How to decode trends to support your style!

Have you trawled round the shops lately and found nothing to wear?

Spring is such a fun time – the clocks go forward giving us extra daylight, the garden sprouts it’s colourful bulbs and generally we feel ready to come out of hibernation (or at least our legs start to!)

What’s the point of keeping up with the latest trends if you don’t know how to interpret them to suit you?  With the plethora of magazines showing celebs all touting for pole position in the ‘best dressed’ stakes, it’s hard not to think you should be keeping up with them, or at the very least, be fashionable.

I believe in ‘style’ not fashion as my company name and strap line suggests, it’s all about confidence. So I would argue how confident is somebody about their style if they are a fashion victim? I call them ‘misguided’ followers not leaders and clueless about how to dress to express their authentic, true self (just look at when they are papped in their ‘scruffs’).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes, they may enlist the help of ‘stylists’ but I would also argue that they do not have the depth of knowledge and experience in the field that I have.  Nor is it about the individual, it’s more about maintaining a public persona that keeps them in work (both the client and the stylist!)

When you take a more holistic approach to image coaching, as I do, it’s all about you...  I help you work towards your goals and objectives and 99% of you so far have wanted to feel, “confident, current and stylish – effortlessly” whatever your age, shape or weight.   So the ‘current’ refers to teaching you how to decode trends to support your style personality, lifestyle and budget so that you can look and feel stylish and confident. However, it doesn’t happen without a bit of 2-way co-operation!  Effort is rewarded by compliments, increased self-esteem and well being, improved results (both professional and relational) not to mention a co-ordinated capsule wardrobe that makes your heart sing in the mornings.

Sound too good to be true?  It’s totally realistic and available to you all! 

When was the last time you looked in the mirror and said, “Wow, you look good!” ?  If it was more than a week ago, or never, please pick up the phone to me and let’s chat.

Perhaps a few testimonials may persuade you:

How colour changed my life... “Since having a group image consultation with my two grown up daughters, the changes have been amazing. They are both changing their hair colour – back to their natural shades, I have spent my money wisely and with more confidence with one particular blouse causing sooo many compliments from strangers and another image consultant. Although I am conscious about my weight, I forget about this when I’m following the colour and style advice you gave me. The colour psychology tips have proved invaluable for work too!”

Why I had my jewellery dipped... “Fiona, you are the woman who prompted me to have my jewellery dipped (to match my skin tone), wear skirts and dresses AND wear more than boring black all the time!!!! You were fab! You should be available on the NHS.”

My daughter’s confidence has gone through the roof... “My teenage daughter’s attitude has really improved since seeing Fiona. She’s more confident all round, her grades at school are exemplary, her friends ask her for style advice when out shopping and there is no shortage of male attention – as she glows with confidence. What price does one put on that?”

How to look great on a budget... “Approaching mid-life I was worried about looking a bit mutton so consulted Fiona to find out how I could use my existing wardrobe to maximum, age-appropriate effect. Shopping in your closet is great – even a few 80’s jackets were given a new lease of life and my machine has been busy with home dyeing projects. Expert help is worth every penny and she doesn’t let you spend your money if the clothes and accessories don’t express your personality and enhance your shape. Now I can go out with my girlfriends without worrying about what to wear – I’ve even shared my secret with them. Happy to recommend you Fiona.”

Invest – you know you are worth it!.. “Having spent many years suited and booted for a high powered career in the city I suddenly became lost when it came to dressing more casually for my new job. Fiona taught me how to look professional without looking too stiff. I’ve learned how to layer successfully and use colour to make me more approachable and what results?!  Wish I’d invested years ago – think how much money I could have saved instead of wasting it on items that didn’t suit me and sale bargains. Her product knowledge is amazing....keep those style tips coming!”

Contact us: 01296 415682 or 07969 001031

Dazzle with colour this party season!

Please, please, please try and go for something other than black for your festive parties! Yes I know it's safe, classic, fashionable and 'slimming' (I could argue that one and win!) but there is so much choice in the High Street why not shock yourself into seeing how fab you can look in an alternative colour. For more info on this and other useful image related topics, click here  to check out the November newsletter now available to download!

 

 

 

   Dress available from M&S

Discover what My Style is ... by Fiona

Welcome to the feature where we peer into the wardrobes of stylish people in Hertfordshire. Fiona, personal stylist with Style2you shares her own style secrets. She also shows her clients how to be glamorous by using the cuts and colours that suit them best.

Click here to view digital version of November's  edition of Hertfordshire's luxury lifestyle magazine Style. (Article on page 9)

Low fat dressing…no salad in sight!

 

Tweets from TGM ‘The Green Mannequin’ (the one from my logo!)

 

My job is all about creating illusions with clothes, which includes teaching people how to drop a dress size by showing your shape, not hiding it!

 

Whilst it’s important to accept the things you can’t change quickly about your body, you can use clothes and accessories and your way of dressing to achieve an illusion of the perfect balance. It’s easy to dress to look a size smaller, a size larger, a few inches taller or a few inches shorter….your choice!

 

We all have elements of our bodies we wish to enhance but I’m more commonly asked to show my clients how to reduce those areas they are self conscious of and want to reduce.

 

What to avoid

For those of you with bigger thighs (pear shaped) steer well clear of tunic tops. Why?
Well, look in the mirror and see where the horizontal line (hem) falls. The eye is drawn or distracted by horizontal lines when scanning the body, so if the garment ends too far down the body, between the hip and the knee, it not only creates width ending at your widest point but also makes you look shorter. Take a good look at other people and notice how some styles suit certain body shapes rather than yours. Just because it’s in fashion doesn’t mean it suits everyone! 

 

Kate Moss looks good in most things as she is the typical ‘straight’ model shape, and her shoulders are balanced with her hips so clothes hang off her frame, not cling. Shame she doesn’t always get the colours right!  Horizontals also appear in stripes and textures, so wear these with care.

