My sewing learns from a 10 week course (and how it can help you)

Posted on by Toni Carver

If you’re a member of my monthly newsletter, you’ll know that I enrolled myself in an Adult Education Course. In January 2024, I began a 10 week sewing course learning how to sew!

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of helping hundreds of women with their colours, style and shape. Some of my clients make their own clothes, whilst others don’t. But, getting the right fit in your clothes is something I strongly believe is beneficial to feeling good in what you wear.

I’ve been both jealous and curious of those who can make their own clothes. Having never used a sewing machine before, it was also a daunting prospect!

The course I attended was run through Manygates in Wakefield (https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/schools-and-education/education/adult-education-service/adult-education-courses/) but if you’re not local, check with your own council or local groups. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend it. For me, it wasn’t just learning a new skill, but having the ability to do something just for me. I found that having the time allocated also meant I made time for myself, every week.

During my course, there were two projects, along with the basics of using a sewing machine. Making weights (which are used to weigh down your fabric when cutting to keep it in place), a hobby bag and a third of your choosing. Most people decided they wanted to make a garment – myself included!

So, what did I learn during 10 weeks of sewing?

Fabric choice is important.

Beach bag on holiday

I chose stripes for the beach bag as I thought having straight lines may be easier to sew. They are not. Turns out it’s rather adventurous for a newbie… So, if you’re using patterned fabric for a garment, consider how easy it is to work with, or if you need to ‘match’ the pattern along any seams.

Most people choose fabric based upon the colour or the pattern, so do consider what you’ll use it for. The weight of the fabric, the feel of it, the colour and size of the pattern are all elements worth considering for garment making but may not be as relevant for interiors for example.

The first is to make a toile!

A toile is a bit like making a prototype which you can tweak and it makes for good practice and learning. Unless you’re a seasoned professional of course. I was not! Making mistakes on this is much easier to rectify than if you shoot straight to making the actual thing.

Cut once and measure twice.

Sewing basics. Oh, and “cut on fold” does not actually mean to cut on the fold!

Take your time.

Rushing will not finish it any quicker and you’re likely to make mistakes. It’s a very patient, frustrating and rewarding hobby! There’s also more ironing involved than I ever realised!

Don’t be afraid to alter the pattern.

I decided to adapt the hobby bag brief to make a beach bag instead! The fabric reminded me of the beach and seaside. Without the teacher (Nicky), I wouldn’t have been able to do this, but Nicky helped me adapt the pattern. Patterns are guides after all and you’ll be amazed at what’s available online for additional guidance. I had no pattern for one of the (additional) projects I decided to make, but I used the skills from the hobby bag with a broad idea in my mind!

Sewing your clothes is not always cheaper than buying them.

Fabric can be expensive and I can see why people end up with a stash of fabric when they can get a bargain! Whilst I can’t use my £s per wear motto on fabric like I do with clothes, the principles are the same. It’s only ever a bargain if you actually use it!

I delayed making my garment because I hadn’t had time to shop for fabric and I hadn’t decided on the colour. Better to have delayed the process and get the right colours than buy something because it’s cheap that I don’t wear.

Rescue fabric!

The old reuse, recycle motto comes in useful here as material is material! Old pillow cases are perfect for toile making. I had an old tablecloth which I used some to whip up a cushion cover one afternoon!

With the left-over fabric from my beach bag, I also made a water bottle carrier and a clutch style handbag.

Knowing what suits me makes decisions easier.

It goes without saying that I could choose the right colours to suit me for a garment. But, I naturally gravitated towards similar colours for the beach bag project too.

There seems to be more patterned fabric than plain, but for my style and scale, patterned wasn’t for me with the garment I had in mind. Having learned my lesson with stripes, I chose a colour block top and dress pattern. Adapting the pattern to suit my shape and size is all in the toile making meaning I could also tweak it before making the real thing.

I’ve found that most people who sew create garments that reflect who they are and which are treasured too.

There’s a lot of time and effort that goes into sewing so if you’re aiming to create a capsule wardrobe, or patterned clothes are not your thing, follow the same principles with sewing.

The fabric for the beach bag was too thick and heavy to make a garment so it wouldn’t have been any good for the top I was making. Don’t get caught out buying patterned fabric you won’t wear or it can be a costly mistake. It’s just the same as holding on to something you bought with the tags still on you which you haven’t worn in your wardrobe!

Stores and supplies

I’ve discovered places I never knew existed during this time and here’s a few I’ve used for fabric, thread, tools and haberdashery bits:

Fabworks Mill Shop in Dewsbury – amazing range of fabric, very helpful staff and tools: https://fabworks.co.uk/

The Recycle Yard in Ossett – a treasure trove of reclaimed arts and crafts and bits and bobs: https://www.facebook.com/therecycleyard

Singer Sewing Centre in Wakefield – a bit like Arkwrights but you’ll get thread and tools and bits at good prices: http://www.yorkshiresewingcentre.co.uk/

Rainbow fabric – deadstock fabric online: https://www.rainbowfabrics.co.uk/

Thread Republic in Huddersfield – Textiles scrap store and sewing and craft workshops: https://www.threadrepublic.co.uk/

Stitch Make Create in Horbury – Sewing workshops (including my Express Colour Sessions!): https://frugalisama.com/

Size: Me sewing – Sewing patterns and sewing retreats in France: https://sizemesewing.co.uk/

Rivers MEET Craft Cafe in Methley – homemade food and great coffee plus craft and sewing workshops (including my mini colour analysis workshops!): https://www.riversmeetcraftcafe.co.uk/

My first me-made garment!

Well, I completed my colour-block top and I’ve worn it! It’s definitely been a challenge, but I’ve loved learning and testing myself. I’ve got even more appreciation and understanding about how garments are made too.

The pattern I used was a Simple Sew (https://www.simplesewpatterns.com/) multi-use pattern – four in one tunic and top. I found the darts didn’t sit right on the toile so altered the angle. Whilst I made a dress, I wasn’t keen so decided to switch to a top.

With the sleeve facing, I used the second colour instead and in hindsight, would have top-stitched the sleeve. Admittedly, I used the second colour choice because I didn’t have enough fabric as it was an off-cut piece, but it complimented the design perfectly! (and, if I’d not told you, you wouldn’t have known!)

Next, I’ve got my first transformational challenge! I’m taking part in the Thread Republic Upcycle Challenge. Ikea have donated some duvet covers which they recalled due to a fault which means that they cannot be used as duvet covers. The challenge is to upcycle the duvet into a garment or outfit. All creations can be handed back to Thread Republic (before 23 August) to be included in the Sustainable Fashion Week Fashion Show in September 2024. I’ve got my not-a-duvet and need to decide what to make! More details can be found on their Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/p/C8peBVeRGcC/?img_index=1

Learn what suits you

If you’re a keen sewist, or just starting out on your sewing journey like me, understanding the colours which suit you will help you make better choices for your me-made clothes.

When it comes to choosing fabric, when you know your colours, you can shop much smarter.

You’re welcome to join me in the studio for your own Colour Analysis Consultation. But, if you’d rather have a ‘taster’ experience, I’ll be back at Stitch Make Create in Horbury in September.

Sam has kindly offered a room at her sewing studio again for me to run my Express Colour Analysis sessions. During which, you can book yourself onto a Top & Sleeve Pattern drafting workshop here : https://www.beforeyoustitch.com/service-page/top-and-sleeve-pattern-making-workshop-1?referral=service_list_widget

During a 30 minute session, you’ll learn your core colour type and 10 colours from your colour palette. The cost is £45 per person which includes a pocket guide with 10 colours and tips on how to wear them. You’ll also receive a money off voucher to be used against a full colour analysis session too.

Tickets are available here:

Will a colour analysis restrict what I wear?

Posted on by Toni Carver

Intrigued about colour analysis, but worry it’s not for you because you’ll feel restricted in what to wear?

Over the years, I’ve seen people who’ve only been wearing a handful of colours before they came for a colour analysis consultation.

Confused about what suits them, sticking to ‘safe’ colours, or something they were once told they looked good in.

Sometimes, they’ve felt something was missing and they’re stuck, not knowing what ‘it’ is.

They decide to book a session because they want to know what to look for. They want to stop wasting money on things they don’t wear.

It’s clarity they’re seeking.

A colour analysis is an in-depth consultation during which you’ll learn the colours that flatter your features.

Using basic colour theory, your dominant and sub-dominant colouring type is determined by your physical features – your hair colour, eye colour and skin tone. You can learn your best makeup shades too, whilst picking up tips on how to apply them. What you wear on your face is just as important as what you wear on your body!

Most people are surprised by the range and variety of colours within their palette. They work together in harmony, so combining them is easy.

There’s often colours you’ve never worn, yet you can’t wait to wear them! From the 48 colours within your palette, there’s a mixture of both neutral, and accent colours. During your analysis, you’ll learn how to wear and combine these colours together.

Knowing what suits you can help reduce the overwhelm often associated with shopping, because you can pick them out much quicker!

Looking and feeling your best every day is a breeze, even if it’s a t-shirt and jeans!

A colour analysis isn’t about restricting you, it’s quite the opposite. Over time, you’re more likely to build a cohesive wardrobe, creating more outfits from less items.

You’ll look and feel fabulous. Like a new version of you.

 

Find out more about Colour Analysis Consultations here and get in touch to book your appointment.

 

How to shop like a pro!

Posted on by Toni Carver

Do you love the thrill of finding a bargain? Whether that’s pre-loved or in the sales, it’s worth remembering that something is only ever a bargain if you actually wear it!

The key thing is to shop with intention.

Whilst shopping in the sales can be a great time to buy, if you end up buying more things you don’t need and don’t wear, the guilt will settle in quickly. Do remember that everything in the sale is because no one wanted to buy it at full price! Harsh, but true.

There’s often so many items available, especially online, that it can feel overwhelming so these tips are aimed at helping to save you time and money. You’ll also find me sharing tips in a 7 minute video on my YouTube channel – watch it here.

First, check your wardrobe

Before any shopping spree, the first thing I recommend you do is to check your own wardrobe. You may find things in there which you’ve forgotten about and haven’t worn since you bought them. You may also have things in colours that aren’t your best, so it’s worth remembering that they can be rescued. This is something I cover during your colour analysis consultation.

Essentially, you need to know what you have, where your gaps are and what you need. Have a plan and be clear on exactly what items you’re shopping for so you can actually save yourself time and money.

Here’s some questions to ask yourself before buying anything new:

  1. Is it the right colour for me?
  2. Does the style work for me?
  3. What occasions am I likely to wear it to?
  4. Does it flatter my body shape and fit my proportions?
  5. Is it comfortable to wear?
  6. What else can I wear it with?

As I always say, trends come and go and fashion isn’t quite so ‘new’. So, if there was something from the previous season which caught your eye, but you didn’t want to pay for price for it, then now is the time you may be lucky to pick it up in the sales. It’s also worth checking the pre-loved sites too.

What’s a ‘good buy’?

This will vary person to person, but something which you end up wearing time and time again. Broadly speaking, transitional items will take you through the different seasons meaning you get more £s per wear. Often they can be more classic, less ‘high trend’ and more timeless in the style or colour, so that it will also last through many seasons.

Accessories are the easiest and most cost-effective way to update any outfit, whether it’s a necklace or a pair of boots.

Neutral colours (grey, navy, black, brown, white) can be good to buy in the sales as they can make good investment pieces, such as a blazer or trousers. A neutral colour will always ‘go’ with any colour. Just remember the advice given in your colour analysis consultation.

Once you’ve had a colour analysis, shopping for colours which suit you becomes far easier. You really can wear your colours all year round and you’ll find that having a new colour this or next season can often fill a gap in your wardrobe for future seasons to come. I never struggle to find things for all colouring types, all year round.

The colours and trends which come through each season are therefore great opportunities to restyle things you already have, as well as update an existing outfit. I share the trending colours and styles twice a year, just take a look at the latest guides available here.

Shopping online and pre-loved

This can feel more challenging but the principles are just the same as a store!

You need to work a bit harder to find what you’re looking for, but it’s much easier than death by scrolling. The key is to use as many filters as you can to search. Select the size, category and colour and this will reduce the number of items. If you’re shopping pre-loved and you want to make sure it’s in tip top condition, simply search for those with the tags still on (BNWT – brand new with tags).

Help is at hand

If you would prefer someone to do the hard work for you, that’s where my seasonal updates and shopping trips come in. 

Twice a year I run my seasonal updates where you can join a workshop, watch my video, and get my shopping guides.

So, if you fancy a mini-me in your pocket, do check out my ‘shop the look’ guides as there’s one for each dominant colouring type. My recorded video masterclass takes you through the colours and trends in a 45 minute presentation and the latest colour trend guide fits inside your swatches which you can take out with you when you do go shopping.

These spring/summer updates are available until 30 September, then the autumn/winter updates will launch on 1 October. The live group workshop takes place virtually at 12pm on Saturday 5 October and tickets are available here.

 

Register your interest in ‘seasonal updates’ and join the wait list for an exclusive offer here and visit the current guides here.

How to look good and feel confident in a bikini

Posted on by Toni Carver

The modern bikini as we know it today, is thought to have been introduced on 5 July 1946 by Louis Réard, making it 78 years old this week.

