November 30, 2023

CHRISTMAS DRESSING…WITH A TWIST

There is nothing like a diary of pre-festive events to plan for, to focus our clothing choices, let me share my thoughts on Christmas Dressing...with a twist.

Whether it will be presents in our pyjamas or cocktails in our cashmere, one thing is for sure, we will all choose differently.

It goes without saying that we lean towards the more luxurious fabrics at this time of year such as velvets, silks, satins and jacquard.  How about we change the narrative on this and see how we can extend the wearing-life of these garments and wear them more regularly throughout the year.

Lovely Lingerie

There is nothing quite like the feel of silk on our skin.  I love to wear a sexy lacy under-layer.  Wear under a jacket or poking out under a silky shirt. Not simply for Christmas Dressing, I love these options from Yorkshire brand Bella di Notte.

Wonderful Velvets

We seem to reserve the luxury of velvet for Christmas.  A pair of Velvet trousers will always look great worn with sparkles and a pair of heels but once the party season is over, why not pair with a pair of posh trainers and a sweatshirt?

 

Colourful Colour

Colour elevates our mood so share some colour happiness

Lots of brights feature in our stores this season.  Colour elevates our mood and influences those around us.  That sounds like a good incentive to veer away from our usual deeper colour choices at this time of year and spread some colourful energy.  The weather is gloomy enough!

Christmas Dressing...with a twist

Why not pick up any bolder shades and match it to your jewellery?

Statement Satins

I love the feel of silky satin and wonder why many of us save this pleasure for Christmas?  So many ways to style a satin shirt.  Try a blouse with silky trousers a swishy skirt or beyond the festivities, pair with your favourite jeans and boots.  Why not pick up any bolder shades and match it to your jewellery...as I have done here with the emerald green.  Image credit: Steven Curtis Photography

Joyful Jacquard

Swap your sequins for some opulent Jacquard and see how often it could be worn throughout the year... find a stunning jacket and pair with silky or velvet trousers but think about dressing it down with jeans or as an accompaniment to a plainer dress.

A statement jacket will prove to be a wardrobe workhorse and a hero-piece that will take you on many adventures.

 

I absolutely encourage you to wear your finer pieces, take your lovely jewellery out of hiding and throughout the year.  If not now, when?  It's time to wear your diamonds with your denim, your gold vermeil with your velvet and rubies with your raincoats.

Our clothes are an expression of our unique and individual identity, wear them whenever you can and feel fabulous.  Why just wear your special clothing for special occasions?  Every day is our best day

I will have another blog for you before 2023 is over.  Any requests for a specific topic?

Much love

Jackie

07494 644788

*Image credit title page Boden

July 31, 2023

STYLE OVER FASHION?

There’s something about nailing a style that no-one else is wearing!  That’s one of the key benefits of choosing style over fashion, we can procure and develop our own look.  Style feels more comfortable for us, more aligned with our personality and understanding what works for our body shape is a great way to invest in ourselves.

STYLE OVER FASHION

Our personal style is something quite different and more unique to the individual.  Whereas fashion directs us to collective and even global trends at a given period in time.  The fashionistas among us will closely follow the trends and feel compelled to stay up to date.  Often, whether the style flatters or not.   Fashion is readily available to us all but the turnover is sadly now unsustainably fast unless we choose wisely and less frequently.

Choose your pieces more carefully

Choose your pieces more carefully

CHOOSE YOUR PIECES MORE CAREFULLY

I put my hand up here that like many of us, I have been equally guilty of panic buying but then relegating the garment to the back of my wardrobe.  Perhaps it doesn’t fit so well, it doesn’t flatter our shape or maybe the colour is wrong for us.  There are lots of elements at play here.

Creating our own style, helps us to avoid these impulse purchases. That’s what I love most about style over fashion - the way we can develop our sense of self, a feeling of comfort and authenticity.  Dressing for who we are now, in the moment, is always a good strategy.

STYLE IS AN INVESTMENT IN OURSELVES

As a child of the 60’s and through play I learnt at an early age that our clothes have the power to support us and as a vehicle, can elevate us to aim higher.  You’ve heard the expression, dress for the job you want?  It means that our clothes are part of the vision of where we see ourselves in the future.  Our image and the clothes we wear are one of the key methods of communication and can help us set intentions for the future.

