By IMAGE
09th Nov 2015
09th Nov 2015
The most stylish women in the world have a unique signature look. Here, two members of the Dundrum Personal Style Team explain the secrets to creating a fabulous fashion uniform.
Laura Mullett
My signature style
Tailored with a retro twist. When I have a special event, I’m inclined to opt for a vintage-inspired silhouette – an hourglass shape works well for my frame. Day-to-day, my look is relaxed, a mix of comfortable pieces in luxurious fabrics. I like layer soft waterfall knits over lightweight T-shirts and wear them with dark, skinny jeans and suede loafers. Many of my clients say that finding smart-casual separates, which are interchangeable, makes them feel stylish, but still like themselves.
Labels I rely on
Mint Velvet is pure perfection. I love the simplicity and quality of their clothes. I also like new House of Fraser brand Gray & Willow – their separates are perfect for layering. French Connection is my go-to for an LBD, while the knitted tops in Hollister are great for smart-casual wear. I’m also a fan of Whistles? boyfriend blazers. They are tailored, but a little bit androgynous. Cos at BT2 offers beautiful silhouettes at great prices.
Red textured jumper, Cos, €59 at BT2
How I make print work
It’s easy to get stuck in a style rut, so refreshing your wardrobe with seasonal prints and textures is important. A common mistake women make is to opt for earthy tones that leave them looking washed out. Stronger prints and darker rust tones flatter most complexions.
Retro-Style shirt dress, Biba, €170, House of Fraser
Why colours count
For many women, navy, forest green or deep burgundy looks better against their skin tone. Wearing black too close to the face can drain a quintessentially Irish complexion.
How I accessorise
My top tip is to invest in a high street felt fedora. It will frame your face and add a cosmopolitan feel to a casual look. Dainty jewellery, whether costume or fine, is more elegant.
Tan Fedora, €10, Penneys
Lorna Weightman
My signature style
Understated, but with some trends built in. I like putting together outfits that can be worn anytime and for any occasion. I used to over-think what I wore, so I simply pared back my look and focused on silhouettes that worked for my body shape. I also swapped a lot of trends for timeless pieces. I think it’s important that every woman develops her own signature look, as it becomes part of her identity, her persona even. Modern-day icons such as Olivia Palermo have been defined by their style.
White Blouse, €55 at Urban Outfitters
Labels I rely on
On the high street, Zara, Oasis and H&M suit my shape and style, while my go-to designer labels are Boss and Jonathan Simkhai. My fail-safe outfit is a black blazer, skinny jeans, shirt and ankle boots – it never fails me!
Indigo Flared Jeans, €59.95 at Pamela Scott
How I make print work
The biggest mistake women make is overdressing – for instance, wearing a vibrant print with a bright colour and then adding too many accessories. It’s all about balance. Choose one statement piece and make it the focal point of your outfit. That way, you highlight the pattern without overwhelming it.
Black ankle boots, €199.99, at Gerry Weber
Why colours count
Black is a great foundation colour. When wearing prints and textures, a simple black piece like a polo neck or coat can pull together a look. But black shouldn’t be a safety net. Women need to be a bit bolder in their colour choices. For example, dark shades such as burgundy and olive green are lovely alternatives.
Burgundy Briefcase, €176 at Next
How I accessorise
Like Coco Chanel, I always remove the last item I put on!
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