SECRET STYLIST ‘FEEL FAB’ STYLE HACKS
Want to beat the January blues? I thought I’d share some of my daily feel fab style hacks that I do everyday.
I’m definitely on an emotional rollercoaster right now; feeling totally elated and then totally deflated. Mood swings (especially when you are generally positive) are hard to navigate.
So, I thought I’d share some of my Secret Stylist feel fab style hacks to ensure your day starts, remains and ends in a positive way…and to keep us all a bit style steady.
1. MATCHING BRA & KNICKERS
It sounds crazy but it really helps. If you start the day with a crazy mixed up yucky pair of undies it will send negative messages to your brain immediately. I’m not a particularly sexy underwear woman, but I do like to match my undies. When you purchase new undies buy 3 pairs of knickers to match the bra. This time of year I love big knickers! Ones that cover the bum, sit up high on waist. They will keep you warm and are super flattering and comfortable (even if you have put on a few pounds - you don’t get that tummy or hip over hang!) Celebrate your matching set with a dance and pose in the mirror - say out loud ‘YOU LOOK ACE TODAY’ (because you do!)
My favourite undies are M&S but I’m definitely coveting Under Statement Underwear as it looks super comfortable and maybe a bit more sexy! Let me know if you’ve bought from this brand.
2. INVEST IN THE BEST BASE LAYERS
My maturer self has realised the importance of brilliant base layers. The foundations to your wardrobe. The hardworking friends that pull those showstoppers together. I love sparkly thermals. Not only are they a super thick base layer (so no added bulk) but the glitter brings January joy. Try M&S for these. Superfine base layers will allow you to wear dresses, blouses, fine knitwear that you’d consider too cold right now. My favourite layering trick is to layer under a silky evening blouse or cotton shirt. ME & EM, Cos, Jigsaw & Massimo Dutti are my favourite brands. This season I’m loving the new neon thermals.
3. ‘MAKE UP’ EVERY DAY
I recently treated myself to a Trinny Make-up consultation. Every morning I spend time layering up the gorgeous make up that I have been inspired to wear. It is a natural glow but I feel better and more confident after I’ve put it on. My favourite is the metallic lip gloss, called Valentina which I apply each day to complete my look.
4. ELEVATED JEWELLERY
Wear great jewellery every day and don’t save it for best. This will not only make you feel that little bit more special it will polish the most simple of looks. Today, I’m wearing a cord boiler suit and a polo neck but I’ve added a mix metal chain necklace and some statement silver hoops. Even if you are at home wearing a jumper and jeans if will take your look up a notch.
6. BELT & SHOE MATCH
Sounds obvious but this is smart hack to stick with. If you are doing a suede belt, wear suede boots. Black leather belt, black boots. Metallic belts are your friends for statement or smart modern trainers that have a glimmer or gold or silver on. The preloved burgundy belt in the picture may have looked odd with this yellow skirt if I’d not matched it with my boots.
Kettlewell Colours have the best collection of colourful, suede and metallic belts
5. NO TO WEEKDAY DENIM
When I outfit plan, I tend to only wear blue denim at the weekend. Why? it It encourages you to wear a more variety of trousers. Wider length comfortable flares, cords, faux leather. Mixing up the daily outfit decision will bring joy and satisfaction that you are wearing your wardrobe.
Mint Velvet have a fabulous trouser collection that move you away from all day denim.
7. TEXTURE TEXTURE TEXTURE!
We need clothes that FEEL lovely. So when you give yourself a hug you feel lovely fabrics. This time of year I love wool skirts, soft cord, velvet trousers, cashmere, mohair, silk blouses. Promise yourself to wear one of these textures every day. Here I am wearing velvet and faux fur!
8. TAILOR YOUR LOOK
For every outfit add some tailoring. If you are in the mood for trainers and a t-shirt, add some tailored wide length trousers (or choose your old suit trousers). Wearing a modern luxe tracksuit? - add an oversized tailored blazer. A soft floaty printed dress ? add a long tailored wool coat. A tailored piece will not only complete your look it will give your confidence.
9. NIGHTWEAR YOU COULD GO OUT IN
I’m not suggesting you go out in your nightwear (although I’m sure with the right heels you could!) but I encourage you to end the day putting on perfect PJ’s you feel confident answering the door in. I recently edited out all my old PJ’s…(they were faded unshapely and made me feel sad.) My favourite PJ’s are Jigsaw (they come in a lovely bag you can hang on your bed). I recently bought Anthropologie ones in the sale…they are so warm and the print is just fabulous. I also found a great night dress in the Jigsaw sale for only £22 that I feel good in (and I actually think I may wear out out layered with boots in the Spring!)
10. NIGHTLY HEAD MASSAGE AND REPLENISH.
I’ve always been blessed with thick glossy hair but last autumn my hair changed. My hairdresser noticed that it was thinning out. It felt finer and straighter. In an attempt to nourish it I have invested in some root replenish spray. I replenish my roots every night and give my scalp a little massage. It smells amazing and 3 months in, I can feel the benefit already and the little massage helps me fall to sleep too.
I hope you enjoyed my little daily Style Hacks and I hope you are inspired to give you some self love and joy every day. You are totally worth it!
Natasha xx