6 Tips About Dress Alterations Every Woman Should Know*

Getting the perfect fit doesn’t have to be so difficult; dress alterations can be a life saver!
You’ve got a big event coming up; maybe it’s your best friend’s 30th, your sister’s wedding, or simply that job interview that you’ve wanted for an awful long time. Whatever it is, you need an outfit; one that shows off your best bits as well as one that looks sophisticated and fancy to boot.
However, something so simple as finding the right dress can be an absolute nightmare when you actually start that search. What looks best on your body? Where do you shop for a dress these days? Does your old dress even fit like it used to? With so much to consider, it can put you in a bit of a spin.
You don’t always need a brand-new dress for every occasion. Think about those dresses you used to love that are stored away in your wardrobe, just waiting to be worn again! Whatever your decision, dress alterations can be an absolute life saver. What should you keep in mind?

1. Give yourself plenty of time.
If you don’t give yourself enough time to organise your outfit, then you’ll be rushing around like a headless chicken the night before your event. We could all do without the extra stress when we have something important on the cards! If you’re ordering a dress then leave yourself a few months to get sorted if you can. This is especially important for weddings or other big events you’ve got planned in advance. If you know you’ve got an important interview next week, make sure you have all your alterations completed sooner rather than later!

2.Visit a tailor or seamstress.
If you know what your dress needs but you’re not sure how to get the look you want, a professional seamstress or tailoring professional is your best bet. Dress and wedding dress alterations from Alterations Boutique can help pinpoint areas for improvement, ensuring you get the look you need as easily as possible. Want a more fitting waist? Perhaps you need a hem taking in, or even sleeves removing; whatever it is, an expert can always help you out and take away some of that stress.

3.Don’t settle for an estimate.
A tailor doesn’t really know what they’re faced with unless they’re presented with a garment. It can be incredibly difficult to give out information over the phone or via email without actually seeing a dress with their own eyes. It’s always better to book in an appointment with a tailoring specialist; that way, you’ll have time to talk about what you need and ways in which your look can be achieved.

4.Remember your budget.
If you don’t have a skilled seamstress in the family it’s unlikely that you’ll get a discount when getting dress alterations. Make sure you budget! How much are you willing to spend on your dress to make sure it’s perfect? If you’re going to wear a dress more regularly than once in your life, then keeping some money aside is always going to be worth it. You’ll easily get your money’s worth!

5.Keep shoes and accessories in mind.
When opting for dress alterations, it’s always best to wear the shoes to go with your outfit alongside your dress. If you’re going for the hem tuck you need to make sure you stay in proportion! It can be easy to just focus entirely on your dress when, in fact, your overall look is the most important at the end of the day.

6.Take a friend!
Getting an opinion from someone who isn’t yourself or a seamstress is a good idea. A friend or family member knows you better than anyone else, and will be able to tell you, honestly, how things look, and even make suggestions about what may suit you!

Remember dress alterations when you’re in need of a new outfit!

Sometimes, having a big clothing sort out can uncover so much. Who knew we had so much in our wardrobes just waiting to be worn?! If you’re a little stuck for ideas, or you’re not sure what to do with all your old clothing that no longer fits, visit a professional!

This post was in collaboration with Alterations Boutique, suit and dress alterations specialists in the UK. For more information about their services or to make an enquiry, visit their website: https://www.alterationsboutique.co.uk.

Return of the Tights

Once upon a time I was known for my love of crazy tights; back when my blog was brand new, right up until a couple of years ago my motto was “the bolder the better” and my collection branched in to triple digits territory.

So what happened? I grew up I suppose, got a full time job where neon orange legs weren’t acceptable and I became generally too conscious of what other people might be thinking of me. Just as I’ve finally started to become comfortable with who I am, and have begun to branch out a bit with my style again the folks at UK Tights got in touch and gave me free reign in adding to my collection…determined not to stick to boring 60 denier black I tried to branch out and the results are below.

Dress: Pull and Bear | Tights c/o UK Tights (Jonathan Aston) | Boots: LOTD

Dress: La Redoute (similar) | Tights c/o UK Tights (Cecilia De Rafael) | Boots: LOTD

Jumper: Next | Skirt: New Look | Tights c/o UK Tights (Cecilia De Rafael) | Boots: Very

Whilst I’m not about to jump back in to stockpiling tights in a rainbow of colours it was SO good to be back wearing what is so typically me! I was hesitant at first of drawing too much attention to my legs as I am finding myself increasingly self conscious as my weight creeps up, but with a bit of careful consideration about what to pair them with I had a great time thinking up ways to style the tights and felt brave enough to leave the house in them too (from the girl who has been living in the same pair of jeans at weekends for months on end now).

