Browsing Tag

wardrobe advice

Fashion

Now that we’re all staying home it’s time to become best friends with loungewear…

25th March, 2020

If you’re currently looking to bump up your loungewear options you’re not alone. With more time spent at home right now it’s a great to have some comfortable pieces that are simple yet have an element of polish. I’ve always been a big fan of loungewear and lived in it when I had both the girls as we would spend a lot of time at home. In the process I’ve worked out the key pieces that are great to mix and match and have in your wardrobe. Here are a few to add to your collection…

Jogger pant

These are as comfy as tracksuit pants but are just that little more polished. With the tapered leg and cropped length they’re the ideal pants to live in when you’re working from home or simply up to your umpteenth Netflix session…

A white tee

It’s worth building up a collection of white tees as you can pretty much live in them 7 days a week. They’re the ideal companion to a jogger pant, jeans, shorts… the list is endless so the cost per wear is great. Also, you can easily work them into your work/going out wardrobe when things are back to normal.

A matching set

A two-piece set is always a shortcut to looking polished. And there are so many sets that are comfortable and stylish at the same time. Look for fabrics such as super soft cotton or linen, they’re made for days spent staying in.

Drop crotch pants

I had a few Bassike drop crotch pants in my post-baby wardrobe and found them so great for wearing around the house but were fine to wear out in case I needed to get some fresh air. The Bassike pants can be a little pricey so definitely look out for options from chain stores like Country Road or Glassons or hit up ASOS which has some really affordable versions.

Wide leg pants

I’ve always been a fan of wide leg pants and they’re even better when you’re staying in. They’re great when made from a soft jersey or linen, and can often be found as a set with a matching jumper which makes for a no-brainer outfit.

A cosy sweater

Now that the weather is cooling down it’s definitely good to have a few cosy knits on hand. Pop them on with a cosy jogger pant or with jeans and prepare to snuggle up in style.

Fashion

Breastfeeding-friendly clothes to help make feeds stylish and easy

14th February, 2020
Finding clothes that looked great but weren’t too fussy was important to me when I was breastfeeding the girls

Anyone who has ever gone through the newborn stage and had to deal with endless feeds throughout the day knows that finding clothes that are really easy to breastfeed in is crucial. You don’t want to be dealing with complicated snaps or multiple straps when you’ve got a crying baby in your arms. And no matter how long you choose to breastfeed for, it all adds up to a lot of times spent trying to get yourself in and out of clothing.

For me, I lived in Bonds when the girls were babies as I found their feeding singlets to be really comfortable. While comfort and simplicity is key, I also know that it’s nice to look and feel great in what you’re wearing, particularly as you start easing out of the pregnancy phase and begin finding your way back to the land of post-partum wear.

When it comes to feeding clothes anything that can be undone with buttons, pulled aside or has ties that can be unravelled easily are all perfect. Luckily there are now plenty of brands who are servicing the needs of breastfeeding mums everywhere by producing clothes that not look great but are practical too. So whether you’re expecting, in the throes of having a newborn or have been feeding for awhile but just want to invest in a few new pieces, here’s a great place to start.

Fashion, Shop

How to avoid an impulse purchase you’ll regret

3rd February, 2020

We’ve all been guilty of making an impulse purchase that seemed like a good idea at the time but later on turned out to be a not so good buy. The thing with buying items on a whim all the time is that you’ll end up wasting money and end up with clothes you’re not actually going to wear. Wouldn’t you rather put your shopping funds towards something that you absolutely love? I know that it can be difficult to resist buying a pair of cute shoes or a great dress when you first spot it but it’s so important to step back to ensure that you’re making a good buy. Here are a few things that you can do to try and curb an impulse buy before it happens.

Walk around the shop or step away from the laptop

If you’ve got the overwhelming urge to buy something and it really wasn’t in your plan to do so then do the the equivalent of taking a deep breath and counting to 10 by walking away from it. Either walk out of the shop for half an hour or step away from your laptop and make yourself a cup of tea so you can try and get that ‘buy, buy, buy’ feeling under control. Whilst you’re doing this think about the below.

Outfit check it

Think about what other things in you closet this potential buy could work with. If you’ve managed to mentally work it back with a number of outfits then it’s likely to get plenty of use. If you can only come up with a handful of looks then think twice about buying it because it might not get many outings and won’t be worth the spend.

