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fashion advice

Fashion

How to dress for party season on a budget

8th November, 2023

With events season just around the corner, it means that there’s often a range of different events you might need to pull together outfits for. Whether it’s Christmas lunch or an end-of-year soiree at work or just a catch up with friends, there’s a range of occasions that can pop up. The problem that can often arise with this however is that we start to worry about what we’re going to wear, and the fact that having a new outfit for each one would cost a fortune. If you’ve got an endless clothing budget then by all means have fun, but if you’re wanting to keep costs down yet still want to look your best then it pays to employ a few strategies to ensure you put your best foot forward. Here are a few ways to approach event dressing in a more budget-friendly way.

Invest in one simple LBD

If you don’t yet have a go-to LBD in your closet then you’re missing a crucial piece of the party dressing puzzle. Investing in a simple black dress (the plainer the better) that can act as a blank canvas for multiple events will enable you to create multiple looks with just one item. A simple silk slip dress for example, can be dressed up for a cocktail party or dressed down with slides for a backyard BBQ or lunch with the girls. All it requires is a swapping in different pieces already in your closet to reinvent it in myriad ways.

Change up your accessories

Whenever I’m going to re-wear a dress or outfit I’ve worn to an occasion previously, I like to take it in a different direction accesories-wise. I’ll often add a different pair of earrings, or layer necklaces or go with a different pair of shoes. Even if it’s the same outfit, you can give it a different vibe by making a few strategic tweaks. You can instantly open up a wardrobe full of event wear just by experimenting with how you accessorise.

You don’t have to wear a dress

When it comes to events, many of us will have an automatic reflex kick in that that will require wearing a dress when that’s so not the case. I do wear dresses often, but if I’ve got an occasion, I’ll also opt for options such as a suit, or a skirt and top or great slacks and a slinky cami. So, don’t neglect the rest of your wardrobe because you could easily achieve a new look by simply broadening your horizons away from a dress.

Peruse the second hand market

There’s much gold to be found in checking out the resale market when it comes to occasion wear. Local sellers such as Trading in Style, Swop or The Frock Exchange offer both local and overseas designer brands ranging from shoes to accessories and clothing at a reduced price. You could also try sites such as Vestiaire Collective or The Real Real for a wider selection of goods. Also, checking out your local thrift/vintage store is also worth a look as you can often find some hidden gems if you take the time to browse the racks.

Rent it

If you have multiple events on the horizon but don’t want to splurge on a new outfit for each occasion (which can add up very quickly) I’d suggest renting. There are so many great rental sites out there such as Glam Corner or The Volte with a huge array of labels to choose from including my fave event go-tos, Rachel Gilbert, Aje, Rebecca Vallance. You can rent up-to-the-minute designs and pay a fraction of the cost of buying an outfit outright.

 

Fashion

How to wear colour (when you don’t really wear colour)

6th November, 2023

I’m one of those people who loves wearing colour. I love neutrals, but there’s something about a vibrant hue that just elevates an outfit and gives it impact. But if you’ve not really embraced colour in the past, it can be daunting to wear something bold and bright. How do you wear it without feeling like you’re channelling a packet of Skittles? It’s all about baby steps, firstly finding colours that work then slowly easing it into your wardrobe. Here’s how to start…

Find a colour that works for you

Depending on your skin’s undertones (there’s three: cool, warm and neutral) certain colours will be a more flattering fit. So, if you’re going to dabble in some colour, it’s helpful to know which hue will complement your skin tone. For example, cool tones play well with jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire and ruby. If you’re a warm tone, shades such as yellow, orange and earthy tones such as browns and deep reds are a good match. While those who fall into the neutral category, you’re in luck as most colours will work for you.

Use it as an accent colour

If you’ve not used colour much in your wardrobe, taking a leap into the bright side can be daunting. So, start by using it as an accent piece. As an example, I wore colour below with a grey suit, using a sunshine yellow bag as a pop of colour. For colour beginners, accessories are a great way to work colour into a look, whether it’s a bag, a hat, sunglasses or a shoe. You can then slowly work up to a single piece in your look. A vibrant tee or tank is one way to dip your to into vivid colours.

Pair it with a neutral

When colour isn’t a regular part of your repertoire then it can feel a little out there to wear it from head to toe. So, start with working it back with a neutral. Denim works well with colour, the same with neutrals such as white, cream, grey and black. You can use a neutral as a security blanket when you’re new to colour, as it helps to ground an outfit but allows the colour to do its thing and stand out.

