Fashion Statement with Suzannah Roach

The party season is in full swing but what does that mean to you? Do you run to the shops to splash out on that dress you’ve had your eye on since October but not had the excuse to buy until now? Or do you dig out that old favourite? There’s no need to make that mad dash to the shops for a new dress, you can most certainly update something you have in your wardrobe. Here are some ways to make sure you look 2011 not 2001...

Length
All lengths are a given at the moment. Go for what suits you. If you want to be bang on trend though go for the prom style dress with a cinched in waist and finishing just below knee length. But beware, you need to have the confidence to pull this off and you must have the right shoes...killer heels. Flats can make it look a little too school girl so instead go for the point toes and stiletto heels.

Waist belts
These are an instant updater to any little dress. Regardless of the colour of the dress find a wafer thin belt, preferably textured in some way ie snakeskin, leopard print or suede. If textures aren’t feasible find one that has wraps around the waist a couple of times or has a tie front, a bow or a fancy buckle.

Jewellery
Statement jewellery is still very much part of the current look but it is no longer just about big necklaces. It is about elegance. Think beautiful gems and colourful pieces. Multiple strands and layer up your bracelets and stacking rings with the best gems you can afford. Imagine digging through a treasure chest...Diamonds are a girl’s best friend after all.

Handbag
You no longer need to break your back with the huge bucket bags or your bank balance with the latest it bag. It bags are so 2001! Think classic and classy. Go for the handled traditional 40s style handbag with the best looking buckle you can find or go for a classic clutch. If colour is your thing go for a flash of deep red or bronze with a chain strap. The high street has some great options at the moment.

Coats
The coat is what you walk into a party wearing so should never be the last thought, after all you never get a second chance to make a first impression. If you want an instant updater go for camel coloured coats, these look stylish and classic and belted at the waist flatter most body shapes giving us help with the much sought after cinched in waist.

Shoes
This is the simplest and easiest way to update your look. You can be wearing a dress you bought back in the 1990s and no accessories whatsoever but if you have statement footwear you are onto a winner.  You can stick with a basic black dress and add a flash of colour (and fun) with some bright heels. All colour options are appropriate just go with whatever makes you feel happy. Shoe boots are still big business, preferably peep toe with a little bit of attitude. Court shoes are having a moment too and if they are leopard print you are so bang on the mark you’d sizzle.

Some may say all you need now is a handsome man on your arm, that bit is a little more tricky so personally I’d suggest going without that awkward and cumbersome accessory and go with the girls.

Suzannah Roach

Posted Tue, 12/28/2010 - 16:01 by Suzannah Roach