I used to think I had to go out and spend £100-£300 on a new dress, shoes and handbag every time I was invited to a wedding.
I have made some big wedding guest outfit errors in my time - clashing colours, being 'too' creative... What you think looked edgy and in-fashion 10 years ago looks a lot less cool when you look at the photos now. According to Oxfam.org
"There are 3.6 billion clothes left unworn in the nation's wardrobes - a whopping 57 items per person - with an average of 16 items only worn once and 11 still with the tags on"
I must confess to the majority of 'worn once items' that used to hide in my wardrobe were purchased for special events like weddings, balls and Halloween and Christmas parties. Only through my years of being creative especially when I was young and didn't have the money (and a desire to look different) I learnt how dress without actually spending lots of money by pairing up basic pieces, avoiding cheap materials and bad cuts, and realising the power of accessories. It's actually pretty easy once you know how. It's all about preparation and not purchasing on a whim. Research and invest. Head over to Pinterest and research the look - then focus on investment pieces that you can create an addition 3-5 different looks out of.
So here they are...the tips I'd like to share for effortless style and confidence at a wedding
5 Wedding Guest Style Tips
Research and invest. Keep it classy - choose sophisticated over fashionable or funky (in 10-years time you'll thank me for this advice).
Wear colours that won't go out of style (classic tones) and keep your palette down to 2/3 colours. For example, the last wedding I attended I went with a peachy pink dress - white and gold. I kept my nails a peachy pink too and I avoided my usual bright orange/red lipstick, opting for brown and gold eye makeup and a neutral lip gloss
Wear something that 'fits' your figure - get your outfit tailored - don't try to hide your shape, embrace it. The big dress and all that extra material is reserved for the bride and her bridesmaids. Not you.
Make sure you feel good, you have to feel comfortable - what matters is you feel like you look good, but you can still enjoy yourself in what you are wearing (don't wear really high heels if you can't walk in them - weddings last a long time and you'll need to be able to wear your shoes right until the end, if you want to remain looking classy!).
If in doubt about anything remember - keep it simple (KIS). When too many colours, textures and patterns get introduced things can get visually messy. And who doesn't like a nice kiss at a wedding ;-)
Stay fabulous and if in doubt don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help!
What is sustainable styling? It's about buying less, buying better quality longer lasting investment pieces and being more creative with what you've already got. When you buy something new challenge yourself to see how many different ways you can style it. If you can create 3-5 solid looks - then it's a no brainer. I was given three different items by DFYNorm ethical fashion brand to review and apply my personal style. My challenge as always was to get 5 looks out of each item without buying anything new.
So how did I do?
Well bearing in mind I did not buy anything extra to complete these looks, I only used items I had from the back of the wardrobe. I really challenged myself to utilise what I already had and to be as creative as possible. It was not as easy as I hoped. But I was able to get a good few solid outfits created. The 'old' me would have easily been able to create more looks by simply going out and shopping for new items. But I wanted to avoid going back to those unsustainable shopping behaviours... so this is what I came up with:
You can see that I was able to create multiple looks and my favourites are shown below.
I hope you enjoyed seeing some of the styles I was able to create. Some of the key pieces I used from my own wardrobe were:
Suede ankle boots
Over the knee suede boots
Suede pumps
Red leather pumps
Flat pointed leather shoes
Sparkly evening shoes
Leather Jacket
Black blazer
Accessories: burgundy wool hat, cotton scarf, flower garland headpiece, 3 different necklaces, and a costume jewellery ring
2 different black leather bags - a multi-use clutch/over body bag, 1 tote.
The shorts and the jumpsuit were the most versatile pieces - and I just showed a few outfits, but many more options were possible. For example, the shorts could be teamed with tights and a jumper to see you through the winter. The jumpsuit is linen so this is best suited for just the spring and summer months - and the black waistcoat dress would look great with some bright coloured pumps a bright lip, a quiff and some pinup curls.
If you have any comments or questions on how I styled these items - please just leave me a comment below.
For a limited time only readers of my blog can get 20% the DFYnorm range by heading over to the website and using the code: RStyleLee at the checkout - this is available until the 30th September 2016.
