A denim shopping masterclass for 2016

" A great pair of jeans should accentuate your best assets".

They’ve been the big thing for the past few years – but according to this month’s Vogue, skinny jeans are out!

I tend to massively disagree with this statement as they are now a denim classic. But every year the fashion trend reports have to give us something new to try and rival it - the truth is nothing ever will. It doesn't mean that the skinny leg jeans flatters every body shape, but we have just gotten used to seeing a slimmer, straighter, skinny jean in the past 20 years and moved away from the wider leg bootcut jean.

So what have they hailed will be their replacement I hear you cry? Here are the top 3 denim trends for 2016 -

1. The Wedgie

YES Levi's are back on the fashion radar! Last December Levi's introduced a new fit for women, "the Wedgie". According to the brand, the new jeans are modelled on the brand's famous vintage styles, while eliminating "that all-too familiar awkward front bulge that can occur when ladies wear vintage jeans."

With the popularity of vintage jeans on the rise, the brand is looking to capitalise with its new high-rise style that is – as the name suggests – intended to create a wedgie. But that's not all. According to the brand, "the back pockets of the Wedgie Jean are slightly tilted inwards adding the allure of the ultimate 'mum butt'."

It might sound alarming, but the brand is rolling out a shorts version for Spring 2016, so for now it looks like the wedgie fit is here to stay. Oh! and be sure to thank your Mum for the inspiration!!

2. Print it

Printed denim was everywhere on the Spring/Summer 2016 catwalks, from the outrageously floral motifs splashed around at Versus Versace and Alexander McQueen to the organic-looking, subtly mottled effect seen at Chanel. Prints are a great way to add depth or texture to your outfit so embrace your wild side. This is a much more pretty feminine look than past printed denim days, so this trend done tastefully could be a nice addition to your summer wardrobe.

3. Wide leg 90s style

90s style wide, loose and baggy is one of the chicest ways to rock your denims this year. Whether you opt for a relaxed fit with a drawstring waist or for more of a gentle flare as seen at Stella McCartney, worn low-slung, will gain you serious style points. I see the high street versions of the catwalk as culotte's rather than the big and baggy skater type cropped trousers. This isn't a look for everyone, depending on their body shape, but the right pair in the right wash could be a fab new summer staple in your wardrobe.

"I don't know about you, but I think I'll stick with my skinny jeans for a while longer thanks!..."

Black washed Skinny jeans from Levi's £95.00

5 simple style rules

One of the most frequent questions I get asked from clients, friends and relatives is "How can I look stylish everyday?". There is a theory that no matter what you do in life, you are always communicating something. Body language experts have built entire careers on this theory—as have stylists. They believe that your outfit is not simply a thing with a certain aesthetic appeal; it’s a form of self-expression. Your clothing says something to those around you, whether you intend for it to or not, so it’s best to approach dressing with some form of intention. 

If you are an avid fashionista or you like dipping your toe into current trends, or want to update your image and don't know where to start...there are alot of overwhelming styling tips out there and it can be hard to know the right things to do for everyday dressing.

The good news is that my 5 top style rules make it alot simplier.

1. Tiny Tricks

Seemingly tiny tricks can totally change your look. Something as simple as tucking your shirt in, rolling up your chinos or putting a belt round your dress can have a huge impact on your style.

2. A great pair

Investing in a great pair of jeans will pay you back 10 fold. Whilst cheap on trend styles are fine to grab, a wardrobe staple jean is definately worth investing in and will stay with you year after year.

3. Your signature

One MUST have a style signature. Whether it’s a gold bangle you always wear or the fact that you always choose boyfriend jeans over skinnies, figure out what one thing defines your own personal style, and stick with it—until you want to change it, and then feel free to do so.

4. Fit

Is the most important thing. You could have on the trendiest, most expensive outfit in the world—but if it doesn’t fit you properly, you’re not going to look stylish, and all your effort and money would have been wasted.

5. Playing with trends

There are right places and wrong places to try out trends. If you’re attending a relative’s wedding, it might not be the best time to bust out those Birkenstocks. But on a night out with your friends, it could be the perfect time to wear that suede fringe mini skirt.

and finally...

There are many things a personal stylist can do for you to either update your image or style and if you don't know where to start I can send in the right direction. Over come those fears that you may be thinking about because I am here to help and will do in a friendly, approachble and easy manner.