Have a shopping list

I always like to think strategically about any potential purchases to avoid impulse buys that may or may not work. This is why I’ve always got a shopping list of things that I need in my wardrobe. Whether it’s a gap I’ve spotted in the clothes I have, something I need to replace or a look I need for an upcoming event, I always have a list so I can refer to it whenever I’m shopping and usually try to tick an item off the list before adding something to it again. Having an idea of what I actually need as opposed to just shopping based on what’s caught my eye has really helped stop many an impulse purchase.

Wait 24 hours

If you can do this it’s really a useful tactic. I do it all the time because whenever I see something I like in a store I’ll most likely have the girls and won’t have the time to try something on. So I wait until I can get to the shop again on my own (at least 24 hours) and If I’m still thinking about whatever I saw I’ll try it on and decide whether to buy it or not. I adopt the same principle for online buys. I’ll pop something in my shopping cart, sleep on it then revisit again the next day. Usually waiting gives me the time to mull a purchase over and determine if it’s a worthwhile addition to my wardrobe.

Have a set budget

It’s amazing what a limited shopping budget can do to reign in unnecessary purchases. If you’ve give yourself a set amount to spend on wardrobe buys, you’ll be much more likely to consider potential buys a lot more carefully. So instead of just picking up a top or pair of earrings and buying it because you like it that second, you’ll stop and take a moment to decide whether you really do want it or whether you’d rather direct your hard earned dollars to something you absolutely want.

What’s an impulse buy that you’ve regretted?

Fashion

My style formula can be summed up in just one word

5th January, 2020

My ultimate aim with my style is to look classic and polished, mixed with a few on-trend pieces to stay up to date. However if you were to ask me what my style formula is, the one thing that helps shape what I wear on a day to day basis it can be summed up in just one word: balance. Simple, right?

My style isn’t about having to mix certain pieces together in a certain way to create a certain look. Life’s way too busy to have to spend an inordinate amount of time considering what to wear. So I’ve distilled my approach to outfit planning into simply aiming to have balance with everything I wear.

This just means that if I were wearing something with lots of volume at the top I’d have to balance it out by wearing something that is slimline at the bottom. If I was going to show a bit more skin at the bottom, then I would have to balance it out by wearing a more conservative top. When I wear something that is long and baggier I’d need to balanced it by adding a belt to give myself more shape. Once again, it’s all about balance.

As I said I liked to keep my style simple and straightforward. I avoid anything too fussy or complicated because I just want to be able to walk out the door as quickly as possible. The one way I can manage that is to always ask myself if my outfit is balanced. Volume with something streamlined; embellished with something quite understated; long with something short. This gives me the fashion equilibrium I need to always feel that my outfit is on point.

Tell me—What’s your style formula?

Fashion

Reader Q&A: “What are your tips for dressing when you’re curvy?”

11th February, 2019
Ashley Graham, model Jada Sezer and Robyn Lawley all know how to accentuate their figure

I always love hearing from my readers especially if there’s a burning fashion question they’d like answered. Late last year, I heard from a reader, Steph via my Facebook page who sent me the below message as she was on the hunt for a dress to wear over Christmas.

Hi Kate! Love your style!

I was wondering what fashion tips you could suggest for a curvier women like myself I am self conscious of my arms and upper body.

What kind of dresses would you suggest? Any tips would help I’m looking for something for Christmas Day.

I knew I wanted some expert input with Steph’s question so reached out to celebrity stylist (and someone who I’ve worked with on several occasions) Jess Pecoraro. Jess styles everyone from Jesinta Franklin to model Georgia Fowler and has worked with brands like Witchery, Topshop and eBay so I knew she’d have really useful and practical tips to share. Read on for some great tips for accentuating a curvy figure.

What are five key pieces a curvy woman should have in her wardrobe and why?

1. Good quality undergarments are just as important as clothing so invest in items that fit well and are made from quality fabrics to help with support and shaping the body correctly

2. A classic style black dress, this can be an A-line style, wrap style or
even a slip as it will be the perfect go-to for anything last minute.

3. Dark denim jeans or a dark trouser, the style may vary depending on
what you prefer but it’s a [wardrobe] must which can easily be dressed up or down.

