Style Update

10 ideas for a style update

Do you sigh when you look in your wardrobe?  Feeling blue and full of the winter frumps?  The Saltrock girls have got together and come up with 10 suggestions on how to breeze into next season with a sexy new style, without breaking the bank.

Don’t be a fashion victim.

Just because something is in all the shops doesn’t mean its right for you, your figure, or your lifestyle.  Be honest and realistic about the shape you’re in and your body’s strength and weaknesses because no matter how much you want to look like Kate Moss in skinny jeans, you won’t if you’re not her size and shape.  If you know your legs are more like an elephant’s than Elle Macpherson’s, a super-mini will not make you look like a super model even if they are the height of fashion.  Tone them down and show off your fabulous cleavage or toned stomach instead.  Dress to accentuate your assets, not somebody else’s.

Find your fit

Take the time to find clothes that fit you perfectly.  The most stunning designer outfit might look exquisite on the peg and cost the earth, but it won’t earn its money if it doesn’t fit you well.  Even if you find your perfect dress but there’s only a 10 left and you really need a 12, resist; you won’t wear it because it will never look right.

Know your limits

Just as you shouldn’t go to the supermarket on an empty stomach, don’t go shopping for a new wardrobe desperate for new clothes but with no idea what you want.  Make a mental list of what you’re actually looking for so you won’t be tempted by impulse buys that will break your budget and sit in your wardrobe gathering dust.

Beware the über-trendy

A healthy suspicion of the very latest trend is always valuable, especially if it is radical, expensive or a long way from what you are comfortable with.  They often go out of fashion quickly and leave you with a wardrobe full of ‘What was I thinking?’  Only spend freely when it is the revolution you have been waiting for eg. the wonderful return of flares to save those of us of the chunkier legged persuasion.

Buy cheap buy twice

The current frenzy in the high street for all things cheap and cheerful has revolutionised the way many women shop.  But, and here’s a radical idea, a cheap fashion rip-off often looks just that – materials are of a lesser quality, cut and fit are compromised and quite often it just looks cheap.  It might be better value to buy the one top that looks really great than 3 or 4 cheapies for the same price.

Mix and match

Train yourself to look for outfits rather than one off impulse buys.  That way, you have something that goes with everything.

Maximise your assets

The plainest outfit can become stylish when teamed with the right accessories.  Don’t give up on your old favourites if they suit you – too radical a clear out can leave you feeling uncomfortable in everything you own – an expensive way to end up in exactly the same situation you started with.  A simple long sleeved tee can be transformed by adding a long necklace and chunky bracelets or a thick belt, or livened up with a cute body-warmer or cropped cardigan.

Hair and beauty

A great haircut can transform your look, and taking a little time out to pamper yourself can often make you feel much more worthy and ready to face the world.  We’ve put together a list of natural beauty suggestions to keep fresh and protected in and out of the surf.

Believe you can be beautiful

If you think you look awful you probably do, regardless of what you’re wearing!  Part of looking gorgeous is a state of mind, and if you believe you look fabulous you’re halfway there to convincing everyone else that you do.  Much of our image is created by our body language and the cheapest and easiest way to improve your look is to stand up straight and proud, look people in the eye and be confident.  That way, you can get away with almost anything!