Loose, shapeless garments do nothing to show your silhouette. This is THE styling lesson that I teach every client first, regardless of their body shape and dress size. Clothes should skim the body and enhance your natural curves, and those of you with athletic straight bodies, can create curves with accessories and layering.

Tight clothing also makes you look heavier, so always buy the size that fits, rather than going for the smaller size, cut the labels out if they bother you. I have 3 sizes in my current wardrobe depending on the cut, fit and store or brand.

 

Although deep colours can be slimming, beware of filling your wardrobe with black or dark shades, unless they suit your colouring. Black tends to send the subliminal message of “don’t look at me”, so don’t hide behind the so-called fashion non colour!

 

Low fat dressing

Firstly, stand up straight, with head up and shoulders back. The right posture can instantly reduce poundage.

Use colour creatively to enhance your best features, especially around your face which is where we focus on when talking to each other.
Pay attention to grooming – immaculate hair and make-up generate an increased sense of well being and confidence that you look and feel good.

Take care to balance your size with designs, prints and accessories which

complement your size – larger for larger scales, smaller prints with dainty accessories for petite ladies.
Best length for jackets or shirts or tops is on your hip bone, no lower – try this at home, looking in a full length mirror and see how much longer your legs look with this one!

 

Vertical emphasis – your best trick:

Monochromatic or toning colours for your whole outfit

Single-breasted, collarless or 1 button fitted jackets

Well-cut trouser suits (with waistcoat as alternative to jacket)

Curved hemlines on jackets or shirts

Vertical detailing; buttons, seams, stripes

Long flowing scarves or long necklines & pendants

 

Draw attention upwards to your face:

Brighter/lighter colours next to your face (scarf or top)

High focal points such as shoulder or collar detail

Eye-catching necklace or earrings

 

Finishing touches to flatter:

Medium heeled shoes/toning tights, hemlines & shoes

Full to medium length hairstyles

Appropriately scaled accessories that express your personality

 

Would you like to learn more ? How about a 1-2-1 consultation to SHOW you how using colour and styles can slim down your figure and make you look taller and younger?  Don’t forget, I am now selling Gift Vouchers ready for your Christmas stocking and will be circulating a Wish List shortly.

Check out my Gallery where you can see some of my happy, confident, stylish clients.

Fiona x  

10 more outfits BBC radio interview – listen today!

 

 

I was lucky enough to be invited onto BBC 3 Counties radio afternoon show with Lorna Milton yesterday. We discussed how my 15-to-50 capsule wardrobe concept works and identified key garments that go towards it, which means you can look and feel good shopping inside your wardrobes!

 

 

To listen in on i-player click here  (slide timer forward to 30 minutes to hear me!)

To download the accompanying Fact Sheet click here

To view mycapsulewardrobe Gallery click here

For more information on my style packages click here

Good luck shopping for your winter clothes – the air has a decisive nip in it now, so is your winter coat up to scratch? How about adding a versatile trench coat or mac in a fab shade to liven up your existing outfits?

If you’d like my expert shopping help, please give me a call 01442 822093

Kind regards
Fiona x

Don’t waste nearly a year deciding what to wear!

According to a new study by Matalan, the UK clothing retailer, after polling almost 2,500 women found that they spent nearly one full year of their lives deciding what to wear.

Choosing outfits for work, nights out, dinner parties, holidays and other activities means the average female will spend 287 days rifling through their wardrobes. Most women spend around 20 minutes deciding what to wear before going out in the evening. While on holiday, 10 minutes a morning will be taken up trying to put together an acceptable outfit, with another 10 minutes spent picking evening clothes.

On top of that, dinner parties, Christmas parties and black tie events, at around 36 minutes a time six times a year, adds up to three and a half days of time ill-spent.

The study also found that, on average, women will try on 2 outfits each morning before coming to a final decision. And one in two women spend 15 minutes the night before working out what to wear to work the following day.

Does any of this sound familiar?  What’s the solution?

Rather than wasting almost a year on this important element of your life, and wasting money on impulse purchases, you could consider calling in the experts to show you how to manage your wardrobe effectively and provide you with enough mix and match outfits that will save you valuable time and energy every day.  This doesn’t have to cost a fortune.  Fiona McClurg-Welland, from award-winning Style2you, is busy reviewing wardrobes up and down the UK, saving her clients lots of money by using existing items to make new, previously unconsidered, stylish outfits.  

“My formula is to teach you which colours and styles to opt for that will make you look younger, taller and slimmer and feel more stylish and confident. Accessories are really important to reflect your personality and uniqueness to others.  Once I sift out the unflattering items we are often left with some gems to work with.  To complete the outfit building process, you can even purchase items from my new capsule clothing line to maximise your outfit potential!  So, no more opening the wardrobe to find lots of clothes but nothing to wear, instead, outfits are hung together so you can instantly see what the choice of the day can be. I always encourage my clients to dress to create a mood rather than match yours, that way, black shouldn’t feature as much and your day can bring you surprising results. That’s the magical power of colour and style!” Fiona

Outfit above by www.artigiano.co.uk

“Looking good made easy!”

After 2 years of solving client’s clothing and style dilemmas with my image services, I knew there was a complementary niche out there awaiting my previous buying and retail experience, so after months of planning and choosing, it’s finally here... Mycapsulewardrobe clothing collection by Style2you!  It’s aimed at making looking good EASY. The collection is a range of every-day-wear mix and match separates that will enable you to build up key outfits that can be added to, to provide an even more functional wardrobe.  What every woman wants, n’est pas?

This collection is exclusive to my home shop and therefore, not available to buy on the High Street. The average price point is £45, with camisoles from £19 up to £179 for the statement piece of the season, which is a wonderfully soft leather jacket in a soft kingfisher tone. This is ideal to wear with jeans during the day and as an evening piece for smarter occasions.   There is something for every colour direction and style personality.  Sizes range from UK 6 – 22 (European 34 – 48). Cost-per-wear is excellent, as everything will mix and match and can be dressed up or down with corresponding accessories.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you would like to view items, please log onto Mycapsulewardrobe and view my Gallery or alternatively, pop in to my home shop and get individual attention – where else can you buy confidently, knowing that your purchases match your colouring, body shape, personality and lifestyle?   With 16 years of womenswear sales experience and national award-winning status, there is no style or shape issue Fiona cannot help you overcome!

