Sequin Jackets Galore

Miss SOS has scoured the high street to bring you the best in the latest trend for sequin jackets and blazers, whatever your budget!

Don't shy away from this fabulous look for autumn/winter, these beauties are sure to add some fun and style into any look and yes, day or night! Sequins are hitting the big time this season!

All the usual suspects are showcasing Sequin Blazers and Sequin Jackets in their latest collections, with prices ranging anywhere from £40 (think Dotty Ps; New Look) to £180 (Arrogant Cat; asos.com).

Depending on your budget and how much you think you will wear this gorgeous piece (cost per wear!) we advise going for a slightly cheaper option, as it is likely to be a one-hit wonder for this season. We're keeping our eyes peeled for the Primark version to land and be sure to be front of the queue when it does, it won't be sticking around for long!

Miss SOS recommends.....

Gorgeous draped sequin blazer (from arrogantcat.com, around £180) - a stylish and chic take on this latest trend and great for slimming down your curves, as the drapes will cut the torso and ensure you look fabulous! Wear over a bright colour vest top with skinnies and kiler platforms for an evening look to turn heads!

Snake-print sequin blazer - combining animal print with sequins, go for this version if you love to make a statement. Keep accessories and other pieces in the outfit simple and minimalistic and let the blazer do the talking (arrogantcat.com around £80). Great for taller ladies, as the longer length will make your legs look shorter if you haven't got the height.

The Sequin Trophy Jacket (topshop.com around £80) - a great choice if you don't want to go for the blazer look and ideal for a sophisticated, older look. Team with skinny jeans or high-waisted wide leg jeans and heels for a funky, sophisticated look.

Miss SOS' favourite, a welcome alternative to the black and silver versions out there, the cream sequins will work with so many colours and looks. The draped effect keeps it easy-luxe, easy-to-wear and less formal than the traditional blazer styles. Throw this on over dresses, with jeans and you'll be rocking the autumn/winter trend straight away! (topshop.com around £70)

Miss SOS top tips to pull off the Sequin Jacket:

- Keep the rest of the look simple, the look should focus on the jacket

- Don't overload with accessories, let the sequins be your accessory!

- Dress the jacket down, so that you don't go into bling overload

- The ideal partners are skinny jeans, killer platforms and a clutch bag

- This jacket is not just for evening, bring the sequins into the day for an instant fashion hit!

For more tips on the latest autumn/winter trends visit www.styleoursouls.co.uk/news. If you would like more info on our Personal Shopping trips and events, e:mail info@styleoursouls.co.uk

Fashion Comment

Miss SOS loves to bring you the latest fashion comment from the media and couldn't help but share this thought-provoking article about fashion finally opening up their minds to the use of models who are not just a size 0!

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/sep/06/fashion-models-curves-size-zero

Post your thoughts and comments today...do you want to seemore plus sized models and real women on the catwalks?

Once you embrace your bodyshape and understand how to dress for your shape showing it off to its best, you will go from strength to strength in whatever you do as looking fabulous will only make you FEEL fabulous and exude confidence!

Whatever size you are, your bodyshape will remain the same, so don't waste anymore time or money on squeezing yourself into clothes that aren't right for you and book a Style Consultation today to learn how to get it right for once!

Visit http://www.styleoursouls.co.uk/ or e:mail info@styleoursouls.co.uk

Capsule Wardrobe Piece

Every girl needs a wrap dress in her wardrobe as one of the key pieces in the eternal quest for a capsule wardrobe. You know, the wardrobe where you open the doors and everything you own is right for you, your bodyshape, your lifestyle and whatever it is you happen to be doing that day! The wardrobe where everything co-ordinates perfectly and always looks fabulous!

Follow my style tips and hints on how to buld a capsule wardrobe and you won't be far behing that ideal! It is achievable, a 24 piece wardrobe which you can mix and match. Expensive fashion mistakes will be a thing of the past!

Today's capsule piece has to be the wrap dress. A great staple for work and play and taking you from day to evening and summer through autumn.

Isabella Oliver's new range '365' have some fantastic versions in vibrant colours and beautiful fabrics. Opt for these for investment pieces that will be your 'go to' option for years to come!

HOW TO WEAR THE WRAP DRESS

- Update the look by adding a wide waistcinch belt, some coloured opaque tights, statement necklace and high platform heels

- Great with long boots too and layered over polo necks or shirts for a winter look

- For an evening look, team with some sequins or sparkly jewellery, killer heels and a clutch bag

For more style tips and advice, got to www.styleoursouls.co.uk/news or e:mail info@styleoursouls.co.uk

10 Key Items To Take Your Wardrobe From Spring/Summer to Autumn/Winter '09

Give past season clothes an a/w makeover with 10 pieces which will slot straight into your wardrobe and update it in an instant

· Pencil Skirt – timeless classic for work or play

· Sculptured Dress – great options on the high st look straight off the catwalk

· Boyfriend Blazer – you will never know how you lived without this

· Sharp Shoulders – jackets, cardis, jumpers, dresses, the whole lot!

