Autumn 2013 Trends & Colors

I love it when the seasons change. It gives me the opportunity to explore new nuances to my style and re-invent ways to wear my summer gear in layers.

1. Prim and proper: Think pencil skirts, high necklines and long sleeves. It’s all about classic style.
2. Leather: and not just in jackets. Think a-line skirts too, bringing a contrast of feminine and tough. Colour leathers are there for those wanting to lead the pack.
3. Embellishment: sequins and adornment- elegance and feminine from Max
4. Suits: Just when we’ve got used to deconstructing the suit, it’s back and worn matchy-matchy together - like this looks from Jacquie E
5. Asian-inspired prints: there’s a richness in these that is both statement and classic.
6. Uniforms: a bit of military, a bit of country and a bit of urban thrown together for chic.
7. The full skirt: a work and play alternative to the pencil skirt. If hips are your widest point, then look for a drop-waist style. I certainly will be. llike this look from Witchery
8. Rich florals: incorporate these fabrics in tailored shapes and let your garment do the talking. Less will be more in the accessories department. floral dress from jacquie E
9. Body conscious: think slim-fitting garments designed to show off your shape through clever seam work and graphic lines. With skilled patterning and good fabrics, this can work for all sizes. nice color blocking from Max
10. Sporty: A bit athletic, a bit sci-fi, a bit modernist. These are statement pieces to be worked back with classics
11. Add your own style with different textures, scarves and amazing belts and jewellery. Block colour is slimming, chic and easy. Just remember, black is not a colour. 

Needing help finding your Style Personality? Pensy Low-Schumpestylist and image consultant Pensy Low-Schuemperli will help to discover your Discover your Personal Style, colors and create a capsule wardobe.

Fashion after 40!! its easy to look fashionable....

It's easy to be fashionable and stylish regardless of how many candles are on your birthday cake.

Now let's be honest: you probably don't have the same body at 40, 50, or 60 that you did at 25. Time, gravity, and pregnancy all take their toll on the female body, as does menopause. And when you mix a mature body with fashions obviously made for a younger person, it can lead to self-doubt, frustration, and confusion.

But it doesn't have to be that way. Getting older also means getting wiser, and like a fine bottle of wine, you're improving with age. So you don't have the same body as those twenty-somethings you see in magazines or on TV. So what? Would you REALLY trade everything you've learned since your twenties for the body you had back then?

So how can you be fashionable without wearing all those body-conscious clothes so en vogue these days? By remembering the "3 C's" when you dress: clean, classic, and coverage.

CLEAN

Clean lines create a clean silhouette which makes the body appear more youthful by skimming the trouble spots instead of calling attention to them. Complicated cuts, seams, and details usually call for a killer body to pull off, so if you haven't got it, steer clear of those styles.

CLASSIC

Classic styles are called classic because they remain in style year after year. Why? Because they look good on so many bodies! Sheathes, A-line skirts, flat front pants - all tend to flatter a variety of shapes. What's more, because they remain in style year after year, classics are easier on the budget than trends.

COVERAGE

Covering appropriately is the key to aging gracefully. If your upper arms, thighs, and décolletage have all seen better days, it's time to cover them up a bit instead of sharing the wear-and-tear with the world. Now I'm not talking about draping yourself in a tent for the rest of your life. Far from it. I'm talking about wearing short sleeves instead of going sleeveless, Capri's instead of shorts, and modest necklines instead of plunging necklines.

Now I know that covering up the parts that used to turn heads and draw envy can be tough to take for some women. Which is precisely why beautiful jewelry and fine fabrics are the revenge tools of choice for many well-dressed mature women. So your bust line isn't as perky as your twenty-something daughter or granddaughter. So what? Add a beautiful necklace and draw envious glances from women of all ages. 

Don't have the same backside you did as a teen? Encase it in a fine fabric and see how many men go out of the way to hold the door open for you. People will look where you focus their attention, so use that knowledge to redirect their interest to the parts you want them to see.

Don't flip through fashion magazines and bemoan the fact that you don't look like the models. Instead, look at the various fashion elements to determine what will and won't work for you. Are printed scarves all the rage this year? Grab a few and be trendy. Are mini skirts the style of choice? Pass and bank your money. See how easy this is?

"A woman has the age she deserves," Coco Chanel once said. You don't have to go under cover and dress "like a little old lady.  If you remember to dress in clean lines and classic styles and cover appropriately, you can still be fashionable!!  

Need help? book into a Personal Style and Body Shape Consultation.  

Is not about size. It's about SHAPE!

