Fashion Fix

Taking care of an under-wired bra

My bras which are under-wired always end up with the wire coming through and are unwearable. I hand wash when possible and don’t put them in the spin dryer. Any idea as to why this happens? Thank you, Steph.

Hi Steph,

It could be the way you are storing your bras - if you hang them from a hook in your wardrobe rather then shoving them in a drawer it will prevent the wire getting twisted and poking through.

Spring Fashions

February/March: All the spring fashions start pouring into the shops around now so you will see all the colours that will be in vogue for the new season.

This is a good time to pick up some summer knitwear.

Tips for a reluctant shopper!

I need to hit the shops in the next few weeks as I have a new job and my wardrobe needs a little attention. Do you have any tips on shopping as I am a reluctant shopper! Many thanks, Liza.

Hi Liza,

I love when I get a question like this as you need to get it right - especially if you don’t like shopping. Follow these tips for a successful shopping trip and to avoid making expensive mistakes!

• Only shop on high-energy days.
• Do your serious shopping on a weekday and avoid the crowds at the weekend.
• When you walk into a shop stop and look for the colours that suit you. That way you can ignore everything that's unsuitable. Then focus on shape, texture and style.
• Use the fitting rooms and never, ever believe the size label.
• Never buy anything in the wrong colour or shape and make sure the item you select will go with at least three other items in your wardrobe. If it doesn't put it back on the rail.
• Never compromise on quality. You usually get what you pay for.
• Never buy anything you are unsure about. If in doubt, wait a day or two and go back and look at the item again.
• Never purchase anything that looks good on the shop dummy!

Happy shopping.

Fresh Scents!

Scented waters such as lavender water are a great way to infuse a heavenly, yet subtle smell into your clothing. Add scented water to an iron and on the steam setting gently waft over clothing. It’s a great tip for clothes that have been in storage for a season.

Communion Dresses now in Oxfam, Kilkenny

Oxfam on the high Street here in Kilkenny have a lovely selection of communion dresses - they are all unworn and in their original plastic covering. You will see some very pretty and simple styles ranging in price from €15 – €50. Do take a trip in if you have a little girl making her communion this year but be warned they are selling fast!

Handbag Hanger for a table

I saw on TV recently a little hanger for your hand bag which you can clip onto a table and thus keep your bag off the ground. Do you know if they are available here? Many thanks, Lucy.

Hi Lucy,

I love those little gadgets - I am not sure if they are available locally but if any readers have seen them for sale here or elsewhere do let me know? The handbag hanger is a stylish way to hang your bag on the edge of your table and as you said will keep it clean and within easy reach for security in restaurants and bars.

These little gems are available in a variety of colours and designs and will easily fit into your bag. They are available from www.handbaghanger.com.au - do let me know if anyone is aware of them being available in Ireland. Thanks, Martina.

Looking more stylish

I would love to look more stylish like some of my friends but I never seem to get it right. Any tips would be much appreciated. Thank you, Paula.

Hi Paula,

Style is something we are not all born with but any of us can achieve it. Being stylish is about developing your own look based on what suits your shape, and of course your lifestyle. It’s always a good idea to spend as much as you can on the basics as they will form the backbone of your wardrobe and as for fashion and high trend pieces don’t go overboard as they will date quickly and probably won’t be worn next season.

Accessories are a must as you can transform a simple outfit with a belt, necklace, or a scarf. Also choose neutral colours such as black, navy, white and greys as these colours always look classy and are versatile and will be easy to coordinate with pieces in your existing wardrobe.

Enjoy!

TIMELESS ADVICE TOP TIP!

Classic styles are always a better fashion option than up-to-the-minute trendy styles which will look dated next season. Make your classics trendy with inexpensive jewellery or accessories.

Are boot cut Jeans still in?

I have noticed that skinny jeans are everywhere this season but I only like boot cut jeans - will I look dated in my old favourites? Many thanks, Liz.

Hi Liz,

Yes you are right skinnies are everywhere this season but you can’t beat the good classic boot cut as they suit everyone. It is important to find a style jean to suit your own body shape and stick with it.

Skinny jeans can also look great with flats but not many people can do that as you have to be tall and slim to carry that look off. They do look good with heels if you think you need to elongate your legs a little.

Long live the boot cut as they are the most flattering style jeans for all.

What to wear with Ankle Boots?

