Archive for the ‘Spring Summer 2013’ Category
May 05
Five Timeless Occasional Looks That Will Ensure Eyes are on You
While movie stars have the luxury of wearing an outfit to only one event, when us mere mortals buy an item of clothing, particularly formal or occasional wear, we want to be able to wear it to multiple occasions for at least a couple of years, if not more.
But to do that the outfit you choose needs to be timeless, multipurpose and have the ability to be updated and changed with accessories. Sound like a big ask? It really doesn’t have to be.
To help you, here are five timeless formal looks borrowed from our collection that you can wear again and again to turn heads.
Outfit #1 – The shimmery party dress This versatile short, sleeveless silk sequined Amethyst Borealis dress (left) is ideal for cocktail parties, weddings, or a special evening out. Designed in a timeless block colour the slight sequined detail is perfect for giving you a shimmering evening look, yet still subtle enough to not make you feel like you’re moonlighting as a disco ball!
The pleating detail just below the sequined bodice adds definition to your waistline and attracts the eyes upward (perfect if you want to distract from other areas like your hips or thighs). Of coursen no shimmery party dress is complete without statement earrings and a gorgeous pair of stilettos.
Outfit #2 – The soft, feminine, free flowing dress This soft, elegant Nude Champagne silk chiffon dress (right) is ideal for weddings, cocktail functions, race wear and special occasion wear. The gathered bodice and full flowing skirt exude feminine appeal, and the silk satin obi tie up belt adds shape and definition to your waistline, ensuring you are not lost in a sea of loose material.
Light and comfortable, the elbow length bodice also offers the convenience of more warmth on colder evenings and a little more sun protection when out on the field at the races. To add to the elegance opt for tan stilettos (close to your skin tone) to elongate your legs and accessorise with pearls.
Outfit #3 – The patterned day dress A gorgeous patterned dress is a must in every woman’s wardrobe, though choosing timeless colours and patterns is the key. This short sleeved Cerise Slate silk cotton dress (left – also available in sage green and cobalt) offers a simple yet striking pattern that won’t result in it being tucked at the back of your wardrobe next season.
Providing a glamorous, yet conservative look, this dress is ideal for weddings, resort wear and day functions like luncheons and charity events. The light, breathable material is ideal for warm days and the short sleeves offer slightly more sun protection if you are at a garden party or wedding. To make your outfit really pop match your shoes and clutch with the most prominent colour in your pattern (in this case, cerise).
Outfit #4 – The striking yet simple cocktail dress There is nothing like a striking bright colour to turn heads at an event and this Cobalt Borealis dress (below, right) is the perfect colour for both a personal and professional setting.
From weddings and cocktail parties or an evening out dancing with the girls, through to a more formal work dinner or networking event, this simple yet striking dress is the perfect choice. Giving you the opportunity to dress it up or down with your accessories, you can go with extravagant statement jewellery and heels for a party, or make it simple and stylish with understated accessories and a tailored dressy jacket for a work event. This versatility also makes it the perfect dress to wear if you have to head to a wedding or party straight after work, allowing you to be professional by day and party diva by night.
Outfit #5 – The little black dress Your little black dress (LBD) is perhaps the most versatile fashion item you can buy, but that doesn’t mean it has to be plain and simple. Look for elegant designs and unique features that will help you stand out in the crowd, like this Black Opal silk dress.
With a different take on the LBD, this silk dress is actually chocolate brown with a double layered black polyester microgette over the top for contrast and ruffled sleeves for dramatic effect, making it ideal for cocktail functions, parties, the races or a special night out.
You can add colour through your accessories or opt for a more elegant look with matching heels and either classic pearls, or gold or silver jewellery.
Which look is your favourite?
Copyright © 2014 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3369 5119. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Our Collections.Apr 28
Your Style Guide on What to Wear to Every Occasion
There is nothing quite like the excitement of being invited to a lavish cocktail party, black tie event, business dinner or networking event. But that feeling can quickly fade when the dreaded question “what do I wear?” pops into your head.