“It’s not about size. It’s about Shape”. When I am choosing clothing for someone, the most important thing to take into consideration is that it’s not actually about the size of the person, it’s about their body-shape. That is far more important when dressing to look your best.
I think so many women & men here and around the western world have become so pre-occupied with size. For some, being a size 14, instead of a 12 is the end of the world. Whereas, for others, the frustration of being a size 24, can lead them to hide behind shapeless clothing, and be ashamed of how they look. We’ve seen this in the media, with the debate over too-skinny models, and magazines splashed with photographs of a celebrity that has cellulite… gasp!
Many women that I work with won’t even try on a garment in a bigger size than their normal, even if it will fit and flatter them better, because of this mental block about clothing size.
It’s not about size. It’s about shape!!

Once you know what your body shape is, it means you can truly dress to make the most of the body that God has given you. You will know how to shift attention away from your figure challenges, and how to draw attention to your best features. It’s all about looking good and feeling great. It’s about feeling confident again, and not letting low self-esteem and body image stop you from living your life.
Stand back and take a look at yourself in the mirror. Don’t just stare at your big bottom, or wobbly thighs, or flabby tummy. Look at your entire shape. What do you like about yourself? Make a list of your positive features. You just need to learn how to dress yourself to look more balanced, top & bottom. It’s worth making the effort. Who wouldn’t want to feel more confident and comfortable with how they look?

We would love to help you out with making the most of yourself. Check out our services to find out how to dress your body shape with Style and Body Consultation

We have a new Blog!

Hi FOLLOWERS!!!

WE have a second Blog http://insideandoutbeautiful.blogspot.com/ 
with fashion and style tips, shopping suggestions, house decorations, trips around the world and inspirational thoughts!!

So please follow me in the new blog!!

Tips for your Teens

THIS GUIDE WILL HELP YOU FIND YOUR BEST CUT, AND STYLE IT TO PERFECTION 

FIRST THINGS FIRST:

For starters, do an at-home evaluation.  After your next shampoo, look at the crown of your hair with the aid of mirrors.  You’ll see a circular pattern that’s the way your hair grows.  Once you’re aware of its natural movement, you can choose a style that makes the most of it.  A snip of the scissors in the right place can perk up limp hair, tame unruly curls or coax thick hair into shape.

LIMP, FINE HAIR has special problems.  To cope with its lack of body and movement: 

• Have hair cut in the direction of growth; 
• Consider a fringe – limp hair tends to lie flattest around the face.  Fringes also help disguise thinness on top, which is noticeable with fine hair.  Fringes should be cut well into the temples and then graduated into the cheekbones;
• Keep in mind that over-conditioning weighs hair down;
• Use mousse or gel at the roots when hair is nearly dry to boost its body.  Hair spray can be helpful for fine, limp hair, but use it just to stiffen hair slightly.  Over spraying can leave hair so stiff, it will have no movement at all.

THICK, COARSE HAIR should not be cut with a razor or thinning shears; these only take the bulk out temporarily.  As soon as the hair starts to grow again, it loses shape and becomes unruly.  Probably the best option for thick hair is an all-one-length blunt cut or a layered style, cut with scissors.  Shorter hair should be blunted so it has better form.

• Finger-comb hair into shape.

CURLY HAIR, can be a blessing, but it is not as forgiving as straight hair during the growing out period and, if not cut well, can get a wild look.

• Curly hair should always be layered.
• If curls are unruly, apply hair spray to palms and smooth over hair’s surface.
• If hair is long or very curly, you can ‘straighten it’ with a large round or paddle brush, some straightening balm and a blower.

               

THE BEST LENGTH:

  Long, short or in-between – what’s the most flattering length?

• LONG HAIR can be wonderful – but it can also look flat.  Layer long hair on top and keep the rest all one length.  Short layers around the face ‘blend in’ to give the illusion of a one-length style, but add movement and volume.  The shorter top layers can be pulled up and scrunched for easy styling.
• SHORT HAIR is a great way to emphasize eyes and other facial features.  Wear short hair cropped at the back with longer, full layers on top, all cut in the direction of hair growth.  To style, scrunch the top with both hands while hair is drying.  Keep finger-combing against the natural wave to get more body at the roots.  “Pushing” against the direction of growth adds fullness and lift.

 

SALONSPEAK:

Make sure you and your hairstylist speak the same language.  Terms that you should know: -

•      Layering: creates ‘tiers’ of hair around the shape of the head to add texture and curves.  It’s a good alternative to perming.
•      Texturizing : thins lower portion of hair (or just the very ends) almost strand by strand for a softer, lighter look with lots of movement.
•     Undercutting or pointing : makes hair livelier and fuller by cutting underneath layers shorter than top ones.  This creates a ‘support’ structure for hair, giving the illusion of body. 