Feeling your best in a bikini is about understanding what suits you. It’s easy to feel anxious, but do bare in mind that generally, people are more concerned with how they look and feel, rather than what you’re wearing!

Don’t let the fear of wearing swimwear stop you from wearing something you’ll look good in. Because, like any garment of clothing, understanding what fits and flatters is key to feeling confident.

There’s three things to consider when choosing a bikini. If you prefer a swimsuit, the same applies.

Colour

Anyone who feel subconscious in a bikini, may well opt for black. Unsurprisingly as a colour analysis consultant; black may not be the most flattering shade for you.

Dark colours (including black), are thought to be slimming, but it’s a visual trick. Dark colours absorb light, reducing their appearance and making them appear further away. This is why black is thought to be a slimming colour!

Due to this absorption of light (ie. sunlight), you’re much likely to feel hotter wearing dark colours. Opt for a complimentary colour which will improve your mood and your confidence instead!

Style

Are you a cut-out detail kinda gal, or more frills and flounces? If you’re a lover of print (I’ve talked about patterns here) or not, be sure to choose something that feels like you! Prints can add balance to your proportions, or draw attention to or from an area.

Wearing your style is key to feeling good in what you wear. Check what you’ve already got and how it makes you feel when you wear it. No point going for a neon, cut-out, brazilian cut bikini if you’re more of a polka dot one-piece kinda gal – you won’t feel comfortable or happy.

A beach cover-up like a kaftan, sarong or playsuit is an easy throw on to take you from beach to bar. Plus, it can ‘hide’ any bits you feel conscious of and accentuate your style.

Shape

There’s guides online to help you find the right swimwear for your shape, plus you can revisit my blogs here and here. Consider what fits you well. So, if you’re conscious of your tummy area, opt for shape-wear options, like tummy control or ruching. High cuts will add length to your leg area. Wired cups are better if you need more support.

Try not to feel daunted about shopping for a bikini and make sure you give yourself enough time to try them on. Bring them home if you prefer, but do keep the sticker on the briefs and return any which aren’t right for you before the return period expires.

Buy the right colour, right style and right shape for you which fits and flatters and you’ll feel much more confident in your choice.

Get in touch to book a colour analysis or style & shape consultation.

 

3 tips for choosing sunglasses

Posted on by Toni Carver

Could it be that summertime has finally arrived?? I do hope so, and just in time for national sunglasses day on 27 June.

Summer is not complete without a pair of sunglasses!

Here’s my top tips for choosing summer eyewear that really suits you!

My purple toned sunglasses

1. choice of colour

Opt for a frame colour which compliments your physical features. A frame colour which is the same colour as your eyes or hair will often be a good option if you’re not sure or you’ve never had a colour analysis consultation.

For those who are dark brown to black hair, go for a bolder or stronger colour choice, including black. Blondes would be better in a light to mid-depth shade (depending how blonde you are) or rimless ones. If you’re mousey-brown or dark blonde, a tortoiseshell style or blended frame colour will look good; as long as they aren’t too dark for your features!

Red-heads and strawberry blondes would look fab in browns and terracotta style of tortoiseshell frames. Finally, if you’re ash, silver or grey, you’ll find similar colours will be fab for your frames or go bold with a striking pop of colour!

If you already know your colours, use your swatches and opt for one of your colours (dominant or sub-dominant) or, pick one of your neutral colours. Your neutrals are marked with an ‘n’ in your swatches and will always ‘go’ with other colours.   Worried about matching or clashing your eyewear to your outfits? Go for a metallic tone – silver if you’re cool and if you’re warm, choose gold. A rose-gold tends to work for both warm and cool skin tones.

2. reflect your personality

I find sunglasses (and glasses) are either functional or express your style personality! So, if you really want to express your personality, let your eye-wear do the talking. Make a statement, go for a bolder colour choice or a more dramatic stand-out shape. If you sit in this camp, you really won’t be worrying about whether they match or clash with what you’re wearing!

Frames are made from all sorts now. So if you’re into reducing your use of plastic, there are plenty of options to choose.

3. shape and fit

Broadly speaking, the opposite shape to your face shape will be the most flattering. So, if you’re more angular, with straighter and longer length, a rounded frame will be flattering. If you’re not having your personality do the talking, opt for sunnies which look to fit your overall face rather than be too big for it. I refer to it as ‘scale’ and is more to do with balancing out accessories with your overall height and bone structure. A pair of Jackie-o type large frames when you’re small and petite and 5ft, are likely to wear you and stand out.

Check that they sit comfortably on the bridge of your nose and they don’t rest on your cheeks either. Both of these are indicators that they’re too big for you!

Finally, do remember that there are thousands of sunglasses to suit all budgets, but do opt for those with UV protection to protect your eyes. Take photos whilst you’re trying them on as, a bit like your clothes and outfits, you tend to see yourself differently in a photo than the mirror!

Have fun! If you need any help, do get in touch.

How to choose pattern

Posted on by Toni Carver

Patterns can be really tricky to get right. Often, when I see clients they either love wearing patterns, or they stick to block colours instead.

When it comes to shopping patterns, it can be difficult to choose the one that’s going to suit you. Do you go heavily patterned? Stripes or floral? Bold and bright? Or more subtle and toned down?

Ultimately, there’s no law that exists which tells you that you must (or must not) wear something! But, if you are looking for a few pointers on how to choose the right pattern for you, read on for some tips.

Colour

First up is the colour as this is the most visual element. Broadly speaking, assess what the most dominant colour is that you see. If you already know what colours suit you (because you’ve had a colour analysis consultation), this should be easy as you can use your colour swatches. If you don’t know what colours suit you, check your reflection and see if the colour appears to be wearing you and making you look washed out, or if it’s brightening your features. (Here’s some tell-tale signs that the colour isn’t right for you here).

My advice to clients is to check the background colour or the main colour of the pattern that stands out the most. If this flatters your own colouring, then it’s good for you. If it doesn’t look quite right, consider whether it’s too warm or too cool for you, or too pale or too dark. Or, if it’s a bold colour, the strength could overwhelm you and you may need to opt for a softer rather than brighter shade of colour.

With a multicoloured print, it can feel trickier to get right. Again, go back to my broad rule above – what’s the most dominant colour and does this work for you? Life’s too short to ponder over the petal or leaf colour in a floral pattern being the wrong colour for you, especially if you can barely see it!

Shape

The shape of the pattern should flatter your body shape and line. Those with a curvy body will be better suited to curvy lines and patterns rather than straight lines like stripes. For those with more angles and straighter lines and shapes, stripes will flatter you much more than a floral print.

Patterns can be a clever trick to draw people’s attention either to your best bit, or away from an area you don’ want attention. By way of an example, if you’re a triangle (pear) or inverted triangle body shape, you can use pattern to give the appearance of more balance to your body shape.

Size

During my style and shape consultations, I talk to my clients about their scale. This isn’t to be confused with what dress size you are, because it’s your overall height and bone structure.

Petites will tend to suit a smaller size of print, because their scale (your height and bone structure), is smaller. Wearing a large scale pattern will simply overwhelm your delicate frame and features. Those with a large bone structure will find that a small or ditsy print will get lost on your frame.

Should you be neither small or large, go for an average size of print that’s neither too big or too dainty.

Personality

The type of print will tend to appeal to certain personality types. Take a look inside your own wardrobe and check out the array or patterns or block colours and the ratio. If you find you have a lot of patterns, but you don’t wear them, it may be that you’ve not quite nailed your style personality.

Your Style Personality is the real you, at your most comfortable. It will be the reason you naturally reach for a certain print, or not at all! Plus, why you feel like you struggle with certain designs. The more ‘romance’ you have in your style personality, the more you will reach for pretty, feminine and floral styles and designs. Someone who prefers to make an entrance, will prefer a bolder or abstract print which they can stand out in and be noticed!

What suits you?

These broad tips should give you a steer without going into the specifics of what actually suits you. So, when it comes to choosing clothes, understanding what actually suits you, flatters you and makes you look and feel good when you wear it. When your clothes flatter your colouring, your shape, and personality, they’ll be right for you!

Get in touch to book a colour analysis or a style and shape consultation. Alternatively, combine both sessions and receive a discount!

Who suits high rise skirts and trousers?

Posted on by Toni Carver

High rise garments are everywhere and it was one of the ‘trends’ I covered in my last seasonal update, with tips on how to wear them.

Not all high rises are the same! There can be fit issues depending upon your body shape and proportions because, a high-rise garment won’t fit everyone the same. It’s important to note this because it’s easy to feel disheartened when something doesn’t fit and to feel there’s something wrong with you. There isn’t. The clothes just don’t fit you. It’s them, not you remember!

As I’ve said a million times; there is no universal sizing. The only way to get the right fit, it to have it fit to YOUR body.

I had a conversation with a lady recently. She was frustrated at how hard it was finding trousers which fit her correctly. Often, she felt they didn’t look good when she wore them.

It’s a common problem. But, it was clear to me why she’d have challenges. With a curvy hourglass shape and a narrow waist compared to her hips, fit and fabric is key. From what she was wearing, I could also see that her upper body was proportionately shorter than her lower body.

With just a few tweaks and clever choices, these fit challenges are easily overcome. Understand how to dress your shape and proportions and the style, cut and fabric to flatter and fit you.

Having explained these aspects, her face lit up. She told me that understanding these tips and tricks has helped her to accept herself more, realising it isn’t her that’s ‘wrong’, but the clothing isn’t ‘right’.

I’ve summarised some challenges here to guide you and have some examples I tried out for myself (with a video if you keep reading).

Shorter legs

Anyone who has short legs will benefit from creating the illusion of a higher waistline. However, raising the waistline alone won’t always lengthen the leg. Where your top finishes, the rise and your footwear should be taken into account too, along with the length of your upper body. Get these wrong, and you could end up making yourself look out of proportion or appear shorter!

Shorter in the body

If you’re shorter in your upper body area, you run the risk of enhancing this further by wearing a high waisted skirt or trousers. Tucking in your top can also create an imbalance, depending upon the length of your legs. Clever tricks to lengthen your upper body are needed rather than enhancing how short it is.

Larger bust

If you’re busty, it’s not just the colour, style or fit of your tops which have an impact. The rise and waistline of your bottom half clothes can highlight this area further too and create a ‘shelf’ for your chest.

Shorter or longer rise

If your own rise doesn’t for the rise of the garment, the fit will be off; you’ll either feel that something is cutting you in half, or you’ll end up with a saggy bum!

Longer body

Anyone with a long upper body will find it much easier to wear a higher rise, as it can provide more ‘balance’ and visually raise the waist area. Check the impact on your lower body, depending upon the length of your legs.

Tummy concerns

A little suction around the tummy area, can be very welcome from a high waisted trouser or jeans! But, it’s important to assess the rest of your body and shape for fit too.

Petite in height or scale

Petites can gain valuable inches in height, particularly if they take the hemline to floor-skimming proportions. However, it’s worth understanding the impact on your proportions. Not all petites are short in the leg! You may be short in the body with a regular leg length. I’ve had petite clients who are short in the leg, with a long body. Each have their fit challenges, which makes shopping only in the petite section a mistake.

Fabric choice

Whatever size or shape you are, attention really should be given to the fabric of the garment. Whether you have any of the fit challenges mentioned above, or not, your choice of fabric is key to achieving a flattering silhouette. Plus, your choice of fabric plays to your style personality in more ways than you realise.

By way of an example; satin will be far more fluid than a taffeta type material and linen will behave differently to denim.

Along with knowing your colours and style, understand your rise, choose the right fabric and, know your proportions! It’s all covered during a style and shape consultation.

Examples

Here are three high waisted garments – one pair of trousers and two skirts to illustrate challenges with fit. Head over to YouTube to watch my video here.

Plain full skirt

The elasticated waistband fits at my waist correctly and it has pockets which is great for my style personality. Whilst the colour isn’t great for me (slightly too much warmth), because it’s worn on my bottom half, so much more forgiving. I prefer block colours generally speaking, especially in separates but, the material isn’t working for me. It’s a much heavier weight and with the amount of fabric, there’s barely any movement or fluidity. When it does move, it’s rather noisy and I feel like one of those toilet roll lady dolls from the 80s!

My upper body appears to look a lot shorter than it actually is making me look bottom-heavy, which appears to imbalance my frame and it enhances my chest further, making me look very busty!

Whilst the colour not being great for me was a pro, the reality is that I don’t have anything to wear it with so it will make outfit creation too difficult for me to make work. Coupled with the fabric and the fact that it doesn’t flatter or enhance my shape, it wouldn’t be something I would keep and wear as I’d feel I was making too many compromises.

Patterned full skirt

The material is a much lighter weight with lots of fluidity meaning it drapes well and doesn’t swamp my frame at all.

It’s a good neutral shade for me and the pattern to the bottom half appears to draw attention away from my chest. Whilst this isn’t the correct size for me, the waistband width is too wide, so it doesn’t sit on my waist as it should and my upper body appears shorter than it is. The skirt looks to sit underneath my bust, enhancing it further.

The pattern in reality is a bit too bold for me and doesn’t suit my style personality. Arguably, it’s also too large for my scale and frame.