4. Shirting that is slightly fitted and that isn’t too boxy. It’s another go-to
piece to have in a few colours.

5. A nude pump as they elongate your legs and are perfect for all occasions.

Are there any particular styles or silhouettes a curvy woman should avoid?

Styles which are boxy or have minimal shape are no go as they add extra volume and don’t show off your curves.

What’s the key to dressing to flatter a curvy figure?

Paying attention to the fit and fabrication of clothing is key. Select items that emphasise your waist as well as your curves by considering items which have a waist band, are slightly more fitted or are in a wrap style.

Is there a particular part of the body that a curvy woman should try and focus on with what she’s wearing?

This is very personal and may vary on different bodies yet focusing on your waistline will help show off your curves and give your body an overall nice silhouette.

Are there key accessories a curvy woman should have in her wardrobe? If so, what?

Key accessories to invest in are nude heels and sandals which will work back with any look and won’t add any extra volume to an outfit. Also a mix of neutral and black waist belts to style over dresses, shirts and even blazers to help define the waist line.

What are your tips when it comes to colour and patterns and prints when it comes to a curvy figure?

Bold block colours and darker shades are always best. Coloured panels also work and can give the illusion of a print without it being to over the top as long as the panelling is on the side which lengthens the body. Prints can be a bit tricky as they can sometime add more volume so go for more graphic and vertical lines.

What are your tips when it comes to swimwear for a curvy figure?

Go for simple shapes and darker solid colours. Higher cut briefs give the illusion of longer and leaner legs and for extra support try a bra style top or one piece with thicker straps (in built wire will give a better shape). A panelled one piece with side ruching will help draw attention away from your tummy area.

What are some go-to brands for curvy women? 

You can follow Jess on Instagram at @jesspecoraro

Fashion

Easy ways to refresh your work wardrobe

14th January, 2019

One of the things I like doing every year is re-evaluating my work wardrobe and seeing what pieces need updating and what gaps there are to fill. Having my own business means I have a little more flexibility in my office attire but I’ve always still approached what I wear in much the same way I did when I was working a full time job at a newspaper and that is to look professional and polished at all times.

If getting dressed for work every day has become a bit of a struggle then you know that it’s time to reassess what you have and think about giving your style a bit of a refresh. Here are a few great places to start when it comes to your office style.

Have the basics

The concept of office basics really depends on what kind of environment you work in. A corporate workplace will have a different dress code to a more relaxed creative environment, but the most important thing is identifying the building blocks of every look. So whether it’s a well tailored suit or jeans and a blazer, you need to ensure that these pieces are front and centre in your closet. Having this in place means you can afford to play around with your looks a little more.

Incorporate new accessories

Accessories are one of the easiest ways in which you can take your look up a notch and inject a little more personality into your work wardrobe. A great pair of earrings, a stylish bangle or a necklace are all simply ways in which you can inject a little new energy into your attire.

Change your work bag

It’s easy to carry the same bag day in and day out but it can also get a little monotonous. Your work bag is one of the easiest places to give your office wardrobe a refresh. This year, why not try something different? If you usually carry a tote, swap to a shoulder bag and vice versa. Push the boundaries as far as your office dress code will allow and have a little fun. After all, it’s the one accessory that you will carry with you every single day so you may as well love it.

Experiment with new silhouettes

Everyone has their go-to pieces for work. I know I have a few that I turn to all the time. However this year why not make a commitment to try new things? If you tend to favour knee length styles opt for a midi instead. If you’re a fan of voluminous pieces try incorporating a few more form fitting items into your wardrobe. A new silhouette can often make your work attire feel new.

Introduce bold accents

It’s easy to get caught up in the wonderful word of wearability that is neutrals but an easy way to refresh your work looks is to incorporate a few bold items into your ensembles. A striking print here or a vibrant shade there can easily lift an outfit and bring it to life. You can also temper this according to your office dress code so it’s easily adaptable.

Fashion

What to ditch from your wardrobe in 2019

9th January, 2019

A brand new year means it’s time to take a good hard look at your wardrobe and pinpoint the things that you need to say goodbye to. Doing a big purge of your closet means that you’re left with the pieces that you’ll wear often and genuinely love, meaning less style dilemmas. Here’s what to consider ditching this year…

“Someday” clothes

If you’re still hanging onto things that you hope will fit sometime in the not so distant future it’s time to bite the bullet and toss them. If “someday” does come you can always make a few new additions to your wardrobe. In the meantime all those clothes are just taking up valuable real estate.