TO CHECK YOUR CUT:

A good cut should pass five tests – and if your hairstylist is doing his/her job, your hair should be tested as it is cut.  You can do the same at home on just-washed hair.

1. Layering should be even at sides and back.
2. Grasp two strands of side hair closest to the face and pull towards the chin.  They should be even.
3. Part hair from either side and down the middle.  There should be no rogue strands.
4. Grasp hair behind each ear and scrunch.  You should feel the same ‘bulk’.
5. When dried, hair should fall into place.  If your cut doesn’t measure up, go back to the salon.  Most styling mistakes can be corrected.
   
   
   
   
   
   

LC Lauren Conrad For Kohl's Spring 2011

Floral, romance, gardens!! 

Hallo, me again!! Was thinking of borrowing some girls to model some clothes for or go shopping n dress up n taking some pics in a pretty garden!
In fact Lauren Conrad has done that and found some gorgeous yet so simple outfits for NZ teens!!wearable, classic and beautiful!!!

Nxt will find something for the boys??

Keep looking sharp!
Jeanne:)

How to Deal with Acne

Hi Girls, found this article, its very helpful

http://www.teenvogue.com/beauty/beautycrisis/2011/09/how-to-deal-with-acne#intro

Stacey asks: I have acne on my face and can't help but be self-conscious about it. I don't even like to wear my hair up in a ponytail anymore. I want to get rid of it fast. Can you please help me?
Stacey, you're not alone! The truth is, 86% of young women struggle with acne at some point. According to Mona Gohara, M.D., Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale School of Medicine, "Hormones, trapped dead skin cells, oil (which clog pores), and bacteria are the axis of evil when it comes to breakouts.Recent studies also show that stress and diets high in dairy or simple carbs containing refined sugars (i.e., chips, pastries, and candy bars) can cause acne by raising blood cortisol/insulin levels," she notes. So first off, make sure you de-stress regularly and eat a well-balanced, healthy diet. The next step is to keep your pores clean and kill zit-causing skin bacteria by following Dr. Gohara's complexion-clearing advice!

In the morning:

• When rinsing out shampoo and conditioner, tilt your head back so that no products run onto your face and clog your pores. Same goes for leave-in styling products; protect the skin by creating a shield with your hand when applying.
• With lukewarm water, gently wash the face with a cleanser containing salicylic acid. Don't scrub or use harsh abrasive soaps. Acne is not caused by dirt, and over-scrubbing can dry out the skin, which signals your oil glands to produce more oil than your pores can handle. Salicylic acid is a fabulous warrior against whiteheads because it liberates trapped dead skin cells by gently exfoliating. For oily skin, wash with a salicylic acid-based cleanser five mornings a week; for dry skin, use three mornings a week. I like Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash or Kiehl's Blue Herbal Cleanser.
• Again, to avoid over-drying the skin, moisturization is essential. If you have oily skin, stick with a light lotion; for dry skin, creams work best. Try Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer or CeraVe AM Facial Lotion (both have the benefit of added SPF).
• It's OK to use makeup for covering up pimples, but avoid using thick, oil- or liquid-based foundations because they can actually cause pimples—a condition called acne cosmetica. Stick to mineral makeup, which is light and less likely to contribute to the issue, and steer clear of mica; the jagged, flaky shape of mica particles can cause irritation and/or clogging in your follicles. I recommend CoverGirl TRUBlend.

At night:

• Hit the sack with a clean slate—wash off all the extra germs that latch on to your makeup throughout the day. Ideally, use a mild non-soap cleanser with a neutral PH, like Cetaphil Antibacterial Cleansing Bar, to get the job done. This product works for all skin types.
• Apply a benzoyl peroxide product to help fight acne-causing bacteria. This is an essential step! Use a pea-size amount of product to avoid irritation and redness. My favorite products: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo and Clinique Acne Solutions Emergency Lotion—both are great for their anti-bacterial and exfoliating properties.

Pimple Prevention:

• Avoid picking and popping at all cost! As tempting as it may seem, the damage to the skin can be severe, leaving you with long-lasting marks or scars.
• To avoid transferring bacteria and oil, try not to touch your face throughout the day. Keep your hands on your lap—not against your chin—during class.
• Change your bedding at least once a week. Pillowcases can act as a perfect reservoir for pore-clogging facial oils and bacteria.
• If possible, sneak away to the bathroom between classes for a midday facial wipe down. I like Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleansing Pads.
• Or for the au naturel gal: A tablespoon of baking soda mixed with a teaspoon of water makes a great exfoliator. Need to step it up? Add one or two drops of tea tree oil to natural green clay powder and a little water, making a thick paste. Apply to your face for ten minutes, one to two times a month.