Whilst the fabric and colour is better than the first, it’s not creating a flattering look as the fit is slightly off and the style not very me. Too many compromises again, so not a purchase I would make.

Super high waisted trousers

The material was a linen mix so they had less weight to them and weren’t as stiff as 100% linen. The trouser waistband was neat and uncluttered which didn’t add bulk to my tummy and hip area which is nice in a more tailored fit of trouser. I loved the colour which wasn’t a million miles away from geranium! The wide leg was a decent size and they didn’t make me appear too bottom heavy or busty, and they didn’t drag too much on the floor in terms of length when I had trainers on.

These were super high rise and they were a little too super on me. With my waist and shape, they felt that they needed to sit higher on my body so the fit wasn’t as good as it could have been. I felt that they had to’ rest’ on my hips making the crotch seem really low and baggy in the middle.

I was very tempted with these. The tailored fit worked for me as did the colour. The resting on the hip, created a more relaxed fit which I could have got behind, but I did feel that the fit wasn’t quite right due to the super high rise. If it had been less super, they’d have been a much better fit for me.

 

The garments featured are from Next and were featured during my spring/summer 2024 workshop in April 2024. The Autumn/Winter workshop takes place on 5 October. All seasonal update material is available here and updated twice each year.

Check out the Youtube video here

Mini Colour Analysis Taster Workshops at Rivers Meet

Posted on by Toni Carver

The next group colour analysis workshop is taking place at Rivers MEET Cafe in Methley on 8 June.

They are the perfect way to discover the power of colour and how it can enhance your personal style and confidence. If you keep putting things on and taking them off again because they don’t look right, this workshop is for you!

Gain an insight into the impact of colour on your overall appearance and how to wear colours that flatter your natural features. You’ll learn what your core colour type is and take away your own guide with eight colours and a discount voucher too! Like all my workshops at Rivers Meet, cake and refreshments are included with your ticket.

Tickets are £35 per person which includes admission to the venue, drink, cake, colour card and discount voucher. All workshops start at 1pm and last 2 hours.

Places are available on Saturday 12 October. Book here.

More about Rivers Meet

Rivers MEET is a traditional craft cafe run by Jo and her team. They serve delicious home-made food, refreshments and cakes. They hold regular craft events, WI meetings and sewing classes in the function room downstairs. The lighting is great in this craft room and perfect for these mini colour sessions. The venue is around 7 miles from the studio in Wakefield, West Yorkshire.

102 Leeds Road
Methley
Leeds
LS26 9EP

  •
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    Event Tickets Mini Colour Analysis ‘Taster’ workshop at Rivers MEET (2024) £35.00

    If you keep putting clothes and makeup on and taking them off because they don’t look right, (but you can’t put your finger on why), this workshop is for you!

     

    Back by popular demand!

     

    This is a great opportunity to be introduced to a colourful new world in a small group setting. They are held in the craft room at Rivers MEET cafe in Methley. Each workshop starts at 1pm and lasts 2 hours.

    There are three dates available for 2024: 16 March, 8 June and 12 October.

    16 March is SOLD OUT

    8 June is SOLD OUT

     

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How to avoid over-packing for your holiday

Posted on by Toni Carver

Are your thoughts turning towards your next holiday?

Something I frequently hear is how challenging packing can be. Especially if you’ve got a city or UK break planned as you’ll need to pack different things to a beach holiday. When travelling in the UK, the weather is unpredictable, so it feels much harder to pack!

If you typically pack more than what you need and only wear a handful of the clothes you packed, here’s some tips from me.

Planning

Like most things in life, an element of planning will ensure you feel prepared for your travels. Without a plan, you run the risk that you’ll leave something behind.

Your suitcase is simply a capsule wardrobe for holiday, and you can follow the same steps each time you go away.

Searching for a ‘list of items to pack’ is easy to do, if that’s what you need. But, if you’re anything like me, having some practical steps to follow to help you pack successfully will make life a little less stressful!

What to pack

Knowing what to pack for your holiday is dependent upon the type of trip you’re going on. Often, you’ll pack different clothes for a beach holiday compared to a city break, a cruise or a skiing holiday.

Check the weather report so you’ve got an idea about whether you’ll need a raincoat, umbrella or just your sunglasses.

Do you know what activities you’ll be undertaking whilst you’re away? When you know how you’ll be spending your time, it’s easier to pack what you need to wear. Sightseeing, laying on the beach, visiting ruins or climbing a mountain will generally speaking, require different clothes.

Get them out

Once you’ve identified what you’ll be doing and roughly, what you need to wear, get them out. I find laying them out on the bed, or on a rail makes it easier to see. Often you can spot any gaps and what accessories and underwear you’ll need need to pack too.

You’ll also be able to see how easily garments combine together. Creating more outfits from less items means a lighter suitcase. Packing that one top ‘just in case’ when you’ve got nothing to wear it with, will often come back unworn.

Once you’ve had a colour analysis, you’ll find that your clothes will naturally combine together easier. So, when it comes to your travels, limiting how many colour options you take will help too.

Whilst it may feel time-consuming, trying on your clothes is well worth doing, especially if it’s been some time since you last wore them. You don’t want to feel uncomfortable and unhappy whilst you’re away.

Whilst tempting, it’s often not the best time to experiment with a brand new look or shoes that you’ve never worn! At the very least, remember to pack the plasters!

If you have found a gap, a carefully planned shopping trip is next. Panic buying and impulse shopping rarely ends well. Shop with purpose.

Packing tips

Are you a roller or a folder?? I’m more of a folder, but either way, it’s about being savvy.

Use all available space! Put underwear or chargers in your shoes, jewellery in your handbag. I roll up anything which doesn’t crease and fold the rest.

Packing bags and cubes can help to organise your items, but keep one for your dirty laundry.

Magnetic compact

I prefer to use travel sized toiletries and decant any shampoos, conditioners and creams into reusable bottles as they take up far less room and weight in your case.

Do consider a capsule cosmetic collection for your travels too!

These magnetic compacts are ideal because you can personalise them to suit you, and fill them with all the eyeshadows and a blush/highlighters you’ll need whilst you’re away.

Summary

Planning your outfits and what you’ll wear means you’ll be less tempted to overpack and when you get into the habit, it becomes less of a chore!

All these tips and more, are included in my Holiday Capsule Wardrobe Workbook. It’s an 18 page guide which I created as a practical way of helping you to create a capsule wardrobe for your holiday. It includes Itinerary pages, outfit planners and checklists to keep you on track!

It isn’t a list of items you need to pack, but it will help you pack successfully for your next, and future trips. Get the guide and follow the stages laid out here.

If you’ve been lusting after a capsule wardrobe, it’s also available as part of the Capsule Wardrobe Masterclass as well as a stand-alone guide.

Get it here:

  •
    Quick View
    Guides Holiday Capsule Wardrobe Workbook £10.00

    Knowing what to pack and why you need to leave those ‘just-in’case’ pieces behind when you go on holiday is all in the planning.

    Using this workbook, you can follow the stages involved to help you create a travel wardrobe that works for you.

    This workbook is a digital guide which you will work through on your own.

    Add to basket

What happens during a style and shape consultation and what can you expect?

Posted on by Toni Carver

Whilst most people start with a colour analysis consultation, a style and shape consultation is often the missing piece of the jigsaw when it comes to clothes fitting and suiting you.

If you read last week’s blog or watched the video on Youtube this month, you might be wondering what to expect when you book a style & shape consultation at the studio. Here’s the low-down.

Arrival

You’ll have received details about where to come and what to expect in your email booking confirmation. No need to worry about what to wear, it’s covered here.

When you arrive for your appointment, I’ll greet you and invite you into the studio. As you get settled on the sofa and fill in a record card, I’ll put the kettle on.

Drink in hand, we’ll have a brief chat about your wardrobe, your clothes and any challenges or expectations you’ve got.

Introduction to style personalities

How many times have you tried to copy the look of a celeb only to feel…well, let’s say flat? Quite simply, it’s because you’re not the same! But, that doesn’t mean you can’t take some inspiration, and still be you.

What you wear tells a story. Your clothes are a way of expressing who you are, your likes and dislikes. Even if you don’t feel that you have a style, everyone does. There’s a little quiz I get you to do with 10 questions. There’s no right or wrong answers as this is about you and how you dress and feel.

Understanding your style personality is the real you. It’s about the clothes you reach for and how they make you feel. Everyone has style, it’s just learning what it is and how to use it to represent who you are so that you can feel like you in what you wear. We’ll also discuss how you might want to push your style boundaries, because nobody has to sit in a box!

I’ll show you some examples to bring things to life. When you nail your personality type it can help you to create a wardrobe that works for you. It’ll help you avoid further shopping disasters and frustrations too and stop buying things which don’t make you feel good.

Your body line, shape and proportions

Now you know more about what works for your personality (fabric, styles, fit etc), we’ll take a look at your body shape. Size doesn’t matter, but shape certainly does.

There are no tape measures used and you can happily stay fully clothed too!

A lot of women tell me that they don’t know their body shape, or that clothes don’t fit them properly. Sometimes, it’s not your body shape which you have challenges with, but your proportions. (I’ve talked about this previously in this video).

For example, if you struggle with the fit of jeans, trousers or skirts, it may not be the size of the garment which isn’t right for you, or even your shape. Instead, the rise of the garment may not be right for your proportions.

Take a jumpsuit. It’s the perfect example for when you know your shape, it can still mean the garment doesn’t fit you correctly. This isn’t about your body being wrong, but that the garment proportions might not be the right fit for you. Body length, leg length and rise length; they all matter! The wrong rise and it could be too long giving the appearance of a saggy bum, or indeed it could be too short so it digs uncomfortably in.

Understand your body shape and proportions so you can refine your clothing choices and make sure they work for you, and not the other way round. Clever techniques exist, it’s just learning more about it, which is what we discuss in detail.

During this section, I’ll also talk about fabric – specifically the cut and weight. These factors have an impact on whether something fits and flatters you. Rise, seams, darts, necklines and sleeves are all elements to take into account when dressing to flatter YOUR shape. Your fabric choice can be a friend or a foe! I’ll show you some examples of weight, texture, cut and feel too.

To give you an idea of what’s discussed, you can watch this video too. During this, I’ll be showing you examples and talking you through how best to wear clothes which fit and flatter you. Learning clever tips and tricks to create different outfits which fit and flatter you.

Clothing review

If you’ve brought along some of your own clothes, we’ll revisit the ones which you felt didn’t work for you. Now you’ve learnt all about what suits you and flatters you, you’ll be able to see why you’ve not been able to make them work for you. This is an opportunity to get ideas on how you may be able to re-work it, or wear it differently, if you decide that you can or you want to of course!

Summary and end of session

Having reached the end of your consultation, you’ll take away the colour me beautiful book which we’ll have used during your session. This works as a reminder and contains some helpful advice to revisit at home.

After you leave

Most clients head straight home to their wardrobe to review what they’ve got and the rest hit the shops! A style and shape consultation can last up to 2.5 hours so you’re unlikely to remember everything we’ll have discussed! So, I always follow up afterwards to help keep you on track. To inspire you further, I’ll also send you over my own brand/retailer list too using the email address you provided on the record card when you arrived. You can opt-out any time.

Should you have any further queries, or you’d like to book your appointment, get in touch: toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk.

When you understand why certain styles, the fit and fabric work for you and why things don’t, then it helps you to create outfits and a wardrobe that works for you. It rarely happens overnight, but trust me, it will.

I hope this answers any questions you have about what to expect during a style and shape consultation, but do let me know if you have any other questions.

What’s covered in a style & shape consultation?

Posted on by Toni Carver

In this video, you’ll learn what is covered during a style and shape consultation. Watch it on my Youtube channel here: https://youtu.be/PVUSE5EyoFo

The details are summarised here:

Style personality

Your style personality is the real you. There’s more to this than you realise. It’s about the clothes you reach for and how they make you feel. Your lifestyle and how you dress to still feel like you!

Having clothes which don’t work for your style personality, means you’ll feel uncomfortable when you wear them. You won’t feel like you, and you won’t be happy. Clothes you don’t reach for are likely to languish in the back of the wardrobe, unworn and unloved because ultimately, they’re not you. I can help you identify what to look for and what works fo you.

Body shape

No tape measures are involved and you can happily stay fully clothed too!

I meet a lot of women who tell me that they don’t know their body shape, or clothes don’t fit them properly. Often, it’s not your underlying body shape which you have challenges with, but your proportions. For example, if you struggle with the fit of jeans, trousers or skirts, the rise you choose is important.

Whilst I’m new to sewing, I’ve always understood the importance of how a garment is constructed and made. I just wasn’t able to do it myself! Seams, darts, necklines and sleeves are all elements to take into account when dressing to flatter your shape.

Your fabric choice can be a friend or a foe! Weight, texture, cut and feel are all elements many people don’t consider, yet it can often be the reason that the fit, shape or style is wrong for you and your body.

Understanding the elements of your body shape, body proportions and body lines helps you identify the cuts, styles and shapes to choose to flatter your shape.