For shop or image appointments please call Fiona on 01442 822093

Make a splash this summer!

Now that the weather is hotting up, it’s time to focus on your holiday capsule wardrobe. The most crucial item to ‘get right’ has to be swimwear.  During my style consultations the question most women ask me is “What type of costume or 2-piece is best for my bodyshape?”  I will have already explained the value of chosing the most flattering ‘outerwear’ items to suit them, but take time to illustrate my top tips to ensure they look and feel their very best when it comes to revealing more flesh than usual!

With so much choice on the High Street where do you start?  One piece costumes, 2-piece bikinis, tankinis, strapless, bandeau, supportive styles…to help you wade in, I’ve outlined the shapes and styles to look for, with advice on finding your own minor miracle worker!

Read full article...

Swimsuit M&S £29.50

How to pack a capsule wardrobe

Does the thought of being whisked away for a surprise break, with only holdall of clothes, fill you will dread?

Do you travel abroad but always pay for excess baggage?

Want to know what space saving holiday essentials you should include to reduce your panic?

 

Award-winning image coach, Fiona McClurg-Welland from Style2you and Mycapsulewardrobe, shares her packing and looking good secrets...“Whether you are going on a weekend city break or a week’s holiday, the same rule applies – the more you know, the less you need!”

 

    Read full article...

WATCH THIS SPACE!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fiona x

How to re-invent yourself and your career in the downturn

Are you (or people close to you?) considering a career change, experiencing unemployment or seeking a return to work?

Style2you is collaborating with two other experts providing individuals with our Inspire  package, which is holistic and comprises an Introductory 1-Day Workshop plus Individual Follow-on 1-2-1 Coaching Sessions.  It’s a perfect opportunity to explore the options available to you that mean YOU stand out from the crowd and are the best you can possibly be!

The individual sessions will cover:

        ·         Career & Business Coaching

• Image Coaching & Personal Branding

·         CV Preparation & Presentation Support

 

Other elements, such as interview techniques, presentation skills, body language and practical job hunting or business start up resources will be incorporated.

Our next Introductory Workshop is being held on Saturday 25^th April in Hemel Hempstead.
Great value for money: £79

For more information and detailed workshop attendance take-away values and further dates click here or contact us on T: 0844 3579 456

We look forward to “breathing life into your future”.

Fiona (& Lorna and Alison)

 

 

 

Giving something back

Isn’t it satisfying to do something worthwhile for those in need?

When I first started my image consultancy business, one of the areas I wanted to consider was to work with a charity to help raise funds for them and also help out at their place of work, whether that be a shop or a hospice – and even to support the staff who do sterling work enriching other’s lives when they need it most.  As my mission is “to make a positive contribution to the wellbeing of others”, this is not restricted to paying clients!

Before Christmas last year, I was asked to help out at a local school Fashion Show. The idea being that the students would pick out items from the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity shops and model these recycled outfits to the crowd and raise money to keep the Hospice running.  What a night! We had great fun watching them strut their stuff - so professionally as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I enjoyed this experience so much that I decided to join their Corporate Companion scheme, which was set up to enable local businesses to nominate them as their chosen charity and hold events to raise money on their behalf. I was invited along to a special ceremony where the new members were given a certificate, a tour of the hospice (based in the grounds of Stoke Mandeville Hospital but totally independent) and talks on the work that goes on to provide palliative care for those in need.

Going back to the Fashion Show, I donated a Style2you Gift Voucher for a Colour Analysis session – and one of the bereavement counsellors who works at the hospice won the prize!  She came for her consultation recently, which was one which will stay in my heart for a while – she herself had not long found out that her husband had been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and felt like she had the whole world on her shoulders. This comes after years of having to nurse her own parents as well as provide psychological support for families of sufferers...  Although my sessions are usually 2 hours long, I took the time to get her to the best place mentally and to focus on her wellbeing, showing her which colours made her radiate wellness and reduce the years.  We also discussed the healing properties and psychology of colour and how she could put that to use in her home both now and in the future to provide harmony and balance.  Just as I was about to follow her up with a telephone call, I had a lovely thank you card from her in the post thanking me profusely for my help, guidance and understanding – so she came for a colour consultation but left feeling refreshed and more positive about herself and her situation.  Mission certainly accomplished there!

A few weeks later, by coincidence, I joined a Sponsored Slimming group which turns out is being co-ordinated by a lady who had personal experience of a very close relative living their last days at the same hospice.

So, no matter what your motivation or your situation, giving something back feeds the soul of others, as well as yourself!  (I LOVE my job).

Fiona x

Is Your Style Working For You (Wedding Planners)?

This is a question I pose quite a lot to people that I meet, especially those who need the visual professional edge when running their own businesses.  To my delight, I was asked by a colleague to give a presentation on why image matters to members of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners at their annual seminar in February.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do you all readily acknowledge that we subliminally make judgements about others within a very short space of time when we first meet them?  Good, I was hoping you would say ‘yes’.  This element of human behaviour is innate and we cannot eradicate it, but, we can CONTROL the judgements of others to be as favourable as possible.  

How?  Well, a few things for you to consider are:

• Ensure your clothing and appearance reflects your personality, ability, status, salary and success level to your
• Peers, colleagues, clients or employers (existing & future ones)

Do you know how to do this?

The old phrase “dress for the job you want, not the job you have” is still relevant in today’s climate – it also relates to attracting clients that you want. By using the psychology of colour and carefully combining certain colours and garments you can easily signal your desired objectives to others – trust me, I’m an image consultant who has tried and tested this methodology, with great success!  (after years of obliviously missing the mark!)  My job is to teach you the tools and techniques of manipulation and you just have to employ them.

