Galway Advertiser 2008/GA_2008_04_24/GA_2404_E1_020.pdf 

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Galway Advertiser

April 24 2008

NEWS

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FASHION

BEAUTY

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H E A LT H

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LIFE

MARY
Spring is in the air and you are keen to revamp your look without breaking the bank. So where should you start? Local stylist and image consultant, Delilah Bouakkaz says it is important to remember that money cannot buy you style. Do not be tempted to spend a fortune on a new wardrobe. Invest in a few key pieces to bring you up to the minute and look at ways of updating last year's favourites. "The fundamental rule to remember is wear what suits your body shape no matter what age or size you are," advises Delilah. She says style is strongly related to etiquette and attitude. "In fact it is even more significant than what you wear and it has no cost. Wearing an outfit with confidence, good posture and stance can dramatically change your image. It is amazing how a person's look can vary according to their posture, gesture, language and manners, etc." She suggests going through your wardrobe and trying on different outfits to find out what suits you best. Be ruthless about looks that no longer suit your colouring or shape or highlight imperfections. See yourself as a complete package, looks, voice, posture, etc. "Look at yourself in the mirror or record yourself practising for an interview and then analyse the tone of your voice or your body language, etc. Exercise can help your posture such as dance and yoga." "Recognise what looks expensive and what doesn't. It isn't easy to mix and match colours, patterns and fabrics and still look stylish. My advice would be to keep it simple. If your overdo it you will look tacky." Choose quality over quantity, she recommends. "It is better to buy one great coat in the most flattering shade and shape that you will wear for years than to buy a few so so jackets. Keep your eye on the long term game. I would recommend you buy even just one high-quality classic piece a season such as a beautiful white shirt or an elegant little black dress, or the perfect trench coat, to build up a great wardrobe over time."

O'CONNOR
your partner, overly sensible friends or small children. * Dress to suit the occasion. Wear clothes that are easy to get in and out of otherwise you will waste valuable shopping time lacing up boots and buttoning up jackets. It is worthwhile making an effort with your appearance, too because this will give you a better picture of how clothes will look on you * Visit as many shops as possible. Compare prices, selection, and incentives (some shops will allow you to return items and give you a refund if you change your mind. Others offer loyalty bonuses). * Try everything on. Some clothes have hanger appeal, others do not but may look great on. * Be prepared to buy brands you have not heard of before. Broaden your vision and be prepared to take calculated risks. * Look out for quality items. The best buys are classic items, such as coats and suits. Choose colours for all seasons instead of high fashion shades or styles which will date very quickly. For coats, French navy, black and camel are wise colour choices. Do not buy anything that does not go with at least two other things you already own * Double check sizing. Increasingly, stock is being labelled in European sizing which can be confusing. Never rely on what the label says. Sizes vary with style and brand. * Check the finish of the outfit, both inside and out. Examine seams, buttons and zips. These are a good guide to overall quality. * Know your colours. Start with a few neutral colours which suit you and then build around these. The most versatile neutral bases are navy, grey, black and beige. You can then add additional colours to give these a lift. Most people can wear most colours, it is the shade and intensity of these which determine whether they will work for you * Look out for accessories. These are an ideal way to update and expand your wardrobe. Jewellery, bags, belts, scarves and hats are good bets. They can change an entire outfit, disguise figure flaws, take an outfit from day to evening or update last year's favourite.

Style on a budget

Hot buy
Do not buy pieces for the sake of buying them or just because they are a bargain or this week's hot buy. "A good shopper buys items that complement their wardrobe, meets their budget and flatters their image. Sometimes between a designer shop and a high street shop there won't be a huge difference in price on certain pieces. It is always worth comparing price, style and quality and get what's best for you. "On top of that you need to look after your hair, skin, make-up, nail and personal hygiene. All of that can be done by yourself and can help you save money. This doesn't involve lots of time or money. Once you have created a good routine and know what is best for you, it is easier to apply it." Delilah urges fashion shoppers to compare prices and quality. "I am always surprised at the difference in prices in Galway city for the same item or service." Before heading for the shops make a list of what you need, work out what budget you have available and then vow to stay within these limits. Resist any temptation to impulse buy or succumb to bargains if these items are not on your list. "Always, try pieces on before buying them. If you are looking for accessories for a dress bring it with you. If you can't find some items don't get frustrated. Just don't buy anything on this occasion. Relax and try later. If in doubt leave it out. If you are a bit short on time, I would suggest checking online for what's available in shops or phone ahead.."

Best points
It is important to recognise your best points and maximise these as well as your weaker points which you should try to play down. "Wear colours that suit your colouring and the occasion. It starts in your wardrobe. Most people wear 20 per cent of their clothes 80 per cent of the time. Great style starts in your wardrobe. Before hitting the shops, open your wardrobe and have a good de-clutter. "By clearing and organising it, you will know what you need to complement it with. Moreover, you could get more wear out of what you already have and maybe won't need to buy many new garments. Try to create several combinations with items and see what needs to be complemented." Updating last year's garments will expand your wardrobe and ensure you get good value from expensive buys. "Instead of throwing away last year's favourite jacket, try to update it. Bows are big this season so why not add one to your jacket. You can also try a belt or replace the buttons.

Style and image consultant Delilah Bouakkaz

Wise buying
* Start out early in the morning, if possible. Avoid shopping with