CELEBRATE YOUR INDIVIDUALITY

Many of you reading this will have at some point copied the look styled on a mannequin, shown in a magazine, or even copied from a friend.  The likelihood is that this way of dressing is very rarely going to work for us.  Our body shapes and proportions will vary as will our personal preferences.  For example, I love to see women wearing linen and a bohemian style but does it work for me?  Absolutely not, I enjoy a more structured look and don’t enjoy being creased!  Creases make me feel uncomfortable.  Finding those key elements that make us feel good helps us to feel more confident.

EMBRACE YOUR STYLE PERSONALITY

Style above fashion

Dig deep into your individual style personality

Whether you select new or pre-loved, choosing only what resonates with you and your values ensures that you will be happier to care for and wear your clothes for longer.  Understanding more about your style personality will help you define a more comfortable style for you.

Consider what really resonates with you.  Do you prefer clean lines over feminine detailing perhaps or neutral colours vs a bold print.  or maybe you like your clothing to make a statement or are you happy to blend in?

Answering some of these questions and carefully assessing your wardrobe may provide some clues.  Or give me a call and we can find out together.

Sale above Fashion

Investing in pre-loved apparel creates the opportunity for individuality

CONSIDER THE SUSTAINABLE ELEMENT

One key point here is that fashion has become too disposable.  Instead of the historic two clothing seasons annually, we are subjected to more regular turnover of collections.  Often in the fast-fashion chains, this can be as regular as twice weekly.  

This is a shocking pace and our planet with its natural resources and associated garment workers will pay the price.

Investing in pre-loved apparel creates the opportunity to explore hidden gems and a wider range of styles above the current trends.  I love to visit York Designer Dress Agency for my pre-loved shopping.

 

However I believe that our clothes go so much deeper. I have been considering the subject of style over fashion a lot since the release of the Barbie movie - the most iconic fashion forward doll.   The movie nostalgically took me back to my childhood.  Barbie inspired me to dream and to imagine my future self.  I found Barbie to be a positive force and subsequently that playing dress-up in any form can be the catalyst to other elements of positive change.

Of the many things that I loved about it, my biggest takeaway was the fact that the film celebrated individuality.  Our own personal style allows us to do just that.

See your wardrobe as a positive way to express yourself and as a vehicle to enjoy many of life’s joys.   

For me?  Style over fashion at every turn!

June 30, 2023

TIME TO GET MORE BODY POSITIVE

Where our bodies are concerned, many of us have experienced low self-esteem at some point in our lives.  The million reasons for this are all very individual and can originate from a variety of circumstances that all serve to impact upon our confidence.  Practicing any self-care regime is a good time to get more body positive.

As women, we are always happy to chat about the bits of our bodies we wish to change but rarely about our positive attributes!  Why is that I wonder?

Perhaps we recall something negative that someone said to us years ago or we compare ourselves to others.  When we are constantly bombarded with images via the media, it can be difficult to avoid.  Everyone is different so it is important that we are happy and healthy in the bodies we have now.

Whilst we can’t change the way we feel about our bodies overnight we can learn to look a little more kindly upon ourselves and over time learn to focus on your body positives.

Let me promote my 6 Top Tips that may alter your thinking as it's time to get more body positive.

Positive Affirmations

How about posting some positive affirmations on your bathroom mirror?

The key here is to learn to accept, be grateful and love what we do have.  Try recognising your personal worth and your achievements in the first instance. There are no rules, just a little bit of positive self-awareness.  To enjoy some self-love we must first have a positive appreciation of ourselves.   Do not think of it as an indulgence but as personal maintenance.  We service our cars, right?  Like charity, love begins at home.  Learn to love yourself and to feel comfortable with the body that you have.  How about posting some positive affirmations on your bathroom mirror?  Embrace what is different about you.  Said often enough, these affirmations can help you change a negative narrative.

Treat your body like your best friend

Think about your body as a valuable friend – think about the things that your amazing body allows you to do – your work, your travel, a walk in the countryside and perhaps the children you have birthed.

Focus on all the areas that you love and enjoy some positive self-talk (yes when no-one is listening if you prefer) and remember how kindly you speak to your friends.  Seeing these areas in a different light may just outweigh any negative feelings you may have.   It could be your finer ankles, your wrists or your eyes.  Learn how to enhance these areas through your clothes, your jewellery or your make-up   If you are struggling with this, ask for help.