So, going back to my session with the wedding planners, I explained to them the importance of colour to wellbeing and success levels, demonstrated the importance of using appropriate accessories in expressing your personality and uniqueness, and stressed the most attractive quality of all in getting what you want is...confidence. It wins hearts, minds and influences those around you.

I’ll finish this by asking another question: “What’s important to you about your appearance?”

Perhaps you could email me your answers and we’ll see if this is what you are projecting consistently to others!

Fiona x

The cause-effect of colourful gratitude...

It’s been a while since my last blog, but something popped into my inbox this morning that really touched my heart and thought it was worth sharing.

Recently I was clearing out my wardrobe – as a good image consultant should do! – and found some bright items that I wore when working for a well-known high end retail brand. Now bright colours are not my most harmonious (with my colouring and characteristics) but are my favourite – hence holding on to them for a few years!  I decided not to take them to the local charity shop but to recycle them by passing them to a colleague, who happens to suit the deeper, brighter shades and who is the same size as me. There must have been about 6 jackets and 1 suit in the selection.

I gave them to her just as she was due to give a group presentation to her peers. She immediately went for the brighter jacket and matched her lipstick accordingly. Needless to say the presentation went really well and her words really struck a cord with the audience. Congruence, confidence and credibility achieved – hoorah!

Fast forward 12 hours and she had this to say:

“The clothes are amazing and have been a bit of a revelation for me as it has made me realise that I have not had beautiful clothes since being a mum, as there’s not been the money to do that, but also I haven’t felt worthy of them. Recently my love of clothes has started to resurface and I saw a black jacket with white edging that I absolutely loved...imagine my reaction to what I found in the clothes selection you passed to me! The bright jacket is so fantastic I didn’t want to take it off, so instead put on a top a have in that colour....Need to explore a few more things as I know I am a great (job role), great mum and a good person with a fantastic set of friends...Thank you doesn’t really express what I want to say, but it will have to do for now.”

As you can imagine my heart was singing as I read this. She isn’t a style2you client, however, I know her well enough to know she is going through a rocky time at the moment, trying to juggle various aspects of her life and it was absolutely the right thing to do for her at this moment in time.

So, the subliminal effects of colour really made an impact on her immediately and also made her reflect on her feelings about herself too.  The feelings of gratitude are there to see and feel – and I am grateful to her for putting into words the feelings that resurface when you are in harmony with your colours and the energy they emit.   Colour is every where. It vibrates at various levels and effects people in various ways on a subconscious level.

Ask yourself today or tomorrow when you get dressed – are you dressing to create a mood or dressing to match your mood?  If you know the beneficial psychological effects that are generated by dressing to create a mood, then you are in the best ‘state’ to attract abundance, harmony and balance and of course confidence and self-esteem!   What are you waiting for ladies?

Fiona x

Vanity values?

Those of you who feel having pride in your appearance is a matter of vanity over practicalilty are probably not confident in realising your image potential.  It’s not a case of having to have pots of money to be well groomed and turned out, but it does require a certain amount of guidance and effort. That’s why some people enlist the services of image consultants, as they want to recognise what’s harmonious and what’s not. This process involves getting inside people’s psyche and expressing and enhancing their uniqueness. I’m not one for cloning individuals into a trademark ‘look’ (like some celebrity ‘stylists’ I could mention!), rather, I work with male and female clients to bring out the best in them, whether that’s to make more impact professionally, socially or even romantically.

Depending on who your early influences were and your developing personality, those elements will give me an indication of where your comfort zone is in terms of dominant colour and style preferences. For example, my mother and grandmother had distinct high contrast characteristics which enabled them to carry of cool, deep and bright colours very successfully. They always wore lipstick, as they felt naked without it. So, no surprise to learn then, that my signature look during my teens and 20’s was bright colours with matching red or pink lipstick!  Okay, so the fashion influences of the 80’s were to blame too – gosh, I used to love aqua mascara! 

Anyway, as you usually develop your comfort zone out of parental, family and environmental influences –in your 30’s and 40’s does this reflect who you really are?  My guess, and experience, tells me not. It was Christian Dior who said, “A woman doesn’t learn to dress well until she is 35”. This is the exact age that I finally ‘got it’ and learned the power of wearing the best shades of colours for me and also stopped trying to rebel against the style advice for my size and shape. Vertical emphasis is king for me now, but dennis the menace stripes did appear in my old clothing choices! As for my hair colour, I finally changed the permanent golden blonde after 10 years, to a more flattering neutral light brown shade. I look at my photos from 10 years ago and I definitely look (& feel) younger now – isn’t hindsight a wonderful thing?

So, if vanity isn’t an inbred value, why do I see plenty of ‘outwardly’ confident women who need an objective pair of eyes to guide them to make the best colour and style choices that relate to combining different looks that tick the age-appropriateness box? Don’t take my word for it, instead, read below the results experienced and some lovely comments from my happy clients – you’ll get a real feel for the value and benefit of my expertise and experience:

“I’ve gained more compliments at work and at home on my appearance. My husband has certainly noticed that I look ‘better’. I feel more empowered about my appearance and even expect to get compliments from my own outfit building!”  P.C

“My light grey mac and soft purple cardigan always get complimented. I’ve even had the confidence to get a very different hairstyle – short and highlighted with cool ash blonde tones. So many people have commented on how nice it looks…it’s been great!” N.M

“After a full day’s consultation with Fiona, I now have more than enough tools to shop confidently. She gave me an easy to follow wardrobe plan which I’ve already added to! She has not changed who I am, but she has helped me show the world who I have always been…priceless.” L.H

“I now wear brighter shades and better fitting styles of clothes. Shopping is a breeze.The compliments I’ve had include, you look great, slimmer & sexy!”  A.S

“I feel fab at 50! My business has increased, I’ve had to take on sub contractors to cope with demand. Psychologically, I’m even more confident than before even with my muted tones. Thanks for showing me how to express my creative side without being overpowering. Husband particularly likes my new fitting jeans!” K.L

