Holiday Dressing Archives | Jackie Crawford

July 29, 2022

SUMMER STYLE ESSENTIALS

There are always a number of Summer Style Essentials that we rely on in our wardrobes whether we are jetting off somewhere or planning a staycation.

That’s also the great thing about the usual British Summer, it tends to be a shorter season so the clothes we wear don’t get too much use. So let’s call it Sustainable Summer Style Essentials allowing us to re-wear these items year after year.

Pieces that if we care for and love, can be re-introduced, re-explored and maybe, re-styled.

I’ve narrowed down my selection so read on for my Summer 7 - 7 key pieces I could not do without.

Sunglasses

Photo Credit: Julia Kuzenkov Pexels

More than an aid for protecting our eyes from the glare of sunlight and harmful UV and UVB rays but also, a fashionably cool accessory.

Like a swipe of lipstick, sunglasses can change our entire look.
Be mindful of fashion sunglasses that do not always provide sufficient UV protection so try to look out for a CE Mark, UV400 or a British Standard Mark such as ISO to ensure good protection.

Tote / Beach Bag

The ultimate Summer accessory. No-one wants to cart a heavy leather bag around in the Summer when our hands are sticky with sucream or icecream. Instead choose a lighter style bag that will carry your everyday essentials. Think Jute, Raffia or Straw. A classic bag will stay with you season after season.

If you choose something with a reinforced base and good sturdy handles, you will be sure to use it on repeat each Summer.

Whichever you select, ensure it has a small compartment to keep you purse, keys and lippie safe and handy. For a lovely range of bags take a look at these beauties by British brand Henrietta Spencer.

Embellished Sandals

There is something quite irresistible about a pair of sandals with some sort of embellishment or sparkle and since there are few days here in the UK when we can actually wear them, we can enjoy their return year after year.

Take a simple outfit up a notch with some embellished sandals.

Maxi Dress

Image Credit Phase Eight Maya Palm Print

A dress with a beautiful print will carry you through the Summer whatever your plans. From strolling around a market, heading for a Mojito, barbeque on the beach or even a Wedding. You may even manage to wear it in your workplace.

Style with your favourite accessories but keep it simple, the statement will be the print!

Choose a print that you love and you will be happy to wear your dress for longer.

Tie a scarf around your handbag for a stylish twist

Silk Scarf

A scarf can do far more than its name suggests – it can protect us from the sun and equally provides an extra layer when the temperatures fall. Tie one around your wrist as a cool and colourful accessory or tie one around the handle of your bag for a stylish twist.

A scarf can also be used as a belt over a Summer dress to cinch around the waist. I’ve also used a scarf before, knotted as an evening bag.

Sun Hat

Offering total protection for your skin, eyes and hair, a hat is a great all-rounder and makes a rather stylish statement too. You can’t afford to leave home without one.

Choose a colour that effortlessly pairs with the clothes in your wardrobe but failing that, a good neutral colour will ensure it goes with everything!

Go for a wider brim for a glorious glamorous vibe!

Kimono

Who doesn’t love the free and easy feel of a Kimono. Simply pair with a tee and pair of shorts or slip over your swimwear. At the Spa? Take one along as a cover-up!

They are a versatile addition to any wardrobe and there’s always a great choice of colours and patterns around.

This one I love from One Hundred Stars but check out the options from sustainable British brand Live Lagom.

Do let me know if your Top 7 Sustainable Summer Style Essentials are the same as mine!

I hope these styling tips help you. Don’t forget to drink plenty and water and remember your sunscreen. Do enjoy and happy and safe Summer.

Jackie Crawford

Image Consultant

07494 644788

*Main Image credit Olivia Brabbs for York Fashion Week

Published by Jackie Crawford in Dressing for Summer, Holiday Dressing, Packing for a Holiday, Packing for a Summer staycation, Sustainability, Sustainable Fashion

July 28, 2021

PACKING FOR A SUMMER STAYCATION

From blistering temperatures to a freezing downpour that has us reaching for the waterproof’s! Ah sounds like a holiday in the UK and you may be packing for a Summer staycation.

That’s one of the wonderful things about holidays in the UK. There is such variety (on so many levels) which means being prepared to experience four seasons in just one day!