Time to get Body Positive

The right size for you is the one that fits

Don't focus on the clothing size

Manufacturers produce clothing for the masses – to a standard size and proportion.  There is no such thing….we are all different shapes, sizes and proportions.   Why don’t we then take the emotion out of our clothing size.  Believe that the right size for you is the one that fits!  Forget the number and cut out the label if this helps.

 

Learn to accept a compliment

Time to get more more body positiveI love it that many women can be so generous with compliments …why not write down in a journal each compliment you receive, each accomplishment (no matter how small) or something you have done to help others.   Review your journal on a weekly or monthly basis (or when you feel like it) and see how much better you feel about yourself.

Find clothing that brings you joy

Identifying flattering colours that lift your complexion and amplify your eye colour is a great start!  Also learn what really suits your particular body shape....what looks best on a flat chest or which fabrics are best to diminish our curves.  Rather than feel deflated as we choose our clothes, knowing what works for us is incredibly empowering.  There is an energy and confidence in wearing clothes that help us feel good!

Get active

Head into the outdoors and soak it up!

Taking time out in the great outdoors is a great leveller.  I find that a great motivator for the day ahead is an energising walk.  If you are able, head into to Countryside, feel the wind in your face and soak it up.  Or if you are averse to any kind of exercise, there are some very clever dressing techniques that can help elongate, shorten or slim a body to enhance or disguise any number of body attributes.  I can help you re-discover your body through positive personal styling strategies.

 

So it’s time ladies to get more body positive and focus on YOUR ‘body positives’…it may be your eyes, your amazing neck, your shapely butt or your slim ankles.  If you zone in more regularly on the bits of your body you do LOVE, you will find that over time your will look a little more kindly at yourself.

If you have any questions about how best to dress your body do call me on 07494 644788 to have a no obligation chat or to book an appointment in my comfortable home studio in York.

I’d love to hear from you.

Jackie

*Main Image credit Model Rachel Peru by Miriam Gomez

April 30, 2023

DETOXING YOUR WARDOBE – 6 TOP TIPS

If you haven't already had a spring clean, it's the time of year to refresh and embrace the new season, so why not include the clothes in your wardrobe?  Here I share my 6 Top Tips on detoxing your wardrobe.  Which, when well-organised is as equally important as the clothes within.  It simply makes life a lot simpler, more fun and morning dressing is simplified.

Do you open your wardrobe full of clothes but complain that you have nothing to wear.  I am a great believer that 'less is more' so if you cannot see all your wardrobe contents, dressing successfully will prove to be a challenge!  How good would you feel having a wardrobe of clothes that you actually loved but also mixed and matched together?  Detoxing your wardrobe will help.

Clearing out your wardrobe should not feel like a form of self-punishment or a chore.  See it as an investment in your future self and your motivation becomes more intentional.

Inject some colourIt does of course help to know the colours and styles that work for best for your individual colouring characteristics, body shape, personality and lifestyle.  I can help you with this, see more here.

Firstly however you may need to remind yourself what you hold in your wardrobes before beginning to edit them down into a useable and workable wardrobe.

Here are my 6 top tips on detoxing your wardrobe to get you started:

detoxing your wardrobe

Start by removing every piece from your wardrobe

1. SET SOME CLEAR TIME TO BEGIN

Begin the process of removing all of the clothes from your wardrobe and your chest of drawers and try them on piece by piece.  SORT INTO PILES.

Consider when you last wore it, is it still in good condition and how good does it make you feel?  Don't dwell for too long before allocating each item into one of three piles.  Use your bed for this purpose.

2. SORT INTO PILES

The Stay Pile                   

These are the items that still look good on you and give you joy.  The value of clothes and the way they make us feel is an important consideration.

Detoxing your wardrobe

Consider taking your clothes to a charity shop or local dress agency

The Charity Shop Pile  

The items that remain in good condition but perhaps no longer work for you or your lifestyle, those that no longer fit you or those you have not worn for 12 months (although you may still wish to make exceptions such as special one-off or emotional pieces you may need to carefully store).  You may also consider taking some of these to your local Dress Agency, who will be interested in the most recent of your cast-offs or how about donating to a deserving friend.  You may wish to read more here about dressing sustainably.

