

‘Glamour personified’ is how I’d describe this statement necklace. Don’t you just love the glittery bits?! The shape is perfect for everyone because it’s not quite square and not totally round. Perfect for special occasions, the office or when you need a little sparkle in your life 🙂

Statement Necklaces from Nature

This gorgeous bib necklace is made from strands of black onyx. The same style comes in seven other stones including lapis lazuli, turquoise, tiger eye, and amethyst.

There’s so much to love about this cultured freshwater pearl necklace. At its shortest length the strands are 45 centimetres (18 inches) long and at their longest, 58 centimetres (23 inches) long. This stunning piece comes with a certified Seal of Authenticity. These silvery grey pearls are perfect if you suit cool tones.

I couldn’t leave my warm sisters out of the pearl party. Here’s your version of the multi-strand cultured freshwater pearl necklace. I love it!

So romantic! Swarovski’s Infinity Heart necklace features a white crystal heart and a rose gold infinity symbol that intertwine elegantly together. It may not be big, but this necklace really makes a statement – it’s a very special piece.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Sticky

February 11, 2022

Shop these versatile tops here.

Versatile Tops for Work and Play

What does your dream wardrobe look like?

I’m guessing there would be a few key factors you would mention:

I love everything in it!
It’s versatile
In my perfect colours
I can easily dress things up or down
Items fit and flatter my unique body shape and proportions
Suits my lifestyle
Easy mix and match
I feel comfortable and confident wearing my outfits
I have something for every occasion

Below you’ll find a selection of versatile tops for work and play. They’re items that can be worn in many different ways, for many different occasions.

Ideally, you want to be able to wear your clothes often, so you feel good about the money you’ve spent and you know you’re getting great cost per wear from each item. Because you love that item or outfit so much you’ll feel amazing in it and will happily to wear it over and over again – WIN!

Versatile Tops for Work and Play – Cool Undertones

Seven female models wear tops in cool colours that are very versatile because they can be worn at work and for play.

Shop these tops here.

How to Style Your Tops

You can easily team these tops with a tailored pair of pants and ballet flats or a more structured skirt and pumps for work. For casual Friday, you could wear the blouse with a pair of dressy denim jeans. And always remember to accessorise with some statement earrings or necklace.

Then, on the weekend, combine them with capri pants, a denim jacket and sneakers. If you have a defined waist, why not highlight it with a fabulous belt.

Swap the sneakers for a gorgeous pair of sandals or some stylish boots, and you’re ready for drinks and dinner with friends.

Off to a ritzy restaurant or the opera? Choose one of your shiny skirts or a 7/8 length skirt with some elegant heels.

One top – multiple uses 🙂

Versatile Tops for Work and Play – Warm Undertones

Seven women are wearing a section of tops in warm colours. These tops are very versatile as they can be worn for work or play.

Sticky

November 23, 2021

In HomePage-Blog, Style, Wardrobe

Perfect Maxi Dresses for Summertime Bliss

Down here in Sydney Australia, it’s Spring, moving into Summer. And with that comes the call for dresses: for parties, the races, hot days, and warm, sultry nights.

Sometimes it’s hard to know what to wear. So, I’ve put together a collection of my favourite maxi dresses for all occasions.

But, before you spend any money, here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your maxi.

Maxis are often loose and flowy, so if you have a defined waist, show it off by adding a belt.
Are you petite? The hem should be ankle length.
Depending on the occasion, you can wear heels, sandals, wedges or sneakers with your maxi. Boho styles look great with cowboy boots.

Tip: When I refer to sneakers, I mean slimline white, neutral, or coloured ones that relate to the colours in your dress and not anything chunky or heavy-looking.

Avoid maxis with volumes of fabric unless you are very tall.
Look for solid colours, dense all-over prints, or vertical prints if you want to look taller and slimmer.
Choose prints that are proportional to your scale. (We cover proportions and scale in a Personal Style Consultation)
Soft, floaty fabrics will be cooler and more flattering.
If your maxi is too long, i.e. hits the ground or fabric pools on the floor, shorten it. This is mainly for safety reasons. Tripping on your long dress is only going to end in tears!
Dresses in plain, solid colours lend themselves to being accessorised. If your dress features a busy pattern, allow it to be the focal point and go easy on the jewels.

Seven maxi dresses in cool colours. Five of the dresses feature floral and paisley patterns.

Click here to shop this board.

How to Accessorise your Maxi Dress

Let your imagination run wild!

You could go understated with stud earrings, a simple necklace and a daytime tote. Or, you could add larger jewellery pieces to make more of an impact. How about some bling earrings and a statement bag for the evening?