So if you are packing for a Summer staycation, here are some of my favourite tips to make holiday packing a breeze.

Hoorah! No Baggage Allowance

The joy with a staycation is that we tend to travel by car so we may enjoy more flexibility. No excuse to take the kitchen sink

Firstly you will need to consider the type of holiday…

The items you choose to take with you does depend upon the type of holiday, is it a romantic get-away, an activity or beach holiday or are the kids coming with you?

Assuming it is not an activity or beach holiday you will spend your days drinking in the views of your chosen destination, go for simple and stylish and remember some comfortable flatties to wander the streets in. Leave your heels behind unless you are headed somewhere very glamorous and have specific plans with smarter dining arrangements.

Add a hoodie to a simple Summer dress

The Packing Edit

A decent Coat or Jacket

Walking Boots or shoes comfortable enough to walk in with appropriate socks

A pair of trainers and a pair of sandals

Lightweight Trousers – preferably non-denim as they take longer to dry

A selection of short and long-sleeve Tee-Shirts

A couple of smarter tops for the evening

A skirt

A Sundress or Shirt Dress

A scarf that doubles as a cover-up from the sun or as an additional layer when the temperatures fall in the evening. Lovely Cashmere range here from Amadablam Cashmere.

Why not view my Pinterest board here for some staycation holiday outfit inspiration.

Lay out your clothes before you pack

This will help you to see what goes with what and can help you make a list of outfits. You can save valuable packing space if you choose versatile clothing to mix and match allowing you to wear items that transition throughout the day into evening. Sticking to a similar colour palette helps here too. I am a great fan of a variety of different tops that can be paired with wide leg palazzo trousers – very cool for both day and night.

The Packing itself…

Be ruthless and ensure you try everything on before you pack it, does it fit and does it make you happy. Rolling your clothes saves valuable space and also prevents creasing. Don’t forget the valuable space inside a pair of shoes (oh and possibly wellies….it is the UK remember) and use this space for socks, swimwear, underwear or suncream.

Accessories

Accessories tie an outfit together very well – a statement belt, jewellery or indeed a hat. Consider the colour and if it will combine well with other outfits. I slip additional jewellery into a jewellery roll within an ‘evening’ bag. Unless you know your accommodation has a safe, leave your finer jewellery at home.

Photo Credit: Julia Kuzenkov Pexels

Summer Staycation Travel Essentials

First up, how about a sand-resistant Beach Towel that leaves the sand behind with a quick shake. I was rather taken with this super absorbant, quick drying towel made entirely from recycled materials. Available in a great array of colours, it’s a useful item for camping, sports, hiking or for a day on the beach. A different colour for each family member maybe?

Wherever you go you will need to protect yourself from the sun and so a high factor suncream is a must. Better still invest in the amazing Tancream which combines self-tan AND sun protection of SPF50.

Sunglasses are not only a fashionably cool accessory but a necessary aid to protect our eyes from the glare of sunlight and harmful UV rays.

Finally, don’t leave home without your umbrella, face-mask or hand sanitiser!

So there you have it, I hope you have learnt something about packing for a Summer staycation but if you need any help in putting together a selection of flexible holiday garments.

Enjoy a very safe and Happy Holiday!

Or if you are looking for some positive change to the way you present yourself, please do call me on 07494 644788 or visit my website at www.jackiecrawford.co.uk

Colours . Clothes . Confidence

Staycation in this instance is defined as a holiday within the UK

Published by Jackie Crawford in Holiday Dressing, Packing for a Holiday, Packing for a Summer staycation

Tags: Dressing simplified, Holiday Dressing, holiday packing, packing for a holiday, Packing for a Summer Staycation, Personal Style, Personal Stylist York, Personal Stylist Yorkshire, simplify your dressing, simplify your Summer dressing, Stylish Summer Dressing

June 30, 2021

DRESSING FOR SUMMER

There are still many of us coming to terms with a post-pandemic dressing routine but perhaps dressing for Summer may give you the incentive to get back on track? Having spent more than a year in clothes that made us feel comfortable, many of my clients have become stuck in a styling rut.