The Discard Pile      

Those items that are damaged beyond repair or stained.  Take this opportunity to re-cycle them and give your wardrobe and drawers a good clean and a spruce up too.

Image Credit Lindsley Weddings

Do your clothes truly reflect who you are?

3. DOES WHAT I HAVE LEFT REPRESENT MY STYLE?

Once you have decided on what remains in your wardrobe, ask yourself if it truly reflects who you are.  For years I held on to an expensive linen two piece suit (which for no other reason than the guilt of the initial price-tag) remained in my wardrobe.  I hadn’t worn it for years (clearly because I don’t like to be creased), but felt paralysed to discard it.  I realised that regardless of the price, it deserved to be loved by someone else.  Once I had made that decision, I felt lighter.

4. DECIDE HOW YOU WISH TO REORGANISE YOUR WARDROBE

Those items you wear on a regular day to day basis should hang at the front or centre of your wardrobe for easy access remembering to return the item (once worn or laundered) back to same place.

If you are able to and have the space, it is a good idea to keep last season's clothes in another wardrobe.  Any items of a sentimental nature that you wish to remember, consider wrapping in tissue and store them carefully (and somewhere different) so you can revisit another time.

You may wish to colour code each type of clothing. For example I group my tops so that the same colours hang together side by side.  It means you can easily see what you hold in your ‘top’ department and choosing one in the morning rush is far simpler.

5.  INVEST IN GOOD HANGERS

Photo credit : Kai Pilger (Pexels)
Invest in good quality hangers

Once you have decided upon how to organise your 'new' wardrobe, give each of your remaining items a home and invest in good hangers here.  I like a combination of wood which help clothes retain their shape and the thin flock type variety which take up so little space!

 

 

 

 

 

6.  CREATE A LIST OF GAPS

Detoxing your wardrobe

Create a list of clothing gaps that focus your new purchasing decisions

The discarding of items will undoubtedly lead to some gaps which become evident once you have completed your wardrobe edit. Don't panic! You don't need to replace the items immediately but it does help you to focus when you make a 'list of gaps'.  Now that you have edited your wardrobe and the stress about dressing has been reduced we can then look to carefully replace some items and develop a capsule wardrobe that you can refer to whenever you are out shopping.  The great thing here is that you know exactly what you need.

I do hope that this has inspired you to get started on detoxing your wardrobe but if you need any further guidance or some hand-holding for the task of taking a fresh look at the clothes in your wardrobe, or would like to book an appointment in my comfortable home-studio in York or do give me a call on 07494 644788.

March 30, 2023

5 STEPS INTO A SUSTAINABLE SPRING

Spring is the perfect time of year to give our wardrobes a clothing overhaul so my 5 Steps into a Sustainable Spring could help you.

With the impact of the sustainable fashion culture, there is no need to replace our entire selection for the season ahead but instead add a few key pieces that mix and match with your existing items. 

I share some top tips on updating your look for Spring here – the ideal time to breathe new life and joy into your wardrobe.

Let's g0 to my 5 Steps into a Sustainable Spring...

GIVE YOUR WARDROBE A WORKOUT

Give your wardrobe a workout

Give your wardrobe a workout

How many items are there at the back of your wardrobe, unworn and unloved?  Prune, rescue and re-invent what you already have to create new outfits.  Add a colourful scarf or combine a new and unusual pairing.  Create a capsule wardrobe, identify some gaps and replacing wisely allows you to easily and efficiently mix and match your outfits.  Then arrange your clothes accessibly to simplify your morning dressing routine.  Or you could invite me around and we can conquer it together.

 

UPDATE YOUR ACCESSORIES

This is a cost-effective way to update your wardrobe and even a small change can have a significant impact for example with quality shoes or handbag.  My advice here is invest in what you can afford.  Generally speaking, you will find that higher quality footwear is more comfortable and will serve you for longer.  Where you can, opt for buckles or fixings on handbags in gold or brass, it can look a little more classy.  Spend wisely on your outerwear, apart from your smile, they are the first thing people notice.

With highlighter-inspired neons here for Spring, you can always add a pop of colour with a new handbag - great with neutrals and florals alike.  Your biggest decision will be choosing the colour.

Inject some colour

Elevate your outfit with a splash of colour

INJECT SOME COLOUR

With 12 fashion trend colours appearing each season, you can easily elevate your outfit with a splash of colour.  This season, look towards warm reds, hot oranges and vibrant blues.  Colour lifts your look and adds a fun and vibrant style.

