New year, new blazer

There's nothing quite like a sharp, classic blazer. Whilst once restricted to the work office, blazers are fast becoming a look for all occasions. My favourite smart-casual outfit must be a pair of skinny jeans, a simple T-shirt and a beautifully tailored blazer.

The problem is, it's not always easy to get one that looks 'just right', as it were. With that in mind, here are 5 key tips when shopping for that ideal blazer.

1) COLOUR

Image: Emmagem

A key consideration to make. Scour your wardrobe before buying and consider what might go with most of your other clothes. Dark colours are always a fail-safe option - as is grey - but if you're feeling more adventurous a brightly coloured blazer will lift any outfit and make a bold statement.

2) FABRIC

As in my last post (Fabric Feels), it's key to invest in a blazer that is made of good quality material, such as tweed or even silk (if you want a lighter-weight one). This will ensure the blazer not only lasts for more time but also fits better.

3) FIT

Tweed blazer, Jack Wills 

The blazer should be fitted enough in a way that is 'slim-fit', as opposed to skin-tight. It should never be stretched taught across the shoulders. If you have a larger cup size, pay special attention to how it looks around the upper body and maybe consider going a size up.

4) BUTTONS 

Blazers are designed either with or without front buttons. Choosing one complete with buttons may be the better choice, since then you have the option of doing it up or keeping it open - and flashing your outfit underneath. Equally, a fully buttoned blazer can look very slick.

5) LENGTH 

Long blazers were a thing of the 80's (along with over-sized shoulder pads, yikes). For a modern look, opt for blazers where the hem skims your hip bone.

Fabric feels

Once upon a time, the fabric composition on a label never really mattered. Then, starting textiles A-level, I had to pay more attention for the sake of exams. Fast forward 5 years and looking at the label is a given -  but not simply because of the need to memorise the difference between natural and synthetic fibres.

Fabric rolls ready for manufacturing. Image: CB interiors

Thing is, the disparity between a polyester jumper and a wool merino one is quite significant. So too is the difference between a viscose top and a silk one (the latter is softer, more luxurious and of a higher quality). In the 'throw-away' culture we live in, consumers are starting to change their habits and opt for fewer clothes of a higher quality - as opposed to lots of cheaper clothes.

I, for one, have had enough of hoarding.  A recent purchase was a 100% wool tweed coat. The difference between this fabric - which is manufactured by a traditional, British mill - and a polyester imitation was far more apparent than one might think. First, the coat is warmer and more insulating (so that's how sheep stay so bloody warm). Second, it has a greater level of durability and resilience.

Wool tweed. 

A cashmere jumper is also a treasured gem. Around 3 years old, it is still one of my favourites and has lasted longer than any synthetic ones. It feels like a soft, nostalgic hug every time I wear it.

Since researching fabrics more, I've become more savvy even when shopping for day-to-day items. Did you know that, when choosing pyjamas, you should avoid anything with nylon or polyamide? 100% cotton or linen is your best bet in terms of breathability and comfort! Who knew. 

People often say that cooking is a technology, but textiles definitely is. Choosing clothes used to be simply about what you see on the outside - the inner label was a neglected piece of information. Now, we are increasingly paying attention to the fabric composition, reading the labels and comparing our choices based on the fabric itself.

It's no longer just about how something looks, but also about how it feels...

Nice one.

7 Wardrobe Hacks

Let's face it. Storing your clothes isn't always easy. Unless you have a magnificent A-list walk-in-wardrobe (and a personal stylist to match), then hanging, folding and making your wardrobe look all round pretty - whilst also being functional - can be hard. A mess of jumpers? Socks missing a pair? We've all been there. But over the years I've collected a few tricks that make storing clothes much easier. Queue my best wardrobe hacks.

• Roll, don't fold. Not only does rolling clothes save space when packing a suitcase, it's also great for your cupboard drawers. It makes seeing your clothes easier AND helps them stay crease free. Winning.

• Colour code. Yes, it's a pain but it will revolutionize your wardrobe. Be sure to separate whites and pale colours from those that are darker for an aesthetically pleasing look.

Image: Stylist

• Use missing socks as scented balls. Can't find the other pair? Rather than throwing the sock away, fill it with rice and dried lavender, before tieing securely into a ball shape. Pop it in the corner of your draw for permanently fresh-scented clothes.

• Use old shoe boxes as containers. Stuck for space? This will instantly act as a makeshift 'open' draw that can be placed at the bottom of your wardrobe or on a shelf inside. Stick wallpaper or cute wrapping paper on for a pretty look.

• Place light-weight bags on hangers and fill them with things, such as your favorite underwear or satin slips. Also a great storage hack.

• Buy a wall hanger for your necklaces and hang it on the inside of your wardrobe door. Having your jewellery and clothes in the same space will make coordinating your outfit both easier and faster.

• Let go of old clothing. I say this often (see my post The Great British Clearout) but nothing hinders top wardrobe organisation than clothes you just don't wear! Redundant space? Ain't nobody got time for that. Two words: Chuck. It.