If choosing the outfit itself wasn’t bad enough, you have to try and work out what is appropriate to wear in each different setting. To help you, we’ve put together a style guide on what to wear for every occasion, so whether you are attending a casual BBQ with friends through to an extravagant societal ball, we have you clothed.
1. Casual A casual dress code means that pretty much anything goes. Shorts, jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, and even thongs are perfectly fine for a casual affair.
If invited to a party or BBQ with a casual dress code, keep your hosts in mind. What do they usually wear and how might they determine what a casual dress code is? If they are people who tend to be more smartly dressed, take the same approach.
2. Smart Casual or Business Casual This dress code is actually quite deceiving, because when it comes to smart or business casual, there’s nothing casual about it. Jeans, shorts and t-shirts are definitely not appropriate, instead go for dressier pants or a skirt with a nice blouse, or a more elegant day dress teamed with heels or ballet flats.
Really, you only want to be slightly less dressy than what you would wear to work (in a corporate environment) to meet a client. Go for a relaxed professional or polished look.
3. Business Business dress is obviously very sharp and professional. Opt for tailored suits – either pants or skirts – with buttoned up blouses, or a tailored dress with a jacket, combined with closed in heels and elegant accessories. It doesn’t have to be the same black, grey, red, white or navy colour schemes though. You can add a little colour through your accessories, jackets and blouses, depending on your industry and work dress code.
Think along the lines of Michelle Obama, or, for a more fictional example, the television character Alicia Florrick in The Good Wife. Both have a very classy, polished, confident look that is indicative of a business dress code.
(For more ideas on dressing up your business style check out Four Style Tips To Take Your Work Wardrobe From Drab to Fab)
4. Cocktail, Semi-Formal or After Five This can be a rather confusing dress code, considering that a cocktail party can be anything from a glamorous societal affair to a quiet dinner with friends, so it is important to keep the audience in mind.
In a broader sense though, cocktail, semi-formal or after five style codes tend to demand shorter (just above or just below the knee) formal dresses. Your little black dress is often the best choice here, or a more glittery, patterned party dress made from satin, silk or another light fabric.
Of course, no cocktail dress would be complete without sparkly accessories and the highest heels you can manage to walk in.
5. Formal or Black Tie When it comes to a formal or black tie style code, think red carpet elegance with beautiful, long dresses and gowns or elegant evening separates. While you can get away with cocktail dresses at some events, you are always better to choose the more formal, longer style – plus it can be more fun!
When it comes to dressing appropriately for any occasion, the golden rule is that it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Besides, if you do get really stuck on what to wear, clarify with the hosts of the event or ask a friend or colleague what they will be wearing.
Have an upcoming cocktail or black tie event? Check out our full collection for some outfit inspiration.
Copyright © 2014 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3268 7878. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Spring Summer 2013 Collection.
Mar 04
10 Slimming Style Tips for Low-Fat Dressing
Whether you want to look and feel your best for a date, job interview, business meeting, party, wedding, family get-together or school reunion, or boost your confidence on those body-conscious days, here are 10 slimming style strategies for low-fat dressing.
1. Watch your proportions The golden rule for low-fat dressing is to balance your proportions. When you wear more voluminous proportions you’ll naturally look more voluminous, so the key is to draw attention to your assets and balance out the areas you feel less confident about.
For instance, if you want to make your upper body look smaller, go for wide legged pants or an A-line skirt. If you want to broaden your upper half to offset a bigger lower half, add volume at your collar, like ruffles, lace, flutter sleeves, or a peter pan or boat collar.
2. Distract with details Use patterns, colours, embellishments and details to distract the eyes away from other areas. A wide belt for instance, will tie in your waist and help you to appear smaller, an interesting neckline will draw the eye away from your hips and tummy, and a simple V-neck top will help you minimise the size of your bust.
3. Wear fitted clothes I know wearing fitted clothes is the last thing you want to do when you are feeling body-conscious, but a body hidden under layers of loose fabric always looks bigger. Avoid loose, shapeless fabrics and designs and instead choose fitted clothes – that’s not to say skin tight fabrics, just clothes that have more shape to them.
