A new fashion resolution

As we approach the start of 2016, we begin to think a bit more about life. What went well last year, what didn't, and how we are going to improve on things next year (aside from going to the gym everyday and swearing we will never touch chocolate again - as if). New Year's Resolutions aside, it was this 'gazing out the window' mode that bought me to a subject I love - no guesses what....

Fashion.
What is fashion? Big question. And hard to answer. Is it style? Is it trends? Is it even about the clothes?

For me, I think of fashion in terms of a) expression and b) feeling good.

As I write in the About part of this blog, fashion shouldn't be seen as a set of hard core rules that everyone must follow or - God forbid - risk arrest by the 'fashion police'. Fashion can give the impression of being a very serious industry, but at its heart I don't think it is. If it was, it wouldn't be loved by so many people. After all, fashion magazines are meant to be entertaining, as well as informative.

This is why I loved the Sponge Bob/fast food theme that Moschino put on last year (see above). The clothes were not to most people's taste - indeed, they probably weren't intended to be - but people loved the fun/crazy/frivolous element.

And without going all hippy, fashion is also a type of art. It's CREATIVE.

When planning what to wear for an event, it's not a logical, scientific and structured approach. Instead, it depends on so many factors - including the mood you are in the time you have. Sometimes, when in a rush, I have a 'go to' outfit I always pick. This is crazily important for avoiding major stress levels when short of time - for me, it's an LBD at night or skinny jeans/blazer during the day.

Image:Dorrance

But the times fashion is most lovable is when one gets to experiment. People will shout at me for this - but deciding what to wear can genuinely be one of the greatest pleasures in life. Provided you are happy with the end result, it's a creative process that is in many ways similar to cooking.
You have your ingredients (the clothes) and you have a finished product (look) in mind.

This is in essence what I mean by the 'feel good' factor of fashion. It should be enjoyable. Okay, it can be frustrating at times. When that jacket just doesn't look good, or when you are stood in a sea of clothes wondering if ANYTHING will go with that new top you bought.

But for all the good times, the times when your handbag makes its first appearance or the joy you get when your dress fits to perfection, fashion is great.

So in 2016 let's embrace it - and have fun.

All I want for Christmas...

For any of you who follow this blog, you may have noticed it's been a little quiet recently. The reason? Coursework. Yes, it was a drag. But hey, it's over now! And actually, it wasn't half as bad as predicted, being on the language of Vogue beauty ads (I'm not kidding). But enough about the degree and onto fashion, or rather, festive fashion.

Yes, unless you've been living in a hole or hibernating under the covers this winter (in which case, I don't blame you), you may have gathered Christmas is on its way faster than Santa makes it round the houses on Christmas Eve. With that in mind, knowing what to wear for parties. family gatherings and general xmas sing songs can get a little tricky - even tiresome. So here's a couple of tricks to help ....alongside that cheeky glass of sherry, of course.

Cats do Christmas too, you know.
Image:123rf

Limit the sparkles

Yes, it's true that Christmas is the time to get out the sequins and glitter. But it's definitely not the time to compete with the Christmas baubles hanging on your Christmas tree. The best way to go with sequins is to decide on one piece. So if you have a fully sequined skirt (like the one below) wear that with a plain top and vice versa. A fully sequined dress is hard to get right, but if done well can be a real winner - just make sure jewellry is kept minimal.

 Topshop black velvet sequin pencil skirt

Blazer up 

A slouchy or well fitted blazer is the perfect cover up depending on the occasion. The great thing about a blazer is they look slick. Perfect when going from dinner to the dance floor. Blazer on = civilised drinks reception. Blazer off = the party starts.

Blazers: AliExpress

Lose the belt 

Anyone who knows me well knows I love a good waist belt. It creates a flattering silhouette and often acts as a great accessory. Christmas is the exception to this. When you're eating lots, drinking lots and generally being merry, wearing a waist belt will become the bane of your night. No matter how good it looks before you go out, lose it. You'll be thankful later.

Applying an economic metaphor to fashion, thanks The Telegraph. 

Keep festive subtle

Some people are a big fan of getting out the good old Christmas jumper. Perhaps I'm being sexist/ageist but I feel this is best left to your dad after a few drinks. Instead, opt for something a little more subtle - there are some cute Christmas earrings on the market such as dangling earrings shaped as wrapped presents, fairies or mistletoe. Anything in emerald green also shouts festive.

Image: artbeads

And if all else fails: nail it with nails 

Get your manicure right and expect some attention at the dinner table. If you have the time (and patience) invest in some stencils and get creative. Alternate between red and green colours, sprinkle over some sparkles or just get glittery. The main rule of thumb (no pun intended) is not to try this after a few glasses of mulled wine. It might seem like a good idea. But when you wake up the next day with polish everywhere other than your nails, you'll soon realise it wasn't,....

Image: fantasticviewpoint