I recently bought a pair of ankle boots with a heel but I haven’t worn them yet as I am unsure what will work with them. Any tips? Thanks Maura.

Hi Maura,

What a good choice as ankle boots are big this season. However many women are unsure how to wear them so here are a few ideas for you.

• Wear under or over a pair of skinny jeans.   
• With a tunic or pinafore dress teamed with some opaque tights as ankle boots can look very cute with shorter length skirts and dresses.
• These are just a couple of option for you but do play around with your look a little to achieve a look you are happy with try various length hem lines and see what suits your boots best. Also ankle boots can elongate your legs a little when worn with the correct length hem line.

Have fun!

SO, SO VERY SPECIAL

Some outfits are just too special to throw away, but they take up valuable space in your wardrobe. If you think they have a  social history or historical fashion value pass them on to a museum or theatre wardrobe department. Someone will love them as much as you do and they will get some use.

Trousers for large hips

Which style trousers and jeans would best suit my body shape as I have large hips and thighs? Thank you, Anna.

Hi Anna,

Opt for a wide leg style with a flat front when choosing trousers. A jean with a slight flare or a bootcut in a dark wash such as black or indigo as they are a more flattering colour. Avoid the light blue wash and also avoid too many pockets as they will add bulk to your shape.

Winter Wedding

I am attending a wedding in a few weeks times and I still have’nt anything to wear. I have a few things in my wardrobe I could wear but I am unsure about as I feel the cold. I don’t want the added expense of buying a new coat. Any tips you have would be great. Thanks, Jan.

Hi Jane,
If it’s very cold and for added warmth wear thermals underneath your outfit. This would also mean you don’t need to wear a heavy coat which would hide your lovely outfit underneath. And remember gloves as they will keep you warm and can look very elegant - but do avoid the woolly version.

You can always wear a nice short jacket with a fake fur trim which will instantly add a bit of glamour to your outfit. Finally don’t be tempted to wear all black as it’s an easy one to fall into for winter weddings! Enjoy the day.

Winstons Evening Of Fashion, Beauty and Fun

I attended Winston’s V.I.P style evening on Thursday evening. The event was to celebrate the arrival of the Autumn collections such as b.young, simple wish, Mama-licious and Gestuz which is a new label to Ireland, and also Frank Q men’s wear.

There was a fashion show which seemed to be enjoyed by all and better still we availed of a 20% discount on all stock and after watching the fashion show we were all given lots of inspiration on how to wear this seasons new styles.

So if your looking for fashion with an edge have a look in Wintons you will be pleasantly surprised at what you find!

Top Tip - Loose Knitwear

The loose knitwear which is everywhere (such as knitted dresses and big chunky cardigans) is a chic alternative to a coat and look very stylish worn with a chunky belt.

Alternatives to black?

I have noticed a lot of black in the shops which I like but it tends to make me look very pale. I am not great with wearing bright colours so is there an alternative to black for Autumn/Winter? Thanking you, Niamh

Dear Niamh,

We all love black and there is a lot of it around for the winter as ever but if you want to try another shade for a change opt for a charcoal grey.

It's also very much in vogue and is not as harsh for your skin tone as it is a softer colour and will work well with all the purples that are in.

If you are a little colour shy try on some colourful leather gloves or a pair of bright heels for a welcome burst of colour.

Belts for large hips

I love all the belts that are in fashion now. However as I have large hips I am not sure what style belt will best suit me - any tips? Thank you, Maura.

Hi Maura,

Yes belts are big news for Autumn/Winter as the waist is the main focus this season. For larger hips opt for a skinny belt but don’t wear it too tight and put itjust above your hips as this will help balance out your shape.

For a round tummy wear a belt draped just below the waistline. And for those of you with a boyish shape wear a thick leather belt, which will help to create the illusion of curves.

Finally wide coloured belts are the new way to add drama to an outfit.

What are the main colours for Autumn/Winter?

What are the main colours for Autumn/Winter as I want to start picking up a few new items of clothing to update my look a little. Thank you for your help, Paula.

Hi Paula,

I love this time of year - all the new stock arriving in the shops and saying a welcome goodbye to the sale rails! We have a wonderful array of colours this season with something for all complexions which is great news.

Think berry colours like purples - destined to be one of the most fashionable colours this Autumn and a great favourite of everyone's specially those of us who love to wear black. It is very easy to wear and goes with almost every other shade.

