MEAGHAN SMITH PERSONAL STYLIST

When it’s chilly like it is now, it’s the ideal time to play around with layers to see if you can bring something fresh to some of your old, everyday looks.

For warmth, to add depth, maybe extra texture and color to your outfit, try layering a turtleneck knit underneath…everything. Shirts, dresses, other knits, jumpsuits, hoodies, etc.

It’s an easy tweak that can make a big difference and make the outfit look like you’ve really thought about how you’ve styled it.

TIP: Fine merino turtlenecks are ideal for layering because they sit close to the body so don’t add any bulk when you use one underneath other pieces. (And they’re warm).

Click here to read about Fab Finds & Favourite Things.

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When I’m thinking about buying something new there’s a series of four questions I go through in my head to determine whether it comes home with me or whether it stays in the store.

This means that I don’t waste my money on random purchases and that my wardrobe is filled with only pieces that work.

If the item has passed my first three questions then the final question – the deal breaker –  is asked..

Can I wear this piece in at least three different ways, using what I already have in my wardrobe?

If I can’t visualise at least three ways of wearing it, whether it’s a t-shirt, shoes, a belt or pants, I don’t buy it.

As you can see in the photos above, Italian fashion designer, Giorgia Tordini is wearing her suede ankle boots in four different ways.   With pants, with a skirt, with a dress and with jeans.

If I were Giorgia I would consider the boots to be a very good, versatile, hardworking purchase.

How many times do you fall in love with something in a store, bring it home without considering how you’ll wear it, and find that it remains hanging in your wardrobe, unworn?

Take your time when you shop and make considered purchases.

Avoid wasting your money and get the most out of your clothes.

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If you bought a pleated skirt in summer and you thought you’d have to pack it away now til next year – it’s not the case at all.

When it was warm you may have worn it with a cami, blouse or tee and sandals, now in autumn and then into winter, try winterfying it by teaming it with a knit, jacket, tights and boots, pumps or brogues.  (If it’s warm enough – or you don’t feel the cold like I do – you can even wear it with bare legs and sneakers)

Like all things fashion, this style won’t work for everyone, but if you like the look, don’t be afraid to give the pleated skirt a try.  Some of my clients, who were not completely sold on the idea at first, have been very pleasantly surprised that, with clever styling (on top and on the feet), the right fabric, length and fit (you want it to skim rather than cling over the hips) it has worked beautifully for them and has added an interesting and versatile piece to their wardrobe.  (I’d wear mine to a wedding, to the races, out shopping or to lunch. I’ll try and remember to show you on Instagram.)

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A statement skirt…

In an eye-catching color, shape, texture or print.

It could be something you can dress up or down and wear shopping, with your denim jacket and a basket or to the theatre with your heels and sparkly earrings.

All it needs to accompany and showcase it, is some key fresh basics  – a simple sweater, a classic white shirt, a flattering t-shirt or a well fitting simple jacket. (And of course, it goes without saying, a great shoe).

If you don’t have a statement skirt, perhaps consider adding it to your shopping wishlist.

CHALLENGE: If you have a statement skirt, pull it out and see if you can come up with a few ways to wear it differently.  Maybe you’ve only worn it to weddings or to work…see if you can style it in a way that you could wear it casually. (Or at least a less dressy situation)

Style your clothes in different ways, for different occasions and get more wear out them.

*If you’re not playing around with your clothes and coming up with different ways to wear them, remember you can book me in for (or enquire about) an outfit planning session here 

You can read what styling services I offer here

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