Your clothes

Whilst you’re under no obligation, it can be beneficial to bring along some of your own clothes which you’ve found aren’t working for you. Especially if you can’t put your finger on the reasons why. If you keep putting things on and taking them off again, because there’s something not right with it and you’re convinced it’s not the colour, it’s probably a style and shape session, which you’d benefit from. Especially if you know your colours and nothing has changed!

There are some items I use to demonstrate some of the points I’m making, but your clothes are often the best way to demonstrate the effect and impact.

For more information, visit this page.

These consultations take place in the studio in Wakefield, West Yorkshire and generally last between two to two and a half hours.

You can combine it with a colour analysis and we’ll cover colours, makeup, style, shape, and personality. You’ll need to allow around four to four and a half hours for this combined package.

 

Get in touch to make your appointment

Wardrobe DIY Guides

Posted on by Toni Carver

How many times do you keep opening your wardrobe doors feeling like you have nothing to wear?

Not everyone feels comfortable inviting a stranger into their homes to help them declutter and organise their wardrobe. Women especially, have an emotional attachment to their clothes. Especially where their is weight loss and weight gain concerned. (Which I’ve talked about before here)

If you’re a do-it-yourself kind of person, then how about some expert guidance to help you tackle the bulging wardrobe instead?

You’ll find a number of guides here on my website aimed at helping you create a wardrobe that works for you, plus others.

I’ve created them based upon my expertise as an award-winning colour and style consultant after years of working with clients.

Wardrobe charts

These are simple charts, designed to help you identify what you have in your wardrobe and what gaps you have.

I encourage my clients to assess how they spend their time, because when you have clothes which you feel work for these scenarios, you’ll feel more at ease with what to wear.

Some clients need to visually see and think about what they do, which is where these charts help.

Next, it’s about assessing which categories the clothes you have fit how you spend your time. This helps you see that you have gaps to fill, or that you’re over-subscribed in an area (and therefore, don’t need to buy any more clothes!)

The Wardrobe charts are free to download here.

Declutter Guide

My ‘How to spring clean your wardrobe in five easy steps’ was one of the first guides I created. Inspired by the simple fact that sometimes, you just need a little guidance to follow.

In this guide, I’m sharing the five simple steps I use with clients on their wardrobes so that you can review and declutter your own wardrobe with ease.

Instead, learn how to build a wardrobe of clothes that you DO wear with these simple tips.

Download this guide for free here.

Capsule Wardrobe Workbook

Capsule Wardrobe WorkbookEveryone needs a Breton top, camel trench coat, wide leg trousers and a white shirt right? WRONG!

Unlike the magazine articles you read, a capsule wardrobe isn’t the same for everyone. At least, that’s what I believe! It’s a limited collection of clothes which suit you to help you create more outfits from less items. (They suit your colouring, your shape, your lifestyle, your proportions and your style!)

So, if you’ve been lusting after a capsule wardrobe but get stuck because you don’t know where to start or how to create one – this workbook is for you.

Simply follow the stages I’ve laid out. Design the wardrobe that works for you!

This is a digital workbook which costs £15 which you can work through on your own. Get it here.

Holiday Capsule Wardrobe Workbook

Knowing what to pack and why you need to leave those ‘just-in’case’ pieces behind when you go on holiday is all in the planning.

It isn’t a list of items you need to pack (as that’s the sort of thing you can get online -you don’t need a colour and style expert for that!).

But, it will help you pack successfully for your next and future trips.

So, if you frequently overpack or get stuck because you don’t know where to start, this workbook will help you create your own travel capsule wardrobe!

This is a digital workbook which costs £10 which you can work through on your own. Get it here.

Capsule Wardrobe Masterclass

This is a suite of material I’ve designed to support and guide you through the stages involved in creating a capsule wardrobe.

It includes:
– A 44 minute pre-recorded video to guide you as I talk you through each stage involved.
– A 32 page Capsule Wardrobe Workbook (mentioned above) to complete which includes tasks and checklists to support and guide you through the process involved. You can download, print or save this and work through it alongside the video or on it’s own.
– A Bonus 18 page Holiday Capsule Wardrobe (mentioned above) digital Workbook to complete with tasks and checklists to guide you on packing successfully for your next and future trips.
– A series of prompts and tips to help keep you on track so you don’t give up on your dream. These will be delivered via email which you can save and revisit whenever you need.

This is an ‘on-demand’ masterclass, which means you can work through it at your own pace as it’s yours to keep.

It means you can pick it up, stop and start as many times as you like. The video is yours to watch and listen to it as frequently as you prefer and there’s no timescale on completing the masterclass or the workbooks. Get yours here.

All wardrobe guides are available for you to do-it-yourself, with my expert guidance. But, if a more hands-on approach is needed, do get in touch!

Why get a colour analysis consultation?

Posted on by Toni Carver

Have you ever wondered what colours you look your best in?

Perhaps you’ve seen loads of videos lately about #colouranalysis and you’re curious about what ‘having your colours done’ actually means! (I’ve covered why the resurgence  in popularity here and also the Tok Tok craze explained here.)

Everyone can wear every colour, but not every shade of every colour will suit you the same. If you’ve been experimenting with colour, or found that certain colours did look good on you, and now no longer do, colour analysis could be a worthwhile investment.

Wearing colour successfully is about understanding the different characteristics of colour and their association with your features. Essentially; what’s the impact of the colour against your features?

As a Colour me Beautiful consultant, I’ve been offering colour analysis consultations at my studio in Wakefield since 2011. Rather than the four ‘seasons’, a ‘tonal’ approach is used. Having been first analysed as a season 20 years ago, I’ve found it much easier to explain to clients and for them to understand.

If you want your wardrobe to work harder and waste less money on clothes that don’t suit you, a colour analysis is the solution.

What happens during a colour analysis consultation?

When you join me in the studio, I have a table with 145 precision-dyed coloured fabric sheets called ‘drapes’. The drapes don’t lie! They show you (and me) the impact that the colour has against your features. When you understand this, you can then learn how to wear it successfully, and with ease.

To the untrained eye, mistakes can often be made choosing colours, which is something I’ve covered in more detail here. Should the colour wash you out, make your skin muddy-looking, sallow or blotchy, or your look tired, then it isn’t right for you. When you compare it to a shade which balances out your complexion, harmonising with your features, make your eyes sparkle and your skin glow, it should be no contest! Having to work hard to make it look right, is a tell-tale sign that it’s not right for you and is something I’ve covered here.

Flattering tones in clothes and makeup

Because there are so many shades of a colour, seeing the impact that the colour has against your features is the best way of assessing if the colour is right for you.

During a Complete Colour Analysis Consultation, I’ll use the fabric to ‘test’ for your full colour type. This way you get a personalised palette of colours which are refined to compliment you the most. Your colour type is made up of three elements – depth, undertone and clarity.

‘Getting your colours done’ can be transformational. Check out my client testimonials: https://www.tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk/reviews-page/

Wearing your colours is more than just what colours to wear, but how to wear them. Plus, it’s not just your clothes, but your accessories and your makeup too. That’s why an application of makeup is applied during my Complete Colour Analysis Consultation too, so you get to sample the cosmetic shades which compliment you too. The range used has been designed by Colour Me Beautiful to specifically suit your colouring. You can try as much or as little as you like! Browse the range here.

How to waste less money on clothes that don’t suit you

It all starts with learning what your best colours are, and how to wear them. All this is covered during your colour analysis consultation.

You’ll take away your colour swatches which contain fabric samples of your palette of colours most suited to you.

These colour swatches will help to guide you on your best shades. Use them to review what you’ve already got in your wardrobe and when buying anything new or pre-loved. During the session, I’ll explain how to use them but you can also watch my video on YouTube for more guidance here.

Your swatches represent the colours most suited to your from your colouring type. Using these to guide you, will mean you waste less money on clothes that don’t suit you!

A more coordinated wardrobe

As you embrace your colours, your wardrobe will become more cohesive too. You’ll find it much easier to mix, match and coordinate outfits together. As your confidence grows, you’ll begin to feel as fabulous as you look.

Knowing your colours will mean far less wardrobe disasters too. No more items languishing unworn and unloved in the back of your wardrobe!

Book your colour analysis consultation now!

How to find clothes that are the right fit for you

Posted on by Toni Carver

If you find it a challenge getting clothes to fit you, it’s tempting to blame yourself. Often, it’s that they aren’t quite right for YOU.

Unless you make your own clothes, or have them made specifically for your body, there might be certain aspects of a garment that don’t quite work. Rest assured, there’s tips and tricks to ‘correct’ many elements, it’s simply understanding and learning what to look for.

This quote sums it up perfectly for me:

The dress must follow the body of the woman, not the body following the shape of the dress. (Hubert de Givenchy)

Identify what’s right for you and work with your body shape, not against it. So, if you’ve got a curvy figure then a boxy shape to a garment will add pounds to your frame because it hides your frame and shape. Nobody wants that!

I meet a lot of ladies who feel that things don’t work for them and they dislike shopping as a result. This is totally understandable, especially if you don’t know what to look for. What’s more, you’ll spend lot of time and money trying to find out.

Right colour, right style, right fit and lifestyle-appropriate. Nail these, and you’ll be grinning like the cat that got the cream. Let me go through these in more detail.

Colour

Have you ever put something on and noticed that the colour drains from your face? Or that suddenly your skin has gone a funny colour?

That need to add a brighter lipstick or slap more blusher on, is because the colour you’re wearing isn’t quite right for you.

The transformation to your overall appearance when you’re wearing the right colours for you, cannot be ignored! It’s a subject I cover frequently here on the blogs as well as on social media.

Colour analysis consultations are by far my most popular service and I never tire of seeing the transformation with clients. I work with a tonal colour analysis system, which assess the colour of your hair, eyes and skin tone to determine the three elements of your colouring type and colours which flatter you the most. My colouring type is soft, cool and deep which means that my core colouring type is soft (low clarity to my features overall, muted and mid-tone colours), with a cool undertone to my skin (blue toned shades rather than yellow) and with some depth (my tertiary as the light pale colours really do wash me out).

Wearing the right colour will visibly lift your appearance but unless it fits like a glove (or vice versa), it will never be perfect for you, so you’ll need to factor these next elements in as well.

Style

Your style is really what feels most like you. Sometimes, it can be hard to describe what your style is, or you may feel like you don’t have one! But, I can assure you that everyone does. Just think – what feels most like you when you wear it?

When you put something on that doesn’t feel like you, you’ll immediately protest as much and take it off! But, wear something which you feel happy, comfortable and more like you when you wear it, and you’ll be much happier. No point dressing like Paloma Faith if you’re really more a Jennifer Aniston type.

That doesn’t mean that you can’t dress differently, or try something new. Try to push your style boundaries, but in a way that feels authentic and still like you. Sometimes it can be the choice of fabric, but more on that shortly.

Patterns can be a real deal-breaker in the style department. For me, I’m not a fan of fussy patterns or stripes. They just don’t work for my style personality, so I don’t tend to buy them as I know I won’t get my £’s per wear or be happy in them.

Fit

We all know when something doesn’t fit right, but often associate this with the number on the label. It’s more likely not fitting your body shape, body line and proportions. Understanding these aspects will help you identify the right style, fit and fabric to choose. Let’s say that you’re petite in height, with a long upper body and short legs – of course it will be harder to get the right fit! But, understand how to dress your features and you’ll make better choices with styles and cuts.

Don’t forget the finer details like sleeves and necklines. A high neckline when you’ve a large bust will enhance the area. You’ll find a lower neckline (like a v-neck), will break up the colour and be more flattering. Sleeve lengths and shoulder seams can be corrective; like a ruffle sleeve when you’ve got small and narrow shoulders. On the other hand, they can enhance the area if you’re broader with wider shoulders by merely extending the shoulder line out, visually speaking.

Most people who come to me for a style and shape session don’t consider the fabric of a garment. Yet, it plays a crucial role in the fit of a garment. Different fabrics have different weights and feels, not to mention how it drapes. Whilst both light in weight, cotton and jersey have a different feel and structure to them. The same garment made from both will look and feel different when worn, depending upon the body wearing it.

In this example, the cotton top left loose over a satin skirt hides my underlying shape and proportions. A few tweaks and hey presto! Learn much more during a 2.5 hour style and shape consultation.

These are just tweaks. Tailoring can be a game-changer in achieving the perfect fit and I often recommend clients have a good seamstress on hand, if they need one. Transformed into bespoke pieces that fit YOU and make them a perfect fit! Which is a huge benefit when you do make your own clothes, because you can create the garment to take into account your own body measurements and adjust the pattern accordingly.

Not knowing what fits and flatters you means you can still end up making costly mistakes so it pays to understand these elements of your body.

Lifestyle-appropriate

Being able to tick all boxes with your clothes, or altering them accordingly, will make it so much easier to dress in clothes that make you look and feel good.

I’m a big believer in having clothes which work for how you spend your time. If you’re the outdoorsy-type and love nothing more, those knee-high, stiletto, velvet boots aren’t going to fare very well…

When your clothes suit the occasion you’re dressing for, you’ll feel appropriate and comfortable, especially when you know they tick all the boxes: right colour, right style, right fit and lifestyle-appropriate.

Get to know what works for you!

Gaining the knowledge can take time if you’re not sure what to look for and it can be costly if you keep making mistakes. My consultations are designed to guide you so that you understand what works for you, and why.