Select new pieces that you can mix and match with other outfits for maximum flexibility.  Of course I can help you identify your most flattering colours.  Take a look at my Colour Analysis service here.

EMBRACE YOUR PERSONALITY

Are you more conservative than fashionista?

Identify a style that really resonates with you.  Your clothes should allow you to feel both comfortable and confident.  Are you all about classic clean lines - more conservative than fashionista, a little more creative and edgy or is your dressing style more about creating a statement that inspires or intrigues.  Understand what feels right for you.  Your wardrobe will provide all the clues if you look carefully.

INVEST IN A SPRING WARDROBE STAPLE

5 Steps to sConsider investing in a flexible piece that works hard for you, a piece that just keeps on giving throughout your wardrobe and in which you simply feel great!  A leather jacket perhaps or a Trench Coat in the new Season pastel shades would make good contenders.  Great to wear to the office or with jeans and trainers for a more relaxed look.  Leave it loose or wear it belted to define your waist.  You choose!

 

Remember when you do invest, buy the article only if you love it and can be paired with other items you already own.  When you shop more mindfully, you will find your clothing budget goes a whole lot further!

Enjoy updating your look and let me know how you find my 5 Steps into a Sustainable Spring!

Thank you

Jackie

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dressing sustainablyJackie Crawford is a transformational image consultant dedicated to helping women of all life-stages dress with confidence and enhance their personal brand.

Born out of her own dressing frustrations during a corporate career, Jackie uses her own experiences to skilfully guide her clients through a process of positive change with their appearance.  The benefits can lead to life-changing situations.

To have a chat about how you could work with Jackie, you may reach her on 07494 644788 or email image@jackiecrawford.co.uk or visit her website at www.jackiecrawford.co.uk

December 23, 2022

5 TOP TIPS TO CHRISTMAS DAY DRESSING

I'm often asked what is the best thing to wear on Christmas Day....read on for my 5 Top Tips to Christmas Day Dressing.

There is no right or wrong, it all depends upon you Christmas looks like for you.

We all need something different from our clothes and actually, this is true whatever the occasion, whatever the season and however we wish to feel in our clothes.

5 Top Tips to Christmas Day Dressing

Presents in our PJ's

Will it be a simpler Christmas with our families where the idea of presents in our Pyjama's will appeal or maybe you are intending to enjoy cocktails in cashmere?  Or perhaps you prefer an altogether smarter affair when you will be pulling on some sparkles?

Whatever you choice, here are my favourite top 5 Christmas Day Dressing tips.

Decide now what you are going to wear...and plan

Is it clean?  Does your blouse need a button replaced?  Does it still fit?  How do you feel in it?  Remember you may be wearing it all day.

Nothing worse than pulling something from your wardrobe on Christmas Day when time is premium and it doesn't cut the mustard.

Shower and do your make-up

Make-up first thing...you may not get another chance

First thing (perhaps once you have attended to popping your Turkey in the oven), have a shower and fix your face.....time will disappear through your fingers and you may not get chance before your guests arrive.  I KNOW!   I've been there.

Only dress your bottom half

If you are the Christmas Chef, only dress your bottom half whilst you continue to prepare the 'messy' bits, then all you have to do is change your top.  Don't cook in anything new...you don't wish to risk a spillage on it's first outing.  Love this opulent velvet option from Sosander

Don't wear your heels too soon

Wearing heels?  Don't put them on too soon and certainly not whilst you are lifting the Turkey about...those birds are heavy.  You don't want to topple over.

Aren't they a smashing colour.  Remember a smarter velvet can become a wardrobe staple for occasions throughout the year.  These from Marks and Spencer.

 

 

Sequins are not just for Christmas

Nothing quite like the opluence of sequins at this festive time.  Don't just save them for Christmas, you can extend them into the New Year celebrations and of course in true sustainability style, throughout the year too.

Have you decided upon your Christmas Day outfit yet?

What a year 2022 has been so I bring it to a close wishing you a most wonderful Christmas with your loved ones.

Thank you for being part of my community and I wish you seasonal magic and sparkle.

Jackie Crawford

07494 644788

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 26, 2022

DRESSING WELL ON A BUDGET

Looking your best does not need to place an additional burden on your finances.  Dressing well on a budget is possible.