My favourites: the sequined dress

Tis the season to be....sparkly. Yes. Christmas is rapidly approaching and with a season that spells party after party after party, there's no better time to invest in some sparkles for the festive season than now. A sequined dress is a great point of call, guaranteeing you'll shine - quite literally - on your night out. And with so much variety in style out there, you'll be spoilt for choice! Here are my top five.

1. The Green One

Motel Gabby Dress, Topshop £48

2. The Floor Length One

All Over Sequined Dress, Jane Norman £100

3. The Flapper One

20s Inspired Flapper Embellished Dress, Gatsbylady London £85 (Available from Notonthehighstreet.com)

4. The Colourful One

Morgan Open Backed Sequin Dress, House of Fraser £75

5. The Princess One

  Sequinned Midi Dress, Chi Chi London £79.99

Female politicians and the power suit

  

It's been a whirlwind of a political year. England voted to leave the EU and Trump won president of the US. Amidst both these surprising results, there have been two women at the forefront of the political scene. Theresa May and Hillary Clinton. Two women of formidable intelligence, determination, and strength.

But from a stylist view, two women who have also aced the game of power dressing. Whether it was May's Vivienne Westwood checkered suit (the same one which was also worn by supermodel Cara Develigne) or Hilton's Ralph Lauren red suit, the trouser suit has become an icon of female strength. #pantsuitnation even became a hashtag used by Clinton's supporters, proving that fashion and politics are not so far apart as one might think.

What's also great about this look generally is the message it sends out. Women don't have to dress in a way that is gender stereotypical - restricted to pretty dresses and skirts, with men only in the suits. As said in my last post, the gap between 'male' and 'female' dress is rapidly closing.

Fall/ Winter 2016-2017 trends sporting the pantsuit look. Image: Fashionisers.

Trouser suits are also freaking comfy. No need to awkwardly worry about maintaining elegance whilst getting out a car, for example. Since it's nearing winter, no need to have to wear tights in the knowledge that your legs will still inevitably freeze the minute you step out the door. Blazers are also an effortless way of dressing up.

Given there are so many fabulous retailers out there selling matching trouser suits, it's never been easier to purchase one. Go with block colour to play safe, or florals and checks if you're feeling more adventurous. It's a great look for the workplace or indeed for an event or dinner, perhaps teamed with heels if you fancy it. This gorgeous green one from ASOS is one of my favourites because of the simple tailoring and colour.

ASOS Premium Tailored Suit in Forest Green

May and Clinton have set the tune for strong women who mean business. Trouser suits have become a way to power dress - let's follow it.

Cross dressing - kinda

So one of my birthday gifts was a beautiful watch from nylondon - brown leather strap, large dial, simple design. I had been looking for a watch for quite some time but had always been disappointed by the glaring silver glitter that many of the female varieties had (no disrespect, just not to my taste).

I ended up finding the answer by choosing this watch which was part of the men's selection. In fact, I way preferred the men's watches - the larger dial and heavier feel they had - but maybe that's also because I'm a bit of a tomboy at heart.

Either way, it got me thinking that now, more than ever, incorporating clothes or items of the opposite sex is hardly something to bat an eyelid at.

Many of my shirts - at least the oversized ones, which I tuck into denim shorts or jeans - used to belong to my brother. One Ralph Lauren polo shirt I wore a few weeks back was also my brothers. No one even noticed.

Once upon a time, it was a taboo for women to wear trousers. Can you believe that? And yes, colour/gender associations are also being broken down. I owe way more navy and blue shades (traditionally 'male' colours) in my wardrobe than I do pink. In fact, I quite dislike pink.

And then take jackets - there are some gorgeous black overcoats designed for men out there that could also be worn by women, resulting in a sleek look similar to this:

The point being, there's never been so much overlap between male and female clothes. The androgynous look continues to filter onto our catwalks. This is written from a female viewpoint and it would be interesting to see if any men felt the same (feel free to comment below).

In an age of experimentation, who says we must only shop in the 'ladies' OR 'mens' areas. Okay yes, obviously not everything is going to work. Steer clear of jeans for one. But an over-sized, cosy, maroon jumper that just so happens to part of the M&S menswear selection? Don't mind if I do.

Autumn means - a blogger's snapshot

Autumn is well and truly here. The leaves have fallen, the days are shorter and the evenings colder.
In terms of fashion, Autumn means to me layers. Wool and cotton, knits and crochet. Not quite yet the season of thermals, but a top, jumper and jacket does the trick. Cardigans become a must have during this season. Autumn means to me the return of scarfs. Big, square ones that you can wrap all around you and which double up as a blanket - or a face cover for when it's too early in the morning. One is always on the look out for new scarfs. Never too many scarfs. Autumn means to me boots. Thick boots that feel cosy inside because of the wool lining. Boots that you can run in the leaves with, kicking up a flurry of browns, yellows and oranges. No shame. Autumn means to me trench coats - the classic cut ones, beige in colour and with a belt around the waist. Feeling a bit detective but why not. Autumn means to me lip salve. Nivea Vanilla and Macadamia is a personal favourite. Chapped lips no more. And finally, Autumn means to me fluffly dressing gowns. The silk ones can go back in the wardrobe, these are the ones you wear when you want some TLC in the form of fabric.

Happy Autumn x