Go tonal

When you’ve worked up to a serious hit of colour, go tonal. I love doing colour blocking or wearing a single hue, but if you want something a little more pared down, consider wearing tones of the same colour. It makes for an impactful look but isn’t as out there as wearing multiple colours.

Try a print

A great way to do colour is to wear it in a print. I’m a huge fan of a colourful print as I find it to be such a good mood lifter and it’s a playful way to do bright hues. I’ve found the best way to do a vibrant print is to wear it as a matching set — it just feels a little more cohesive and is a little more effortless. Alternatively, try working a print back with a simple neutral to achieve some balance.

So, have I convinced you to step to the bright side?

Fashion

What making fashion mistakes has taught me about my style

14th October, 2023

I am the first to confess that I have made a million wardrobe mishaps where I’ve thought ‘What was I wearing?!’ However that’s all part of the fun. I think you need to be able to experiment with fashion because that’s how you will inevitably discover your style. I know from the mistakes I’ve made that I’ve definitely learned what suits me and what doesn’t.

Great style doesn’t equate to dollar value

The biggest thing I’ve learned would have to be that looking great doesn’t come down to how much you’ve spent or if you’re wearing new season clothing. Because inexpensive clothes can look equally as stylish as something that came from an upmarket brand.

Knowing your shape is important

Knowing your body shape intimately will ensure that you’re confident in what will work on your frame and what won’t. For me, I’m not very tall and quite petite so I can’t wear anything that may swamp me. I steer clear of things like sack dresses for example because I’m not tall enough to pull it off. And that only came from a lot of experimentation and trial and error.

Be selective with trends

Trends come and go and I’ve learnt that I don’t always have to embrace every single trend each season. While it’s easy to jump aboard every new trend, it can also be quite an expensive exercise spending money on clothes that may not have longevity. Experimenting with trends over the years I’ve learned that I shouldn’t feel pressured to embrace every trend, but always remember what works for my shape and style.

I can now flick through clothing racks or scroll through websites and know immediately whether something works. And I think that’s all from making a fashion mistake or two. I think the key to knowing your style is paying attention to the times when you’ve had a mishap and knowing why it didn’t quite work. Often those are the little moments that can really help you define what your look is all about.

Tell me, what’s been your biggest fashion mistake?

Fashion

How to look chic on a job interview

17th September, 2023

A job interview can be a nerve-racking experience so it’s important to feel confident in how you present yourself on the day. A polished appearance is crucial for making a good first impression and along with your top notch interviewing skills is one thing that could help you stand out from other candidates. Here’s how what to wear on a job interview to ensure you nail it on all fronts.

Stick to the company dress code

A clean, pressed outfit is a given when going to a job interview but one thing to keep in mind is to dress for the company you’re interviewing for. Do your research into the culture of the business and tailor your outfit to suit. For example if you’re going for a job in a place with a creative culture then a suit might not be the best option—you want the interviewer to see that you can fit seamlessly into the company and the first impression they get will be based on your attire.

Keep makeup to a minimum

Heavy makeup can be a little off-putting in a job interview setting so a fresh-faced approach is best. Keep your beauty look clean and polished to maintain a professional appearance. Also, keep your hair neat and tidy and avoid any overly messy or flamboyant styles.

Go for a clean approach to accessorising

Over the top accessories can be distracting in an interview. This is definitely one instance when you want the focus to be on what you’re saying so save your statement earrings for the weekend and keep your jewellery to a minimum.

Size matters

Make sure you’re wearing the right size. Not only is it a much more flattering effect but it conveys a sense of polish to the interviewer. If what you’re wearing is too big or too small, it can be distracting to the person interviewing you. So if there’s an outfit you really want to wear and it’s not a perfect, invest in getting it adjusted by a tailor to ensure it is.

Comfort is key

A job interview is not the time to be worrying about your outfit when you should be focussing on being a standout interviewee. This is why it’s important to ensure that you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing—this means you should be able to walk in your shoes, not fidgeting with buttons or straps and everything should be a perfect fit. If you feel at ease in what you’re wearing then you’ll present better, which can only mean good things for you and the end result of your interview.

What are your big interview no-nos?
Fashion, Shop

The essentials of a great workwear wardrobe

21st August, 2023

With more and more people heading back into the office, there’s never been a better time to revisit your work wardrobe. There’s been an update when it comes to silhouettes and the necessary staples to keep you looking professional, yet on trend. So if you’re still working with the pieces you had pre-pandemic you might be feeling like an update is in order. If you are, it pays to shop smart and hone in on the pieces that are going to make getting dressed for work a little bit easier. These are the must-haves of any workwear wardrobe.