Now that we can return to our local high street once again, Summer could be the butt-kick we need to add some new pieces to our wardrobe. Pieces that work for you that you can reach for year after year.

It’s not about the latest trends but about the key elements you need to consider. Needless to say that anything with tight waistbands should be avoided!

We all realise that future Summer’s are likely to become a whole lot hotter! Since successful Summer dressing is all about staying cool, how do we maintain a stylish look? Read on for some guidance on Dressing for Summer over the coming weeks.

Natural Fabrics

First up, choose natural fibres that breathe more easily such as cotton, linen (watch out for the creasing mind), silk, chambray (a plain weave fabric) or a loose Jersey.

If you do happen to sweat, natural fabrics will dry faster.

It’s worth noting that Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or rayon may cause you to sweat more. Clothes that stick to our bodies is not a good look!

For those of you able to make your own clothes, check out Sewsocialising (an independent fabric shop and sewing studio in York) who have a great range of Summer fabrics and also offer a mail-order service too!

Choose some paler shades

We associate lighter colours with a Summer vibe so choosing some pastels and paler shades will reflect the light and keep you cooler. It’s a great way to switch around the darker clothes in the wardrobe.

Layering is key

Think about using layers to add interest or to regulate your temperature particularly if you are out and about. Take a large but fine scarf with you to wrap over your shoulders. This will protect you from the sun but also acts as a further layer if the temperature cools. Alternatively an oversize shirt is also a good option to slip over a simple tee.

In a working environment, having a light jacket close at hand is always useful.

Loose and Floaty

Clothing with a looser silhouette is a good staple for your Summer wardrobe as it allows air to flow easily around your body. Anything too fitted could make you feel a little sticky in the heat.

If you prefer a little shape, you could always cinch the waist using a softer style belt or a scarf for a belt.

Add a splash of Colour above your waist

If you are still working from home and Zoom remains your mode of communication, choose more interesting basics in your tops that have interest built in rather than a single plain colour. You can keep that for your bottoms.

Back in the office? Add a splash of colour anyway!

Anyone for a jumpsuit?

An alternative cooler option to your usual top and bottoms. There are some great styles this season so choose wisely for your body shape…

Straight leg styles work for a straighter body shape

Wide Leg styles work for those with a curvy body shape

If you are short, opt for a full length trouser rather than the cropped styles that visually reduce your height. I cover this and more within my pampering and informative Personal Styling consultation.

Add a hoodie to a simple Summer dress

Dresses are cooler

Wearing dresses is a great strategy as there is nothing complicated to combine and then if you need to add a layer (heading onto a zoom or meeting a client) you can slip on a Kimono, fine knit vest top or depending upon the style, a hoodie – see image.

Think also about a shirt dress that will still feel loose but flattering and with the vertical button detailing, will make you look taller! There’s a ‘win’ right there!

The longer style hemlines don’t work for all proportions so remember not to end the hemline on the widest point of your leg.

Wardrobe Basics

If we also consider transitional dressing, we can add a longer sleeve tee underneath our Summerwear such as a dress or blouse for Spring and potentially Autumn wear.

Remaining professional when the temperatures rise

Anyone thinking this is a little trickier during the Summer months?

My advice is to opt for a simple work-appropriate dress and keep a light jacket, cardigan or finer wrap ready for the office environment. Keep your colour palette on the lighter end of the spectrum.

Choosing a wider leg trouser style is also a great option which can be paired with heels, a flatter pump or smarter trainer.

A short sleeve silk or cotton blouse can look equally stylish with a skirt of your choosing. The look can be brightened up with footwear and minimal jewellery.

Still need to wear a jacket? Opt for an unlined jacket which reduces one extra later.

Photo credit: Birkenstock Arizona Vegan Birko-Flor in Light Rose

Footloose and fancy free

Keeping your feet cool and comfortable is essential in the warmer weather. Opt for a stylish pair of open toe slides, wedges or some Birkenstocks which are available in a wonderful array of colours. Choosing a neutral tone ensures they offer more outfit flexibility.

Keep your make-up light and natural

Instead of a heavier foundation choose instead a tinted moisturiser that tends not to crease when the temperatures rise. Change up a darker lip colour for a paler shade or a tinted lip gloss or balm.

