NEED TO KNOW: FASHION Q&A
Founders of Rous Iland members’ boutique
Q: It’S so cold and we are in for more snow – how can I look chic and stay warm? I feel like such a mess with all my layers.
A: Winter dressing is challenging but when you get it right it is so rewarding. Knits are everywhere and an obvious choice for warmth. Go for a knit dress that you can wear with opaque tights and cinch in with a belt. You can easily dress this up by adding a heel or wear with flat ankle boots by day. Avoid looking too sombre in head-to-toe black. Instead, opt for smoky blues/greys or rich jewel colours near your face to brighten up your complexion. Have fun with your accessories – ear muffs, snoods, long gloves and hats are easy tricks to staying stylish in the snow. When you keep your head, neck and hands warm you are halfway there and they add some playfulness to your outfit.
Q:All my plans to drop a dress size before the party season are out the window and I’ve got back-to-back events all the way until xmas. How can I feel good and socialise when I’ve no time to get to my ideal weight?
A:To keep up appearances there are plenty of party tricks. Your silhouette is first and foremost defined by your posture so it’s critical to wear a bit of a heel. There are endless statement necklaces around at the moment but go for one which is long and draws the eye downwards to elongate your body rather than cut you off at your neckline. Don’t be afraid of a little help from your friends – there is plenty of slimming underwear and hosiery on the market. A good spanx opaque tight smoothes everything over and gives you that extra bit of confidence. Stick to weighty and matt fabrics that skim your body and drop with ease (see picture) rather than clingy jersey or anything too shiny. Print and embellishment can also be used to your advantage by choosing pieces with detail that draws the eyes towards the waist and down the body. So stop worrying and enjoy the fun – with some clever wardrobe choices you can have your cake and eat it.
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