Wishing All My Passport to Style Readers And Followers A Very Magical Christmas

How is a girl to decide which outfit works best for each of her delicous gingerbread men?!! They need to look their best for Christmas Day!

Fingers crossed that you get a little shoe love underneath your tree!

                                        Sharon x x 

Attention Grabbing Christmas Tree Or Shy Demure And Sophisticated ? ?

Hi Gals, hope your all well happy and snug. My black Christmas tree here in the North-West UK, has definately not been given the less is more approache! It is smothered in rich opulent colours and textures, large red velvet victorian letters, with clusters of cherry red lights and tiny silk lanterns in rich berry colours, that evoke an image that against the black of my Christmas tree is rather oriental in style, I at least am enjoying the effect!! 

I love that this time of year as it gives me the excuse to adapt, create and reinvent Christmas in my home, having the time to be creative with textures and colours is so satifying and some times its fun to not be too formulaic and break all my own style rule, I can't believe I actually just said that!If you can't break rules at Christmas when can you?! If you think of kids at Christmas they don't think is that decoration level? They just pile them on and enjoy the array of colour and the pleasure of being involved!     

Here are just a few of my favourite expressions of Christmas, hope you enjoy them as much as I have. If I have not had chance to visit you and wish you a Happy Christmas, I hope your Christmas is full of laughter, mini cabbages if you like them! Lots of shiney baubles, the smell vanilla and gingerbread wafting, through your home, candle light, great music, finger drawings on your windows and that you can capture in your own way what made Christmas a special time for you as a girl, it really was not that long ago. 

Cherry and Chocolate Roulade, I'm making one with stem ginger!

Cotton clouds Christmas Tree, with simple lime green decorations, including my favourite, pom pom baubles great for bedrooms when you need help to imagine fluffy clouds to send you to sleep.

Regal acorns, fit for the snow queen

Why not make your Christmas tree a giant pin cushion? Cover it in your favourite shiney brooches/pins and cool badges?

I'm in love with the old world charm of this pom pom wreath, soft and yielding is just a nice as shiney and prickly, me thinks!

 This proud stag and its companion bird from anthroplogy is my absoloute favouritre, string, colour, gold antlers and way his movement is captured is just so regal.

                               

What was your favourite Christmas project this year?

                                        Sharon x x

Mulberrys Spinningfields Party Opens To Ooohs And Aahs!

For those of you that are avid Mulberry fans or are new to the brand and curious to know more, from bags to clothing you are in for a right royal treat as I discovered at a really grand opening of their new store in Spinningfields Manchester.

The opening party put a smile on every guests lips including mine, as it managed to masterfully distil the heady mix of its spring/summer 2011 show - inspired by one of my favourite books, The Secret Garden, cabbage sized hot pink roses were used to frame a secret walled catwalk down which strode copper headed models wearing clothing that gently celebrated their every curve, whilst the simple use of detailing on clothing and bags was like a breath of fresh air. Earthy and ethereal tones played a part in this delicous tale, from rich chestnuts, burnished plum, warm apricot, rose pink, cornflower and washed out blues. I particularly like the use of the humble D-ring detailing which Mulberry have used to great effect in their entire range of shoes for the season and the Polly Push Locket Belt, which I felt worked beautifully to accent the waist on Mulberry's chestnut cotton trench.

Cold it might have been outside but once inside Mulberry's new Spinningfields store you truly felt spring had sprung, after being treated to strawberry cocktail with delicate rose petals and a tiny teeny Victoria sandwich cake in a pretty floral box, the fun beats of the ever stylish guest DJ Daisy Lowe got everyone in the mood to party. Rather fitting that the guest DJ for Mulberry's Spinningfield opening party was Daisy don't you thing?!

Buttery soft bags like the Mila in electric blue were displayed in large glass boxes like captivating bright butterflies. Favourites like the Alexa, Tilly and Bayswater had all been given a touch of the secret garden magic, teaming unexpected colours and textures with utility styling and playful proportions. I loved the way that the creative treatment of the shop walls and floors, combined both textures and colours which reflected urban and natural world influences. Mulberry manages to very cleverly harness this fusion throughout their brand.