If you are interested in the full video DFYnorm review you can check that out over on YouTube.
Stay fabulous ladies!
Roberta
(Confidence Coach & Stylist)
PS. If you are interested in testing out a FREE confidence coaching and personal styling session just let me know! Visit www.robertastylelee.co.uk
It's official I have stepped into the world of Youtube... my video review can be viewed below. The sound quality of the video isn't the best, so I apologise for that (the next one will be better I promise) but if you can stick with it you'll hear my thoughts and opinions on the 3 key pieces that I was given to style and review:
For a limited time only readers of my blog can get 20% the DFYnorm range by heading over to the website and using the code: RStyleLee at the checkout - this is available until the 30th September 2016.
Women inspire me. Motivated, successful and confident women really inspire me. Real women with real stories are inspirational. Women that defy the norm and design products/deliver services that help women feel better about themselves or empower women - seriously inspire me! With so much talent and inspiration out there I thought I would start a new #inspirationalwomen series for my monthly newsletter. I decided to post a few teasers on the blog - starting with this one. I hope you enjoy reading it. If you want to catch the whole series SIGN UP HERE.
An interview with the co-founder of DFYnorm the up and coming ethical fashion brand - 15 June 2016, London
I met Haseena in a hotel bar not far from Oxford street. She is the co-founder of an up and coming ethical brand called DFYnorm who make high quality fashion items for the empowered woman. Haseena arrived looking casual but elegant wearing an aztec print jacket (which has it's own story!) over a black dress teamed with a tan satchel. We sat down at a table and ordered a bite to eat and some non-alcoholic drinks before the interview commenced.
Here's a short 2-minute video which explains more about the brand and why I was so keen to know more about the inspirational women behind it:
Me: Thanks for meeting with me Haseena - so I'm excited to hear more about your story, tell me what motivated you to come up with the DYFnorm clothing brand? I love that you've dared to be different in your attitude towards fashion.
H: Well it all started because my co-founder and I were fed up with the mainstream fashion industry and what it represented.
The clothes we wear not only communicate who we are but also have a huge impact on the world, socio-culturally as well as environmentally. There is so much throw away and waste. Garments are no longer investments. I’d rather be making clothes that are meaningful and connect people with their truth. Fashion can play a role in inspiring women on a journey of self-discovery.
Me: Empowering stuff! I love it.
H: I believe in the Vivienne Westwood ideology about buying less but choosing well. If you are smart about your fashion, you will be able to buy pieces that are investment worthy and well-thought-out. My co-founder came up with a really interesting phrase- “Shop for a reason. Not a season.” It's why we created a brand that cared.
Me: I believe that ‘clothing’ is more than just functional material. It’s nice to hear such a passionate voice for more meaningful and ethical fashion.
H: I want my designs to appeal to powerful women, leaders and creators who are unafraid to defy the norm.
Me: That’s great! You sound like a brand that is pushing the boundaries and making ethical fashion elegant.
H: Thank you. It is, and we like to think we are. I like what you do too. Unlike most stylists, your approach with feeling good from the inside first feels more authentic and real - I’m sure many women will relate to that.
Me: Thank you - I love what I do. Empowering people to look good, feel good and live a great life is so rewarding. I have to ask...what is the secret to your confidence?
H: My confidence? I never really think about it. I keep all my interactions very honest and personal. I wear my own brand a lot because I love what we’ve made - and it makes me feel good to wear great fitting, high quality clothes that are made with a real purpose.
Me: What about exercise? I use fitness as a tool to keep me sane, happy and confident. What do you do to stay fit and healthy?
H: I have to say yoga is my favourite form of exercise. When I work out 3 times a week, I feel like everything else falls into place - and I eat right automatically too.
Me: Exercise and food are two hugely important components of a happy healthy lifestyle - I always say 'fuel your ambition with good nutrition'. When my exercise and nutrition is on point my confidence skyrockets - I genuinely feel like I can take on the world!
H:That’s so true. I know what you mean.
Me: Well, I think that brings us to the end of our interview. Thanks for your time and I look forward supporting you on future projects!
H: Yes – I am open to what the future holds. I like that we both have a lot of resonance with what we do. I look forward to seeing your ‘brutally honest’ review of the clothes I send you!