Discover the colours which enhance your natural features and how to wear your colours during a Colour Analysis Consultation. During a Style & Shape session, you’ll learn how to find clothes that tick all the boxes for you as we identify your style personality, shape and proportions.

Get in touch to book your session with me now!

The impact of hair colour in colour analysis consultations

Posted on by Toni Carver

Your hair, and specifically the colour of it, is often a huge topic of discussion during my colour analysis consultations!

I believe it plays an important part of your overall appearance, which is why I assess it during your colour analysis.

Over the years, I’ve seen many clients and heard lots of stories of how hair colour changes have an impact on what you wear. Whether it’s a choice of colouring your hair, ageing, or medical reasons like hair loss and cancer. They all have an impact.

Once you begin to notice that certain colours don’t look quite as good as they did, it’s worth determining if the reason is due to hair changes. If so, how permanent is it likely to be? You may be able to ‘weather the storm’ so to speak!

Skin tone

Worthy of note is that there’s a common misconception that the undertone of your skin doesn’t change as your age. Certainly, under the seasonal colour analysis system, you remain the same palette. However, I’ve seen plenty of examples where this isn’t the case.

The Colour Me Beautiful tonal colour analysis system which I use in my consultations, is more flexible as it recognises that as we get older, hair loses pigmentation, eyes become more muted, and skin becomes more transparent. These aspects will affect the impact of colour when you wear it.

The Colour Me Beautiful MD; Cliff Bashforth is a great example of this. Over the years, he has transitioned between palettes. Back in the early years of colour analysis, Cliff was an autumn. As the seasonal system was developed with CMB, he was a soft autumn Certainly, under the seasonal system, he would still be classified as someone with a warm skin tone, which he actually isn’t anymore. His overall features have changed.

Going grey

Along with Cliff, I have seen many clients over the years who have decided to embrace the grey! Revisit this blog here and take a look at Carol.

By way of another example, if you had dark brown hair in your younger years you’re likely to find that stronger, richer or bolder colours are now feeling and looking ‘too much’. They may be overwhelming your more delicate or softer appearance because the harmony between your hair, skin and eyes has changed.

Not all greys are the same either. There are ash tones, whites, silvers and salt and pepper. But, a colour analysis consultation can help to determine your best shades of colour and how to wear them.

Colouring your hair

Let’s say you were mousey and now have a more vibrant and striking red colour to your hair. The muted colours you will have looked amazing in previously are unlikely to have enough ‘bite’ or drama for you now. No doubt that if you’d been analysed previously, you’re likely to have stopped using your swatches some time ago! The key now is to match the intensity level of your hair with the colours you wear. Do be aware that red tones in the hair can be bold and bright or red and auburn and this difference can have an impact on the underlying hue of the colours which suit you best.

Medical reasons

This can be a very sensitive topic for people. Having worked with some cancer patients over the years, a result can often be hair loss. Many find that their hair grows back very differently! Resulting in a change to your appearance and therefore the colours which once loved you, might not love you the same now.

Deciding to embrace the no-hair look can be a brave move and I remember a client who had alopecia with the most remarkable pattern and design tattooed to her head for the summer. She found the heat was too unpleasant to wear her hair pieces.

Equally, hair pieces can transform your overall look in the same way. Choosing to go blonde, brunette, red or blue will all require an adaption if you want what you wear to harmonise with your features.

Wardrobe impact

If you have found that your hair colour changes are having an impact on your choice of colours and how they look, a wardrobe assessment might be in order.

Should the change be temporary, or you plan on frequently changing your hair colour, you may find yourself altering and updating your wardrobe frequently.

A more permanent change means it’s a good time to reassess your wardrobe and if what you have still works for you, or if you need to adapt it.

Be certain that it’s definitely the colour that’s not working for you, or if it could be the pattern/design/style/fit or material? These factors can also affect how ‘good’ something looks and how you feel.

Can you ‘rescue’ the colour by wearing it with another colour? Perhaps try a scarf or jewellery to break up the colour near to your face.

A piece of advice I give all my clients is to keep the ‘wrong’ colour away from your face and wear it on the bottom half. The impact of the colour will be far less severe when worn this way and you still get to wear and enjoy it.

Dyeing your clothes could be another option, especially if the fabric is not man-made. Synthetics don’t dye well at home (without major effort), but mixes still will (like polycotton).

For those that can’t be rescued and you decide to let them go, be clear about what colour you need to replace it with, if at all.

The impact of different shades of a colour

I always say that you can wear every colour. However, there is more than one shade, tint or tone of a colour!

I’ve recorded a video in which I show you examples of different tones of pink and greens against my features. I wanted to try and demonstrate the subtle difference in colours and how they would look different if my hair was different. You’ll find it on YouTube here.

A colour analysis consultation will help you with all the aspects discussed in this blog and shown in the video.

Get in touch to book your colour analysis consultation.

Appointments are available Monday to Saturday. To enquire about availability, just get in touch! Toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk

WOW Rotherham 2024 Festival

Posted on by Toni Carver

I am delighted to have been invited to join the WOW Rotherham Festival on 11 May 2024 offering mini colour analysis taster sessions.

The WOW Rotherham festival is a vibrant, colourful, bold, fun, and fearless festival celebration of women, girls, trans and non-binary communities. Connecting Rotherham to other women and girls across the globe as part of the WOW – Women of the World family. Their theme this year is around fashion and sustainability and overall body-confidence, so I was delighted to be asked to get involved.

There is so much going on! All activities take place in the town centre of Rotherham. Take a look at the festival programme here: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/6c75646560.html#page/1

What’s on

You’ll find full details about the event on their website: https://wow.fluxrotherham.org.uk/festival-programme/

Use the hashtag #wowrotherham to find out more on social media.

Colour Analysis Taster Sessions with me!

Between 11am and 3pm, I’ll be providing 10 minute Colour Analysis Taster sessions. If you weren’t lucky enough to bag one of the bookable time slots, you’ll need to put your name down when you arrive.

Learn how wearing colour can make you look younger and healthier and gain an insight into my colour analysis consultations to see how impactful it can be when you wear the right colours!

Clothes Swap

After attending your colour analysis taster slot,  you might want to swap some of your clothes!

Simply bring along 10 items to the Rotherham Central Community Hub (Formerly Burtons/Topman) between 11am and 3.30pm to take part. This event is run by Thread Republic.

Workshops

There’s lots to choose from, but here’s a sample of what you’ll find available:

  • Jewellery design and creation by Kabuki Jewellery
  • Poetry by Eleanor May Blackburn
  • How to DIY by Brightbox
  • Zine making by Georgia Osborn
  • Textile workshop by Karen Hall
  • Zumba by Shahina

All the workshops are free to join, including my colour analysis taster sessions!

Need more information?

The WOW Rotherham team will be happy to help. Visit their website: https://wow.fluxrotherham.org.uk/festival-programme/ or drop them an email: wowrotherham@gmail.com

NEW On-demand Seasonal Masterclass – Spring/Summer 2024 recording out now!

Posted on by Toni Carver

The latest on-demand video showcasing the colours and trends you can expect to find this spring and summer 2024 is out now!

Watch this pre-recorded 45 minute video at your leisure and discover the trends and how to wear them.

It’s perfect for you if you missed the live group workshop, or you’d prefer to watch it in your own time.

The video takes you through the same presentation from the live workshop, but lasts 45 minutes. Get inspired with what to wear this spring and don’t forget to check what’s in your wardrobe as trends come and go!

You’ll learn:

  • The key colours for each dominant colouring type this spring/summer. (Light, deep, warm, cool, clear, soft)
  • London Fashion Week colours as predicted by Pantone® Color Institute and coded for the six colouring types
  • Colour combos featuring the Pantone® Color of the Year (Peach Fuzz)
  • The latest trends
  • Examples of where to find the key colours and trends this season

 

These seasonal masterclasses are recorded twice a year to coincide with Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter. They’re part of a range of seasonal update material to support you on your image journey. Designed to stop you making the same mistakes, buying more things you don’t wear/don’t suit/don’t need.

Having a colour and style consultant do the hard work for you saves you time scouring the internet and high street as this covers the key colours and trends, who they work for, where to get them and how to wear them. You just need to choose the format which works best for you! Visit the material available here.

The next seasonal update for Autumn/Winter 2024 will be available from 1 October 2024. Register your interest in ‘seasonal updates’ and join the wait list here.

Purchase the pre-recorded video masterclass here:

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Will I be able to shop for my colours?

Posted on by Toni Carver

Once you’ve invested in a colour analysis consultation, you may be concerned about whether you’ll be able to shop for your colours.

Firstly, there are brands that specialise in this and I’ll share more on this shortly.

Also worthy of note is that, realistically, with 48 colours in your swatches, you probably won’t be able to buy something in every single one of them straight away!

Start here!

The first place to start is what you already have. There’s bound to be something that if you’re honest with yourself, you’ve been looking for an excuse to get rid of it! Equally, you’ll have things that work for you.

If you do find something which isn’t one of your best colours, can you wear it differently so it’s more forgiving? Can you change the colour of it (ie dye it)?

Please don’t be concerned that I’m one of those colour analysis consultants who will tell you to get rid of everything or stop wearing what you have! It’s something I’ve spoken about in the past – revisit this blog I’ve covered here.

Accessories are the easiest way to update any outfit so I recommend you focus on scarves and jewellery in your colours which are much cheaper and allow you to experiment a little. Plus, do consider your makeup shades as your look will be instantly updated when you wear the right shade of lipstick or blusher for your colouring type. (Also available from the studio and through the shop online).

New colours and trends

Once you’ve done a proper review of your wardrobe, you’ll be able to assess the gaps you have and then shop for these items in your colours. In the UK (where the majority of my clients are), we still have seasonally biased shopping. So, if you’ve had your consultation in the spring time, you’ll find lighter layers, summer dresses and tops, rather than winter coats, woolly knits and scarves! Of course, there’s always sale shopping and pre-loved to pick up garments you’re looking for.

As new styles are added each season, it’s often the colours I see change the most, so you’ll always be able to find your colours all year round! Designers and retailers take influences each season which is one of the reasons that I offer my seasonal updates – so you can learn the latest trending colours for your colour type and where to find them. Essentially, I do the hard work to save you time! You’ll find more details about what’s available for spring/summer 2024 here.

Depending what your colouring type is, you may find specific times of year easier to shop than others. But, trust me, I never struggle to find things for all colouring types, all year round!

More experienced

During your consultation, you’ll learn about the hue, depth and clarity of colours which will help you to shop better too. As you gain more confidence, you’ll find it easier to find your colours simply by having a quick glance through the shop doors!

As you begin to add more colourful pieces to your wardrobe, you’ll find it becomes more cohesive, even while you continue to wear any old ‘wrong’ colours.

Colour focussed retailers

Here’s a list of retailers which specifically design their clothes for those who know their colouring types:

Plus, I offer seasonal ‘shop the look’ guides for each dominant colouring type and have a small range of accessories coded for the six tonal colouring types (lights, deeps, warms, cools, clears, softs).

You can also watch my video on how to shop for your colouring type on Kettlewell here.

How to shop for makeup on Colour me Beautiful can be found here.

Finally, if you need any help shopping for your colours, please speak to me about your own personal shopping experience.

Struggling to put outfits together or stuck in a colour rut?

Posted on by Toni Carver

Meet Becca who travelled to my studio in Wakefield from Clitheroe for a colour analysis consultation.

Twenty years ago, she’d had her ‘colours done’ but felt stuck in a rut wearing the same colours. Especially navy blue!

Becca is a keen sewist, and had been recommended to me. She had lots of handmade clothes and had found herself with a huge stash of fabric she’d not used! Keen to reduce the stash, she was also struggling to put outfits together and wanted to make better choices with her colours.

Following her colour analysis consultation with me, she was initially surprised by her new colour palette. Her older palette was so different but mainly because she had much darker hair when she’d had her previous analysis aged just 15. Feeling much more confident with her new colours, here she is with just a few colours from her palette. That smile says it all!

Here’s what Becca had to say:

I do think having a colour analysis is well worth the investment – especially if I think how much money I’ve spent on fabric which has been stashed away for years. Toni is lovely and highly recommended if you live t’up North!

Becca is wearing 10 colours from her soft, cool and deep palette. She’s also wearing Colour me Beautiful makeup designed for each colouring type. Morning Light foundation in Oyster, Soft mauve lipstick, Marsala blush, Melon and Smoke eyeshadow with Teal eye liner and Navy Mascara. All cosmetics are available to purchase from the studio and through the online shop. Makeup is prescribed to each colour type, which you’ll be able to sample at a consultation. However, if you do need advice on the right shades for you, get in touch.

Both group sessions and individual consultations are available to book.

Click here to learn more about colour analysis consultations

What to wear this spring

Posted on by Toni Carver

You don’t have to be a slave to fashion to look and feel up-to-date in what you wear!

Often, it may be some new inspiration you need. Or, some ideas adapting what you’ve already got. But, it isn’t always a brand new wardrobe! So, if you keep making random and ill-thought through purchases which languish in the back of the wardrobe, help is at hand!

Twice a year, I do the hard work for you with my ‘Seasonal Updates’ for you to learn what’s out there to suit you, and where you can find it – there’s something for everyone!

