If you're a tunic and leggings person, it's time to aim for a dramatic make over in complete contrast to what you're used to. Those stomach muscles haven't seen the light of day for some time and your waist line is probably bordering complacent. Try wide leg culottes teamed with a cropped top, nonchalantly half nipped into the waist band to show that flat finish, or a tucked in and bloused top over relaxed trousers tapering to the ankle. No-one has tucked and bloused for twenty years. Finally we can wear a belt. Know a good belt company? Most have rebranded and turned into handbags, it's been that long.
Just for fun throw on a maxi dress with a serious side split to suit your stride for the next barbecue or casual dinner out. Nothing beats the top to toe body-line of a maxi dress for a slimmer appearance. Elevated with a nifty metallic sandal or wedged slide and topped with a no nonsense contoured denim jacket and you're hot to trot. With hemlines sliding lower, the Frank Lyman floral knit dress tapered to below the knee is drop dead gorgeous. He, along with Emily and Fin, have done their homework, in a summer where gardens of floral dominate the cat walks.
So while the Silly Season starts heating up and the invitations begin rolling in, remember to give yourself time to experiment with the fabulous colours, fabrics and styles that make up this year's summer collection. Make it fun, have a play and don't be afraid to challenge that comfort zone.