· Belted Coat – a great choice whether you’ve got curves or wish you had them as this will create a great shape

· Leather Jacket – another timeless classic which can be worked into all looks, smart or casual

· Embellished Leggings – a fun and easy way to update a tunic or dress, day or night!

· Sequins – this really is the season to bring sequins into the day, nod to it with accessories if you’re a little more reserved

· Knee High Boots and higher – boots are heading thigh-ward, but definitely invest in a stylish pair to team with skinny jeans, leggings and dresses

· Easy Luxe Cardigan Wrap – an essential for every age, bodyshape and style, these can be draped shawl-style or belted in for a smarter look

Read more style tips and fashion advice at www.styleoursouls.co.uk/news

Why not book a shopping session with ‘Style Our Souls’ to get the most out of your autumn/winter wardrobe?

Visit www.styleoursouls.co.uk now

Which shops are best for your style preference?

Identifying your own style preferences and individual 'fashion personality' is key to really achieving a wardrobe that works for you and feeling great wherever you're headed. As women we beat ourselves up when we try something we've admired on someone else or on the pages of a magazine and then it's just not having the same effect when you look in the mirror. Sound familiar?

Well the reason for this has nothing to do with clothes not being made to fit and suit you and everything to do with knowing what is right for you in terms of your colouring, bodyshape, lifestyle and 'fashion personality'. The chances of someone else having the exact same combination of colouring, bodyshape and fashion personality are so limited, once you know what suits you, it is about almost ignoring everything else and focusing on what is right for you.

There are over 500 different combinations of being one of the four colour palettes, one of the six bodyshapes and then added to that a primary and a secondary fashion personality. Knowing your combination provides you with a strategy to not only shop, but also a base from which to build your wardrobe and your outfits.

Miss SOS cannot recommend you seeing one of our Personal Stylists at 'Style Our Souls' to understand what is right for YOU in terms of colour and style - save yourself time, money and a whole load of stress. E:mail info@styleoursouls.co.uk now for more info.

In the meantime, Miss SOS has picked the best of the high street to showcase which fashion stores fit which 'fashion personality' best....

CLASSIC

You love clothes that are well-cut, obviously classic but very timeless and keep things simple and neat. Think Audrey Hepburn or Victoria Beckham.

First up, Reiss is a gem of a shop when it comes to the high street full stop. Beautiful clothes, great quality and classic, timeless styles but with a twist. Definitely one to try if you love the classic look for work or for great going out pieces. Their A/W '09 launch of a casual range is sure to be a hit with every fashionista out there

DRAMATIC

You are likely to be into high fashion and the latest trends, loving to make a statement and get noticed!

Zara does dramatic and high fashion pieces really well, although they do lend themselves to the Classic personality and toy with some of the others at different times! Zara revolutionised the high street in the UK by cutting down lead times, so they are able to update their shopfloors with new stock every couple of weeks. No two stores carry the exact same stock either, they range their stores based on demographics of an area and their view on what the fit is for girls in that area!

Great value for money and always designer replicas, so you'll look super stylish at any given moment!

ROMANTIC

A big theme of recent seasons, these girls love the girly look with ribbons, bows, floaty fabrics and vintage laces and fabrics. Coast do a lot of the romantic style, bringing it more up-to-date and some classic elements.

NATURAL

Loving natural fabrics, this style is all about pieces that are easy-to-wear, the epitomy of a capsule wardrobe!

Whistles have recently moved away from more of a romantic/vintage feel to more edgy pieces that are definitely classic but will be loved by those with a 'natural' fashion personality! A/W '09 includes some great knitwear, with zip edging and a fantastic loose-fitting lighweight shirtdress - belt in over jeans or leggings and team with a statement necklace to fit any occasion!

Fairly new to our high streets and now open in The Bullring, Birmingham is COS. Don't miss out on the great pieces this store has to offer, arranged in colour palettes which are appealing to the eye. If you love the easy-to-wear look this is one for you and you're set to find key pieces that will knock the cost per wear out of the water

SPORTY

This personality is all about the comfort factor and probably just needs a helping hand with bringing some fashionable pieces into the wardrobe. Leave sportswear for exercise or lounging around and don't miss out on some of the great fashions out there

Miss SOS 'Style Prayers' blog hot on the heels of Grazia mag!