Make informed decisions, shop with intention and stop wasting money on things you won’t wear! Here’s what’s available and how I can help summarised below. I’ve also recorded a video which you can watch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/u_ObU7YbWhY

Who are the seasonal updates for?

Quite simply, ladies who want to feel good and look stylish. Too many people have too many clothes they don’t wear which don’t suit them!

More specifically:

– If you already know your colouring type, you’ll learn the colours you can expect to find this coming season. Ideal if you’ve identified certain colour gaps in your wardrobe from your palette, or you need to invest in a specific colour or style.

– You want to feel up-to-date in your clothes. I’ve picked out the trends to look out for and how to wear them. This way, you can introduce them, or adapt what you already have in bringing them up-to-date so you can feel more confident in your outfits.

– A dislike for shopping, or feel overwhelmed by choice. I’ve already done the hard work scouring what’s available to make it easier for you to shop for specific items you’ll need and wear.

– You’re short on time, as I’ve done the hard work to make it easy for you to shop for specific items with my guidance.

– You’re an impulse shopper and keep buying clothes without purpose or because it’s there/cheap/available. You may already have something similar in your wardrobe and with my guidance, you’ll know what to look for and have ideas to style it different! These seasonal updates will also help you focus on the items you need to stop you buying more clothes you don’t need and won’t wear.

– Lacking inspiration and confidence. Sometimes you get stuck in a rut and need some help getting out of it.

– You make your own clothes and need some inspiration on styles or new designs you could try your hand at yourself.

What’s available?

A suite of support all guiding you on the colours and trends to suit you to save you time.

Spring/Summer 2024 Colour Update Guide

This guide has had an update to the design this year. It’s still a handy-sized guide to pop in your handbag, but it’s now slimmer, so it fits inside your colour me beautiful colour swatch wallet! (sneak peak in the video above!)

You’ll find the key colours for spring/summer 2024 organised by dominant colouring type (using the tonal colour analysis system which you’ll learn during your colour analysis consultation) to help guide you when shopping.

There’s seven colours for each of the six colouring types which includes three neutrals this year, making it easy to focus on updating your wardrobe this season and fill any specific colour gaps you’ve identified from your palette.

Between April and September, you’ll get a copy with all colour and style consultations.

Live Workshop – Spring/Summer 2024 Colours & Trends – Saturday 6 April 12pm

The next live group workshop takes place virtually on Saturday 6 April at 12pm and lasts around 90 minutes.

During this workshop, you’ll be guided on the latest colours, trends and where to find them. I’ll show examples I’ve found on the high street, plus I shop my own wardrobe too! All aimed at inspiring you to style up and wear what you’ve got so you only buy what you need. Get your ticket here.

Recorded video masterclass

If you can’t attend the live event, my pre-recorded video masterclass is for you so you don’t miss out!

I’ll share my presentation and guidance during this 45 minute pre-recorded video which you can watch in your own time. I’ll talk you through the latest colours and trends, with examples inspiring you in how to wear them.

Shop the look guides for each colouring type

I received some fabulous feedback on these new guides last season, so they are back for SS24 bigger and better!

There’s a ‘shop the look’ for each dominant colouring type and ideal if you know your colours to make shopping the new season colours and trends a breeze.

Each guide features a range of garments, including accessories. There’s over 40 items I’ve picked alongside stylist notes and links to each retailer website to buy.

When are the seasonal updates?

The spring/summer update guides will be available to purchase online from 1 April and the live workshop takes place on 6 April. Tickets to the workshop are available to buy here.

If you’re shopping the sales or pre-loved and missed the previous Autumn/Winter update, these are reduced whilst stocks last. Colour and style guides are available here.

Early access at a discount is available, but only if you join the wait list. Subscribing to a waiting list means I can make you an exclusive offer. The offers aren’t available outside of my email list (ie I don’t offer them anywhere else). So, if you’re not on the list then you don’t get this access. Joining the wait list means you’ll get 5 days exclusive access ahead of general sale at an exclusive discounted price.

To qualify, you need to be subscribed, select ‘seasonal updates’ as an interest and still be opted in by the time the offer email comes around. On 27 March, you’ll receive an email with your exclusive pre-launch offers. Register your details here on the wait list.

How will the seasonal updates help you?

Money doesn’t buy style, knowledge does.

I’m often told my guides stop you making the same mistakes and buying more things you don’t wear/don’t suit you. Having a colour and style expert find items you wouldn’t normally choose yourself actually saves time (and money)! Inspiring you and providing ideas for things you already have stops you wasting money on clothes you won’t wear and don’t need. Using my seasonal updates makes you more aware of what’s already in your wardrobe that you can re-wear again and again too.

Having a colour and style consultant do the hard work for you, stops you scouring the internet and the high street as I’ve gathered the colours and trends, who they work for, where to get them and how to wear them. You just need to choose the format which works best for you!

As a reminder:

  1. A summary guide of the key colours you’ll find this spring/summer 2024 for each dominant colouring type.
  2. Shop the Look guides for each colour type which features links to the retailer websites with style and fit notes from me too.
  3. Recorded on-demand masterclass which is pre-recorded showing you the colours and trends in the shops and tips on how to wear them and who they suit. The video uses the same slides I use in the live group workshop.
  4. 90 minute live group workshop, showing you a presentation of the colours and trends plus what examples I’ve found on the high street. Tips on how to wear them, who they suit and making them work for you. I’ll also show you examples of the ‘new’ trends I’ve found in my wardrobe which I’ll be re-wearing to inspire you to check your wardrobe and style them up a different way.

How much are the seasonal updates?

The price ranges from £7.50 to £19.50 depending what you choose. It’s a cost effective way to tap into the expertise of a colour and style consultant! But, if you’d prefer something more personalised, do get in touch: toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Want to get your wardrobe ready for the new season?

Get your seasonal update here

Should you ration fashion like the war days?

Posted on by Toni Carver

It was often said that The Queen’s style often reflected the state of the nation, do you agree? Her colourful outfits deliberately chosen to help her stand out in a crowd – that’s the power of colour. I miss her visual statements and hoping she’s resting in peace.

I discovered recently that when she married, her Norman Hartnell wedding gown was paid using clothing ration coupons, due to measures in place following World War Two.

Clothing rations

Clothes were rationed in 1941. The rationing scheme allocated a ‘point’ value to each clothing type based upon how much material and labour went into the manufacture of the garment. Imagine if this was in place now!

Dresses – 11
Stockings – 2
Shoes – 5
Jacket – 12
Jumper/cardigan – 5
Knickers – 3
Skirt – 8
Trousers – 8
Shirt/blouse – 4

Every adult was given 66 points, which unfortunately reduced over time. From 1 September 1945 to 30 April 1946 only 24 coupons were issued which meant only 3 coupons a month could be used. People were encouraged to be frugal with their coupons so they would last the year. Seasonal and weather changes were highly recommended to be considered to ensure the best garment was chosen to last.

This meant that careful planning was essential but likely meant some people went without. How would you have spent yours?

Each item was bought with the appropriate number of coupons plus money. Each garment sold, whether it be a dress or a pair of underwear, would have the same standard coupon cost but that didn’t determine the cash value cost. So, those who were wealthier could purchase a very high-quality garment that would last a long time, whilst others had to settle for an inexpensive garment which wouldn’t last very long, for the same coupon.

At the time, fashion magazine Vogue were on hand to offer advice which is still great advice for today!:

Put your money into one good outfit and vary it with accessories

The average wardrobe

The English Heritage reported that in the early 1940s, the average wardrobe of a middleclass woman consisted of:

Dresses – 7
Two-piece suits – 2-3
Skirts – 2-3
Overcoats – 3
Mackintosh – 1 (as in ‘Mac’)
Shoes – 5 pairs split between the seasons

By comparison, a poorer woman may have:

Dresses – 3
Skirt – 1
Overcoats – 1-2
Shoes – 1-2 pairs

Both sound like a ‘capsule wardrobe’, but how do these compare to what you have in your wardrobe?

Make Do and Mend

The ‘Make Do and Mend’ campaign encouraged people to make their existing clothing last longer by repairing, reusing and repurposing fabric and garments into new outfits. This gave freedom for some to diversify and be more creative with what they had. Something which still occurs today of course.

Nowadays, it’s thought that over one million tonnes of clothes are thrown away each year. It’s estimated that 95% of the textiles binned in the UK could have been reused or recycled! So very different from 80 years ago.

Utility clothing

In 1942 the government introduced a scheme called ‘utility clothing’. It offered a range of well-designed, quality and price-controlled clothes, affordable to everyone. It was also the first time that high-end fashion designers were making clothes for the mass market. Of course, this set a precedent long after the war which we still see today.

The Utility scheme ended in 1952 and was thought to have given consumers confidence to demand value for money as well as higher standards in materials and manufacture within the fashion industry as a whole.

The development of Fast Fashion

Mass-market production isn’t new, yet the amounts being produced has increased hugely. Clothing was generally produced to sell for the forthcoming seasons – spring, summer, autumn and winter, which made planning and prediction of trends much easier. Today, there can be as many as 52-micro-seasons as manufacturers and retailers increase their product range in an attempt to increase sales. But, this hasn’t meant the best quality or fair prices for all involved in the process (ie. the workers).

I’ve always said that I’m not a fashion stylist. It’s not my thing. I’m not a slave to fashion, but I keep an eye on things. I aim to buy what I need and encourage my clients to do the same. Having so much choice can be overwhelming which is why I believe in simply making better, more informed choices.

How to make better choices

Understanding what suits you is key to helping you make these choices. After all, when you know what colours suit you, how to dress your shape and proportions, and reflecting your individual style, you can minimise the noise. The ability to make or alter your own clothes is a fantastic skill to have, but you’ve still got to have the knowledge on what’s right for you in the first place, or you can make mistakes too.

Alongside my consultations, I offer ongoing advice through my seasonal updates, twice a year. This coincides with spring/summer and autumn/winter which is roughly when the the clothes change. It’s not about encouraging you to make further purchases you don’t need and won’t wear. Instead I want to inspire you to plan, wear and buy what you need, from wherever works for you. Use the information to create your own clothes, shop pre-loved and charities and try the many rental marketplaces too.

These options simply weren’t an option to the ladies decades ago, but they are now. Plus, you’ll no doubt find something in your wardrobe which is similar to what’s ‘new’, especially if you invested in better quality pieces.

Back in the 40’s and 50’s, you were encouraged to be more mindful of your wardrobes and inventive with what you had. I encourage you to do the same today and my advice will help you gain the knowledge on what suits you so you get more wear out of your clothes.

 

References:
The book: Fashion Conscious by Sarah Klymkiw and Kim Hankinson is a remarkable read if you’re looking for a way to change your habits with clothes.

Thanks to www.english-heritage.org.uk, Fashion Conscious Book by Sarah Klymkiw and Kim Hankinson, www.iwm.org.uk, www.fabrickated.com and https://www.royal.uk for the enlightening reads and providing my sources.

NEW Spring/Summer 2024 Colour & Trend Seasonal Update Workshop

Posted on by Toni Carver

Sunnier days are coming, so I’m busy behind the scenes with my ‘Seasonal Updates’ to help you get your wardrobe ready for the next season.

I don’t believe in being a slave to fashion as trends do come and go. That said, colours change every season, so it’s the perfect opportunity to switch up your wardrobe. (Especially when you understand what suits you!).

Learning how to adapt these new colours and trends will help you create new outfits so you feel up-to-date rather than ‘fashionable’.

The spring/summer workshop takes place on the first Saturday of April (and October for Autumn/Winter). But, the new colour and trend guides are available from 1 April. Anyone registered on the wait list will receive discounted access to the guides prior to launch each season.

When is the Spring/Summer 24 workshop?

Saturday 6 April.

What time is it?

Starting at 12pm UK time, lasting 90 minutes.

Where is it held?

The workshop takes place online, via zoom. Once registered, you’ll receive a link to join the event online at 12pm.

What’s covered?

This season, I’ve got seven colours to share with you for each of the six dominant colouring types and 12 trends. I’ll share the Pantone colours from London Fashion Week which will be coded by colour types giving you even more colours to choose from!

Along with the trending colours and styles, you’ll also see examples of where you can find them too. You can expect me to raid my wardrobe again as I check these ‘new’ trends and show you how to style what you’ve already got. How many ‘new’ outfits can you make from things you already have lurking in your wardrobe??

Let me inspire you and guide you so that you can make informed choices on what suits you and help you shop with intention.

Do I have to know my colour type/style/shape/been to TLC Style & Colour to join the event?

Not at all! These workshops are open to everyone to find out the latest seasonal colours and styles to try out yourself.

How much are tickets?

£19.50 per person. This includes a link to join the live event and you’ll receive a summary of the colours and trends, a shopping guide, wardrobe checklist and discount voucher after the workshop.

Will it be recorded?

No. This is a live event. A recorded ‘on-demand masterclass’ is available to purchase from 1 April which illustrates the colours and trends covered to watch in your own time. Visit the colour and style update guides here.

How do I book?

Simply click below to secure your spot.

  •
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    Event Tickets Latest Colours & Trends: 2024 Seasonal Update Workshops £19.50

    You don’t have to be a slave to fashion to look up-to-date and stylish!