A blazer

The blazer is something that is forever going to be a staple for an office wardrobe. However the current silhouette is all about a boxy fit, or the up-and-coming blazer style of a longline with a nipped in silhouette at the waist. Either will work well when it comes to putting together your looks everyday as they can be paired back with a number of pieces from a midi dress to a wide leg pant and shirt. It’s an easy way to update other existing pieces in your wardrobe too.

 

A pair of wide leg pants

Wide leg pants are a bonafide staple. They’re perfect for work too as they look smart, feel comfy and can work back with a number of different pieces. When it comes to colours, a black pair is going to take you far, being able to be dressed up or down, however a pair in a neutral colour is also a worthwhile investment. Opt for a button down shirt tucked in (or untucked if you were in a more casual environment) with a blazer thrown over the top for the ultimate office uniform.

 

A midi dress

The midi length is the perfect hemline for a work dress as it looks polished and put together. However it doesn’t have to be boring! If you’ve been afraid of wearing a midi length – don’t be! Worn back with a heel or a sleek flat, and with a jacket on top, it feels very contemporary. You could stick to plain colours such as black and neutrals or add a subtle pop of colour or print if you’re feeling more adventurous.

 

A pair of classic pumps

Work shoes should be comfortable and polished, but most of all, it has to look professional. This is where a classic pointy toe style shines. A black pair is going to be on high rotation simply because it’s so versatile, but a nude pair is also a worthwhile choice as it will get equally as much air time. If slingback style is also a very modern choice, and is easily worked back with a number of different outfits.

 

A pared back tote

You’re going to need a stylish carryall to cart all your things around and a tote is a good option. The silhouette never dates and it’s roomy enough to be able to house everything you’re going to need to take to work and on your commute. Opt for one in classic black if you want to be able to wear it with most of your outfits, otherwise, a tan or cream is also a good style to have.

 

A midi skirt

This is in the same family as the midi dress, looks smart and put together. If you’re looking to be able to wear it in a variety of different ways then opt for a plain hue, such as black navy or a classic neutral like cream, white or camel. However it’s also the ideal way to add a bit of personality to an outfit so you could also wear a printed version or one in a more adventurous colour.

 

A button down shirt

You can’t do a workwear wardrobe roll call without a button down shirt. White is obviously the first choice as you can wear it in so many different ways. The next contender would have to be anything in a stripe — it looks polished and adds an element of interest to an ensemble. The best part about this style is that you could also work it into your weekend wardrobe.

Fashion

The best sources of fashion inspo to turn to during a wardrobe rut

8th August, 2023

When you’re faced with a serious wardrobe rut what do you do? Well, instead of just giving up on your wardrobe and deciding you need to go on a rather big (and expensive!) shopping spree to buy new things, why not just help jump start your styling creativity? There are numerous sources of great outfits out there and by calling on some or all of them, you could just find yourself feeling very inspired again.

Instagram

Of course Instagram offers endless inspiration. One way to save yourself in times of “I have nothing to wear” syndrome is by bookmarking outfits that you like so you have a ready to go mood board. There’s really no end to what Instagram can offer so make sure you have a great edit of people whose looks you love.

Newsletters

I know newsletters can sometimes be a bit hit and miss but if you sign up to the right ones you’ll most certainly open yourself up to new looks, styling tricks and possibly a new wardrobe addition that you never knew you always needed. Most fashion sites — blogs (*ahem* this one included), online stores like Net-a-Porter and Matches and news outlets like Who What Wear and Refinery 29 all have newsletters that are often filled with great ideas.

Head in-store

While there’s plenty of inspiration that’s just a click away there’s something that just ignites your styling creativity when you head into your favourite stores to check out what’s on offer. It’s a great time to check out the outfit combinations they’ve got on display to help you with your own looks, plus try on the different pieces in store. Also, things sometimes look really different when you see them in real life and you may find that you’ll end up pulling an ensemble together that you may not have otherwise considered.

Magazines

Beautiful, glossy magazines have always been one of my favourite sources of fashion inspiration. You’re always guaranteed to get some great fashion forward styling within the fashion editorials, plus they provide a great snapshot into current trends. Also, there’s just something about flicking through a fashion mag’s sleek images and layouts that can really get the styling juices flowing and help you unlock some new looks.

What are your favourite sources of fashion inspo?