4. Match your separates When you dress all in one colour, matching your jacket, shirt, pants or skirt, even stockings and shoes, you naturally look slimmer. This is even more effective when done with darker colours, particularly black. If wearing the one colour is a little boring for your taste, add some colour through vibrant accessories.
5. Invest in skin-tone heels Besides looking elegant, skin-tone heels can give the illusion of longer legs, making them the perfect choice when wearing a knee-length or mid-thigh skirt. Keep in mind though this illusion only works on bare legs of the same tone.
6. Wear a long necklace Not only will you be right on trend, a long, chunky statement necklace will help make your torso appear longer and leaner.
7. Choose straight-lined skirts No skirt will slim you out like the straight lined, tailored cut of a pencil skirt. This slimming wardrobe staple makes all body shapes look sleek.
8. Go vertical Choose outfits that have a deep V-neck, or vertical seams, stripes or piping. Vertical lines always help stretch you out, making you look taller and slimmer.
9. Go for hip-length jackets and cardigans Waist length jackets and cardigans tend to shorten your body, where hip-length varieties make your torso look longer and slimmer. Tapered jackets will also always make your waist seem smaller.
10. Invest in shape wear Good, suck-you-in lingerie can really take kilos off and smooth out lumps and bumps. Always wear them for a while before you go out though, to make sure you have the right sizing. While you want the smoothing, slimming effect they give, you don’t want to feel like you are suffocating.
Do you have any slimming secrets to share?
Copyright © 2014 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3268 7878. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Spring Summer 2013 Collection.
Feb 27
Four Style Tips To Take Your Work Wardrobe From Drab to Fab
Tired of the same old suits, boring blouses and dull colours? We hear you!
While the business world is often black and white, your work wardrobe certainly doesn’t have to be! You can add colour, flare and style to your work wear and still look professional. In fact, a little update to your work wardrobe might just give your career the boost you’re looking for.
So, to help you think outside the cubicle, here are four style ideas to help you turn your work wardrobe from drab to fab…
Look for tailored blouses with feminine appeal Tailored buttoned up blouses (with a little stretch) give a more feminine look, they are also flattering on most body shapes which is an added bonus, so it pays to have a few different colours – including some bright, vibrant colours – in your work wardrobe. Don’t think all of your blouses need to be plain though!
While you will want a couple of plain blouses, also look for some that have feminine elements like pleats, lace, embellished collars, elegant patterns and layered features to add a different look underneath your jackets. Even a nice sheer blouse, worn conservatively of course, can be a nice addition to your work wardrobe and create a soft, yet edgy, feminine look.
Command attention with striking jackets http://www.aliexpress.com/store/910885 Don’t be afraid to make a statement with your jacket. Think vibrant colours, interesting (yet still work appropriate) patterns, fitted or loose jackets, box or peplum jackets, long or short jackets, whatever your preference, a few different jacket styles and colours can really help you create a unique work look. Block colours like red and deep blue with black pants and a black or white blouse will also attract attention and create a more confident, sharper look.
How creative and different you go with your jackets can vary depending on your profession, but a few different styles and colours can really spice up your work wear. If you are a little more conservative, but still want a different look, focus on different styles of jackets instead of colours, even black and grey jackets can be made more interesting with a different design or material that gives a little more shimmer, sheen or texture.
Add a little flare with your shoes From bright colours and patterns to high heels and classy flats, your shoes give you the perfect opportunity to bring a little more of your own personality to your work wardrobe. What’s more, they can really help you change the look of those standard work wardrobe staples.
Brighten up your favourite black, charcoal, or grey suit by adding a burst of colour through your shoes, accentuate the colour of your blouse by wearing the same colour shoes, or for a more dramatic and classier look, team a vibrant coloured jacket or blouse with a shiny tan stiletto.
Make a statement with scarves Scarves, like shoes, are another way to add a little flare to your usual outfits and a little warmth in the cooler months. A few nicely coloured or patterned silk scarves can help give you an elegant, polished look while still breaking up your outfit with a little colour.
Even the one scarf in a different style can add a different look to your outfit. Try the French knot, bow tie or a simple wrap style for a winning work look.
Need to build up your networking and evening work wear too? Get some inspiration by browsing our cocktail dresses and evening wear.
