MEAGHAN SMITH PERSONAL STYLIST

I’m on a mission to try and get to the bottom of one of life’s mysteries.  Why do some of us get two little snake bite like holes in the area near our belly button, in all of our t-shirts?   What causes it?  I’ve Googled it and it appears it’s a very common and frustrating, occurrence and there are lots of theories as to why it happens.

• the tee rubs against your belt buckle, or
• the car seat belt, or
• it’s eaten by moths, or
• it happens in the wash, or
• they’re caused by the friction of leaning against your kitchen bench top

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There’s never a better time than the start of autumn to learn about the art of layering.  Not only is it resourceful, saving you time and money, but it can also be very chic and stylish.

Here in Australia we’re still mastering the art of layering but in other parts of the world, they do it beautifully. Where some of us would pack our white jeans or fuchsia trousers away once the weather turns cool, they would simply add a camel jacket and suede ankle boots or a navy sweater and a trench.  The Europeans are not afraid to blend the months together. They use their spring and summer clothes as the base and then they layer pieces on top.

Although trans-seasonal dressing may seem complicated and tricky it’s not.  Aim to add items to your closet that have multiple uses.  Next time you shop think about it –   Will this skirt be ok with tights and my trench and then again with my sandals and a t-shirt? Will I be able to wear it year round? If I rolled these up and wore them with an open toe wedge, can I work these pants from autumn into my summer wardrobe?

There are many ways I could show you how to layer your clothes and take them from summer to autumn and beyond – here’s a few photos for inspiration..

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So before you race out and buy new autumn clothes ask yourself whether you need to.  Is it possible that what you really need is just a few things that will complement and work with your existing wardrobe – a couple of knits, some scarves, a jacket, tights and boots.

If you would like me to go through your wardrobe with you, decide what you need to add for autumn and winter, make a plan, write a shopping list and help you put together some autumn outfits using some of your summer clothes – email me here.  You might find you don’t need anywhere near as much as you thought.  You just might need some ideas as to how to wear what you already have, in new and different ways.

**Remember you don’t have to take these shots literally – just use them for inspiration as I explained here

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I was in the neighbourhood of one of my favourite op-shops in Melbourne yesterday so thought I’d pop in on the off chance I might discover a treasure.

And I did.  This embroidered shirt – for $5.

I spotted it soon after I walked into the store, which is what usually happens when I browse through op-shops.  I’m not one to spend hours going through every single item on the rack,  I can generally spot a beauty instantly.  My eyes go into quick scanning mode.  Here’s what I look for:

• Stand out fabric – beaded, embroidered, velvet, silk, vintage brocade, sequined or beautifully colored
• Label – I like to see where and by who it was made and whether it might be vintage.  I’m not looking for a County Road or Sportsgirl t-shirt, I’m looking for something unique.
• Quality of cut and fabric.  Not interested in anything that looks cheap and artificial.
• In Fashion – I keep my eye out for styles that I know are currently fashionable (At the moment it’s vintage Levis 501’s which I might be able to customise)
• Flaws – if I’ve found a beautiful fabric and pulled it off the rack, then I give it a once over to see if there are any noticeable flaws or stains…or whether it smells.
• Accessories – I look at both the womens and mens belts, bags, scarves, sunglasses and jewelry

You also need to use your imagination when you shop in op-shops, to determine whether something you find has potential.  One-of-a-kind pieces are hard to come by, but a good tailor isn’t.  You don’t want to walk away from a gorgeous 1950’s chiffon dress you saw for $20, just because you didn’t like the length or the neckline.  Grab it and then take it along to your tailor to discuss possibilities.

Of course we do need to remember that op-shopping is like all shopping.  You don’t want to just get caught up with the price, think it’s a bargain and then suddenly you’re filling your wardrobe with unworn junk.  There needs to be something about it that you LOVE.  It’s need to be flattering (or altered to become flattering) and it needs to represent the image you want to portray.  (ie. no point buying a beaded vintage caftan if you’re a strictly Classic dresser – it won’t get worn)

When I think about it, what I love about op-shopping is the thrill of the find.  Discovering something that is unique and interesting.  Finding a piece that I know nobody will have – like this vintage Christian Dior coat. (Found in a charity shop in Sth Melbourne for $40)  *It needs to go to my tailor to be restored to it’s former glory.

*This article was written in 2011.  I have since had the sleeves of this shirt cropped so they sit about my wrists.   You can see me wearing it here.

READ: “What I Search For On Etsy and eBay” here

Details of my personal styling services (Including prices) here

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Belts are not just designed for keeping your strides from falling down.  Although they certainly do also have that purpose,  (particularly if you’re five and you’re wearing your big brothers hand-me-downs), belts are so much more than a practical item to have in your wardrobe.

A belt can pull the whole look together. It can help smooth out the bumps where a shirt has been tucked in, accentuate or for that matter visually create a waist and even make your bum look smaller.  So I’m often surprised when I’m helping someone sort through their clothes and put outfits together when I ask, “Where are your belts?” that I am often faced with a blank expression in reply.  It seems to be that it’s an accessory many of us are not bothering with.

I know shopping for belts can be tricky.   Like everything, not all styles will suit everyone and every body shape.  There is a bit to consider when you’re searching.  Will it make your torso look short?  Your bust big?  Is it going to be comfortable? Where’s the right place for it to sit?  Should it blend in with my outfit or be a contrast and stand out?  You will need to experiment and try lots on,  just like anything when you’re searching for a “love it” item, to add to your wardrobe.

Search for belts in unexpected places.  Look in op-shops, (I picked up a great chocolate leather Country Road belt for $2 in a local St Vinnies) on Etsy,  in the men’s section or at markets. If you’re creative buy yourself some velvet ribbon from Lincraft and tie it around your waist – maybe pin on your Nana’s rhinestone brooch to really put your unique stamp on the look.

Don’t neglect the belt.  Next time you’re at the shops play around with different styles until you find something that works for you.  Don’t just think, I don’t know how to wear them, and give up.

TIP: Go through your wardrobe and see if you have any belts that came with a skirt, dress or pants that you could use with other things in your cupboard.  Don’t just assume because it accompanied a particular item that it has to be used with that piece and only that piece.

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READ: “It’s Time To Go…” here 

Details of my personal styling services (Including prices) here

Get to know me and my style on Facebook here

..& Instagram here