Skin 911: When time is not on your side and you have an unsightly zit, don't fret—the solution may be closer than you think. Crush aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and add a little bit water to form a paste. Place it directly on the pimple and watch it fade away. For more stubborn spots, apply a dab of over-the-counter cortisone.
When To See A Dermatologist:For painful pustules and deep cystic pimples, you may want to seek the advice of a dermatologist before scars set in. This type of acne oftentimes requires prescription retinol products, oral medications, or in-office treatments, such as cortisone injections or strong chemical peels.
Jeanne :) 

My thoughts on Fashion and Trends 

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Finally, here's me on fashion and trends:

I think that fashion 'trends' and 'fads' are just a designers way of making an income, and not a necessity to follow. I think models wear them because they get paid to do so.

I, personally don't follow them or care too much about what the latest fad or trend is.
I just go out, buy what I like and try to make it my own. I don't like looking like or doing what everyone else is doing or wearing exactly what everyone else is wearing. There are things I don't avoid all together, like leggings, for example, despite everybody wearing them and them being all over the stores. I wear them cos they're comfortable, and naturally try not to be a carbon copy of something I've seen.
I believe that everyone can take what's out there and make it their own!

There are definitely basic essential items, like shorts, t-shirts, jeans, skirts, dresses etc out there to suit every kind of figure. Its up to the individual to make sure he/she knows what best suits him/her. The same goes for color, make-up, shoes, accessories, hairstyles etc.

The reason I say this, is extremely vital to each and every person; for efficiency sake! In other words: to make the most out of your day! Otherwise laborious amount of time and energy may be spent in stores trying and testing, even buying and returning!

So these three resources: (if graciously available to us) Time, Energy and Money would be optimized if we take the time in the first place, to learn more about ourselves and what suits us best!! ---> Which is what I refer to as the 'Easier way)

So this is just me and the way I think and feel. I hate wasting my time, energy and my money. All this learned the hard way! (i.e by wasting my time, energy & money, sometimes to the point of giving me a headache)

So hopefully you will learn the lesson sooner than later and the easier way ofcourse!
I enjoy having a more productive day because I like getting more done!
(Sometimes I do sleep in after a couple of good movies! Like today! :-O ;-) but I'm trying not to)

I love helping people be beautiful "inside and out" and believe that everyone is and can be! <3

So go on and find your best you!, till next time.

Keep looking sharp!
Jeanne

Dress for corporate Sucess

Do's and Don'ts when followingTrends

Today’s women want to look good and trendy at any age. With greater job opportunities, higher disposable income and constant exposure to the latest fashion and beauty trends, women today are certainly wanting to be more savvy in their overall visual presentation. However, the desire to be “IN” may actually become your worst nightmare when you cannot keep up with fashion’s notorious fickleness and end up looking so “last year”! Fashion comes and goes in hyper speed; sometimes a hot fad may fizzle out in a matter of months. To avoid looking like a fashion victim, here are some general guidelines:

1. Do invest in timeless items such as tank tops, jeans, well-cut blazers and little black dresses. You cannot go wrong with these classic pieces. Buy them in neutral solid colours for easy coordination with other trendier pieces.

2. Do opt for a natural sheer look be it your make-up, nail polish or hairdo. If you are in the creative field, you can be more adventurous with your style, otherwise a sun-kissed matte look always project a sharper and polished image. If you want to experiment with bold colour make-up, go for a matte instead of glossy finishing for work.
3. Do update your wardrobe in small doses. For example, trendy accessories such as a bright colour handbag, patterned tights in neutral colours or laced-up booties will add instant wow into your core wardrobe without having to spend too much.

4. Do wear your hair in a neat and light style. Frizzy or flyaway hair can be kept in control with the use of hair products or accessories. Long hair should be sleek and tidy; wear it in a chignon style or low ponytail for an elegant day-to-day look.
5. Do wear trendy fashion because you really like them and not for insecurity reasons. You do not have to be togged in trends from top to toe to look good and feel belonged. Inner beauty triumphs over fashion at the end of the day. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, think positively and cultivate friendships. As designer Kenneth Cole says "To be aware is more important than what you wear."