Copyright © 2014 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3268 7878. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Spring Summer 2013 Collection.
Feb 03
How to Accessorise Your Outfit: Six Simple Rules
Your outfit can go from simple to stunning just by choosing the right accessories. From scarves to shoes, bracelets to brooches, purses to pendant necklaces, a simple addition or burst of colour can make your outfit come to life.
So how do you choose the right accessories to make you look incredible every single day and night of the week? Here are six rules to follow to help you turn a simple outfit to a stunning ensemble through your accessories.
Rule #1 – If your outfit is simple be daring with your accessories Good accessorising is all about balance. If your outfit is simple, like jeans and a tee or a block coloured dress, you can afford to be more daring and bold with your accessories. Depending on your outfit and the colour, you may want to try bright coloured heels or ballet flats, a vibrant scarf, layered bangles, bright bag or a long statement necklace.
Rule #2 – If your outfit is fitted go for big accessories, if fuller go for small If you’re wearing an outfit that is fitted and sleek, you can afford to have chunkier accessories, think a large statement necklace or cocktail ring. If your outfit is fuller and more layered, simplicity with your accessories is key.
Rule #3 – If your outfit is plain add bursts of colour If your outfit is black, white, grey or another neutral colour add a burst of colour through your accessories. It could be a bright handbag or pair of shoes, colourful or fluoro jewellery or a patterned scarf.
Rule #4 – Showcase your personality One of the most important rules of accessorising is to showcase your own personality and choose pieces that you like, or that have special meaning to you, not just because they were on sale or they went with an outfit (though this does work too). They could be heirlooms, gifts, from different places you’ve visited or pieces you’ve fallen in love with.
Rule #5 – If you want to look taller and slimmer go for longer accessories Long necklaces help to create long vertical lines which make you seem taller and slimmer. Experiment with long beaded necklaces or long chains that sit just below the bust, though limit it to one large chunky necklace at a time.
Larger and longer earrings can help to distract from problem areas by drawing attention to your face. They can also add a little drama and shine to your outfit.
Rule #6 – Don’t overdo it When you have accessories you love, it can be tempting to incorporate all of them into the one outfit, but resist the urge. Your accessories should complement your outfit not take over it. Limit it to one or two pieces to make a statement without looking too busy.
Looking for an outfit to go with your favourite accessories? Check out our collection here.
Copyright © 2014 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3268 7878. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Spring Summer 2013 Collection.
Jan 21
2014 Fashion Trends You’ll be Seeing More of
A new year has come and brought with it an opportunity to update our wardrobe, try new trends, play with new colours and get a little bolder in our fashion choices.
But what colours, pieces and trends should you be embracing this year? What essentials should be in your wardrobe? Here’s a sneak peek into what we think will be the best fashion trends 2014 has to offer.
Pure elegance If we were to use one word to sum up 2014 fashion, it would be ‘elegant’. We are starting to see a real modern twist on older style glamour, with sequins for evening wear, fitted suits, pencil skirts, boxed jackets, tea length (between an mini and a maxi) skirts and dresses and crisp buttoned up shirts with colourful or textured collars and cuffs. Add a touch of elegance and glamour to your everyday wardrobe with some of these essentials.
A sprinkle of sand Somewhere between tan and beige is sand, a warm neutral colour that is fast becoming a fashion favourite. Why? Because it is the perfect neutral colour to let vibrant and fluoro colours burst to life. It can also add a touch of sophistication when you team it with brown and light blue, pink or purple.
Put your pedal to the metal It’s time to shine! Embellished design is in, though don’t just play it safe with touches of shimmer, stand out in the crowd by covering yourself with shiny metallic fabrics and glistening textures from top to toe. Think sequinned jackets and skirts, crystals and lots of bling.
Sheer and lace Embrace your feminine beauty with lace and sheer fabrics. Don’t think you have to be limited to black and white though, there are some gorgeous designs coming out in Crayola brights that will add a pop of colour to your wardrobe. The trick to wearing sheer fabrics and lace is elegance. You want a hint of sexiness without putting everything on show, so be choosey with designs and make sure you have adequate covering underneath.