So always one to be ahead of the fashion pack, Miss SOS is always here to ensure your style prayers are answered and to keep you looking ahead of the game, by knowing what is right for you!

Bringing you the latest tips to get yourself down to your nearest New Look and snap up as many boyfriend blazers as you can possibly fit into your wardrobe, Grazia mag online are feeling the New Look vibe too with their latest canvas tote bag and sending fashionistas New Look bound right behind Miss SOS!

http://www.graziadaily.co.uk/fashion/archive/2009/07/20/get-down-to-new-look--like--now.htm

You heard it here first, looks like New Look could be the style star of the week and it is only Monday!

Miss SOS

xxx

How to wear the 'boyfriend blazer'

The 'boyfriend blazer' is still a hot fashion must-have for summer '09 and worn in the right way is set to take you through the autumn and a warmer winter's day. A true staple in every girl's wardrobe - you'll wonder what you ever did without it!

Miss SOS recommends....

New Look has really come out on top this season and have a great cut, fabric and colour choice down to a 't'!

Miss SOS has scoured the high street and hasn't found a better version than this one! Style Our Souls clients are being led straight to the store as the first stop on their Personal Shopping trip!

The great thing about the New Look beauty and for only £30, is that the cut will skim your curves if you have them and create curves if you don't! Not only that but the colour choices means you'll end up buying two! Colours include the gorgeous fuschia pink, soft grey, charcoal grey, navy, cream, white, black and this season's cobalt blue!

http://www.newlook.co.uk/1692926/169292616/ProductDetails.aspx

Which colour is best for me?

Blondes and brunettes with bright coloured eyes - opt for the fuschia, navy, white, blue or black
Blondes and brunettes with softer coloured eyes - opt for the soft grey, navy, cream, poppy red or fuschia
Redheads - opt for the cream, navy or charcoal
Dark skin lovelies - opt for the fuschia, poppy red, blue, charcoal or navy

Or if you know your colour palette 'season':

Summers - go for poppy red, soft grey, cream or fuschia
Winters - go for fuschia, navy, white, charcoal, black or blue
Autumns - go for charcoal, cream, poppy red or navy
Springs - go for cream, navy, charcoal or poppy red

For more info on how to find out your colour palette visit www.styleoursouls.co.uk or e:mail info@styleoursouls.co.uk


How should I wear the 'boyfriend blazer'?

Use your 'boyfriend blazer' as an everyday jacket or throw it over any outfit when you go out. This should be used as a staple and versatile piece within your wardrobe. Miss SOS has put together 4 different looks so there's something to work for every bodyshape and every 'fashion personality'...

Day Look 1 - Wear open over a coloured tee, worn with a scarf tied in a bow at the neck, some skinny jeans, gladiators and oversized slouchy tote bag.

Day Look 2 - Wear done up over a lacy vest top, statement necklace and wide leg indigo jeans or wide leg trousers with some platform wedges

Going Out Look 1 - Wear open over a cute tulip shape dress or skirt with killer platform heels and an oversized clutch bag

Going Out Look 2 - Wear open over a tunic style top or dress, belted in at the waist over some sequin or wet look leggings finished off with some gladiator heels

Still unsure on the right colours for you or how to dress your bodyshape? Do you want to identify your 'fashion personality' and really nail your style? Visit www.styleoursouls.co.uk or e:mail info@styleoursouls.co.uk and we will help you save time, money and stress when it comes to your wardrobe

Until next time fashion lovers
Miss SOS
xxx

How to be work stylish when the temperatures rise

As soon as the warm weather arrives, don’t be left out in the cold with your work wardrobe.

Your work image projects not just how you approach your job, but can reflect your ambition. So when the sun starts to shine, there are still stylish and work appropriate ways to keep cool, Miss SOS is here to guide you through.

“Whatever your job and no matter how far up the career ladder you’ve climbed, your working wardrobe needs to project an image that spells professionalism….when it comes to a pay rise your boss will be checking out your image” – ‘Working Girl’, ASOS Magazine

DON’T

- Reveal too much cleavage – this is neither the time nor place and it will do nothing for your credibility and ability as a woman

- Go for ultra minis or short skirt lengths in the office – appropriate skirt length is knee-length and will still keep you cool when the temperatures rise

DO

- Peep toes are super stylish and a key trend this summer, so book yourself in for a pedicure before peeping those toes! Think of your nail polish as an accessory and the finishing touches to your outfit

- If you’re baring your legs this summer, opt for a spot of fake tan or one of the fantastic gradual tans on the market, which include an added moisturiser to avoid streaking