• It might be that you don't have the money to go shopping. I can use your existing collection of clothes to mix and match and create new outfits in a way tha you probably wouldn't think to do so.
• You might want to update your image but don't really know what style you want. Once I've got to know abit more about your personality and lifestyle, I will start to get a sense of the person you are and get an idea of what style will work for you. I can help you build up an idea of what you like and we can use that to influence your image overhaul.
• You might be a full time Mum and feel like you've lost a sense of who you are and would like to get back to the old you! As a mum myself I can relate to this as I know what it feels like to have no time or energy for yourself. Our lives may have changed, but we are still the same person and confidence is the best accessory. After a session with me you will be a more updated and modern version of yourself with a new sense of style.
• It might be that the thought of someone going through your wardorbe terrifies you! Don't worry, you don't need to feel embarrassed. I have seen wardrobes of all shapes, sizes and conditions and I am rarely surprised by what I find. I will never judge you based on how many and what clothes you own.

Contact me now for an appointment.

Check out this month's pinterest board - https://www.pinterest.com/EditsStyling/edits-style-inspiration-march-2015/

50 Shades of Denim- Edits guide to the denim revolution

Denim is having a serious moment and I'm not just talking jeans. Easy to wear pieces get a SS15 update. The Seventies are back! And denim is the key, from overalls to shirt dresses, jackets and button through skirts, it's an easy trend that can filter into everyone's wardrobes. First seen on the Prada, Stella McCartney and Chloe catwalk shows this season, it's all about the feminine silhouettes and you have an instant style update. If you are feeling brave bag youself a pair of kick flares, it wouldn't be a Seventies revival without the return of the flare!

For more inspiration check out my pinterest board - https://www.pinterest.com/EditsStyling/50-shades-of-denim/

1. The Jumpsuit -

Atterley Road Chambray Jumpsuit £75.00

2. the dress -

Denim shirt dress, Warehouse £42

3. the skirt -

Alexa Chung for AG jeans, Matches Fashion £175

4. The flare jean -

MOTO Jamie Flared Jeans, Topshop £40

5. the dungaree -

Ripped denim dungaree, Zara £39.99

The Jeans Edit

Want to find your perfect pair of jeans? Look no further than this wearer’s guide...

There are so many styles, from flared and boyfriend to skinny and patterned. Jeans are the most acceptable form of wear for almost any occasion. They are an essential part of everyone’s wardrobe, but how many pairs do you own and how many of those pairs actually fit and flatter your body shape properly?

Not being able to find a style that works on you can be a soul-destroying and exhausting shopping mission . A great pair of jeans can really go everywhere from the supermarket, to a kids party or dinner with a client. Thinking outside your comfort zone can result in jeans that lift your bottom, elongate the leg, shape the thighs and cover a multitude of sins.

Here are some tips to follow when shopping for jeans:

1. Correctly angled pockets on the back of the jeans can make a small bottom more curvy and a bigger one more shapely.
2. The right length leg can make all the difference to your leg, so think about getting them shortened if they are too long.
3. Don’t go by the size on the label, jeans will only look fabulous if they fit right. So ensure you are going with fit rather than trend.
4. Make sure you have a couple of pairs of jeans for every occasion- one to dress up and one to dress down.
5. Very dark denim is the most flattering, avoid distressed looking jeans. Faded bleach spots draw the eye to that part of your body, ultimately making it look bigger.
6. Try on jeans while wearing the shoes you plan on wearing most often with your them.
7. Ensure you are choosing the right pair of jeans that flatter your figure.

How to wear skinnies…

Surprisingly flattering and no longer a trend item but a wardrobe staple. Wear with Breton tee, masculine coat, flat ankle boots and small satchel bag. Check out Jessica Alba rocking her skinnies…

How to wear patterned…

More edgy and fun but with the right top can look low-key and very understated. Try neutral tops, plains flats or boots and a biker jacket. Kate Moss even looks fab in the rain in her leopard print jeans…

How to wear the boyfriend…

The most versatile jean shape, easy to be casual weekend wear and look just as good with turn-ups and a pair of statement heels. Wear with a printed shell top or striped shirt button up to the neck and a preppy brown bag. Eva Mendes looks stylish in hers…

How to wear the flared…

This it the perfect smart jean that can length the leg, but only when worn with heels. Try Chelsea boots with a low heel, a smart tux jacket and a structured top for that modern look. Miranda Kerr gets it right here…