Pretty pastels Take a break from bright colours and shimmering fabrics with pretty pastels. From minty-green, lilac, baby blue and lemon, to pink, white, coral and peach there is literally a rainbow of soft pastel shades you can choose from. To prevent yourself from looking like fairy floss or your early childhood self, team pastels with a dark neutral colour like grey or choose a more mature structured outfit like a pencil skirt with a boxed or fitted jacket. Shades of grey Sleek and timeless, grey is making a comeback in a big way and is being hailed as the new neutral colour. Being elegant and soft, but also sophisticated and strong, means you’re not limited with the way you style it. Look ever the professional in a tailored grey suit or grey pleated or plaid skirt with a crisp white button up blouse, and when you hit the town, you can’t go wrong with a shimmering grey sequinned skirt or metallic dress.
Look radiant in orchid With radiant orchid being named the Pantone colour of the year you can expect to see it in a big way. While you can be forgiven for thinking it’s the perfect shade for a bridesmaid dress, the soft fuchsia, purple, and pink undertones make it more versatile than you realise. If you don’t feel comfortable wearing purple from top to toe or even in a subtle orchid pattern or floral print, add a touch of radiant orchid into your wardrobe through your accessories.
Which trends are you trying this year?
Copyright © 2014 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3268 7878. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Spring Summer 2013 Collection.Jan 13
Eight Summer Essentials for Your Wardrobe
Summer has well and truly arrived bringing hot days, warm evenings, beach visits, parties and that pesky question “what should I wear?” as you open your wardrobe. To ensure you stay cool but look hot all through the warmer months, here are eight summer essentials that are must-haves for your wardrobe.
1. The Party Dress Glam up your summer and look gorgeous this party season with the perfect party dress. Whether it is a contoured sheath dress with a contrasting waistband to give you an hourglass shape, a fitted peplum dress or a feminine lacy number, just make sure you choose a dress that suits your shape and makes you feel confident.
Patterns , prints and embellished designs are in, so add a little sparkle and be a little daring. Or to ensure the longevity of your outfit, choose a block colour that you can accessorise.
2. The Sheer Shirt Dress up your jeans this summer with a sheer shirt and strappy heels. There are some gorgeous and classy sheer tops that will give you an elegant yet sexy summer evening look.
3. The Wide-Brimmed Hat Aside from covering up a bad hair day and looking super elegant, a wide-brimmed hat will keep you sun safe all summer – what’s not to love?
4. The Maxi-Dress The maxi-dress is still a must this summer and the great news is that they’ve only gotten better. So dust off last year’s dresses and add some variety to your wardrobe with the chicer and more glamorous versions this season is giving us.
5. The Pointed-Toe Flat The pointed-toe flat gives you all the practicality of the ballet flat with a smarter and more elegant look. With a variety of options to choose from, closed-in, sling-back or strappy, you are bound to find a pointed-toe flat that will be the perfect accompaniment to your summer wardrobe.
6. The Beach Bag A beach tote is a must this summer and should be big enough to fit those beach essentials like your glamorous bikini or one piece, sunscreen, sunglasses and towel so you are ready to hit the beach at a moment’s notice. Your beach bag is the perfect opportunity to experiment with the brighter colours and more stand out patterns that are in this summer, so have a little fun with it.
7. The T-Shirt Whether it is fitted or loose, structured or casual, a few good quality T-shirts are a must. Choose designs and colours that can be dressed up and dressed down so you can wear it over and over again while still having a different look each time.
8. Neon Accessories Don’t be scared to add a little bit of neon to your outfit this summer, it’s in and it goes perfectly with basic wardrobe staples and colours. Invest in a neon bag or shoes to really make your outfit pop.
What is on your summer essentials list?
Copyright © 2014 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3268 7878. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Spring Summer 2013 Collection.
Jan 06
How to Look Magic at the Magic Millions
The Magic Millions racing carnival is fast approaching, though with high fashion stakes and sticky summer days how do you keep yourself looking cool, calm and elegant? Here are some tips and tricks to ensure you look magic on the day.
Be bold, take a risk Racing fashion is the perfect opportunity to step out in something you wouldn’t normally wear, so don’t be afraid to be bold and take a risk. Have fun and try something exciting.