- Accessorising should be a key part of your work look whatever the season – a great scarf, necklace, beads, slouchy bag or some great shoes can bring your outfit to life and is a great way bring through your personality

For more 'Dos' and 'Don'ts' with your summer work wardrobe, visit www.styleoursouls.co.uk/news/

KEY STYLES TO GO FOR THIS SEASON

Layering – given the speed the weather has the ability to change and if you are on the go between the heat and air-conditioned buildings, a little forethought when it comes to layering will go a long way. A stylish cardigan or cute fitted jacket which can be easily removed should be a key staple in your summer work wardrobe

Draping – flowing and feminine, it is just what you need for summer in the city! Silk fabrics are sure to keep you cool when the air-con is not on. Keep the look structured and smart, by streamlining one of the separates so that the draped piece is the main event.

Colour - a great way to bring some summer style into your work wardrobe – if you’re addicted to black, try a charcoal grey, lighter neutrals or navy are softer, lighter alternatives for the warmer months

For more style tips and information on how to achieve your work capsule wardrobe or build your work style, visit http://www.styleoursouls.co.uk/ or e:mail info@styleoursouls.co.uk

Images supplied by Karen Millen; green shift dress by Hobbs

Which style of dress is best for your bodyshape?

Miss SOS is loving the great selection of on-trend dresses from Dorothy Perkins online.

Whether you're looking for something to wear for a night out, a special occasion or just a good summer dress to see you through nice lunches, drinks in a beer garden or a family barbecue, your online personal stylist has picked the best of the bunch in terms of style steal but also to suit your shape, read on and find the answer to your style prayers!

PEAR SHAPED

This pink beauty is a real steal for £40 and looks straight off the catwalk. The style will keep you ahead of the fashion game as the shoulders nudge to everything that is autumn/winter 2009. The assymetric design across the front panel is ultra flattering and slimming if you're conscious of your stomach or hip area and the shoulders will balance out pear shaped lovelies. A real winner and Miss SOS recommended.

HOURGLASS
This purple number is a great colour for most skintones and a perfect alternative to the LBD! The style does all the right things for the hourglass shape and you curvier ladies, as the lines are focusing in on the key focus areas!

This floaty swirlprint dress would look great under a shrug or worn as a top over skinny jeans and will work well for more petite hourglass bodies or even those ladies more conscious of their stomach area but wanting to do a cute summer dress.

RECTANGLE

Miss SOS adores this monochrome dress, it has such a designer feel. The panels of colour are so flattering and will create shape for those of you who wish you had more curves! Add a gorgeous wide belt to really draw a waistline and keep it ultra stylish. Killer platforms and an overiszed clutch worn with this will keep the designer appeal.

ATHLETIC / WEDGE

The emphasis on this peplum style dress is focused around the bottom half which is perfect for those of you with a more athletic physique and broader shoulders. The angles and suare neckline will compliment your shape to its best too! Keep it trans-seasonal and wear through autumn/winter over a long sleeve tee in a contrasting colour or a polo, opaque tights and flat riding boots.

APPLE
Miss SOS loves the vintage appeal of this dress - wear it as a dress or tunic layered over blouses and jeans to add even more interest. The drapes down the centre are great for slimming down the torso and middle section, so perfect for the apple bodyshape.

....and just because it is gorgeous! THE colour of the season and THE shoulders of a/w '09! Gorgeous as a dress or tunic top and all for only £15! Dotty Ps we salute you!

Confused about your bodyshape? Style prayers still not answered? Ask Miss SOS now or visit http://www.styleoursouls.co.uk/ for Personal Styling sessions.

Miss SOS

xxxx

Style Our Souls in print

Miss SOS is pleased to bring you news of 'Style Our Souls' in print, from articles written about their fantastic Personal Styling service, including the latest feature in leading national women's glossy 'Essentials', 'Spring Clean Your Life', focused around Wardrobe Detoxing - weeding out your wardrobe, re-working outfits and creating your shopping list!

Owner and Personal Stylist, Emma Wellings, also contributes frequently to the fashion and media circle and regularly writes for many local magazines.

Visit the Style Our Souls website http://www.styleoursouls.co.uk/ and News page for more details and to read the latest fashion opinion.

Read our latest articles at the following:

http://www.oraclemagazine.co.uk/

http://www.streetsaheadmag.co.uk/

Peacocks lead with style bargains

Miss SOS couldn't believe it when she found these gorgeous purple cut-out shoe boots at
Peacocks online.


http://www.peacocks.co.uk/

Amazing resemblance to some Steve Maddens and for only £18! Available in gorgeous cobalt blue (so summer 2009) and dove grey, these are a great summer update.