Me: I look forward to reviewing them! I left the interview totally inspired by the vision that Haseena and her co-founder have for DFYnorm. It made me think about what other things I can do moving forward to support great women who are out there trying to make a difference. So will you join me? Will you dare to defy the norm and do some good today? DFYnorm have made it super easy for you.... you can look good, feel good - and do good! Just visit their website to see the full collection at www.dfynorm.comand use take advantage of the special discount code below.
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Stay fabulous ladies and whenever possible always try to stay informed! Roberta x
Notes: This interview was carried out by Roberta Style Lee as part of the Inspirational Women series. DFYNorm is a brand created by two inspiring women set to revolutionise fashion and what it stands for. DON'T MISS OUT ON FUTURE INTERVIEWS - SIGN UP TO MY NEWSLETTER HERE: http://www.robertastylelee.co.uk/#!subscribe-to-the-newsletter/umwhr
You can see more over on the website at www.robertastylelee.co.uk and other #RSLRecommended products and services all reviewed and tested by moi.
Welcome to the busy working city girl capsule collection, all handpicked by moi. I hope you like it!
When creating a new wardrobe you need to be realistic with what you need V. what you want. A capsule collection contains items that won't go out of fashion and can be restyled with many pieces. Shoes and bags will make or break, or renew an old outfit - so think about key pieces that can be matched to at least 4-5 outfits.
I have really enjoyed pulling this collection together. Inspired by 'Parisian Chic' and corporate life in London - I looked for items that would really work around a busy woman's lifestyle.
Items shown above left to right:Alexander Wang Prisma skeletal suede and leather shoulder bag now £387, Chloe Drew, leather and suede shoulder bag £880 (out of stock), Saint Laurent classic small monogram suede shoulder bag £880, Gianvito Rossi green velvet pumps £313, Gianvito Rossi brown suede pumps £313, Gucci patent leather pumps £331 (out of stock) H&M black denim boiler suit £35 (out of stock) Balmain double breasted velvet dress now £1,184, Balmain crystal-embellished velvet mini-dress now £1,782.
The capsule collection
Items shown above left to right:Mui Mui striped wool sweater £557, Valentino cropped cotton shirt now £263, Zara high waist trouser £14, Balenciaga wool wrap skirt £483, Victoria Beckham red teddy wool-blend miniskirt £166, True Religion Halle skinny jeans £218, ASOS mismatch flat back swing earrings - red £6 (out of stock) H&M long earrings £5 (out of stock) Chuck Taylor All Star low leather sneakers £78
All seeming a bit too expensive?
Gulp - I agree. You'd need a fair bit of free cash to buy every item I have pulled together. You don't need to buy designer items though, but you should invest in good quality pieces and if you do buy things that don't fit - visit a tailor to get the perfect fit.
It just so happens a lot of the items I selected came with a designer price tag. Finding alternative items without the hefty price tag is easy. Just decide on what you need and then search your favourite high street shops. Places like Zara and & Other Stories do their own versions of some of the key looks and trends each season.
If you regularly attend work events where you need to be well dressed, or go out socially to places that warrants a smart dress code - try and combine your wardrobe. Depending on your job, and the industry you work in you may not really need a 'work look' and a 'out of work' look - you'll just need a 'you' look.
If you like the items featured in this blog, visit the Villiod app and you can find my boards, tap and purchase any items shown (if they are still in stock).
That one outfit that makes you feel fierce
Items shown above top right:ASOS Fuller bust african print scrappy contrast bra (from £20) and underwear(£PNK)
Textures can be a great way to add importance and glamour to an outfit. A well structured dress that compliments your figure is worth a million pounds. Steer clear of cheap fabrics though as it can really spoil an outfit. For additional power dressing put on some fantastic and fierce underwear. Sit there looking all polished, nobody but you needs to know you have crazy, sexy, gorgeous underwear on - I'm telling you, it can really boost your confidence - try it!
Important meeting at work?
No problem. Every gal needs a crisp white shirt, and colour-cordinated accessories make for a smart and practical city girl look. Clutch bag for the evenings too.
