Autumn awaits

Those of you who have followed me since the 'Makeover My Mate' days will know that this blog was originally more of a fashion blog, where I gave loads of makeovers and fashion advice. However, my beauty obsession has taken over somewhat, and I need to get back to my beloved fashion roots if I am ever going to land my dream job as a 'proper' journalist. I.e, with a paycheck!

Anyway, what better time to get back into the swing of things than with London Fashion Week fast approaching!

I know it's all about Spring/Summer '10 style, but I just couldn't bring myself to write about things that we won't be wearing for about another 6 months. I wanted to talk about Autumn instead as summer is pretty much over for us now *sobs*


Here's a quick run down of the things those designer folk think we should all run out and buy to replace our maxi dresses and flip flops. 'But I love my flip flops'.... Hmm... well... it's time to let go now.

KEY PIECES- Look out for these to help bring you into Autumn/Winter style without buying mountains of new clothes:

1.) Leather jacket

Gone are the days when leather was reserved for heavy metal fans and burly bikers. It is back with a vengeance and, provided you keep it black and unzipped, you're on to a winner! If you can't justify shedding out £70+ for a authentic leather jacket, there are some great PU/imitation leather versions on the high street that are certainly worth checking out. Cute cropped jackets look great with a floral mini dress, and biker-style ones are perfect for casual jeans and plimsoll days.

Net-a-Porter aren't feeling the recession! Doma biker jacket- £495

4.) 1940's Style

Yes, yes it's all about the 80's, but the catwalk has also seen a lot of emphasis on 40's inspired styles. Think classic tailoring, skinny belts, conservative necklines, and maybe even the odd muff. Ooh err!

The Sex and the City girls out on the town sporting the latest catwalk trends!

3.) Sculptured Shoulders

Your mum loved these 'back in the day' when Dynasty was the best show on TV and Cyndi Lauper was a style icon. This time around they are less puffy and don't resemble bra padding quite as much, now it's all about pointy, sculptured shoulders. Raid your mum's wardrobe and vintage shops, or just hit the high street for their take on the must have catwalk style.

Big shoulders=skinny waists. Simples!

4.) Studs

Shove them on everything! Shoes, bags, blazers, hats.... JEANS! Don't go overboard, though, studs on one item of clothing at a time please. Tasteful, not tacky!

Rare by the Saturdays are loving the studs. Dress £60 on Asos.com

5.) Brogues

AKA Golf Course Chic. Brogues have become increasingly popular in both men and women's fashion over the past year or two. Love them or hate them, but you can't deny they look hot with a cute mini dress for a preppy, vintage style. If your more of a glam girl, give heeled brogues a go a la Alexa Chung.

Alexa Chung, a brogue's best friend.

What are you looking forward to wearing this season?

Dressing for your shape

Apologies for this mammoth post, but there's a lot to cover!
Hopefully you will have read my previous post, Apples or Pears? before reading this, so you now know your shape and want to find out what suits you best!
Here are the most common shapes (which are also the trickiest to choose clothes for) and some advice on what to look out for, and what to avoid.
Apple shape
Most 'apples' will find that their best feature is their large breasts, so they show them off. Rightly so apples, but don't forget that your legs can be accentuated too. Best things to wear as an apple are wrap around tops and dresses, V necks (with support- you don't want excessive boob display!), simple tank tops paired with open mid length jackets, waist sinching belts and no big bold prints. You want to make the most of your curves by accentuating the best bits, and concealing the rest. Don't think that trousers don't look good on apples because they can! Wide leg trousers and boot cut jeans will give your legs a longer look, and they look great with some sexy wedges. Very spring!


Pear shape
Attention, pears! You should steer clear of drain pipes and slim fit trousers, unless you want to draw attention to your biggest parts. You need to balance out your figure so things are more proportional. This can be achieved by wearing things that accentuate the top half of the body like bright colours, bold prints and wide necklines, but stick to dark simple colours on the bottom half. A common feature of the 'pear' is a generous sized bottom! Great for the men, but not great for high wasted trousers, or detail on pockets, this will only make it appear wider. Ideal outfits include halter neck tops, dark boot-cut trousers and slim heels (chunky shoes only make the calves seem larger).


Hourglass
As an hourglass, you should show off curves without flashing too much flesh. Avoid tight, clingy fabrics as these will over emphasise any lumps and bumps. Instead, stick to items like A -line fitted skirts which are straight enough to show off curvy hips but don't cling too much to the thighs. To accentuate smaller waists wear thick waist belts, and tops with deep V necklines. Avoid Stilettos and opt for open toe court shoes, as these make legs appear longer and slimmer. The secretary look works best on hourglass figures, think low cut blouses and pencil skirts, but be selective when chosing materials so as not to look trashy.

Dressing for any of the other nine body shapes...