Clothes that don’t fit your lifestyle

If you’ve got a closet full of party dresses but you barely go out these days or you’ve got corporate clothes aplenty but have started working at a more casual office then perhaps it’s time to consider farewelling those pieces. You can always hang onto 2-3 favourites then donate the rest to charity.

Scuffed and worn shoes

Shoes that have seen better days are probably best retired. You want to always put your best foot forward (pun intended) and wearing footwear that looks tired doesn’t make a good first impression. If shoes can be re-soled or revived in some way then by all means go for it but if they can’t be salvaged then it’s time to bid them adieu.

Shoes that are uncomfortable

While we’re on the topic of footwear, if there’s a pair of shoes that leave you in agony every time you wear them which in turn means they hardly ever see the light of day then it might be time to retire them.

Underwear that you’ve had for years

Good undergarments are often where good outfits start so it pays to replenish your supply every so often. Ill-fitting bras that no longer offer support and underwear that’s faded or stretched are both good places to start.

Costume jewellery you never wear

Investment jewellery is an entirely different thing so it’s exempt from a wardrobe purge but inexpensive costume jewellery is fair game. I’m talking earrings that you only wore once, tarnished necklaces, or bracelets that are gathering dust are all things you can afford to farewell.

Anything that doesn’t fit right

Looking polished is all about wearing clothes that sit well. If you’ve got things in your closet that have never sat right then consider having them tailored. If they’re beyond the alterations stage, for example if you’ve already tried to have it fixed but it still doesn’t look right, then it’s a sure sign that you should probably let it go.

What are some things that you’re vowing to ditch from your wardrobe this year?

Fashion

The pieces every spring/summer wardrobe should have

22nd December, 2018

Have you started planning your spring/summer wardrobe yet? I’ve been planning my checklist for awhile now and I’ve noted a few key staples that I’d like to add to my closet to welcome the warm weather that’s about to descend upon us. Before doing this I think it’s always a good idea to do a little reconnaissance mission of what’s in store and online so you know exactly what pieces you’re going to be snapping up. It also allows you to pick the best of the bunch and get a really great deal on key items that you know you’re going to be investing in for your new season looks.

I’ve been keeping an eye on everyone from my favourite celebs, to my stylish friends and checking out my go-to blogs and magazines over the past few weeks to pinpoint what’s going to really update my outfits for this time of year. If you’ve yet to compile your list, here’s what I think you should definitely be adding to it.

A Midi-dress

Dresses are one of the most wearable, stylish things you can add to your spring/summer wardrobe. Opt for one in a gorgeous print that will take you through many a sunny afternoon looking effortlessly chic.

A Co-ord set

A co-ordinating set is an easy way to look polished without really trying. There’s something about a matching top and bottom that just screams stylish whether it be a blouse and shorts or a skirt and slip, there are so many different sets to shop this season you’ll be hard pressed to limit yourself to just one.

Sandals/slides

Summer calls for at least one trusty pair of sandals or slides that you can easily slip on. I’ve really started gravitating towards slides as I like how wearable they are, however it really depends on what feels comfortable—some people like the support a sandal gives. You can always go for classic colours such as black, white and tan however I think the sunny weather at this time of year is a great excuse to embrace vibrant shades that will pop against any outfit.

A straw bag

If you’re going to buy one bag this season make it a straw one. Whether it’s a satchel, top handle or bucket style there’s definitely a trend towards embracing natural, earthy materials as far as bags go.

Lightweight trousers

I think there’s nothing better than a pair of linen trousers to keep cool during spring/summer. They’re also super easy to pair with everything from a button down shirt to a plain white tee so you’re guaranteed to get plenty of wear out of them.

Bold sunglasses

Don’t step outside without a pair of great sunglasses by your side. I think now is the perfect time to push the boundaries a little—think coloured frames or interesting embellishments for a little fun.

A statement skirt

I am loving bright printed pleated midi skirts at the moment as they’re seriously easy to wear whether I’m off to work or on mum duty. However if midi’s not your style, there are still plenty of options whether it’s a knee length wrap skirt or a cute mini. Just don’t be afraid to go bold!