Petrol blue is also big this season as are violet, charcoal, gold and pinks. Basically all the jewel colours which will give everyone a nice burst of colour in the days ahead and of course we can't forget black. Matt black is especially big this season worn with a shiny black satin - this combination of textures is big news this season.

As I said something for everyone so hit the shops and update your wardrobe with this season's shades.

Wallis Funky Jewellery

Wallis in Market Cross shopping centre have the most amazing range of costume jewellery in this seasons colours and designs such as big bold chunky chokers and beads in blues, purples and pinks. You will also see an abstract flower choker which is a real statement piece.

All of those are very reasonably priced and an inexpensive way of updating your wardrobe and adding that splash of colour I mentioned in the previous question. You will also see bangles, cocktail rings, and neckpieces with matching earrings.

What's the difference between nude and sheer tights

What's the difference between nude and sheer tights and which is the best type for the nude leg look? Many thanks, Emily.

Hi Emily,

Sheer and nude mean two different things. Sheer means the thickness of the tights, which is measured by the denier, while nude refers to the colour. Thick and nude don't go together so if you want to achieve the bare leg look opt for an ultra-sheer as this will allow your natural skin tone to show through. If you are wearing fake tan it will also be shown.

Selection of online ethical fashion stores

There is an article in the Organic Living magazine this month on ethical fashion and it contains clothing from a number of online shops some that are new to me. So here they are:

http://www.maasnaturalliving.com/
Maas Naturwaren is a well established mailorder company for certified natural and organic clothing. We have grown succsessfully on the continent for over 20 years.

http://www.bishopstontrading.co.uk/
Importing directly from rural India with the sole aim of fairtrading

http://www.thenaturalstore.co.uk/
The Natural Store is an online natural and organic department store, selling the finest natural and organic products.   (They also offer an ethical wedding service)

http://www.tamandrob.co.uk/
Tam & Rob´s stylish fairtrade and organic womenswear clothing collections, blend fashion trends and individual quirky design to create ethical and sustainable garments.

http://www.anatomyfashion.co.uk/

Anatomy uses natural / organic fabric such as hemp, cotton, linen, tencel and peace silk from sustainable and ethical sources.
Where dyes are used they are natural or low impact dyes so lowering the risk to the environment and our health and well being.

               

http://www.thinkfairtrade.com/
think! make stylish and desirable fairly traded clothes for women who have never been near a mung bean in their life.

There is a great variety of styles and shapes in the above - enjoy looking around them.

Martina

How to avoid mistakes in Summer Sales

I have noticed lots of bargains in the summer sales but I always end up buying clothes I never wear. Have you any tips for me on what to look out for in the sales? Thank you, Maura.

Hi Maura,

There is a great choice in the sales just now so take your time to check out the shops and have a good rummage through the rails. Avoid trend based pieces as they probably won’t be in fashion for long, Opt for classic styles and go for colours such as grey, cream and teal as you will wear these colours into Autumn/Winter rather than the pale pastels or vibrant shades.

Take a look at the footwear sales as there are lots of nice pumps and again you will wear these into winter and beyond. You might pick up a nice pair of sandals at half price, which you can wear next summer.

Jeans are also worth looking at as again you will wear these what ever the season and there are lots of reductions on jeans in all of the shops. Knitwear is another good choice on the summer sales.

And as big bold jewellery is going to be big for winter look out for long chains and pendants and chunky bangles as you will be paying full price for these items come September/October and they are half price now. Thing like scarves and bags are another good buy on the sales - again go for neutral shades when buying bags.

Happy shopping and if anyone wants to tell me about a great bargain they picked up in the summer sales do let me know.

Cleaning Baseball Caps

My son has a few baseball caps but they are all very grubby - is there some way of cleaning them? Thank you, Marg.

Hi Marg,

A friend of mine has three boys and she said she always puts their baseball caps in her dishwasher on the top rack and runs it on a normal cycle. Then leave them to air dry on a flat surface so that they retain their shape. Let me know how you get on or if any other readers have any other tips on washing baseball caps let me know.

Buying Vintage Shoes

I love all the shoes that are sold in second hand shops and I recently saw a lovely pair of heels in a vintage store in Dublin. However I was unsure if I should buy them or not as they looked a little tatty. Is there some way of restoring old shoes? Thank you, Vanessa.

