MEAGHAN SMITH PERSONAL STYLIST

Instead of always buckling up your trench coat, try just wrapping it around you (like you would your dressing gown) and tying it in a knot.

Tying it can take it from business-y and formal to cool and casual.

If you went to Scouts or Girl Guides, you might be able to come up with some clever ways to knot it – but it’s fine, if you’re like me and didn’t, to knot it any old way.

You can see in some of the photos the knot is placed right on the stomach and in others it’s to the side. I tend to wear mine to the side because I like it to look flat across my tummy.  You’ll be able to work out for yourself (in your full-length mirror) where it looks best on you.

While tying a trench is one way to wear it, it certainly isn’t the only way.  I often wear mine open with the belt hanging at the sides.  It’s much more relaxed but still smart.   It really depends what look and feel you’re wanting to achieve.

*Just because tying a trench might not work for your body shape, it doesn’t mean you should give up on wearing one. Keep in mind also that trench coats come in many different styles and fabrics, and a classic, heavy version might not be your best option.

For all the details of my Personal Styling Services, click here

Subscribe to my Substack Newsletter, ‘Notes on Style’ here

Follow me on Instagram here

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.

Follow me on Instagram here

Read what styling services I offer here

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.

You can read what styling services I offer here

Follow me on Instagram here

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.)

You can read what styling services I offer here

Follow me on Instagram here