“People have noticed my make-up – probably because I didn’t really wear it before. It really does make a difference to people’s perceptions.” K.B

“Thanks for helping me to stay stylish without cramping my daughter’s style! Her friends tell me they like the way I dress!” S.M

“I’m much more confident about experimenting with colour and accessories. My friends and colleagues have said, “You look great”, and one friend shocked me with, “You always look so glamorous these days!” R.B

“My immediate impression was that she knew her subject inside-out. This was reflected in her confident manner. Fine tuning her own and others’ personal brand is a way of life. One major light bulb moment for me was understanding and learning how to dress to attract what I want, this has not only assisted me in gaining the contract of my dreams after a period of redundancy, but has also improved my working relationships beyond expectation.” M.C

“Fiona’s instills confidence and her approach is (collection of feedback)…friendly, warm, positive, understanding, non-judgemental, helpful, practical solutions, value for money, lovely person to work with, relaxed, doesn’t make you feel a failure, helped me regain my enjoyment with clothes…her energy is constant, she exudes it!... Fiona always makes time for people and really listens…her memory of stores and items is amazing!... what she doesn’t know about empowering others is not worth knowing.”

PS: If you hadn’t already guessed it, I LOVE my job!  Let me bring out your uniqueness and help you “glow with confidence”.

Fiona x    Style2you      Mycapsulewardrobe   or   send me an email

Booty-licious babes!

As an ambassador for ‘real’ women (and a networking tart!), I wanted to share a recent event success with you here within this online community...

As I capture most of my clients via face-to-face interaction, I find professional and social networking very successful. That’s not to say that I don’t attract other clients by other mediums, but due to the personal nature of my professional services – image consultancy in all its guises – people have to feel that I can connect with them. This is the emotional element that another blog was referring to recently.

Anyway, one of the ways in which I can get my ‘making the most of yourself’ message across really effectively is for people to see my expert colour and style knowledge in action. So, no surprise to learn that I love hosting fashion shows, usually in collaboration with a colleague’s products or ranges.  This also gives me the opportunity to work with budding models who find safety in numbers.  They wouldn’t necessarily strut their stuff on the runway alone, but just try and stop them in a tribe!

This was the case at a recent Christmas networking lunch over in Hertfordshire. I’d recruited 8 models, representing a range of ages, colours, sizes, body shapes and levels of confidence.  They showcased casual wear from Greenhouse (a new capsule range to the UK), evening wear from Brockhurst Boutique (a local dress agency) and jewellery from Taylor & Vine.  I tried to keep the outfits in harmony with the models’ characteristics, where possible, so that they would ‘glow with confidence’ in time to the funky music we had playing. 

What a blast! The room of around 60 women were cheering and clapping as they did their ‘sets’ up and down the runway. It was fantastic to see the models smile and shine whilst lapping up the warm reception.  Us women can always count on each other for emotional – and professional – support, don’t you find?  The atmosphere was electric, the models had a ball, and clothes and accessories were sold.  (I even had the guests volunteering their modelling services for the next fashion show, such was their enthusiasm!))

It just goes to show that when we look good, we FEEL good and that can sometimes be priceless. The positive reactions it creates from others, the buzz we get inside when someone compliments us on our appearance, the boost to our self-esteem, confidence and dopamine levels is very healthy.

When was the last time you had that warm-inside-feeling? (outside of the bedroom of course!!)

As an award-winning image consultant who’s really a ‘feel-good-junky’ awaiting her next client fix, Fiona advocates that you should get noticed for what you want to be noticed for and use colour, clothes and accessories to do it.  “I use my creativity and experience to interpret your visualisation of your ‘ideal’ you and make that a reality. Together we have the power to bring out your uniqueness and change your results right now!  I’d love the opportunity to compile your 2009 Style2you Recipe for Success, whether it’s to further your professional, social or even romantic goals.”

For more information     style2you    Fiona x

How do you see yourself?

This is a question I ask potential clients quite a lot. Not just in terms of your professional life, but you as a whole.

By comparing how you see yourself to how others see you can be the catalyst to taking positive steps to getting noticed for what you want to get noticed for – as opposed to being renowned for “I’m just a hockey mum from Alaska!”  Good old Sarah Palin.  What she really wanted her appearance to say was, “Hey, look at me, I’m a credible candidate to help run America!”.   Even spending vast amounts of money on a corporate image didn’t do the trick, but you know the rest!

Let me explain...clothes, colours, shapes and patterns are all tools to bring out whatever you want to bring out. It’s your choice. If you want to emphasise how approachable you are, wear medium toned colours in soft fabrics (my trademark now!). If you want to get noticed for your efficiency, then avoid wearing dangly jewellery. If you want to portray a more authoritative look, wear high contrast colours.

Check out these tips on why you should focus on yourself and your attire:

1.     Learning who you are is a lifelong process – dressing the person you are helps you see yourself.

2.     Being your natural (& of course beautiful) self inspires your family, clients and colleagues.

3.     Dressing your body is your chance to use your creativity – every day (chicken soup for the soul!)

4.     Don’t deny your beauty – it is nurturing and confidence boosting (the feeling you get with a fab new haircut!)

5.     Get yourself noticed for the right reasons – expressing your style personality in clothes is wonderful and powerful!

6.     Clothes are an investment in you. How much are you worth? Is your priceless soul reflected in your packaging? I can teach you how to shop wisely and efficiently.

7.     Your body is a wonderful thing – adorning it with lovely accessories emphasises your spirit.

8.     Dressing well frees to forget about your clothes and focus on living to the max!

9.     Taking care of your appearance shows you respect yourself.

10.  Remember this if nothing else: by looking and feeling your best every day gives others confidence that you do the same in your professional and personal life.

 

As a colleague once said to me, “When your clothes work, life’s simple!” 

So, what are your goals for 2009? 

If you feel you have the right to get help in this area without feeling like you have failed or that you’re inadequate, you are my ideal client!  Please contact me for (award-winning) life enhancing advice.