Your dress, of course, should still be elegant and polished, though be sure to showcase your own personality and style. While popular trends are similar to those of the Melbourne Cup, add a little more flair by drawing on some of the bright and vibrant spring and summer colours and use the makeup on your eyes and lips to compliment your outfit.
Why not make a bright statement with your shoes too? Splash out on some colourful stilettos if you are going to be seated at a function all day or a thicker heel or wedge if you are going to be standing on the grass.
Accentuate your best features by dressing for your body type One of the keys to looking fantastic on the day, and winning the Fashions on the Field is to dress for your body shape and accentuate your best features. While we are each unique, our body shapes are generally narrowed down to five general categories: rectangle, apple, pear, wedge and hourglass. You might fall into one category, or you might be a mix of two or more.
When you know your body shape you will be able to find clothes that fit and flatter you and know which fashion trends to embrace and which to avoid.
For example, if you are a rectangular shape (your waist, hip and shoulder widths are similar and are usually on the slim side), you may want to have a scoop neckline to make the most of your bust or layer your outfit to create more dimensions. If you are an hour glass shape (your shoulders and hips are similar in proportion and set off by a tiny waist) go for a more fitted dress and pull it together with a belt to accentuate your waist.
Dress for the climate The Magic Millions aren’t anything like spring racing in Melbourne when it comes to the weather; you will be on the hot and humid Gold Coast with temperatures in the high 30s, if not 40s depending on heat waves, so you need to keep this in mind when choosing your outfit.
Go for a breathable, airy, and lightweight fabric, such as georgette, chiffon, crepe, organza, satin or a satin blend and avoid fabrics like silk that will show all signs of perspiration and cling to you. With regard to your headwear, you obviously still want to make a statement, though you may want to opt for a lighter head piece so it isn’t as hot, or a wide brim head piece that will protect your face from the sun. You may also want to take an umbrella to shade yourself.
Given the heat, it’s also best to keep your makeup light and natural for a fresh summer look. You will also want to wear a foundation with a sunscreen and pack some sunscreen in your bag to ensure you leave as beautiful as you come – and not a few shades redder.
Make sure you are confident and comfortable with your choice
While racing season is always a great opportunity to be a little daring and bold, you want to be able to carry yourself with grace and poise, and to do this you will need to be comfortable and confident in yourself and what you are wearing. If you don’t feel confident with what you are wearing, you will never wear it well.
Looking for some racing day fashion inspiration? Have a browse through our Spring Summer Collection.
Copyright © 2014 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3268 7878. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Spring Summer 2013 Collection.
Nov 28
How to Spend Your New Year’s Eve – and What to Wear
As the year comes to an end and party season begins, our thoughts can turn to how we’ll celebrate bringing in the New Year. In case you’re stuck wondering what to do or what to wear, here are four ideas on how to spend your New Year’s Eve and add a little style and flare.
1. A night on the town Whether it’s trying your luck at the casino, having cocktails with the girls, singing karaoke at a funky little bar, kicking up your heels on the dance floor, enjoying a scrumptious meal at a renowned restaurant or a little bit of everything, a night out on the town can be a great way to bring in the New Year – and a great excuse to add a little glamour to your evening.
What should you wear? A nice little black dress or cocktail dress is the perfect choice for a night on the town. Depending on what you have planned, you can easily dress it up or relax your look with the right accessories and hairstyle. Add some gorgeous kitten heels (perfect for a long night) and you’ll be turning heads for all the right reasons.
2. A night by the river or harbour If you love fireworks and don’t mind the crowds, the river or harbour (depending on the city), is a great place to see in the New Year. It also has the benefit of being as casual (like a picnic by the river as you wait for the fireworks) or as formal (like attending one of the glamorous riverside parties) as you want.
What should you wear? If your plans are more formal, a cocktail dress would be ideal. Don’t be afraid to take on the fireworks and add a splash of colour yourself with vibrant greens, blues and reds or make a statement with bright patterns. If your plans a more relaxed, a cool casual dress or a chic top with pants or a skirt is fine.