We are facing challenging and uncertain times so how can we get more out of our clothes and still feel good?

Remember that confidence in our clothes allows us to step out of our comfort zones and whilst we may enjoy a fleeting sense of satisfaction from a designer label, when we know what fits and flatters, it becomes easier to make selections from more affordable brands.

Follow my Ten Top Tips to Dressing well on a budget and let's use the clothes in our wardrobe to work harder for us.

Dressing well on a budget

Look at ways to reinvent your clothes and style them up

Wear what you already have

Simple I know but taking stock of what you already have is the cheapest and most effective way of dressing well on a budget.

You are likely to find plenty of treasures that have found their way to the back of the wardrobe.  Look at ways to reinvent your clothes and style them up.  Pairing them differently by adding some different accessories or cinching the waist with a belt for example will change the look entirely.

Transitioning Summer clothes into Autumn and Winter is also a great strategy.  A knitted vest or jumper worn over a Summer Dress and replacing your sandals with boots is a great look.

There are so many possibilities to get creative and at the same time, purge your wardrobe of unwanted clothing.  Remember here that others can benefit from your unwanted clothing so the charity shops will welcome your donations.

Connect ourselves to clothing that makes us feel good

Identify what you love to wear

When we work out why we love a certain outfit or individual garment, we feel really comfortable in our clothes.  This means that whenever we wear that particular item, we feel good.  There’s nothing like connecting ourselves to clothing that boosts our confidence.  It's not necessarily about wearing all the hot new trends either.   For me its a ruffle or a particularly flattering colour.

 

Clothes that no longer fit?

Clothes that fit us properly can look more expensive.  Find yourself a local seamstress that can nip in waist, enhance the shape, add a unique embellishment or lengthen a pair of trousers or cuff a much-loved jacket.

A favourite dress designer I recently met during York Fashion Week, creates wonderful garments from our unwanted clothes.  Take a look for some unique inspiration at Ketchup Clothes on what can be achieved to extend the life of our garments.

Arrange a clothes swap

Wearing an item of clothing that no longer flatters us or indeed is past its best does not fill us with confidence.  It may however be a perfect fit for a friend!  Get a group together one evening and share your clothes as a fun social event where you may find many new pieces without spending a penny.  It’s also a sustainable way of elongating the life of our clothing.

There's nothing like a confidence boost from the clothes we wear

Change up your accessories

Hands up who wears the same jewellery day after day on repeat?  I get it, it’s easier without having to rummage through our jewellery.  However…you may come across a lovely family heirloom that brings happy memories flooding back.  Has to be worth a peek and can elevate the look of a jumper or may beautifully enhance the neckline of a blouse.

Our clothing engenders positive associations so can re-connect us to happy times – the date night necklace (we may save for special occasions) or the special earrings we inherited from a much-loved Grandmother. There’s nothing like a confidence-boost from the clothes we wear.

Before you buy, do you have 3 existing pieces to pair it with?

Watch out for seasonal sales

Buying your clothes in a sale will always help your money go further but remember it’s only a bargain if you wear it! Make sure that the fit is good, the item is well-constructed and the care-instructions work for you. No point buying a linen shirt if it remains at the bottom of the ironing pile or a silk shirt that requires hand-washing!

Buy the item because it flatters your bodyshape, you love it and have at least three items in your wardrobe that it will easily pair with.

Focus on what you need

A reminder to shop for what we need

I recommend keeping a list of what you need and assign a budget to it.  A new pair of boots, a new trench for Autumn, a jumper may perhaps be more pressing than a swimming costume to see you into Winter.

When we focus on what we need we are able to make better and more considered economical clothing decisions.

Then when the time is right and you have an opportunity to purchase, you have become more mindful of your choices. Making more conscious clothing decisions, you may find your cost per wear will improve.

Shop pre-loved

Rather than buy new, visit a dress agency or charity shop which are always worth investigating.  You may find garments with their price tag still attached.  Get to know your local shops and if you are able, visit regularly to take advantage of new arrivals.

Look out for some key pieces and perhaps the higher ticket items that offer year-round flexibility. You will find some great pieces ready to be loved all over again and offer a great solution to dressing well on a budget.