I’ll be the first to admit that I was hesitant about whether investing in tights was a great idea, I mean, can you really tell your Primark from your Pretty Polly? Well, actually, yes, you can- another addition to my quality over quantity approach- three pairs of tights that I’ll actually wear vs. 100 pairs of cheapies that will never see the light of day? That’s value for money.

How to style last year’s clothes this season*

The AW18 season is well underway and of course it’s bought with it all manner of new trends. But what if like me you can’t afford to buy a whole new wardrobe? And, how can we reuse our AW17 wardrobe for this season’s fashion? Whether you’re doing it for financial reasons, eco reasons, or just don’t want to part with your favourites, in this guide we’ll cover what’s hot for men and women this autumn/winter, and help you re-use your most treasured pieces from seasons past.

Photo by Christian Fregnan on Unsplash

Styling menswear

One of the biggest trends of AW17 outerwear was shearling – a combination of suede and wool in one item. Thankfully it’s back this year; Giorgio Armani took it one step further with a shearling, suede and leather jacket that looks smart yet cosy for the colder months.
You might want to dig deeper than last year’s AW clothing with one of this season’s trends. This year it’s all about throwing it back to the ’90s hoarders rejoice!). You might have hoped you’d seen the back of shell suits and full tracksuits, but they’re back with a vengeance- on the catwalk, Prada completed the look with branded bucket hats and lightweight waterproof jackets (ideal for autumn weather).
Another garment that comes out year after year is the leather jacket. This year, instead ofthe shorter bomber style it’s all about oversized leather coats that can be paired with slim-leg jeans and winter boots. Fendi, Balenciaga and Paul Smith were all rocking the look during their AW18 shows- check out vintage stores and charity shops if you don’t have one hanging around.
When it comes to colours it’s autumnal brown that’s in this season- a colour you’re bound to have knocking around in your wardrobe. From brown men’s suits to oversized ponchos and shiny leather jackets, the brown colour palette is so versatile. If you don’t want to overdo this shade you can keep it simple with brown accessories such as hats, scarves and shoes to get in with the trend and mix shades to get a cool take on the trend.
Layering always takes to the main stage- it’s all about bringing together different garments in an effortlessly stylish sort of way. You might not have worn your V-necks in a few years but bring it out this year and slip it on top of a roll-neck jumper for an on-trend outfit. Other ways to layer include pairing an open checked shirt (a print that was everywhere for men’s shirts in AW17) with a graphic t-shirt and black skinny jeans.

Styling womenswear

Similar to the menswear trends, layering is on-trend for the ladies this AW too. Designers such as Balenciaga showed their support of the fashion technique at their shows. If you’re bold enough, the best way to layer is with contrasting colour and textures; digging out you metallic puffa jacket from last year and wearing it over a fringed jumper for example.
Animal print was also a big part of this season’s shows. While Victoria Beckham demonstrated her love for leopard print, other designers such as Isabel Marant were all about snake patterns. The best thing about this style being on trend is that you can mix and match animal print and still create an outfit that looks well put together. Leopard print has rarely been out of the spotlight in recent years — why not pair your printed cami dress with snakeskin boots and a matching clutch? Chances are everyone has some kind of animal print hiding somewhere in their wardrobe and this is the year to get creative.
Whilst glitz and glam was reserved for Christmas and New Year events last year, this season they’re acceptable throughout autumn and winter. Paco Rabanne showed off their models in oversized silver sequins that brought some much-loved sparkle to the runway. Tis the season to embrace sequins and glitter whatever the occasions- metallic Mondays and sequinned Saturdays? Yes please!
Oversized and chunky knit is back just in time for the cold snap too. This year it’s all about picking out your chunkiest jumper and popping it on over your camisole dresses, meaning your summer wardrobe can work harder too. Miu Miu showed off an outfit that was made up of a green floral midi dress and fluffy grey knit – in my head this is exactly how I’d dress every day!

Have you got any top tips for making your wardrobe work across all seasons and all trends? Leave them in the comments if you do…

Statement Made

Anyone who has read my blog for any length of time knows I have a magpie like obsession with jewellery and love to feature brands- especially independents who create gorgeously unique pieces, as much as I possibly can.

Today I bring you a new discovery of mine, Statement Made Jewellery, who very kindly popped a piece from their collection in to the post to me. In fact, it was the first piece of blogger related mail I have received in my new home, and this is also the first set of outfit photos I’ve taken in our new garden.