Hi Vanessa,

I know what you mean. I love all the vintage shoes and boots you see in vintage clothes shops as you know you are getting something unique. You do have take into account the condition of the shoes as you will probably have to re-dye them to disguise any scuff-marks and also get them resoled and reheeled as this will help to improve their look.

And before you store them give them a polish and then stuff them with tissue paper to help regain their shape. But do go back and have another look at the shoes as you will have a pair of original vintage shoes that no one else has.

KCLR piece

I am just back from doing a piece with Sue Nunn on our local radio Station - KCLR. We talked about dressing for an Irish summer (endless rain showers!), what to look out for in the sales and a bit about the sort of personal shopping work that I do with my clients.

It's always nice to do radio pieces and great to be asked :-)

Martina

Trendy Shopping Trolleys

I was in Barcelona on holidays recently and I saw a lot of very trendy shopping trolleys everywhere. I would love one for taking around town - is there anywhere in Kilkenny that sells them? Thanks, Emma.

Hi Emma,

I know the ones you are talking about, all the very young trendy people of Barcelona can be seen walking around the streets pulling these colourful trolleys behind them.

These are nothing like the old lady trolleys we are familiar with as they are very funky and I saw some lovely styles for sale in Geraldine’s Boutique on Ormonde Street. You will see some great colours and they are water resistant and can be dismantled for handy storage. Pop in and take a look for yourself - you will definitely cut a stylish dash around the streets of Kilkenny with one of these shopping trolleys. 

Shopping in the Summer Sales

Now that all the summer sales are on I am dying to pick up a few bargains but I am unsure what to look for. I want something I can wear into the winter as I am on a tight budget. Any tips for me? Many thanks, Mary.

Hi Mary,

We all love a rummage through the sale rails but do be aware that you will come across a lot of tat as well as genuine bargains so take the time to have a good look.

Don’t buy an item unless you are sure you are going to wear it as it’s not a bargain if it is left hanging in the wardrobe. For the same reason avoid the high fashion item as you probably won’t wear it next summer.

So what to do? Go for classic styles that won’t date. Look out for jeans on the sales as we wear them all the time and in accessories look out for big chunky bangles, large chains and pendants as jewellery is big and bold for Autumn/Winter. Now is a good time to pick them up half price and will give you an edge on the trend for later on.

Pick up some nice sandals as there are lots of bargains around, go for a good pair as they will probably be half price and you can always wear them next summer. The same goes for leather pumps and you will wear them in Autumn/winter also. Have a look at kaftan style dresses which you will have in your summer wardrobe for many summers to come as they can be worn over your swimsuit or jeans. Very easy to wear and a real classic.

Finally look out for a nice classic trench coat as they never date and are just the thing for summer and Autumn - great for a showery day! Happy shopping.

Where can I get hatboxes?

I am looking for some nice hatboxes as I have a few hats and they are getting very dusty and battered in my wardrobe. I have had a look around town but I can’t see any boxes suitable for this purpose. Any suggestions?
Thank you for your help, Patricia.

Hi Patricia,

I have seen some lovely little round hat boxes in the Butterslip boutique on the corner of Kieran Street and Rose Inn Street. They are sold separately and are available in various sizes with cute little prints on them. These boxes will help protect your hats and they will also look great on top of your wardrobe.

Comfortable shoes for standing in all day?

I work in a shop and spend a lot of time on my feet. I want to get comfortable shoes that look nice and trendy but I don’t want anything with a heel. Can you suggest anything?
Thanks Marie.

I think you won’t get much better then a ballet pump - they are in every shoe shop for summer in all colours and in a varity of styles like pointed and round toes.

But pumps can be very flat and offer little support so pop in a pair of gel filled insoles -  they will help to cushion your feet and absorb shock and impact. There is also a pair of insoles available that helps relieve lower back pain and discomfort in the arches.

It may also be worth your while paying a little more for your pumps and getting a good leather pair - Clarks are doing some nice ones for summer in a range of colours.

Selecting a swimming costume

I was wondering what style of swimming costume would suit me as I have a large bust? I am going on holiday soon and I need to start shopping for one now! Many thanks, Helen.

Hi Helen,

The best choice of swimwear for you would be a halter neck style or one that is under-wired or with an elastic support underneath the bust line. Try a one piece as they help to elongate the body but if you do opt for a bikini go for one that has a bold colourful print on the bottom half. That will help to draw the eye away from the bust area. Have a great holiday.