 

Fashion

The three word method approach to style and why it works

31st July, 2023

There’s a question I’m often asked whenever I do interviews about my style, and it’s usually what words I’d use to describe the way I dress. My answers: classic, relaxed and feminine. These three words essentially sum up the way I like my outfits to look and it’s something that carries through whether I’m dressing for an event or I’m popping out to do the school run. It acts as a great anchor for me whenever I’m trying to decided on what I’m going to wear.

Having given the topic much thought over the years, I’m not surprised that stylist Allison Bornstein’s three word method (side note: her other style philosophy the wrong shoe theory is also really popular/clever) which essentially asks people to choose three words that would sum up their style and how they like to dress has taken off so spectacularly. I think the main reason why it has resonated so much is that it acts as a clear, concise reminder about your style. It’s so easy to go off on tangents and get caught up in the latest trends, but for true stress-free dressing you need to know what your style actually is and summing it up in three words is a particularly great way to do this.

So, how do you narrow your style down to three key words? Bornstein’s approach is an all encompassing one that looks at your style and what you gravitate towards as a whole. She suggests looking at what’s in your closet and summing up the vibe of everything in there. Is it classic? Is it vibrant? Also, look at the people whose style resonates with you and ask yourself why that is? What is it about their style collectively that speaks to you? Next, how does your wardrobe make you feel? Often your outfits speak a certain word whenever you wear them and that could be one of your three words.

I’m a huge fan of this approach as it’s simple, plus it acts as a guide when wading through my wardrobe but also the seemingly endless array of options out there when I’m shopping. It helps to encourage a more sustainable approach to buying as having a few words to remind me of what my style is helps me to be a little more discerning with my picks.

Tell me—would you try this method?

Fashion

How to keep your clothes looking pristine

17th July, 2023

We all invest a fair amount of money on our clothes over time so it’s important to ensure they last season after season. If your clothes don’t tend to go the distance it may be time to tweak your clothes maintenance routine. Adopt some of these basics and you could well give your clothes a new lease on life.

Say goodbye to wire hangers

If you want to keep your clothes’ shape be sure to invest in wooden hangers or flocked hangers. Wire hangers tend to end up misshapen and don’t provide enough support so you’ll end up with wrinkled, bunched up clothes. Additionally you don’t want to have delicates such as a silk shirt snagging on a hanger. Plus when you’re flicking through your clothes rail it’s highly likely wire hangers will end up in a gnarly mess which will make it much harder to find what you’re looking for.

Folding and sorting

When it comes to closet organisation be sure to fold anything that can easily be stretched out such as t-shirts and knits. Hang garments that tend to wrinkle easily such as dresses and shirts.

Follow care instruction labels

Yes, they might be a pain to follow at times but going rogue when a garment clearly states dry clean only or throwing something in the washing machine when it specifies hand washing it will compromise the quality of a garment. If you want your clothes to stay in the same condition as when you first bought it it’s important to launder it as instructed.

Always separate your clothes into whites, brights and dark colours

Failing to separate your clothes will mean that your once bright white t-shirt may end up looking dull and grey as a lot of garments aren’t colourfast which means colour molecules will end up settling on lighter coloured garments.

Examine where you do the most damage to your clothes

Are you constantly damaging your clothes in the same spots? It’s time to look at how you can minimise it. For example if you’re always getting frayed hems it could mean that you need to hem your pants a little higher to avoid it dragging on the ground or alternatively you may need to limit the shoes you wear to a particular height. Pinpointing how you damage your clothes the most means you’re better able to avoid it.

Don’t ignore stains

Deal with a stain immediately to avoid it setting in. A baby wipe or soda water will help temporarily treat a stain if you’re out and about but be sure to dab it with a pre-stain treatment and wash immediately when you get home.

What are some ways you keep your clothes in great condition?

Fashion

Easy ways to incorporate dressier items into your weekday and weekend wardrobe

25th June, 2023

I love dressing up but I always feel a little guilty to see certain parts of my closet go unworn until I have an excuse to wear something to event again. So, I’ve started trying to use more of my dressy pieces, think dresses, beautiful blouses, tailored pants, co-ord sets and suits, in my weekday and weekend wardrobe. Of course, not everything can be transformed into something decidedly more casual (a ballgown is still a ballgown after all!) but for the most part, I’ve been able to utilise so much more of my closet by incorporating a few styling tricks to make pieces seem more casual or daytime appropriate. Learning how to use dressy items in a more casual way ensures that you’re wearing more of your wardrobe, more of the time. Want to try it for yourself? Here are a few things you can do to give your event clothes a new lease on life.

