I know that this week doesn’t feel very spring like – freezing cold, snow and rain. Yuck. Things just feel a bit flat.

For me thats partly because on Tuesday I had my Vespa stolen (- as featured in my website illustrations!), which has totally messed up my week. At first it felt like losing a limb, but now i’m getting used to the pace of life – relying on buses and my own feet. I am a big believer in ‘things happen for a reason’, so i’m waiting to see what benefits there may be for someone stealing it. I think it may be to have me slow down a bit and not cram so much in my day. Life on the bus is certainly slower.

And of course I was totally shocked by the untimely death yesterday of Alexander McQueen. It has really shocked and saddened me. I walked past the offices on my way to the bus stop from the home of a client of mine on St Johns Street in Clerkenwell. I saw some flowers and film crews, but assumed they must be there for an event with fashion week around the corner. RIP.

So how to cheer things up a bit? One of the best ways to add some lift to everyday wear (and life) is to add jewellery. Its a great way to brighten things up and express your personality. If you choose to wear something you LOVE you will feel good whenever you catch sight of it on your finger, or in the mirror. Read more of Spring Jewellery

Today, I want you to think about ‘What Lies Beneath?’ -I’m talking underwear!

As a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant, clients come to me for help finding their personal Signature Style and building a new wardrobe. Many don’t even consider that I will be just as interested in what they wear under their clothes.

One of the first questions I ask is “When were you last measured for a bra?” The response varies between – “Never” – yes really, to “Last week” – to which my heart sinks when I can tell that they have been measured wrong.

What would your answer be? Remember, it is important that you get remeasured every 6 months, or after any weight loss or gain.

I hope you find the advice below useful, and it inspires you to go and get re-measured, properly!

So why does your underwear matter? It matters because the right lingerie next to your skin can make you feel better-than-great, confident and put together. Some have said “No one sees my underwear so why bother buying anything special?” or “Lingerie is for young people with perfect bodies and that’s not me.” Many women have the opinion of lingerie is that it’s ill fitting, scratchy, uncomfortable, and only meant to stay on the body for five minutes before it comes off.  Sure, that type of lingerie exists, but there’s so much more out there. Modern technology has totally redefined the possibilities for comfort. Now you can wear lingerie that not only looks great but also feels great next to the skin. Read more of What Lies Beneath?

I am back busy personal shopping with clients for the spring. Finally the sales rails are gone, and the stores are filling up with the new seasons must-have pieces. Here are some of my tips for how to add to your winder wardrobe and bring it into line with the spring trends.

Dresses

Dress choices go from ultra-feminine to exotic depending on the print (optical, tribal, bold), layers of ruffles, and fabrics. Dresses are belted at the waist or draped to accentuate a woman’s curves. On the other end of the spectrum is the shirtwaist utilitarian khaki cotton dress or shirt dresses in crisp white.

This dress from Whistles (left), and incorporates a strong print, and a flattering drape.

Skirts

Although mini skirts will be popular with young women, find a more appropriate length in a modern pencil skirt. These can be found in fun prints, solid black or soft pastels. These are great to pair with a tucked in collared shirt or a ruffled blouse, tucked in with a narrow belt to finish the look.

Shorts

Sexy hotpants are in but who should be in them is the question. Right now, wear them with black opaque tights. When it gets warmer, unless you are a go-go dancer, explore other options as these are hard to pull off in real life! If shorts aren’t your thing, look into a skirt or cropped pant.

Jackets

Military styled jackets in khaki or olive green – this one is from Banana Republic – are great with jeans or even pastel denim. Boyfriend jackets return for spring and are fresh over super feminine dresses and high wedges. Leather biker jackets add toughness to feminine ruffles and lace. Collarless jackets are very ladylike and great layered with longer blouses underneath. Cropped tailored jackets look great over long tshirts or tank top dresses. Read more of How to Fill Out Your Spring Wardrobe