Fiona x    mail@style2you.co.uk   style2you  

 

Style Tips to disguise those festive indulgences!

 

As we approach these final weeks of the year, the temptation for indulgence reaches an all-year high. Gifts of chocolate begin to appear in the post. Biscuits in festive shapes show up next to the coffee machine at the office – or in your cupboards if you work from home! You could be adding 750 calories a day with your nibbling and at party time, be tempted to put on that oversized sweatshirt that has blinking lights all over the front of it. Stop!

 

No, I don’t mean stop eating, I mean stop thinking about hiding behind your clothes and start thinking about how you can look festively chic, no matter what. You can still look trim until January 1^st when you actually resolve to cut out all the sweets. Here’s how.

 

1. Draw attention to your assets. (Fakes out the fruitcake!)

Do something special with your most beautiful features. Great hair? Make an appointment for a blow dry if you’re between haircuts. A professional cut and finish of your hair can make you look great for a whole week. Great hands and fingers? Pull out the cocktail rings that are so en vogue right now. Get a fresh manicure; add some bangles to your wrist. Pretty arms? Go sleeveless in a sparkly tank top. Or bring attention to your face by adorning a crew necklined top with a chunky choker. The light from the choker splashing up to your face will be all you need to get the attention off of you-know-where.

 

2. Keep the eye moving up the body. (Neutralizes the chocolate pickings!)

Strong vertical lines make us look taller and slimmer. You can achieve this by wearing a black cocktail dress with black tights and black heels. Or, you can wear one dark shade (your choice of chocolate, charcoal, black or navy) in a top and matching trousers and add your pop of colour (your choice of magenta, turquoise, deep orange) in a shawl, shrug or jacket. That solid inside colour keeps our eye moving up your body, which makes you look slimmer. (I call this the ‘column of colour’ trick - check out my Gallery to see how I do it!!!). Also, consider wearing a belt and shoes in the same colour as your hair when you’re wearing separates. Your accessories will tie into the colour of your hair and stretch that vertical line for you, making you look taller and slimmer.

 

3. Lift your boobs. (Cancels out those shortbread biscuits and mince pies!)

Nothing can make a woman look matronly and heavy quicker than a sagging bustline. When you look in a full-length mirror, your bustline (if it was an imaginary vertical line) should sit right in the middle between your shoulder line and your waistline. If it’s not, hike up those bra straps or go indulge in a new bra that lifts you towards that central point (can’t go wrong with M&S!)

 

4. Buy a bigger size.  (Hides those extra tipples!)

Honestly… If you’ve been living in those clothes while they’ve been getting snugger, you may not be noticing the way the too-small size is distorting the drape of the garment and adding even more pounds. Going up a size isn’t a disgrace; it’s a weight-loss device. Wherever there is strain, create ease. Upper arms—a dolman sleeve may be great. Waist—relax the belt. Thighs—wear trousers with gentle pleats for extra ease or wear skirts with elastic waistlines that you cover up with a fabulous belt.

 

5. Don’t leave home without your make-up. (Fakes out fudge!)

To keep the focus up at the face instead of on the hips, be sure your make-up and especially eyebrow line is doing its job by framing your face. If your eyebrows are thinning or if they are barely visible because of their colour, get help at a make-up counter. You’ll need a slanted brush and the right shade of color. The make-up artist will show you how to dip into the pot of colour with your slanted brush and gently fill in your eyebrow line. Attention will automatically be directed to those gorgeous eyes of yours. Wear lenses or glasses? You still need to give attention to your brows. Then, add the all-time never-fails accessory: a smile! You’ll look fab!

 

Happy festive activities,

Fiona x   style2you   

Experiment, smile & shine!

As the party and festive season are almost upon us, do you have a hidden desire to be bolder with your appearance?  A recent focus group finding* showed that when women aged 18-50 were shown images of celebrities with alter-ego looks, most were drawn to burlesque artist Dita Von Teese.  This wasn’t because women wanted to live her lifestyle, more that they were captured by her defined sense of style, which projected an image of self-assurance and empowerment.  They found that overall women were instinctively drawn to dramatic looks such as smoky eyes and red lips and liked the idea of bringing out a darker, sexier, more outrageous side.  At style2you we show you how the ritual of applying make-up can be a magical, confidence-enhancing process.

By freeing yourself of the constraints that make you more conservative than you like (especially during the day time), by night you can play out a different role for fun. Experimenting with the way you look for an evening may surprise others who have a preconceived image of you, but revealing different sides of your personality through dress and make-up will not only change your behaviour, but also others’ behaviour towards you!  I’m sure you all love to dress up when you get the chance don’t you?

Changing your appearance can be very liberating but without the inner confidence you may find it difficult to carry off.  During a style consultation I always ask clients to tell me about something they absolutely love to bits – it doesn’t have to be restricted to an item of clothing. The words they come up with usually relate to qualities that they want to project to others.

So, for example my style2you style ‘recipe’ words are: approachable, flexible and confident. This describes why I love my recent purchase – a sky blue velvet jacket (bought from a dress agency, unworn for less than £20!). If you look at those words – they do express my style of image consultancy. Obviously I need to be confident about my expertise and experience, approachable to prospective clients (not intimidating like some I know!), and flexible as I have many clients from all walks of life and sizes.

Try this little exercise for yourself – then visualise the possibilities of a new (or real) you in the bathroom mirror...if you continue to experiment daily, you will significantly improve your sense of self-image and esteem.  Keep smiling and shining ladies!

If you’d like a little help with your style2you style ‘recipe’ or want to re-invent your signature look, give me a call – I’m not here to judge, just to help you be the best you...’glowing with confidence’!

Fiona x   

*Study: conducted by make-up line Illamasqua, with info by Kate Massarala – Brand Manager.
Source: Psychologies magazine Dec 2008 issue.

Style over fashion – any day!