Anyway, Statement Made Jewellery specialise in handpicked pieces with a personal touch. Wanting their collections to reflect the uniqueness of their customers- helping them tell the world exactly who they are; 100% an ethos I can get behind!

Necklace c/o Statement Made Jewellery

I love this crystal ball style necklace, with it’s cute little “L” charm to boot. It’s already attracted a lot of attention, and has been getting a lot of wear in the few short weeks I’ve had it. It’s such a simple piece, and so perfectly me, below is an example of how I’ve been wearing it, and what my personal style is looking like right now.

Jumper: https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/knitwear/orange-and-red-stripe-metallic-button-front-top/p/600267780?comp=Browse | Pink Cords: Primark (similar) | Boots: Miista

I feel surprisingly nervous about posting these photos, I feel like it has been so long since I last shared my personal style, and I’m very conscious of how much my body has changed in recent months, and that it still has some changing left to do. That being said, I’m also trying to ignore the gremlins that reside in my head and get back in to doing what my blog used to primarily be about- and that was documenting my outfits. Our new garden happens to have the perfect platform for taking photos which I am hoping will spur me on, and I’m starting to get back in to dressing how the real Laura always used to dress before self consciousness took over.

Apparently I’m loving a bit of pink right now, I don’t think I’ve every worn so much of one colour in a single outfit before! The jumper I picked up when New Look at 25% off knit wear, and the cords were a ridiculously low price from Primark a couple of months back. Balanced out with my two toned Miista boots which really need to get worn a lot more than they currently do, and of course, my new favourite Statement Made Accessory.

There’s so much I want on the Statement Made Jewellery website, and so many great gift ideas too! I can quite smugly say I am almost done with my Christmas shopping, but there’s always room for one or two more treats for my favourite people and I know exactly where they are coming from.
(There’s also room for one or two treats for me too, and some serious hint dropping).

I’ll leave this post here before I lose my nerve, but a big thank you to Statement Made Jewellery for the necklace- take a look at your site and let me know your favourites in the comments!

A fool-proof guide to winter footwear*

(Photo by Raphael Nast on Unsplash)

Do you ever find yourself a little overwhelmed by all the shoes in your wardrobe? And is it still a struggle to find the right pair for every occasion? To make your footwear decisions as easy as possible this winter take a look at this handy guide. It showcases a handpicked selection of the latest trends – so you can step out stress-free all season. 
Renew your runners

Picking up a new pair of trainers doesn’t sound like the most exciting addition to your wardrobe, but with this season’s vibrant, retro-inspired designs they are sure to add a well needed injection of colour into your look. When it comes to these chunky trainers it’s the brighter the better. Check out the Gucci men’s clothing sale for the latest must-have sneakers. 

Hiking with a twist

The trekking trend is taking over after appearing on catwalks at Gucci and Chloe, making it a day wear must for autumn/winter 2018. It means bulky hiking boots with even bigger soles. Designs are popping up everywhere in both suede and leather, and either look great with colourful laces for an additional splash of colour. 

The crepe effect 

Chelsea boots have long been a staple in every man’s wardrobe. This season, however, they are back with a twist. The usually sleek sole has been replaced with a crepe-effect rough edge adding a new and improved cool vibe to a classic. Pair with dark jeans and slim-fitting knitwear for an effortlessly stylish look.

Moccasins are in 

This season moccasins are the perfect go to shoe for any occasion. Opt for sleek modern leather or a traditional suede design teamed with fitted trousers and a simple white shirt to take you through to the spring months. An added plus is your moccasins will also come in handy if you’re planning on heading off for a bit of winter sun. 

Let the sole speak for itself

One of this season’s most eye-catching trends has to be the colourful and textured soles that made their way into lines at Prada and Adidas. While the look – which was seen on everything from trainers to loafers – may be vibrant, it’s actually pretty easy to master. Let the shoe shine and pair back the rest of your outfit by sticking to neutral hues above the ankle.

Keep it clean

There’s nothing like a pair of crisp white trainers to freshen up your look and this season clean sneakers were all over the catwalk. Think big and bulky teamed with a pair of ankle-length or cropped trousers to ensure they don’t go unnoticed. It’s all about being box-fresh so try to stay clear of off-road activities once you’ve invested in a pair.

Swap sliders for high tops

The summer is officially over so it’s time to keep those feet warm and out of sight. Swap your summer sliders or mules for a pair of toasty high tops. You can even add an on trend tube sock for extra comfort.