Seven maxi dresses in warm colours. Five of them have either a floral or paisley print.

Click here to shop this board.

Now’s a Great Time to Buy

Are you (and your wardrobe) ready for all of the fun get-togethers and parties that happen this time of year? Don’t find yourself stressed out with the “I have nothing to wear” syndrome. Shop early so you’ll be prepped for summer – stepping out in style.

Watch the video to see why I’ve selected these maxi dresses.

Do you need help sorting out your wardrobe, creating new outfits and shopping for the new season?

Sticky

November 09, 2021

Click here to shop the board

8 Ways to Wear Unflattering Colours

Unflattering colours will leave you looking washed out, ill or tired, or even a funny shade of orange (like you have jaundice) – gasp!

Have you ever been asked, “Are you feeling ok? You look a bit tired.”? And actually, you were feeling fine right up until the time they posed the question! 🙁 Chances are, the colour you wore that day was not one that suits your skin tone.

Wearing colours that compliment your complexion, hair, and eyes not only enhances your appearance but also contributes to you feeling good. When you like what you see in the mirror, it elevates your self-esteem and confidence, positively influencing your mood, setting you up for a great day.

Do you instinctively know when a colour is flattering or unflattering on you? Many of my clients answer this question with, “Umm, sometimes… It’s a bit hit and miss.”

A few reasons why you might wear unflattering colours

There are times you are drawn to colours that make you look less than amazing. If you’ve had a personal colour analysis, you’ll know which hues to avoid. But occasionally, there will be a strong desire to wear them anyway. (Colour psychology usually plays a part here.)

One of my dear image consultant friends, Bec, suits cool, blue-based colours. Orange is not an optimal colour for her, yet 2 years ago, all she wanted to do was wear orange. Bec was going through a rough patch and feeling flat, and she needed an uplifting energy boost. The excitement, enthusiasm, and warmth of orange was just what she craved and needed.

Another reason you might be wearing unflattering colours is you’ve had a personal colour analysis and know your optimal colour palette, but now you’re in the process of replacing clothes that are in unflattering colours. (This transition takes time.)
Your employer has issued you a uniform with no choice of colour or style.
A specific colour, e.g., lilac, has always been your favourite, yet it washes you out. Lilac becomes a hot trend for the season. It’s available in all the fashion outlets, and you’re desperate to wear it.

How to Wear Colours that are not your Best

Wear the colour on your lower half, away from your face. e.g., shoes, pants, skirts, a belt.

Woman wears a casual outfit of khaki coloured pants, a striped tee shirt, sneakers and silver earrings.

2. If the unfavourable colour is near your face, e.g., a blouse, wear a scarf or a large piece of jewellery close to your face or around your neck in one of your best colours.

3. Wear the colour in small portions, e.g., Hints of the colour in a pattern (less than 20%). Or, accessories, like a belt, small earrings, ring, bracelets.

For example, Rebecca’s colour palette (called ‘Refined’) consists of light, bright, cool colours. Silver and white gold are her best metals, yet she loves the current yellow gold trend. So, Rebecca buys sandals and some bracelets in yellow gold. These items are worn away from her face and only make up a small portion of her outfit. Her cool colours are still near her face, which makes her look healthy and vibrant. Win, win!

Green and white chequered dress, sunglasses, and gold jewellery and sandals.

Click here to shop this board

Other Ways to Wear Unflattering Colours

Create your outfit using 80% or more colours from your personal colour palette.
Keep in mind your value, colour and ideal contrast levels. Ask yourself: Is the outfit overall too light or dark? Is there too much or too little colour? Are there the right mix of light, medium and dark colours for me? (If you have had a personal colour analysis you’ll know what I’m talking about)
If it’s a top that’s the wrong colour, go for a lower neckline, so the colour is further away from your chin and doesn’t reflect onto your face.
Wear fabric that is sheer so we can see your skin through it.
Click here to shop this board
If you wear makeup, add a bold shade of lipstick in one of your best colours. Our attention will be drawn away from the unflattering colour to the bold, beautiful colour on your face.

There’s always an abundance of colours to choose from when shopping for your wardrobe or selecting makeup and hair dye. This can make your shopping experiences and decision-making frustrating, overwhelming, and time consuming. It’s very easy to choose unflattering shades! If you would like to know my professional opinion on your best colours and receive a fandeck (swatch) of those colours to have as a guide so you always pick colours that make you look vibrant and healthy, check out my Personal Colour Analysis page.

Sticky

September 22, 2021

In Colour, HomePage-Blog

Funky Flat Sandals for Easy Spring and Summer Style

Flat sandals are so handy to have in your wardrobe for spring and summer.