You can keep reinventing this look by switching up your shoes and bags. And let's not forget a ponytail, braid or blow dry and different make-up can transform this simple look all over again.
Friday night on the town?
Sorted. Try this relaxed, stylish off-duty look. Keep things elegant and on point with heels and a structured bag. Check shoulder bags to see if the straps are removable - these can then double up as a clutch bag too.
Casual off duty look
Easy. This is where a nice clean, well looked after, pair of white simple sneakers can make your outfit look pulled together. Avoid wearing your 'gym' trainers from A to B and have a pair of 'walking trainers' that compliment your style - you can be practical and stylish.
Date night?
We all need a dress that makes us feel great, no matter what we look like or how we feel - we slip on 'that' dress and it hides the lumps and the bumps and flaunts our best features. You could even match with the black patent shoes and multi coloured Chloe bag. I would avoid wearing velvet shoes and a velvet dress though as this would be a bit too matchy.
Weekend brunch
One of my favourite patterns is stripes. It goes with everything and can be dressed up and dressed down. It's very french chic and I do tend to be inspired by the Parisian's elegant and coordinated style for the city gal wardrobe. I've put the velvet heels in this picture but you could swap for the trainers.
If you'd like some help pulling together your own capsule collection that compliments your lifestyle and body get in touch at: www.robertastylelee.co.uk
Look good, feel good.
Stay fab!
Roberta x
Note: This is a sample of a capsule collection - not all items and outfits ensembles have been shared.
I'd patiently been waiting for my delivery to arrive and I'm pleased to say, I'm thrilled with my new USA PRO workout gear.
Plus, it was barmy-barmy cheap too, thanks to the January Sales and ordering via Sports Direct.
I have saved 100s of pounds by switching from Nike/Adidas and the fit & patterns are waaaay better. I haven't tried Fabletics yet, so I can't compare these.
The petite challenge
I bought one item which doesn't really do me any favours: a pair of large daisy print ankle length workout leggings (which look super cool!). I failed to listen to my own advice, I was reminded why petite people shouldn't wear large prints.
They are quite unflattering and they make my legs look fatter than they are. No going outside of the flat in these I'm afraid... (these I will keep, but they are for my eyes only, haha, unless I get very slim limbs someday in the future).
The good news is that everything else I ordered, looks good, fits like a dream, is comfortable, seemingly well tailored, and looks pretty trendy as far as exercise gear goes!
Above: teamed with my Reebok Adiprene trainers 👍 but no matching top, as they had none in size 6 left. Gutted!
Above: a key feature on these for me is the super comfortable waistband which can be folded over. They also have a hidden pocket with zip in the waistband positioned at the back.
Above: all these items are nicely finished especially the seams. No imprints were left on my legs after wearing them either.
All the USA PRO items are made from good, thick material too. I honestly just cannot get enough of these items in these great colours! Shame they have ran out of size matching sports tops in size 6 though. (Another little moan, sorry!)
Above: USA PRO leggings (size 8) standard length with nice pink detail at the ankle. Worn with a USA PRO pink sports top (again, the smallest one they do is a size 6) - both fit well, although not a set, they do look good together.
Above: Again, these work well with my trainers. And whilst they are a little long in the leg (USA PRO doesn't do petite sizes), they are acceptable!
Above: USA PRO Sports top in hot pink is a good fit, and have extra support and padding to hold everything in place. So, even if it's cold your top won't show anything you don't want people to see ;-)
The good news is these are still available in the sale at £5.99!!! (Maybe not small sizes though).
Above: USA PRO cycling shorts
These bad-boys are a steal! Just £2.19! I couldn't believe they were so cheap... again, they must have loads of these as they are still on sale, with small sizes, so this is a good option for petite ladies.
Above: They even have cute detailing on the back.
Above: Now these I ❤️ love❤️ but I couldn't get the matching top in a size 6. Boo! These must be popular. They are featured in the ad, so maybe that's why. The fit is super flattering.
Above: The dark patterns don't add much volume and the flocked detail makes then feel less like sports wear and more like a fashion item.
I start my Personal Training course in a few weeks, and I'm all set for full time study and practical learning. I'm looking forward to getting fitter and all the while looking fab in my new clothes.