Wear with opaques in the Autumn and you've just increased your cost per wear to a record bargain! Trans-seasonal and a bargain, now that is a style find!

Miss SOS is wearing hers with a floral tulip mini skirt, vest top and fitted jacket for a night out or over skinny jeans and belted in top for lunch with the girls.

Miss SOS also recommends checking out the sale at Peacocks online, with over 50% off, most items fall under £10! A quick and easy style update for everyone!

Miss SOS
xxx

How to find the perfect pair of jeans

You're not alone if you find the thought of jeans shopping traumatic and either completely avoid it or end up with yet another pair of jeans that just don't cut it - sound familiar?

Miss SOS has hundreds of Personal Shopping and Personal Styling clients who ask for advice on the right styles and shapes to suit their bodyshape and then where on earth to find them.

Whatever your shape and fashion style, my style tips will set you on your way to looking fantastic in jeans in no time!



WHICH COLOUR SHOULD I GO FOR?
A key capsule wardrobe item has to be an indigo or dark pair of jeans and these will be sure to see you through so many different occasions, you'll wonder how you ever lived without them. For effortless chic, team with a cute fitted jacket, basic coloured tee or vest top, statement scarf and metallic wedges.

Great for summer has to be the white jean, providing a smart alternative for day or night. If you're scared of wearing a light colour on the bottom half, go for a style and cut that fits well and is perfect for your shape. Alternatively, wear under a bright coloured kaftan, dress or tunic for an up-to-date and stylish look.

Recently seen on GMTV and Miss SOS recommended, Oasis has a choice of fantastic white jeans in either a skinny fit or slight bootcut for £45.

http://www.oasis-stores.com/fcp/categorylist/dept/ALLDenim?resetFilters=true

WHICH STYLE SUITS MY SHAPE?

SKINNY - Don't be scared of skinny, if you wear them right, these CAN work for all bodyshapes. These are perfect if your shape is straight up and down (a classic 'rectangle') as skinnies will add shape. If you're more conscious of your bottom half, wear them under kaftans, dresses or tunics as an alternative to opaque tights or leggings

BOOTCUT - Great for curvy ladies, as this style will balance out your shape. Ensure the fit is slimmer on the thigh, as anything too baggy will make you appear bigger than you are

BOYFRIEND - A hard style to wear, particularly if you're trying to smarten up your look. Great for the comfort factor, but keep feminine with a tighter-fitting top or cardi and stylish accessories. Great for girls without curves or to balance out a larger bust area.

HIGH-WAISTED 70S STYLE - This wide leg style are ideal for a smart look and far more flattering than you may think. The high waist will cut at your narrowest point, so make you appear slimmer and elongate those pins! Keep tops tucked in and add wedges or killer platforms.

"Don't let the waistband dig in and be sure the leg is fitted in the thigh, unless of course you're wearing a slouchy version" - Emily Current and Meritt Elliott from cult jeans label Current/Elliott being interviewed by 'Red Magazine'

MISS SOS RECOMMENDS...
Perfect Skinnies - The best skinnies I've found and for the bargain of £7.83 have to be from Primark, but hurry they fly out fast! Now available in indigo, black and white

Perfect Dark Denims - The most amazing jeans for all bodyshapes have to be J Brand jeans. An investment piece, but definitely worth cutting back on those Starbuck's coffees for!! The Lovestory (Bell) in 'Ink' are divine and will give you shape you never thought you had!

Other brands we love - British brand 'MiH' (Made In Heaven) available in a great choice of washes and styles. These really are the jeans for every occasion and every bodyshape, great investment pieces you'll wear time and time again.

Miss SOS
xxx

Your summer wardrobe on a budget!

Miss SOS is always up for a challenge and like every woman loves a bargain! She will be out and about seeking out the best bargains to ensure her lovely client has a capsule work wardrobe and key updates for a total of no more than £100!!

Seem like an impossibility? Not for your Personal Stylist and Fashionista, Miss SOS. Her top tips are:

- Go through your wardrobe and make a list of key items you definitely need to pull more outfits together - it could be as simple as a belt, a key jewellery piece or cute fitted jacket!
- Do your research - check out where the best offers are or designer versions, by looking online before you go
- Primark has deliveries on a Thursday and Friday, so this is when all of the sizes and choices are at their best. Get there for opening time before the crowds of vultures arrive!
- Plan your route and don't divert - stick to your budget and know where you're going to get your bargains!

Ok, so Miss SOS has her gorgeous metallic gladiators at the ready for comfort, but of course style ready to help a lady in need and get her looking fabulous!

Miss SOS
xxx