Replace your black eye liner or mascara with a softer shade – brown is a great alternative for all skin tones.

Tie a scarf around your handbag for a stylish twist

And to top it off…

A hat will keep the sun off your face and neck but having a small scarf with you to tie your hair up is a helpful addition for your bag – try tying onto your bag for an extra stylish twist?

Drink plenty of water

It’s important that you keep your fluid intake up especially during the hotter months. Try drinking from a nicer glass or keeping a water bottle on your desk to top you up.

Take a look here for some current styling ideas.

Enjoyed this article? I’d be happy if you were to comment below or share with your friends.

If however, you would like to arrange a discovery call and receive one to one guidance, I’d love to hear from you.

Wishing you a cool and stylish Summer.

Jackie Crawford

07494 644788

Colours . Clothes. Confidence

Published by Jackie Crawford in Holiday Dressing, Seasonal Style, Shopping Mindfully, Sustainable Fashion, Uncategorized

November 30, 2020

WHAT TO WEAR FOR CHRISTMAS – 2020 STYLE

If it were anytime prior to Christmas 2020 we would be fast approaching the busiest time of year in our social calendars. The task of choosing our party outfit would have been high on our agenda! What to wear for Christmas - 2020 style may look a little different.

With a global pandemic to contend with, partying may not be top priority. However it is still an opportunity to wriggle out of our leisurewear in favour of something a little more special. We still want to feel good, right?

You may not be heading far and the party atmosphere may be more subdued this year so selecting something that lifts our mood is a good start. How about opting for something a little more glitzy and glamorous? Remember the power our clothes have to make us feel good?

Ready to Party at Home?

So what to wear for Christmas - 2020 style when we may not even be heading out of the door?

I am an advocate of choosing outfits that offer real flexibility so opting for pieces that can mix and match with others is a good strategy. Despite the year we have all experienced, it is still essential to incorporate some sparkle this season. So don’t forget the opulent velvet and standout sequins. Here are some of my favourites this season:

Dark Green Sparkle Top by Whistles

The Sparkly Top that you can wear at home with jeans or easily paired for an evening out with smart trousers or a skirt. Although this year, a sparkle in the trouser department is bang on trend.

TOP TIP: If you are the Christmas Chef, only dress your bottom half whilst you are doing the ‘messy’ bits, then all you have to do is change your top. Don't be tempted to cook the Christmas lunch in any new item of clothing. You don't want to risk any spillage on its first outing!

Amy Embellished Flats by Boden

Don’t forget the embellished shoes that add some daytime glamour. If you are heading out, remember of course that they will not withstand much wet weather nor snow, if we are dreaming of a white Christmas!

Nothing says Christmas quite like sequins and can be found on dresses and tops alike and will become wardrobe staples for year after year!

Nancy Velvet Top by Boden

I love the 'feel appeal' of velvet which looks great on for a luxurious festive look – I particularly like the wide leg trousers with a floaty feminine top taking you effortlessly from Christmas drinks to Christmas Day.

A Jumpsuit is a great alternative to a dress or separates – one piece and you’re done! They tend to be very flattering for most body shapes. Depending upon the occasion, they are an easy item to dress up or down – flat pumps for a party at home and heels for a ‘bubble party’ elsewhere.

What if I am heading out!

So (if like a friend of mine) you are planning a special celebration that includes a country walk to a cosy pub, I recommend a toasty knee length skirt or trousers and jumper combo with a fab pair of opaque tights. Your outdoor boots can then be switched to a smarter pair when you arrive. Equally a jumpsuit tucked into wellies is another option with a change of footwear at the end.

Don’t forget to wrap up this season so look out for the variety of faux fur hats, scarves and wraps.

Any when you are ready to cosy up?

At the end of the day, returning to the cosy and comfortable in a favourite pair of PJ’s and slippers Hygge style, is a choice you can easily make.

Hopefully you are more clued up about what to wear for Christmas - 2020 style but for some further inspiration, take a peek at my Christmas Sparkle Pinterest Board here. Do hurry if you wish catch some price reductions in the pre-Christmas sales. It's also worth remembering the smaller boutiques and independents will really appreciate our support this year.