Sneakers

A pair of trusty sneakers always has a place in any wardrobe, whatever the season. Chunky dad style sneakers are in at the moment but if they’re not your scene, you can always turn to a pair of classic white trainers. Whether they be from classic French brand Superga to urban-ready Adidas or a designer pair by Gucci or your favourite go-to brand you’ll be guaranteed to be turning to your sneakers multiple times a week.

Fashion

10 outfit ideas for Christmas Day

17th December, 2018

Christmas Day outfits are always a funny thing. You want to look your best given you’ll generally be catching up with loads of people but at the same time you want to be as comfortable as possible. Let’s face it— it’s a giant eating fest that awaits you and the last thing you want to be dealing with is a way too tight ensemble. So if you’re still trying to piece together something to wear on December 25, scroll through for some great looks that will have you looking amazing.

 

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A gorgeous printed skirt is one of the easiest things you can wear. Flowy and very summery it’s the perfect thing to wear during the festive season.

 

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A dress (especially a wrap style) is such a gorgeous option for Christmas Day. It’s an outfit that requires minimal styling and will be appropriate no matter where the day takes you.

 

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Cropped trousers and a fun cami make for a stylish look that’s not too over the top and appropriate for the day.

Grab your favourite white tee and pair it back with a skirt and slides and you’ve got yourself an effortless ensemble that will work for any family occasion.

 

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Avoid this if you’re prone to food spills but if you want something classic and polished you can’t deny the appeal of white pants and a crisp white shirt. Swap out the heels for sandals or slides for something a little more comfortable.

 

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Anything pink is a fun hue for such a festive time, especially when it’s of the gorgeous blush variety. Team with a boxy tee for a look that’s got a hint of French girl styling.

 

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A flowy dress accompanied by your favourite belt is one of the best things you can wear on Christmas Day. (Read: plenty of room for feasting—just take off the belt if you need a little extra space!).

 

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A shirt dress teamed with sandals is a no-brainer outfit option as it’s chic, requires minimal styling and suits virtually everyone.

 

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A colourful jumpsuit is such a fun look for Christmas Day. A shirred bodice also offers the added bonus of extra stretch should you need it…

 

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If your Christmas Day requires something a little dressier try a blouse with wide leg pants. It looks oh-so classy without being too formal.

Fashion, What I Wore

My three can’t-live-without items

15th November, 2018

One of the questions I’m often asked is what items in my wardrobe I can’t live without. There are definitely plenty of pieces that form the foundations of a lot of my looks but if I were to really narrow it down there are three MVPs in my closet that I know I definitely would struggle without. They’re easily the most versatile pieces I own and I can work them back with virtually everything that I wear.

The thing with can-live-without items is that they’re not the most extravagant or up-to-the-minute designer items, they’re the pieces that work the hardest. They’re the pieces I reach for when I’m in autopilot mode because I know they’re guaranteed to work. It’s often critical to identify these pieces because it helps you drill down into your style and really know what forms most of your looks and as such what you should be investing your hard earned fashion dollars on.

So here are the three things I couldn’t get dressed without (and I bet they’re also already in your closet)…

A pair of great jeans

Denim is such an integral part of my wardrobe and I’m in it most days of the week. This is why for me, a pair of blue jeans in a flattering cut, cropped at just the right length is something that I’d struggle without. I can dress them up or down according to what I pair them with and these days, jeans are welcome almost everywhere so I definitely get value for money from a pair.

 A white tee

The humble white tee is a staple of most of my outfits. I use a t-shirt as a layering piece such as under a slip dress or pair it with a statement skirt or a pair of shorts in summer. And what’s great about it is that it’s also an inexpensive item that I could find a million and one uses for. I have a few white t-shirts in my wardrobe and they’re constantly on high rotation.

A black blazer

I can pair a simple black blazer with almost everything I own which makes it a piece that I couldn’t possibly do without. The good thing about a blazer is that it can act as the focal point of a look or be a support piece to pair with another statement element of an outfit making it supremely versatile. I can wear it to pretty much all occasions and it’s guaranteed to make whatever I’m wearing look chic.

What items in your wardrobe can you not live without?