3. A night at the ball Bring in the New Year in true Cinderella style by attending one of the many balls or parties held at venues throughout your city. With themes ranging from black and white to masquerade you’re sure to have an enchanted evening.
What should you wear? A full length gown or cocktail dress will be perfect for the occasion. Given that it is summer and it will be a long evening, go for breathable, airy, and lightweight fabrics like georgette, chiffon, crepe, organza, satin or satin blends. While you want to keep within the theme (if there is one) don’t be afraid to bring a little creative interpretation to it.
4. A night that is your own Still can’t decide what you want to do for New Year’s Eve or can’t find what you’re looking for? Why not host your own party! You could hold a casual or formal dinner with friends, throw a costume or themed party, host a cocktail or karaoke party, have a BBQ and pool party or a murder mystery to make the evening a little more interesting.
What should you wear? Well that is entirely up to you! Go elegant or casual, dressed up or as yourself, whatever you choose be sure to bring a little fun, glamour and a lot of personality.
Do you have any plans for New Year’s?
Copyright © 2013 Stokes Thompson. All Rights Reserved. Contact Stokes Thompson or phone +61 7 3268 7878. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…
DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety: Do you have a special occasion coming up and need a special outfit? Stokes Thompson Design has a range to suit many occasions. Click here to view our Spring Summer 2013 Collection.
Nov 14
What to Wear to Your Office Christmas Party
With end-of-year stress, the pressure of forced social interaction with co-workers, holiday spirit and cocktails all combining under your boss’s watchful eye, it’s safe to say there’s no work event filled with more pressure or professional peril as the office Christmas party.
And if that wasn’t enough, then comes that looming question “what do I wear?!” To help you decide, here are some tips to ensure you make a lasting impression for all the right reasons at your office Christmas party.
Consider the venue and time of day One of the best ways to determine what to wear to your office Christmas party is to take into consideration the venue and time of day it is being held. Usually an evening event has a slightly more formal feel to it, while a lunch is slightly more relaxed.
The venue will also set the dress code. If it is a more prestigious venue, it will pay to call ahead to find out if they have a set dress code they like patrons to adhere to.
Your dress Your dress should be smart and stylish, giving a glimpse of who you are outside of work. While you should have fun with your outfit and make a statement, lean on the side of conservative, too much skin and cleavage is a not the look to go for at your office Christmas party.
As for what colour, it really comes down to personal choice. Monochromatic dressing (all in one colour) can give the illusion of being taller, and darker colours are often quite elegant and slimming. Though you also may want to show your Christmas spirit by choosing a Christmas colour like red, green or gold (no Christmas prints though!). If you get really stuck on what to wear, never underestimate the suitability and versatility of a little black dress.
Your shoes You are bound to be on your feet for most of the day or evening, particularly if it is a cocktail event, so choose your shoes wisely. Walking around the office Christmas party barefoot or leaving the Christmas party carrying your heels is not a good look. But don’t think you have to substitute comfort for style, there are some gorgeous wedges, kitten heels and pointed flats that will ensure you are comfortable and chic.
Your accessories Any dress can come alive with the right accessories. Just make sure you don’t go overboard, after all, the Christmas tree is what should be the most adorned in the room.
With this in mind, spread out your statement jewellery and keep your look balanced. If you have a big necklace complement it with a cocktail ring, or if you have big earrings complement them with bracelets, don’t try to do it all with the one outfit.
If your office Christmas party will be held in the evening or if there is a chance it might get cool, don’t forget to look for a shawl, jacket or cardigan that will complement your outfit, you don’t want to be freezing the whole time.
Being a Christmas party, it can be tempting to add in Christmas themed accessories, and while there is nothing wrong with getting in the Christmas spirit, just make sure they are elegant and not tacky. You want to light up the room for the right reasons, not because you have more lights on you than the Christmas tree.
Remember it is still a work function While the office Christmas party is an opportunity to be a little more relaxed, remember you are still out with your co-workers, boss and in some cases clients. How you dress, talk and act will impact the way people see you and it can have a lasting effect on your career, so have fun but be wise.
Do you have an office Christmas party coming up? What are you planning to wear?
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