    These events are run every spring/summer and autumn/winter seasons.

    Come along, be inspired and learn how to adapt the new colours and trends to create stylish outfits in 2024.

    Workshops take place virtually on Saturday 6 April 2024 (spring/summer) and Saturday 5 October (autumn/winter).

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Is your wardrobe ready for spring?

Posted on by Toni Carver

Spring is on the way, so how is your wardrobe shaping up?

Like me, many of my clients aren’t slaves to fashion, but they do want to look and feel up-to-date. This doesn’t mean a new wardrobe every season though, but it could mean new inspiration and ideas adapting what you’ve already got. It can feel quite overwhelming, but knowing what suits you will help you to buy less and make better choices.

The temptation to buy something new is with us every day, but random and ill-thought through purchases can mean they languish in the back of the wardrobe, untouched and unworn which is when the guilt sets in!

Take a look at your wardrobe

If you rotate your wardrobe each season, these unworn items will be easier to spot. Ask yourself what the reasons are that you’ve not worn them to see if you should keep them longer. Previously I’ve shared a trick to help you identify the clothes you’re not wearing and what to do with them. Revisit this blog.

Whilst I don’t rotate my wardrobe every season, this trick means I’m constantly monitoring what I have and I can easily see what I’m wearing. Plus, I keep a list of specific things I need. Often, a new style or colour will come with a season which I can add to my wardrobe and keep outfits feeling up-to-date.

What to put on the list

Let’s say you have worn a t-shirt/sandals/boots/whatever to death, and you don’t feel like you can live without them. This likely means it’s a keeper and a core item in your wardrobe.

This isn’t an excuse to buy six of the exact same item! If you have a lot of the exact same thing in your wardrobe, you will get bored. Whether it’s jeans, blazers, Breton tops or flowered dresses – how many do you actually have time to wear? Only buy another if it’s to replace an already well-worn item!

On your list should also be items that you keep wishing you had to put an outfit together. It could be a wedge sandal or a nude shoe. A lightweight jacket for the not-quite-warm-enough evenings out. If you’ve got a classic style personality, you may want a bag to go with a pair of shoes, or a top to go with that skirt you’ve never worn! Putting them on a list creates a shopping list which helps you shop with purpose. This could be pre-loved, fabric to make your own garments or new spring finds.

What you’re not wearing often tells me more about your ‘style personality’ than you may realise. It’s understanding what does work for you and recognising when you can’t make it work. Sometimes, it’s time to let them go to someone who will wear them because it suits them rather than you holding on ‘just in case’. Might be worth adding them to your list of what not to buy too!

When to shop

There is no right or wrong time to shop. Ultimately, it boils down to what you need, when you need it. But, having a ready made list means that you can shop with purpose and you may pick something up in the sales, if you’re lucky!

Some clients prefer to shop early in the season and you may pick up just what you’re looking for. Other times, you might need to be more patient. A new season is a new opportunity for new colours, combinations and trends to update your wardrobe. This includes pre-loved too – as others clear out their wardrobes, you never know what nugget you’ll find.

Spring / Summer 2024 Updates

Each season, I do the hard work for you and scour the retailers to put together my seasonal updates. The spring/summer 2024 material will be available to purchase from 1 April (unless you’re on the wait list). The live group workshop will take place virtually on Saturday 6 April and tickets are available here.

This season, I’ve managed to narrow it down to seven colours for each dominant colouring type and 12 trends. Whilst trends do come and go, there’s definitely some repeats and something for everyone!

I’ve already begun gathering examples of where you can find the new colours and trends, because I know this inspires you to try something new and gives you ideas. You’ll have the opportunity to ‘shop the looks’ too.

This year, I’ll be raiding my wardrobe again picking out examples of the ‘new’ trends to show you how to style things up that you’ve already got to create ‘new’ outfits. You’ll see this and more during the live group workshop.

If you can’t make the live event, there will be a pre-recorded masterclass, and details will follow shortly. Join the wait list by registering your interest in ‘seasonal updates’.

How to wear and style a jumper to create a waist (and avoid a shapeless look)

Posted on by Toni Carver

Have you ever found that a jumper can look a little bulky or shapeless when you’re wearing it?

Sometimes what you need to do is wear it with a little tweak to style it in a different way.

I’ve talked about tucking in a jumper previously (so that you don’t look like a sack of spuds). It’s all in the styling and creating shape. You can revisit that video on YouTube here or click on this blog.

But, have you thought about the sleeves?

Rolling the sleeves up slightly will draw attention to where your waist is. Or, where you’d like it to be if you don’t have equally balanced proportions! It’s simply a clever trick!

It’s not just a yank up either and hey presto. You’re looking for a smoother line rather than a gathering of material.

This is a visual trick to draw the eye line into a waist and highlight more shape to your frame.

Just a simple adjustment of the sleeve area can help to create the illusion of a waist, if you don’t have a clearly defined one too.

In the video, you’ll be able to see how my silhouette looks better as a result of just a couple of tweaks and how to style it.

Watch it on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/zUDQUz3cw64

Why is colour analysis so popular right now?

Posted on by Toni Carver

Thanks to TV shows like Lorraine, radio interviews*, articles and Tik Tok (more about that here), colour analysis is having a real moment. So what’s all the hype about?

It isn’t some new experience. It’s actually been around for decades! Colour analysis remains my most popular service since I started my colour and style business over 12 years ago.

Colour has a profound effect on how you look and feel. Wearing colours that harmonise with your physical features makes all the difference to your appearance.

As a trained colour analysis consultant, I never tire of seeing the transformation with my clients, or their reaction when they see how impactful it is.

Colour analysis helps you discover the colours which compliment YOU and your features (your hair colour, skin tone and eye colour). You’ll discover how to wear colour, helping you create a more cohesive wardrobe. Make more informed choices, and fewer mistakes too. More and more people are seeking a less cluttered wardrobe. Learning what suits you can help you achieve this.

Wearing your colours improves how you feel in what you wear. It’s an instant boost to your confidence! Many clients tell me how transformative their colour experience has been, and how easier it is knowing what suits them.

During my colour analysis consultations, I show my clients how to make colours work for them, even if they aren’t quite right. The right colours will lift your features and make you look healthier rather than tired, unwell or drained. If something isn’t your most flattering colour, it’s always best to wear it AWAY from your face.

Once you know the right colours for you, you’ll notice how easier it is to ‘match’ things and create outfits that go together, saving yourself time every morning! 

* Listen to this recent interview with my CMB colleague Lindsay. Skip to 15:14 and in under seven minutes, you can hear why the CMB tonal colour analysis system works so well. Listen here.

READY TO GET STARTED ON YOUR COLOUR JOURNEY? BOOK NOW!

Guest Blog: Top 10 nutrition tips and small changes by Sarah-Jane Johnston

Posted on by Toni Carver

In my first guest post for 2024, I wanted to introduce you to Sarah-Jane Johnston; a Nutrition Mentor and Coach, Pilates Instructor and the founder of evolution34. These 10 nutrition tips could be the small change you need which lead to improvements in your overall health and wellbeing.

Her fascination with nutrition came from finding out she had a severe wheat allergy at 19. Knowing the cause of her pain was linked to what she ate and the physical activity she carried out didn’t just help herself, but her future clients.

Similar to me, Sarah-Jane had a long career (23 years) in the events industry before launched her business: evolution34 to help people achieve their health, fitness and wellbeing goals. She’s an Associate with the British Menopause Society and a Board Member of the Barnsley Chamber Health and Wellbeing Forum.

Small Changes by Sarah-Jane Johnston

We often put pressure on ourselves, especially at this time of year to make changes. Reflecting on what we wanted to achieve in the previous year, and perhaps didn’t. But, it’s the small changes that can lead to the huge improvements you dream of.

Perhaps you’re aspiring to have a healthier diet and confused by social media and the so-called TV expert advice, so you don’t really know where to start. You may want to feel more energised, or find out what’s actually causing your IBS. Struggling to shift some weight, the noise and various diet plans can be confusing.

If something in your life is irritating you and your health, it’s your choice to make a change!

Common conversations around this subject often begin that you know that you “need to stop eating rubbish food, drink less and get to the gym”. Usually, this “start next Monday” approach doesn’t work for the majority of people. Monday will not happen unless you start with small changes, because life just doesn’t stop.

It’s important to decide what you feel is the most important aspect to start with. This can often be dietary intake which can help with any health concerns, energy levels and sleep problems. Then, you can begin to feel like being more physically active and do what motivates you, rather than what you feel is expected.

I believe in exercising both the body and mind which is why I combine nutrition and pilates. Pilates is an exercise for strength and stability and is a whole body work out too. Joseph Pilates developed 34 exercises and taught these using 6 principals: Breathe, flow, centering, concentration, control and precision. He said “in 10 classes you’ll feel the difference, in 20 classes you see the difference and in 30 classes you’ll have a whole new body.”

With your health and fitness in a good routine, hey presto; your overall wellbeing will shoot up!

Top 10 Nutrition tips

Pick one or two to start with and, once they are new habits, you can move on to another one.

  1. Make time for a seated breakfast within 1-1.5 hours after waking
  2. Include Carbohydrates, Fats and Protein in your breakfast
  3. Drink 2 litres of water each day (tea/coffee doesn’t count!)
  4. Mid-morning or afternoon snack (if needed) fruit and nuts are great
  5. Don’t eat your lunch stressed…if you’re at work eat away from your desk
  6. Take a 10-minute walk your lunch/dinner to fire up your metabolism
  7. If you drink juice limit this to 120ml the sugars in fruit change after processing
  8. Eat colourful meals for natural sources of vitamins and minerals
  9. Healthy swaps: potato = sweet potato, white rice = brown rice, pasta = lentils
  10. Healthy swaps: cereal = Greek strained yoghurt and berries, crisps = popcorn

I hope my top 10 nutrition tips inspire you to start making some good, new habits.

Should you require any guidance, I can be found at www.evolution34.com or call me on 07852333394.

Wishing you a happy and healthy 2024.

Sarah-Jane

Simple way to identify clothes you’re not wearing

Posted on by Toni Carver

How many times have you discovered something in your wardrobe that you forgot you had?

Chances are, if you’ve got lots of clothes, it won’t be easy for you to identify garments you’re not wearing.

So, before you buy more clothes, I recommend this task. It’s something that I undertake every year with my own clothes, but if you’ve never done it yourself, you may find you need to repeat the task a few times during the year.

A full wardrobe audit takes time and fills many with dread, which is why this task is a little smarter and much less daunting. (But, if you do need help with a full wardrobe audit, let me help!)

The task

Undertaking the task this year, I found around 12 items I’ve not worn in the previous 12 months and 9 of these, I’ve removed to sell on or gift to charity. It took me less than 10 minutes!

It was easy for me to identify these quickly simply because I simply turn the hanger round the opposite way when I’ve worn an item! (Plus, I understand what colours, styles, fabric and shapes suit me!).

At the start of January, I turn all my hangers in the wardrobe so they face the same direction. Then, as I wear something and hang it back up, I switch the hanger to face the opposite direction. Over time, this helps me identify clothes I’m enjoying wearing, and those I’m just not reaching for.

Visually, you’ll begin to see patterns emerge in your own wardrobe and the split of clothes you do and don’t wear. I’ve recorded a quick video to illustrate the task which you can also watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/S2L8KN193lU

Try it for 30 days and see how you get on, or for for 3 months which will help you prepare for the next season (yes, I’ll be offering my seasonal updates guides again).

What to do with clothes you’re not wearing

As you identify garments you’re not wearing, question yourself for any reasons why this has been. Here’s a few that arise frequently:

  1. Not the weather
  2. The colour washes you out
  3. It doesn’t fit you (too big/too small)
  4. The fabric is scratchy
  5. No longer flattering
  6. Nothing to wear it with
  7. Other similar items you wear more
  8. Fallen out of love with it
  9. Looks dated
  10. Doesn’t work for you
  11. Not been an occasion to wear it
  12. Don’t feel like ‘you’
  13. Changed job/retired
  14. Don’t like how you feel when you wear it
  15. Sentimentally, you can’t let it go

Some of these are good reasons to keep hold of them a bit longer, but do try and wear them! For others, it might be time for you to remove them and let someone else enjoy wearing them instead.

Here’s my advice.

Not the weather

Keep hold of it so you can wear it when you feel it’s more appropriate weather-wise. Unless, you can layer it and wear it with other items you have.

The colour washes you out

Can you wear it away from your face so that it’s little more forgiving? If it’s a top, try wearing another top underneath to break up the colour or try a scarf. Change the colour by dying it or move it on. Or, seek clarity on the colours that do suit you by booking a colour analysis consultation. 

It doesn’t fit you (too big/too small)

These clothes take up room in your wardrobe and you won’t wear them if they don’t fit you! Retaining clothes that don’t fit you can make it harder and take you longer to get ready. For items which affect your mindset and how you feel, I recommend removing them. Even if that means storing them away for now and reviewing in three months or six months time.

The fabric is scratchy

If you hate the feel of something when you wear it, or you have static each time you wear it, you will not be happy when you wear it! Chances are, you’re likely to not wear it again. Move it on.