They allow your feet to breathe, and you can wiggle your toes (LOL)! They’re such an easy ‘grab and go’ option for the warmer months.

Nude coloured flats that are close to your skin tone are the most versatile. Then, neutrals like tan, navy, white, grey, brown, and black are handy because they mix and match with every colour. And finally, fun, interesting colours such as green, red, orange, purple etc., are the least adaptable but will add an element of interest to any outfit.

If you have skin with warm undertones, choose yellow-based colours. And, if your skin is ‘cool’, then select blue-based colours. I’ve included a range of both warm and cool coloured flat sandals, as you can see in the shoppable boards below.

Stylish flat, open-toed sandals in warm colours - perfect for spring and summer outfits.

Click here to shop the board.

Funky flat, open-toed sandals in cool colours - perfect for spring and summer outfits

Watch this video to see why I chose these flat sandals:

If you’ve had your colours done, you’ll know if you should be focusing on the warm or the cool range of colours. If you’re at a loss as to whether you suit yellow or blue-based colours, a personal colour analysis consultation will take all of the guesswork away.

What To Wear with Flat Sandals

A maxi dress
Jeans
Casual skirt
Knee or above the knee length dress
Culottes
Shorts
A jumpsuit
Cargo pants
Casual pants made from light-weight fabric like linen

Let’s just look at #1 and #4. Flat sandals and casual dresses are a match made in heaven. These are two wardrobe items that require minimum thought and time, with maximum impact. No worrying about which top and bottom coordinate together – just slip on your dress, slide into your sandals, grab your handbag, and you’re out the door!

Here are some long and short dresses that would look great with your flat sandals.

Long and short dresses to wear in spring and summer

Sticky

September 10, 2021

Must-Have Handbags for Your Wardrobe

Handbag lovers unite!

Selecting a handbag is a very personal choice. There is plenty to consider as you explore all the options.

Where do you start?

Firstly, aesthetic appeal: Do you like its colour, shape, form?

And secondly, is it fit for purpose.

Choosing a handbag, you love

There will be particular reasons why you are attracted to the look of one handbag and not to another.

Does it appeal to your style personality and preferences? Do you prefer classic, relaxed, dramatic, feminine, elegant chic, or creative styles?

Is it the size you like to wear? Some people like the oversized look. Others prefer to wear items that complement their body proportions i.e., a petite person wears smaller bags.

Will you choose a neutral shade (e.g., tan, black, navy, grey, khaki) or an interest colour (e.g., red, orange, purple, cornflower blue, green)? Selecting a colour from your personal colour palette, whether it’s neutral or an interest colour, will mean it will match well with the rest of your wardrobe, and will be an easy choice, so you use it often.

Nine handbags in a mix of neutral tones.

Choosing a Handbag from a Practical Perspective

Here are some aspects to ponder:

What goodies will I be carrying in my handbag? Some people need the bare essentials: keys, wallet, phone. Others (like me) pack much, much more.
How many totes do you need for grocery shopping? And, if you shop at markets, there’s a bag for that too!

Is the handle or strap going to be comfortable to use.

Does it have internal or external pockets? Is this important to you?

If you were using your handbag for overseas travel you might like to ensure it has a good quality zip at the top so the bag can be securely closed.

Is it within budget? What is its cost per wear? E.g., If you purchase a handbag for $365 and use it every day for 1 year, the bag is only costing you $1 a day 🙂
Tip: If you purchasing an every-day bag ensure it is made from quality leather for longevity and durability.

Can I use it for many occasions i.e., is it multi-purpose?

Finding the right balance of form and function is key to owning a handbag you love, and that will be used for years to come.

Watch the video to see my pick of selected totes, cross body bags and timeless handbags. Some are super stylish, some are fun, and all of them are versatile.

Sticky

August 27, 2021

10 Easy, Chic Ways To Style Your Winter Knits

These 10 easy, chic ways to style your winter knits will have you looking up-to-date for every occasion. Jumpers (‘sweaters’ in America, ‘pullovers’ in Europe) and short and long-line cardigans keep you warm and cosy on chilly days. They are versatile investment pieces for your winter wardrobe – perfect for layering when the temperature plummets. Mostly, I choose knits made from natural fibres like merino, alpaca, and cotton – not just to keep the cold out but because they are soft, comfortable, and breathable.

You can find my favourites in the shoppable boards and video below. Some of these styles come in other colours. My picks are based on cool and warm colours. If you have already had a colour analysis with me, you will know your best colour palette (whether you are warm or cool). You can wear all of these knits to create stylish outfits like the suggestions listed below.