The most important piece of advice I give my clients is to celebrate your strengths and play down your weaknesses – this is done by being critical about what fashion has to offer each season and whether it will work for you.

Unless you are very young, I feel strongly that stylish should be your aim. You need to know what the trends are when you are buying clothes, of course this helps, but you don’t need to look like a fashion spread. There are all kinds of debates about style and whether it can be bought or learned. 

Let’s think…there are plenty of rich people with no style whatsoever so it can’t be bought. And there are plenty of women with a  limited budget who always seem to look good, so it definitely isn’t expensive.

Most telling is when someone has understood what suits them and wears clothing to suit their individual body shape – this is something you can learn once you are familiar with your body and able to select the styles you need to create the right balance for your shape.

Style is what other women will notice and admire about you, so make that something that you can effortlessly achieve for yourself today…

A FASHIONABLE approach is adopted by someone who wants to be seen to be part of an invisible club called ‘hopelessly up to date’. They will talk in riddles about what is ‘in’ and ‘out’, they see their clothes as ‘must have’ items and are always looking ahead to see what is coming next. The can judge other women harshly as they judge themselves for not having the lastest bag or accessory. Confidence is something that is achieved once they have all the ‘right’ clothes on, but next season everything is changed or thrown out, once they see the newest collections…Victoria Beckham?

A STYLISH approach is taken by someone who has no need to be part of an exclusive club.They appreciate clothes as fine items of adornment that will enhance their day. They do not judge others, and will willingly compliment another woman on her appearance. They know what will suit them and don’t nee to be dictated to by the fashion world, although will just as happily clap hands with delight as the new styles hit the shops. Confidence is something they already have, by enjoying who they are and what they have done with their lives. In their wardrobes will be a selection of clothes that fit well and have stood the test of time, as well as some fashion items because they are fun to wear…Nigella Lawson?

Which one are you aiming for?

style2you can help you with your image goals, one step at a time...or a whole day's makeover.

Party frocks - offers & advice from style2you!

Hi there, it has been a while since my last blog – ‘tis the season that I am at my busiest,  solving all of your partywear dilemmas. This got me thinking, as I cannot possibly help everyone at the same time, I have put together a list of recommendations – with videos! – so you are aware what’s available in the shops this very weekend. I’m pleased to say that most of the High Street have slashed their prices on seasonal partywear – with more to come today I’m sure, so this is the time to bag that dress or party outfit.

If you venture out this weekend but come away without purchasing, then why not give me a call and we can discuss how I can help you find the dress that impresses – I have been doing this for over 15 years, so trust me, I’m a pro!  “Thanks for making me look and FEEL a million dollars and the whole outfit came in under £100 – wow!” (happy client)

In the meantime, if you’d like to keep up to date with colour, style and fashion related news, then click here to subscribe to style2you’s monthly newsletter.  Best of luck, Fiona x

The Trafford Centre have made a video of their partywear – worth a look as their featured stores are nationwide!

Watch GMTV’s Mark Heyes giving dress advice for Debenhams – they are currently offering up to 50% off selected partywear.

Monsoon are offering up to £30 off dresses online

Planet are offering up to 30% off partywear – stand alone store in Milton Keynes

Principles are offering up to 30% off selected partywear items

Wallis have a card holder event with money off

M&S are offering 20% off selected partywear pieces

Evans (size 14+) are offering up to £20 off partywear

DPs have some great pieces so everyone can look good on a budget!

Oasis  have some lovely silk dresses to make you look like a princess

Coast – queen of dresses – have some gorgeous satin and organza numbers to make you fabulous!

Karen Millen, for the more discerning woman, don’t have any offers however, their selection is to die for!

Continuous Personal Development

Do you all devote as much time as you’d like adding to or enhancing your existing skills base?
I’m sure you all have items on your ‘to do’ list that keep you focussed on your goals?
Do you always ‘get round to it?’  Perhaps not... This is my story:

Well, as well as running a successful (so far, award winning) image consultancy, I am also studying part time for my BScHons degree in Psychology with the Open University. I have a few years left to go, but I will achieve it by my 40^th birthday. When I was younger, my parents took me to live in Spain so I missed out on the opportunity to go to Uni – perhaps that’s why I rebelled so much during my 20’s when I came back to the UK!? Anyway, CPD has always been high on my agenda. I believe it is an essential ingredient for success – however, as success is the journey, not the destination, it is something that will always focus in my life. Whether it is related to my current business or not, I have a thirst for knowledge and the buzz it gives my grey cells and energy levels.

With this mindset, I recently attended a Federation of Image Consultants seminar in London, where the speaker was Brenda Kinsel. She is one of the top image gurus over in the States, so when this opportunity came up, to learn her secrets, I jumped at the chance! What an amazing day...what an amazing woman? She explained how she runs her successful ‘Closet & Personal Shopping’ business, which involves lots of repeat business from her loyal clients. Although her client list sounded more affluent and celebrity orientated, the basics message was how her clients really ‘value’ her services. Brenda has been a style guru for over 20 years now, and her passion and enthusiasm to translate her client’s wishes and make them a reality is what keeps them wanting more of her!

So, I have so many new ideas and will be using these to put together a new menu of Wardrobe Management services for 2009. My job of weeding client’s wardrobes sometimes leaves me thinking I haven’t finished my job and provided my clients with new outfits – which is why they want me to analyse their wardrobe selection in the first place. I usually allow 3 hours for the initial weed, then leave them with a shopping list of items to add or start making up their capsule wardrobe. This is only the first step – the benefits come with repeat visits, continuously assessing the client’s needs and lifestyle. So, with success being a journey, this also applies to helping people with their image...it is ongoing, not a one hit wonder!

That said, image advice lasts a lifetime, so the investment certainly saves you time, money and frustration on your wardrobe and accessories, and ensures you are projecting the best possible ‘you’ to others. As my aim is to ‘make a positive contribution to the wellbeing of others’, the benefits to the client go well beyond the superficial and financial – this is what sets me apart from other image consultants...I really care about them and my creative side always needs nurturing. Seeing my clients flourish and ‘glow with confidence’ makes my heart sing!