No longer flattering

Everyone wants to feel good in what they wear, so if something doesn’t flatter you and you don’t feel good when you wear it, why keep it?

Nothing to wear it with

Until you find something that you feel you can wear it with, it will remain unworn and unloved. Challenge yourself to wear it with something you already have, or make it a priority for your shopping list.

Other similar items you wear more

Duplicate pieces can replace older, worn out versions, but if you’re finding that you still prefer the older version and saving this, it means it’s taking up space. Chances are, you don’t need 5 jackets in the same colour, so try and move at least one on.

Fallen out of love with it

Put simply, you won’t wear it so it’s time to say goodbye.

Looks dated

Some items are more timeless than others. Trends come and go, so be honest with yourself if you can see yourself wearing it again, even in a different way? If you can’t then move it on.

Doesn’t work for you

Can you alter it so that you feel it does work for you? What are the reasons that you feel it doesn’t because if you can’t overcome them, you won’t wear it! Change it (tailor/sewer) so it does work for you, or bite the bullet and get rid. If you’re finding it difficult to identify things which do work for you, consider booking a consultation with me to learn them.

Not been an occasion to wear it

What occasion are you looking for? If it’s afternoon tea with The King, you’re better trying to wear it for a different occasion! Don’t put barriers in your mind and try not to save things for best.

Don’t feel like ‘you’

Trying something new to switch up your look is something I encourage you to do. But, if you’ve tried it and feel like ET in the little girl’s clothes (played by Drew Barrymore), then I’d be tempted to move it on as you won’t wear it again.

Changed job/retired

Be honest about how likely you are to wear those clothes again. If it’s suit, you might find you can still wear the jacket and bottoms separately. Give yourself some time to adjust – I often find clients struggle with their image as a piece of their identity has gone. Keep hold until you’re certain or if you’re not sure yet.

Don’t like how you feel when you wear it

Honestly? Let it go. Sure you can tweak it and how you wear it and style it. But, if you don’t like yourself in something, you won’t wear it!

Sentimentally, you can’t let it go

There will always be some things you can’t part with. My advice is to clean the garment and then store it safely away.

 

Finally, you deserve a wardrobe that works for you which is filled with clothes you love to wear! Undertaking this task regularly will help you to keep on top of it and means you’ll be able to quickly identify clothes you love and the ones you’re holding on to ‘just in case’!

Let me know how you get on! And, if you need any help, do get in touch to discuss the package which is right for you.

LEARN WHAT SUITS YOU AND YOU'RE HALF WAY TO ACHIEVING A WARDROBE THAT WORKS FOR YOU!

If you don’t know, get in touch so I can help you find the right package for you so you can feel good in what you wear.

How to wear Peach Fuzz – Pantone color of the year 2024

Posted on by Toni Carver

Let’s start the new year with a bit of colour, shall we??

At the start of every year, I share some advice on Pantone’s ‘Color of the Year’ (they’re not a UK company). Now in the 25th year, the Pantone Color of the Year is now a globally recognised programme. It influences and engages many communities and industries. it’s a colour you’re likely to see throughout the year.

Introducing the ‘Color of the Year’ 2024: Peach Fuzz

One that seems to have divided opinion thus far!

According to Pantone:

PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It’s a velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul.

In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.

The Meaning Behind Peach Fuzz

For this year, Pantone felt a need for a more peaceful future. Taking care of ourselves, reevaluating what is important to us, like our family and friends. Looking for that warm and welcoming embrace to lift us into the future.

How to Wear Peach Fuzz

How can you incorporate it into your wardrobe?

It’s much less bold compared to last year’s Viva Magenta. Some will find it much more inviting and I can certainly see it in furry textures and velvet or suede. I’m also thinking that it’s much more wearable in makeup, from eyeshadow to nail polish, which could be a great option if it’s not your best hue.

During a colour analysis consultation, I’ll talk you through and show you the shades of colour which compliment you the most. With this particular shade, it will suit ‘warm’ dominant colouring types the best. Softs and lights will likely find it easier to introduce to their wardrobe, if they haven’t already.

If you’re not sure if it’s the right colour for you, it’s worth checking the impact it’s having against your features. I’ve written about this previously here.

For those who know what their colouring type is, I’ve put together some colour combinations to inspire you to further. I’ve chosen one neutral shade and another colour alongside peach fuzz, depending how daring you want to be. If you’ve had a full colour analysis and you know your secondary and tertiary shades (you’ll have 36, 42 or 48 swatches in your wallet), just combine one or two of these instead.

Lights: This is a flattering shade on you! Try mixing it with your lighter and deeper colours in your swatches. Try with light grey or lavender.
Deeps: Peach Fuzz will wash you out unless you combine it with a stronger colour. I’ve paired it with burgundy and violet.
Warms: This is your season! You’ll be able to wear it with so many tones in your palette. How about with golden brown or amber and pewter?
Cools: This will not be your best look. But, if you love the shade, who am I to tell you not to wear it! Try drenching it with one of your fabulous shades, try it in a print or as accessories. I’ve chosen navy and hot pink for you.
Clears: It isn’t strong enough a shade for you to wear by itself and your skin will look lifeless and pale. Give it some oomph by combining it with a strong, bold shade. I chose emerald turquoise and charcoal as your neutral.
Softs: Peach Fuzz is a wonderful soft shade for you to add to your wardrobe, especially if you have a warm undertone to your skin. Wear it tonally with shades of a similar depth. I’ve featured cocoa and verbena.

Consider wearing it as a scarf or accessory or as a pattern if you’d rather not wear it as a block colour. The fine wool, three-colour scarf is available to purchase from the studio which work suit you if you’re a ‘warm’ dominant or a soft & warm colour type.

Makeup

Peach Fuzz is a fabulous shade for lips, cheeks and nails and do remember it has a warmer hue to it.

I’ve picked out some Colour me Beautiful cosmetic shades to inspire you further:

Eyes – the peach eyeshadow refill is an obvious choice which can be worn by everyone. Use it as an all over base or as a blender. Melon would be a great alternative if you find peach to be too warm for you.

Cheeks – peachy tones are always better suited to you if you have some warmth to your skin. Salmon and Muscat will work well, but opt for more pinky tones if you’re cooler like marsala.

Lips – spiced peach, coral, warm pink are the obvious choices for those with an element of ‘warm’ in their palette. Chiffon would be a better choice for everyone else, or simply avoid the peach fuzz tones of course!

Browse the full range here. If you need help with any makeup, then do get in touch. You can try before you buy in the studio.

In the home and around

Peach Fuzz not one for you this year? Keep your eye out for a fabulous velvet couch, paint a feature wall or opt for a new electric device instead!

 

CLICK HERE TO LEARN ABOUT COLOUR ANALYSIS CONSULTATIONS

Should you wait to lose weight before buying new clothes?

Posted on by Toni Carver

I hear this a lot and my heart goes out because it’s a vicious circle. You don’t want to buy clothes that fit you now, because you don’t intend to be remain the same weight. Yet, feeling like you don’t deserve to buy something nice because you’re not your ideal weight, means you compromise on your clothing.

Granting yourself permission to buy new clothes when you’re thinner, sends a message to yourself that you’re not worth it if you’re carrying a little extra weight. This leads to wearing clothes that you don’t feel good in, and your self-belief is knocked down further. You end up trapped in a circle of despair.

Shape not size

I see very few people who are 100% happy with their body. Most people are too concerned with their own body to be looking at yours! Everyone’s body changes anyway!

With no universal sizing, it means you could be one size in one shop and another elsewhere. Unless you make your own clothes, garments you buy aren’t specifically being made for you, so you might have to make them work for your body (rather than the other way around). Size is just a number after all – it’s dressing your shape that matters.

If you’ve found a garment and it’s perfect for you in all other aspects (colour, fit, fabric), but the number on the label isn’t, will you really deny yourself the item?

Clothes can be altered or styled differently. They can be sold, swapped or given to charity. Waiting until you hit your goal weight is commendable, but it’s absolutely fine to feel good and look good whilst you’re working towards it. You don’t have to lose weight to look good or feel good. But, wearing clothes which are comfortable and which suit you will make a vast difference.

If you’re reading this thinking you won’t be able to pull something off, let me assure you it has nothing to do with your size. It’s all about your confidence and self belief. Many people end up reaching for oversized garments hoping to hide their body. Unfortunately, it often just makes you look bigger than you are. There’s better ways of doing it.

Too many clothes

Having a wardrobe full of clothes in multiple sizes, which don’t fit can lead you to keep beating yourself up. These clothes can end up taunting you every day, making you feel frustrated. They’re an unhelpful reminder of your former self rather than who you are NOW or, could be in the future.

Remove the clothes that you don’t wear because they don’t fit you and store them away. Most people need far less clothes than what they have in my experience! Curating a small wardrobe of clothes that fit you and which you can happily wear will make you feel good too.

Do you know what actually suits you? Not everyone is clear about the colour/style/shape/fit/fabric. Knowing what suits you will improve your confidence and help you to feel good in what you wear, right now as well as in the future. So, don’t put off booking a consultation because you’re waiting to lose weight.

Wearing colour is not limited to size! Using colour is a clever way to enhance your features and provide an instant boost to your confidence.

Remember, clothes don’t just cover your body, they tell a story.  What story are you telling the world?

If you’re not sure where to start or what package is right for you, get in touch with me first so we can have a chat.

The secret to layering your clothes and still look stylish (without adding bulk)

Posted on by Toni Carver

The secret to help you stay warm in the colder months is to successfully layer your clothes. Wearing lots of fine, thin layers, rather than one thick item of clothing is a smarter way to keep warm, whilst still looking stylish.

The cold weather doesn’t have to mean boring, frumpy or functional. Nothing wrong with that by the way – I love my giant puffer, duvet style winter coat! But, practicality speaking, I can’t really sit in it all day. Learn to master the basics instead.

I’ve recorded a 3 minute video which you can watch on my YouTube channel here. Below, I’ll explain the details and how to layer successfully.

Layer one – the base layer

For most of us, everyday life is being at home, work or being outdoors. It’s not trekking across Antartica. So adding lots of thin, fine layers is as simple as it gets. You don’t have to spend a fortune on fancy, expensive gear – unless you think you’ll get the use out of it of course.

This base layer is the first layer of protection which sits closest to your skin, so it’s better to be thin and fine as it’s the foundation to which you’ll build your further layers.

Think vests, t shirts and long sleeved t shirts. What I tend to do is actually have a long sleeved t shirt underneath a jumper. If I’m feeling particularly chilly, I might have a vest underneath it or a t shirt underneath. Because they’re thin, I can layer them and not add too much bulk to my frame. I use my summer items (vests, t-shirts) underneath my winter woollies so I get more use of out my basic, core items. Many of these I’ve had for years too!

Merino wool is probably one of the best (if you can’t afford cashmere!) due to its insulating and breathable qualities. It helps regulate body temperature, wicks away moisture, and if you sweat, you won’t be left feeling wet, stinky or clammy!

An unlikely consideration is silk which is one of the softest fabrics you’ll ever wear which is great all season round. It’s lightweight, hypoallergenic, and a natural insulator – a silk vest will be great.

You’ll read a lot in terms of outdoor wear that actually cotton is one of the worst. But actually, if you’ve got a cotton and polyester blend, which I think a lot of my long sleeve tops are, you’ll be absolutely fine for sitting in the house and popping to the shops. These blends are very popular and cost-effective options.

Layer two – the mid layer

Adding this extra layer of insulation acts as a barrier to the cold whilst retaining your body heat. It’s the middle layer between your base layer and your outer-wear.

Depending how many layers you’re going to have as a base layer, just think this layer is about what’s being worn on top of your base layer. Most likely; a jumper, sweatshirt, hoodies, cardigan or fleece, but could also be a shirt and then a jumper.

Consider the thickness of the fabric in the garments here. The thicker the fabric, the finer and thinner your layers underneath are better off being. If you had a fine knit jumper here, it will mean you can add another layer over the top if you need it.

Layer three – the outer layer

Your outer layer is about protecting you from the elements outside. You’ll know from coats you’ve owned in the past how effective they are against the wind, snow, rain, or ice! To help you stay dry, your coat will need to be be both waterproof and breathable. Water resistant options are cheaper but be aware that they will not protect you from torrential rain or being out in the rain a long time. Make sure you’ve got enough layers to protect you should the rain soak through.

Accessories

Whilst these layers play a vital role in keeping your body warm, pay close attention to your head, face, hands, and feet too.

Hats, mittens, gloves, scarves, socks and waterproof footwear are all worthy considerations! Merino and cashmere accessories are much cheaper to buy and will work wonders at helping to keep you warm. I’ve raved previously about my cashmere fingerless gloves and would highly recommend.

Keeping your feet warm is a vital part of retaining body heat and staying comfortable in colder temperatures. So consider cashmere socks or foot insoles to keep your feet warm and toasty with waterproof footwear for outside.

Your style

For ease of demonstration, I’ve talked about tops but you can also have base layer bottoms too.

Aside from the practicality of staying warm, layering your clothes is also a clever way to add interest or colour to your outfit. It’s something I’ve covered previously in this blog but if you’re struggling with any aspect, do get in touch: toni.carver@tlcstyleandcolour.co.uk