• Don’t bet on exaggerated styles, cuts and colours to stay for long e.g. acid wash jeans, big shoulder pads, micro minis, neon colours and military jackets. These styles are not only difficult to pull off but they will fade away by this time next year. 
• Don’t wear flip-flops in and out of the office. It does not matter if they are branded, fashionable or ultra comfortable. A slipper is a slipper and it has no place in the corporate world. It instantly diminishes your credibility at work.
• Don’t wear bright make-up to work. Blue eyelids were hot in the 1980’s and are making a comeback but unless you work in a beauty industry, I would recommend that you choose a softer blue palette for the board room.
• Don’t overdo in the accessories department. Big bold accessories may be the trend now, but wearing oversize necklaces or rings will be distracting for the office. You will want your boss, co-workers and clients to focus on your sales pitch or presentation rather than your fashion statement.
• Don’t wear leggings to work no matter how casual your office is. Leggings will continue to be a strong trend but that doesn’t mean it should become your office wardrobe staple. Remember you will want to stand out in the crowd and not be one of the crowd to get that promotion.

Men's Fashion

Tips how to look taller and thinner

 

man image

MEN: To Look Taller and Thinner

• Wear clothes that fit well (too tight or too loose clothes add pounds).
• Wear solid colors, preferably in the same color range, from head to toe.
• Avoid stiff fabrics and nubby textures.
• Wear darker tones in smooth fabrics with flat finishes.
• Limit stripes to very fine, subdued, and close-together versions.
• Wear two-button jackets with natural shoulders.
• Wear trousers with vertical pockets, which are more slenderizing than slanted pockets.
• Wear trousers at the natural waist (never below)
• Wear hemmed, not cuffed, trousers.
• Wear classic-length jackets, preferably without vests.
• Avoid too many accessories.
• Be sure your tie touches the waistband and that it is medium in width.
• Avoid busy patterns.
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Fashion Tips for Men

I’ve come up with a list of quick fashion checklist. use it to determine just how much you know about how to dress. Chances are there are at least a few of them you don’t know.

#1 Do NOT wear socks with sandals
I can’t tell you how many time I’ve seen this happen. Socks with sandals is a BIG no-no. Sandals are to be worn in the summer, when the temperatures are high. You won’t need socks at all.

#2 Try before you buy
Never Buy clothes or accessories before you see how they look on you. While it’s hard to find something that fits you perfectly, do try on as many clothes as possible before you find what you want.

#3 Invest in a good suit
Even if you’re not the formal type of guy, you should have your own suit for special occasions. You can’t go in jeans at a wedding or at a formal dinner. make sure you get a good wool or cotton suit that will last you for years. Choose a good color, take it to the tailors for adjustment and get a shirt or two to match it.

#4 Wear color
Regardless of your age, do spice up your outfits with a little color. It’s a great way to stand out from the crowd and show everyone your fashion sense.

#5 Don’t be a fashion victim
When you buy something new, make sure it’s something you really need. Don’t fall victim to those commercials that dictate to you what you should get. Instead, think of the image you want to project and buy clothes that show your personality.

#6 Don’t ignore your skin
While most of us take facial care for granted, you might be surprised to notice a real difference in your skin if you only took care of it. Exfoliate, shave, tone and moisturize; you’ll increase your attractiveness with a cleaner, better looking face.

#7 Don’t be cheap when it comes to shoes
A good pair of shoes can last you a long time as long as you know how to take good care of them. A cheap pair of shoes will quickly fall apart. Only buy quality shoes and think of them as an investment. Wear them by rotation each day and clean them regularly to have them last you for years.

#8 Work on your fashion sense
No matter how old we are, we will never know everything. Your fashion sense is like a muscle. it needs to be constantly be worked out.

#9 Don’t be afraid to wear accessories
If you’re going for a more mature look, go for scarves,pocket squares and watches.

#10 Try new things
As you grow older, your fashion sense changes. This is actually a great opportunity for you to do some variations in your style. A new accessory or a new color are always great places to start. Get out of your comfort zone and do it.

#11 Don’t unbutton your shirt too much
I’ve seen plenty of guys showing their chest hair in public places. Unless you happen to be an experienced bodybuilder, this will never look good…. unless you’re on the beach. There’s a fine line between sexy and obnoxious so make sure you don’t cross it.

#12 Always iron your clothes
This is one of those things only other people notice. We never notice our own wrinkled clothes. Make it a habit to always take one last look in the mirror before you leave the house. Look for wrinkles, stains or anything that looks suspicious.

#13 Do mix formal with casual
I do this all the time and I love it. I wear a sports jacket with jeans and a pocket square, a tie with a polo shirt and so on. Intriguing clothes combinations make you an intriguing person.

#14 Get a good haircut
Go to a hair stylist and figure out  what would look good on you. Then give it a try and don’t forget to change your haircut very so often.