A personal favourite of mine is York Designer Dress Agency.  Next time you find yourself in York, go and say Hi to Sarah.

Footwear Focus

There was a time when we only wore our Trainers to the gym!  The ‘posh trainer’ trend developed into a ‘thing’ a couple of years ago and how much simpler it has made our outfit creation.

The humble ‘trainer’ has become the comfortable footwear of choice for a floaty-frock, a blazer and trouser combo, a pair of wide-leg pants or how about pairing with a jumpsuit.
With such a flexible choice for your footwear, wear on repeat but make sure they are clean and well cared-for.

Reduce your monthly visits to the nail bar

Make savings to build a shopping fund

What about cutting back on daily expenses such as one less coffee?

If you make a regular trip to the nail bar, reduce your monthly visits and make painting your own nails a special occasion.  Saving the money to spend on an item of clothing that will work harder for you season after season, can really help.

 

Hopefully you have found this article on dressing well on a budget helpful?  Do feel free to share with your friends and of course if I can help you please do get in touch here.

Jackie Crawford
Image Consultant

07494 644788

October 2022

September 30, 2021

HOW TO TRANSITION YOUR SUMMER WARDROBE INTO AUTUMN – 10 TOP TIPS

It can be tricky dressing for the change of season so let me share some guidance on how to transition your Summer Wardrobe into Autumn, without spending a fortune.

Dressing successfully for this time of year is all about the layering.  We can also maximise our existing wardrobe by getting creative and cooking up some new ways to style our clothes.  So if you are not ready to pack away your Summer wardrobe, have a read of my 10 Top Tips.

Throw a nice tee under a Summer dress

Throw a nice tee-shirt under a Summer dress

or alternatively a lightweight polo neck jumper and enjoy wearing your dresses for longer.

Style a jumper over your Summer dress

in a complementary colour.  It will help you to know exactly the colours that work for you.  I can help you with that during one of my pampering 1:1 sessions here in my York Studio.

Add a blazer over your Summer dresses

for a smarter look.  Worth noting that a single-breasted blazer works best on larger frames.  A double-breasted style works best on petite or slimmer frames.

Pair your white or paler jeans

with a chunkier knit and change up your Summer Sandals for some ankle boots.

Add a Scarf

Add a scarf in a flattering colour

in a flattering colour.  A scarf is a great way to add some interest to your Autumn wardrobe and a colourful option helps to tie the colours of your outfit together

How to transition your wardrobe from Summer to AutumnAdding pieces with a chunkier texture

works really well, see here a Summer style Kimono over a cashmere jumper.   Great when the colours complement each other perfectly.

An elegant knitted vest

looks fabulous paired over a Summer Tee-shirt or blouse and for extra styling points, don’t tuck it in…..the longer layers can make us look taller.  (yes, really).

Still loving your maxi-dress?

Add a shirt over and knot it at your waist.  This really adds a lovely shapely detail to your body shape.

Photo credit Lindsley Weddings

Add a Trench!

Add a Trench!

So many colour options and styles to choose from but whatever the occasion, a Trench has you covered.

How about adding some tights?

Opt for colourful opaques such as these from sustainable and ethical retailer Snagtights or for some extra cosiness, try a textured cable knit.

how to transition your Summer wardrobe into Autumn

Take a peek inside your wardrobe and get creative

Go and take a peek inside your wardrobe and see if you are able to implement any of these suggestions.  Let me know, I’d love to hear from you.

If you’d like to smile when you open up your wardrobe and need some guidance to make that happen, do get in touch, it’s what I love to do.

Wishing you a wonderful start to Autumn.

Jackie Crawford

Image Consultant

07494 644788

 

 

 

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.

Dressing for Summer

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.

Dressing for Summer

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

December 30, 2020

I PREDICT POSITIVE CLOTHES FOR 2021

No-one needs a reminder that 2020 has been a challenging year on so many fronts.  I predict positive clothes for 2021!

I believe we began to really appreciate the value of the outdoors to our mental well-being and the importance of our planet.  Let us hope that we all continue to place this as a priority over the coming years.

For so many, casualwear became the clothing of choice.  It offered comfort whilst staying and working from home.

Bear in mind that how we dress, what we choose to wear has a significant impact upon the way we feel.  Perhaps our loungewear does not adequately project a working image especially when our calls are visual.  Whilst not dressing formally, a smarter casual on-screen personal creates a positive working attitude.