If you’ve been following my ‘live’ #SustainableStrides series over on Facebook, you will remember me speaking of the feel good factor associated with choosing clothes more sustainably. This could be wearing and re-purposing the clothes we already have in our wardrobe or selecting new pieces from manufacturers and brands - transparent with their sustainable credentials. If we choose our clothing carefully for Christmas, these special items will come out year after year. Read more here.

Do get in touch if you'd like to learn more about the colours that best suit you or the styles that suit your body shape, lifestyle and personality. I would love to hear from you. Did you know that I also offer GIFT VOUCHERS for my services? You might wish to pop one on your list for Santa.

May I take this opportunity of wishing you a very Jolly Careful Christmas and wish you all that sparkles.

Stylishly Yours

Jackie Crawford

07494 644788

Published by Jackie Crawford in Christmas, Dressing for Christmas, Holiday Dressing, Seasonal Style, Shopping Mindfully, Special Occasion Dressing, Sustainable Fashion

Tags: Dressing for Christmas, Hygge, image consultant york, image consultant yorkshire, seasonal dressing, shopping mindfully, special occasion dressing, sustainable fashion, Sustainable style, what to wear for Christmas, yorkshire image consultant, Yorkshire Stylist

June 30, 2018

PACKING FOR A HOLIDAY?

When packing for a holiday, the two words that fill me with apprehension are ‘baggage allowance’! We can begin with good intentions of packing only what we are likely to need but end up packing more ‘just in case’.

I would take my entire clothing selection rather than make a decision about what to take but wanted to share some of my favourite top tips gathered over the years to make holiday packing a breeze.

Firstly you will need to consider the type of holiday…

The items you choose to take with you does of course depend upon the type of holiday, is it a romantic get-away, an activity or beach holiday or are the kids coming with you?

Assuming it is not an activity or beach holiday you will spend your days drinking in the culture of your chosen destination, go for simple and stylish and remember some comfortable flatties to wander the streets in. Leave your heels behind unless you are headed somewhere very glamorous and have specific plans with formal dining arrangements and dress codes.

Lay out your clothes before you pack

This will help you to see what goes with what and can help you make a list of outfits. You can save valuable packing space if you choose versatile clothing to mix and match allowing you to wear items that transition throughout the day into evening. I am a great fan of a cool linen top with a pair of wide leg palazzo trousers – very cool for both day and night.

You may leave the UK in rain or cold conditions so consider what you will travel in and perhaps wear your heaviest items to save unnecessary baggage weight.

Why not view my pinterest board here for some travel outfit inspiration.

The Packing itself…

Be ruthless and ensure you try everything on before you pack it, does it fit and does it make you happy. Rolling your clothes saves valuable space and also prevents creasing. Select fabrics that require little attention whilst you are away. Don’t forget the valuable space inside a pair of shoes and use this space for socks, bikinis, underwear or suncream. If you can go hand-baggage only.

Accessories

Photo credit: Moda in Pelle – Alandi Blue Suede

Travel Essentials

How often do you catch cold as you head on holiday? Our bodies can sometimes let down our defences when we relax so don’t forget some simple medication that saves you finding a pharmacy.

Wherever you go you will need to protect yourself from the sun and so a high factor suncream is a must. Better still, invest in the amazing Tancream which combines self-tan AND sun protection of SPF50.

Sunglasses are not only a fashionably cool accessory but a necessary aid to protect our eyes from the glare of sunlight and harmful UV rays.

You may want to pack a cover-up to hot-foot it from swimming pool or beach to the bar. Wherever you travel, a wrap is also a great idea if temperatures are likely to fall in the evening.

Travel only with toiletry essentials decanted into 100ml plastic containers – shampoo, conditioner, face wash, moisturiser and aftersun.

Finally, when you do return home, make a note of all the items you actually wore on holiday! Chances are that you took too much! Note to self for next year.

Packing for Business

Remember if you are travelling away on business, it is easy forget that (hopefully) you will get some ‘down time’. Remember to pack some clothes to relax in after a long day. You may even be lucky enough to stay in a hotel with leisure facilities, so don’t forget your gym gear and swimming costume if space and weight will allow.