Until next time, Fiona x  style2you  

Does your cloth cut the mustard?

For many women in business this can be a crucial element of success. Whether you are a top line professional lawyer, running an IT business or selling products via a network marketing format, we all need to consider our physical impact on others.

When you review your marketing plan, you should also include an audit of your image. Why? Well, we all accept that people buy from people, whether you interact face-to-face with clients or not. How you dress affects how you feel, so even if you work in telemarketing, you still need to sound confident and that you are smiling before you are dialling!  The action of reflecting on your physical impact affords you the scope to adopt tools to enhance it. To find out more, read on...

As an award winning image consultant, and having spent most of my career in sales and training roles, I have seen lots of examples of memorable good and bad image projection. Personal image is the importance you give your appearance, voice, body language and behaviour. So ask yourself these questions right now:

·         How does your appearance impact on others?

·         What words do people use to describe you?

·         What does your image say about you?

·         What does your image say about your company/brand?

·         Are you creating your desired impression?

·         Have you acted on feedback?

The key with the above is consistency. By creating and having a consistent (personal brand) image you are controlling the judgements of others. Your appearance speaks volumes without saying a single word. It usually reflects your personality, ability, status, salary level and success. Just think about the different perceptions you get from someone wearing a bespoke suit verses a polyester suit? I know this is an extreme, however, the latter can be an image breaker.

It’s widely accepted that the subliminal judgements of others, or first impressions, are made up of 93% on how we look and only 7% on what we say. So, overlooking this crucial element can cost you and your business dearly.

I’ve written before, albeit briefly, on the psychology of colour. This approach is influenced by certain professions and ‘uniforms’. We all acknowledge that the darker the clothing, the smarter the image. By combining darker matched items with a light coloured shirt or top projects high contrast – which is used to create an authoritative look. Conversely, when you combine a light to mid-tone jacket (undone) with a mid-tone top or separates, it projects lower contrast – which is used to create a more persuasive look. What colours make up your working wardrobe? Why did you choose them? Colour Analysis helps de-code the shades and tones of harmonising characteristics for you to use to maximum effect. (By the way, mustard only suits around 2 out of 10 women!!!)

So, going back to earlier, whether you are selling services, products or both, you are either selling yourself or brands. The latter is easier to quantify and is taken more seriously. However, I know that by reflecting and investing in you the person (from whom your clients are buying from), is the easiest and quickest change you can make which affects your bottom line or success.  Big claim...but, if your image is reflecting your values, qualities and qualifications to your clients, peers and competitors, there is scope for being more analytical to gain the advantage.

A few bullets to summarise then:

• Success is dependent on effort.
• Control those judgements.
• Use the Power of Colour to improve your business.
• Be mindful of body language, voice and behaviour.
• Confidence wins hearts, business and influences those around you.

I hope this blog has made you reflect on and consider the importance of your personal brand, and has been insightful in some way?   I am here to help – not to judge.  If you would like a confidential chat about your current image and know where you want it to get you, but don’t know where to start, please give me a call 01442 822093 / 07969 001031 or email me.  Fiona, style2you

WINNER of 'Most Successful New Image Business 2008'

Well...I did it!  Weeks of waiting to find out if style2you was going to win, pitched against 3 other businesses, finally culminated in victory at the Annual Conference of The Federation of Image Consultants.

I am so proud of my achievements as this year has not been without its ups and downs. In May I underwent spinal surgery which was nerve racking but essential as I was still working weeks before in absolute agony! But I'm delighted to report that all is well, I just have to make sure I pace myself - not that easy when you have so many fabulously eager clients waiting.

This is what they announced at the Award Ceremony:

"This person really inspired us with her enthusiasm and flair for PR. How many consultants do you know who advertise their companyy on an ethically correct shopping bag? Despite literally being on her back, she still managed to put her business first and is well on the road to well deserved success. She is passionate about what she does and totally business savvy. Her new capsule wardrobe site is innovative and very 21st century. We loved it. We are proud to present the 2008 Most Successful New Business Award to Fiona McClurg-Welland."

Ah, memories! Now I'm working towards bigger projects and this accolade will certainly help me achieve those goals.   Fiona x

Shortlisted for National Award

Fiona McClurg-Welland of style2you and mycapsulewardrobe.com has been shortlisted by The Federation of Image Consultants  (TFIC) for their inaugural 'Spirit of Inspiration' Awards, under the 'Most Successful New Business' category. Businesses have to have been operating for between 1-3 years and must show evidence of a strong business plan, future strategies and demonstrate financial growth. The Federation are celebrating their 20th Anniversary this year, and are using the awards to showcase achievement of image related entrepreneurs.

"Working for yourself if very rewarding but it takes a lot of hard work, especially when you are your own brand image! I feel honoured to have made it to the final selection. It will help me gain more credibility nationally and well-deserved recognition."  

With over fifteen years experience in the retail industry, and running style2you for almost 18 months, Fiona uses her passion for fashion and colour with her coaching skills to teach people how to feel good about themselves from the outside-in. "Seeing clients flourish is addictive. I'm a feel-good-junkie!" 

Fiona has also teamed up with Friars Square Shopping Centre  and launched a Personal Shopping Service, and has contributed to the BH Magazine's fashion features.

Official Personal Shopper!

Last Saturday (12th July), Friars Square Shopping teamed up with well known local image consultancy style2you. With a range of services on offer to suit all, the aim is to keep shopping local and show how easy, with expert advice, it is to express that all important personal style.

"Working alongside the centre means that clients can shop with confidence, getting expert guidance on how to look and feel amazing and benefit from the excellent range of shopping available. Our mission is to provide a stress-free, fun shopping experience, where shoppers gain top tips and practical solutions along the way. I'm delighted that the launch was well received and generated plenty of interest. I'm looking forward to a successful partnership and helping improve store loyalty in our town!" 
Fiona McClurg-Welland, Director.