Pair it with sneakers

The foolproof way to take the dressy vibe away from a particular look, whether it’s a dress or a top and pants is to pair it with a pair of white sneakers. The upside in doing this is that you can pretty much get away with wearing sneakers everywhere these days so it’s an easy fashion trick to adopt.

Add a fun accessory

Dressy for me calls for more glam accessories, but if I want to dial down the dressiness of something I’d usually wear to an event I usually pair it with something playful and fun. Think a pair of white framed sunglasses or a bag in a vibrant colour.

Switch out the top or bottom

Often you can take the dressiness out of an ensemble by switching out an element for something more casual. For example a dressy blouse paired with denim all of a sudden looks ready for brunch. Incorporating a casual feel somewhere tempers the elevated vibe of certain items, but without compromising on style.

Ditch the heels

If you want to make something more work and weekend ready, consider leaving your heels at home. There are plenty of other options to use, whether it’s a slide, a ballet flat or loafer, which are stylish but don’t feel so dressed up. Plus way more comfy, so there’s that!

Pop on a jacket

If you’ve got a dress that looks a little more night than day appropriate, consider popping on a jacket. You could pair it with a black blazer, a denim jacket or a leather jacket and it can instantly make it feel more casual, while maintaining a polished feel. Plus, this allows you to double the wear of your after dark looks.

Do you use your dressy items in your regular wardrobe? How do you do it?

Fashion

8 wardrobe basics that can instantly make styling an outfit easier

21st April, 2023

Wardrobe basics are the lynchpin of your look. I find that owning a few key pieces can in turn make everything else you own just that little more wearable as you can start with the below items and then build an outfit around them. Each person obviously has their own unique style so some of the pieces below might require substituting here and there but overall I think they’re the kind of staples that can be worked in so many different ways. Versatility is key when it comes to a look and having the right wardrobe basics in your closet can really ensure that you are able to take your style repertoire in several different directions. I’ve narrowed down a few key things that I think every woman needs…

Kate Waterhouse wardrobe basics stacked jeans

Jeans are a key part of my off duty wardrobe

1. Jeans

It’s imperative to find yourself a pair of jeans that fit you ridiculously well and are ultra flattering. My go-to styles are a slightly fitted skinny (but not ultra skin tight!) or straight leg as they work with my body shape but be sure to find the right style for you. These days a wide leg, mum jean or relaxed fit are also all popular options so make sure you try a few different pairs on to help you fine the one that works best.

2. Ribbed knit maxi dress

I’m a fan of ribbed knit dresses as they’re such a wearable piece that can easily be dressed up or down. I like wearing mine with slides during summer and then layer it in winter with a jacket, trench or blazer when temperatures drop.

3. White t-shirt

A plain white t-shirt is the kind of piece that will be in constant rotation. I love a crew neck style and wore one here, as I find them it to be a style that can work on its own or act as a layering piece. Start with white, however shades such as black, grey and navy and a good stripe are also a great addition to any wardrobe.

4. Button down shirt

There’s a reason why a classic white shirt is at the top of most wardrobe basics lists — it’s just so wearable and can add a stylish touch to any look. One styling trick I like to employ is opting for a slightly looser fit when it comes to shirts as visually it can make your frame appear smaller.

5. High waisted skirt

A high waisted skirt is a go-to when it comes to office wear but it can also easily transition to your off duty wardrobe. Opt for a simple black or a fun print and pair with a tee or shirt for an easy, out-the-door-fast look. I’m a fan of a midi or maxi pleated skirt in a floaty fabric or if you want to look ultra on trend, try a high waisted denim skirt with a longer hemline.

6. Quality knit

Invest in at least one quality knit in a quality fabric (cashmere is luxe, but oh-so long lasting) and opt for colours such as grey or black as they’re easily paired with multiple items in your wardrobe.

7. Blazer

You can wear a blazer to work or out to dinner on a Saturday night and is such a must when it comes to wardrobe basics. Popping one on can easily dress up a look give it a stylish touch.

8. Tailored wide leg pants

I’ve been wearing wide leg tailored pants a lot lately as I’ve found them to be a great bridge between looking casual and dressy as they’re easily dressed up or down. I’ve worn a pair of black wide leg pants on repeat recently as they’re comfy but look polished and it’s quickly become one of my go-to pieces during the week.

Tell me—what are some of the wardrobe basics you can’t live without? Have I missed any on my list?