I could write an individual blog on this subject (and probably will do) as there are many elements. A key consideration here is your comfort. Perhaps consider a trolley for your laptop, comfortable block heels rather than stilettos and a packable coat or cashmere cover-up in case it becomes colder as you travel.

So there you have it, I hope you have learnt something about packing for a holiday from this article but if you need any help in putting together a selection of flexible holiday garments or are ready for some positive change to your image please do call me on 07494 644788 or visit my website at www.jackiecrawford.co.uk

Colours . Clothes . Confidence

Photo credit: Cover Image Pexels

Published by Jackie Crawford in Holiday Dressing

May 30, 2018

BE YOUR OWN BEACH BABE & DRESS WITH CONFIDENCE

I don’t know about you, but I get very excited about the prospect of a holiday! It doesn’t matter where it is (although at the moment I favour good old Blighty!), the thought of long luxurious days with your loved ones (and all being well, in the sun!) is the stuff of dreams!

So you have your time-off scheduled – tick, you have booked your fights – tick, you have booked your accommodation – tick, you book your holiday haircut and treat yourself to some holiday nails (of course hands and feet ladies!) and the countdown begins…………

Then the panic sets in! What shall I wear on the beach??

What’s in? Can I still get away with a Bikini, can you still get Tankini’s and what about the good old one piece swimming suit?

The fact is, we all know that whilst current fashion trends may suit some of us, my advice always has to be – find the ideal swimwear that suits your own unique body shape. Trust me, I guarantee that you will feel more confident. Let’s face it, we need to make the right choice, when else do we bear all for the world to see!

There is a knack to dressing with confidence so before you disappear into the sunset, let me share some Tips and Tricks for choosing swimwear styles to flatter your figure type:

Bikinis

Brighter colours and prints are best ‘sported’ by those with a smaller bust
Halter-neck bikinis are flattering for those of us with a larger bust (yay!)
Fuller or high-waisted briefs add definition and offer more support for troublesome tummies. To avoid the ‘muffin top’ ensure that the briefs extend higher than your tummy button
Bikini Tops with detachable straps mean you can avoid tan lines (never a good look if you can avoid it)
Tie-side briefs create curves and are great for those with ‘boyish’ frames if they don’t quite sit on the hips

Tankinis

Padded cups and V-Necks will help to enhance a smaller bust
Fuller briefs are a girl’s best friend if you are pear-shaped and need a little more coverage
Find separately sold pieces which means you can find the perfect fit for both tops and bottoms
The fuller tankini top is more stylish and age-friendly than a bikini top

photo credit: Bravissimo, Boracay Plunge Tankini

Full Swimsuits

Select wider straps if you are supporting a fuller bust
Halter-Necks will visually widen narrow shoulders and helps to balance out pear-shapes
Select a ruched panel if you need to disguise a troublesome tummy
Don’t just select Black as a ‘slimming’ technique, your own personal colours will work equally well as does Navy and Berry tones
Wide hips and thighs can be disguised under a skirt-detail or a cover-up.
A different coloured side-panel will also help you to look slimmer

photo credit: White Stuff, Tropical Twist Swimsuit

Cover-Ups

You are going to want to pack a cover-up! Perfect when you need to hot-foot it to the beach bar. You will find a great range of plain and patterns this season. Choose from a selection of lightweight sundresses, stylish sarongs and kaftans.

photo credit: John Lewis, Floral Bardot Dress

Shorts

Beach or no beach, it is also worth mentioning to those of us with larger knees…….and ahem (over 50!) shorts end at the knee and not above!

You may prefer to order your swimwear on-line in a less pressured environment and where there are no sales assistants to pass judgement on our wobbly bits. It allows us to try on in the comfort of our own home but let us not compromise on the shape or colour and send it back if it is not right.

Don’t take my word for it, learn to wear the shapes that enhance your own body so that you can embrace your beach body with a new-found confidence.

Don't forget your suncream and sunnies. Happy Beach Body….. and enjoy your holiday, wherever you are.

However all that said, if you would like some advice on dressing with confidence, would like to arrange a personal style consultation with me in my comfortable home studio near York or indeed a shopping trip in the lead up to your holidays then please get in touch on 07494 644788.

Published by Jackie Crawford in Holiday Dressing