However, the very act of getting dressed as if we are leaving the house to work or meet up with friends, offers us a structure and a routine that sets the tone for the day ahead.  Positive!

So, what does this mean for the face of fashion for 2021?  A desire to ‘dress up’ and step up our dressing routine again I wonder?  I hope!

Based on the pared down versions of the key fashion shows earlier this year, there will surely be some style winners for 2021 and for what it’s worth, I make my predictions here:

Image Credit Pantone

Vibrant Colour

With rainbow stripes appearing in windows, on T-shirts and other garments, the emblem we adopted for 2020 became a symbol of hope and optimism.  Colour is a wonderful phenomenon that creates a whole host of emotional responses.

Each year the Pantone Institute (the worldwide authority on colour) selects a ‘colour of the year’.  It’s a snapshot of what they see taking place in our global culture.

Unusually, rather than a single colour, a colour-pairing has been announced for 2021.  What do you think to Illuminating Yellow and Ultimate Gray?  Pantone describes their choice as “a marriage of colours conveying a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting”.  What a great positive message.

I really love this fresh combination and shall look forward to seeing these shades brightening us all up on our high streets in Spring.  Watch out for future guidance on my other social pages on how to successfully inject these colours into your wardrobe.

Also watch out for Pink!  I saw this featured in many collections.

Don’t underestimate the power of colour and the joy it can bring to you and your wardrobe.  You may wish to learn more about my Colour Analysis service that identifies the most flattering colours for you.

Good Wardrobe Staples

Good wardrobe staples

Good wardrobe staples

Creating a more sustainable capsule wardrobe focusing on quality essentials for longevity is going to be key for our pockets and the future of our planet.  I’m thinking more classic and versatile pieces that stand the test of time.  In fact, pieces you may already own.

These are the pieces that we tend to spend a little more on – good shirts and blouses, outerwear, footwear and investment handbags.

We can’t all stretch to the designer price tag but we can shop second hand via our charity shops, vintage markets or dress agencies.  There are some great finds to be had.

If a label is important to you, Vestiaire Collective is another great option – a global fashion community selling pre-owned designer items.

Should you wish to buy new, choose to invest in brands whose sustainable and ethical credentials are visible – Baukjen is one of my favourites offering a wonderful clothing range.  Look also for the smaller independent brands that display a responsible fashion ethos such as Livelagom.

Feel-Good Prints

We tend to see more prints appearing on our clothing during the Summer months – perhaps it heralds a more carefree way of dressing?  Given that holidays to sunnier climes eluded most of us during 2020, I predict that we will see some holiday inspired prints this year.  Think palms, Hawaiian style patterns and even a nod to marine life may emblazon the clothing choices for Summer this year.  All great paired with beach bags and wedge style espadrilles.

Denim

With an altogether more relaxed style emerging, denim continues to reign supreme.  The slimmer silhouette of the skinny jeans however will be replaced by a more relaxed or slouchy style.  This is music to my ears.  A boot cut or wide-leg jean are universally more flattering on all body shapes.  Great wardrobe pieces that can be dressed up or down.   They offer a really flexible wardrobe addition that also serves to elevate the ‘yoga-pant’ look.

We have missed dressing up Model: Anna Middleton Hat: Rose and Flo Millinery

Bring back Dresses

With so many social and special gatherings put on hold, I envisage that we may wish to go a little bolder when events return to our calendars.  We have missed dressing up and wearing heels.  A special occasion is a great opportunity to combine the two.

I’ve noticed that more flamboyant styles with fuller skirts and embellishments have featured on the virtual catwalks so can’t wait to see how our high street brands interpret these statement looks.

 

 

It will be fascinating to see exactly what appears in our clothing stores over the coming seasons.  I hope that above all, fashion makes us feel good and that we choose more more mindfully to protect our planet and those working Internationally in the fashion industry.  Choose positive clothes for 2021!  

You can get in touch for more information about my services here.

 

Wishing you all a safe and Happy New Year.

Jackie

COLOURS • CLOTHES • CONFIDENCE

JOIN MY NEWSLETTER

Sign up today for free and be the first to receive notifications and tips on how to look and feel fantastic.

And don’t worry, we hate spam too! You can unsubscribe at any time.

© Copyright 2022

York, North Yorkshire