Watch the video to see why I have selected these cosy winter knits.

10 Easy, Chic Ways To Style Your Winter Knits

Jeans, ankle boots, jacket or long-long cardigan. Swap the ankle boots for sneakers.
Team your knit with a skirt. Half tuck or belt your knit to show your shape.
Add a textured vest over the top for extra warmth—for example, faux fur or quilted styles.
Ankle boots, slim-fit jeans, and a long jumper with a long necklace.
Wear a collared shirt underneath your knit. Allow the collar and hem of the shirt to peek out at either end.

8 happy women wear cosy winter jumpers and cardigans.

Skinny jeans or Ponte pants with long boots and a long scarf.
A straight skirt, tights, ankle boots and an oversized winter knit.
If your winter jumper is oversized and long enough, wear it like a dress with tights and long boots.
Wear your oversize V-neck or boatneck knits off the shoulder with jeans, pants or a skirt and long boots.
For a chic evening look, pair your light to medium weight jumpers with your darkest denim jeans or culottes and high heeled boots or pumps.

Have fun creating some of these easy ways to style your winter knits.

Sticky

July 24, 2021

In HomePage-Blog, Wardrobe

7 Fashion Mistakes Sabotaging Your Style

Interested in knowing 7 fashion mistakes that could be sabotaging your style?

Let’s start with ‘style rules’.

Do you like them to stick to them when you create your outfits, or do you favour flexibility as I do?

I think it’s beneficial to know the theory and fundamentals of colour and style, but things get more exciting when you bend the rules, play outside the box and express your individuality. After all, fashion is meant to be fun!

There are, however, some general guidelines that can save your outfit from falling into the “What was she thinking?!” category. Knowing these fashion faux pas will help you dress with style and feel more confident about your outfit choices.

Fashion Mistakes Stealing Your Style

1. Insisting you are only ever one size in clothing. “I’m always a size 12. I couldn’t possibly go up to the 14.”

Not all sizes are created equal! Make allowances for the huge sizing variations from one brand to another.

Last week I was on a personal shopping trip with Katie, who usually wears a size 14/L. She purchased an oversized top in size 12 and a skirt that skimmed her curves in size 16. Both garments fit her to perfection.

2. Buying one item in every colour, especially anything that is worn near your face. I have seen this sooo many times during wardrobe audits!

The chances are that only one or, at a stretch, two colours will suit your ideal personal colour palette. The other colours will be unflattering for your skin tone. You may innately recognise this when you look in the mirror. Consequently, you only wear one colour ‘to death’ while the others will be a waste of money and take up valuable space in your wardrobe.

Model wears 4 tops that are all the same style but in different colours.

These 4 tops are all the same style but in different colours. The soft pink and pure white tops are great options if you are light with cool undertones. Black will suit those with deep colouring. The marine blue top will look fabulous on you if you have warm undertones.

Fashion faux pas to avoid

3. Wearing wide horizontal or vertical stripes across areas you want to hide, e.g. your tummy, hips, bottom, bust or shoulders. Stripes, especially large ones, are focal points that add extra volume and width.

4. Wanting to look taller and slimmer, but wearing very dark pants with a very light top (or vice versa).

This combination is called ‘high-value contrast’. It visually cuts you in half. If you are tall, that might not be such a big deal. But, if you are average height or less, it will make you appear shorter and wider. Notice that the line at the model’s waist area is less obvious in the image on the right-hand side.

5. Fashion mistake no. 5 is wearing white, bright, tight, coloured, dark or patterned underwear beneath your white clothes. No one needs to see that! ? Nude, flesh colours are the way to go.

Tip: White pants are especially unforgiving, so when you wear them, make sure your underwear fits perfectly.

These Fashion Blunders could be your Style Undoing.

6. Buying into extreme fashion trends. They lack staying power and date quickly. Examples include micro bags, padded shoes, and mega-ripped jeans. These high turnover pieces deplete your bank balance and contribute to unnecessary waste and pollution. Plus, if you wear them for too long, others will perceive you as outdated or stuck in the past.

7. The last of the fashion mistakes warranting a mention is ill-fitting clothes. Wearing garments that are either too tight or too large draws attention for the wrong reasons. I think the former is the worst offender – think muffin tops and breasts spilling out of a super tight top. This scenario reminds me of something I read ages ago, “Just ‘cause it zips doesn’t mean it fits.”

The other side of the coin is trying to hide your perceived problem areas (like a tummy) with large over-sized clothes. Excess fabric only draws our attention to that area.

Clothes that skim your body shape are most flattering.

Image credits: Mollini, Portmans

Sticky

March 17, 2021