After an uplifting performance from Sunday Girl, guests were treated to a surprise performance by Ellie Goulding, both acts were the perfect ending to a great evening. Thoughtfully designed cotton goody bags embellished with the fun design of a white rabbit poking its head out of a Mulberry Satchel and a packet of carrot seeds as a swing tag, full of goodies were distributed by our lovely Spinningfields host's, along with shiny gold Bayswater balloons to light our path back home, it was a magical evening.

Mulberry We Salute You!

Todays post had to be dedicated to Mulberry a company with a British heritage which first began in 1975, they beat off stiff competition from Victoria Beckham on Tuesday the 7th of December at the British Fashion Awards, for best designer brand. With a creative like Emma Hill as companies director, it will come as no surprise to many within the fashion industry that they scooped this prestiges award.

 It is Emma who has with her vision for the company, has generated mass demand for the companies bag's by fronting initiative's such as creating the Alexa Satchel, a hybrid of the companies mens satchel Alexa Chung favoured. The quality of the bag's, attention to detail, longevity of style, fun contempory print's and creative use of material's make Mulberry a firm favourite in the heart' of the British public and world wide, three cheers for Mulberry!!!!!!!!! 

If  I could share two other pieces of happy news with all you Fabulous Followers, as you may know I have been know to get a little excited at the mention of tweed, I own a beautiful piece from the Isle of Harris, that is soon to be made into a cape.

So I thought you might like me to spread my delight around a little and share the news that Mulberry are bringing out this beautiful tweed satchel in January 2011! Remember to form an orderly cue with no barging!

They say good things come in threes, well this ones pretty good,  Mulberry are launching their second store in spinning fields shopping centre, Manchester tomorow! They have kindly invited me along to their opening, watch this space for more on the event! 

 

 Sharon x x

Sharon Smile Clinic - Christmas 2010 Edition

Hi Gals thanks  for joining me for my Christmas edition of my Smile Clinic, which I hope helps put a smile on your face. Often women decide to have a image makeover with me, in the run up to Christmas and the New Year, because they recognise that they are running on empty, after spending the season giving in many different ways and need some fresh inspiration and style guidance to re energise their look and themselves.
 This burnt red leather dashound clutch put a big smile on my face from geekoligie.com 

  I also love this silk tag which acts as a sweet reminder that sometimes we need to give to ourselves as much as to everyone else! Hope my Christmas inspired pick's put a smile on your face and lighten your load a little.

lilsugar.com

                                     This beautiful acrylic pendant was made in the UK  by artist Kim Thompon at Kimthomsondesign.com using the wrapper from one of my favourite tea time treats a tea cake, marshmallow middle with a light biscuit base and chocolate shell, yummy! So what better way to feel beautiful inside and out and celebrate this tea time treat than wearing this gorgeous pendant with an Art Deco sophistcation! Lucky Kim, imagine every time she make one she gets a rewarded with the taste of chocolate and velvety soft marshmallow!  

                                                                          

 Simple but stunning Christmas table design, by poshposydesigns.com   cherry red liquid glass with a mass of frothy white flowers studded with shiny baubles, I love. To me this design oozes kitsch but at the same time has a Japanese feel also. What do you gals think?   

                                                

cherry red swing coat, team with dachhound

clutch?

Talk about a quirk of style! Shiny baubles in your ears in a face flattering shape, superb!

                                                I think these pretty dears are all over come by Mr Red stag and who can blame them!

                                            Know a little one that would like to decorate their own trusty steed for Christmas? Or you if you are looking to theme a big Christmas party bash, how about the Nutcracker?  These recycled card rocking horse's painted up in your favourite bright colours could be just the thing to kick start your fairy tale, secure on strong wire at varying height, for a real wow factor also lilsugar.com

                                                      

                                                    

     

                                         Sharon x x

Tis The Season To Dress Like A Grand Dame!

Hi Gals, December is the season for bold flamboyant dressing, why so? Well it is the season of one of our greatest traditions pantomime dames! If that is'n't the best reason ever to swathe yourself in layer's of brightly coloured lace, pile on the sequin's and fling on a pair of cartoon style shoe's and then top it all off with a hat that looks like an exotic gift then I don't what is! Take a look at my top pick's for styling wanabe pantomime dame's all over the world. Go on indulge your urge to go over the top, it's great fun I promise!

                                                         

  Sharon x x  

Great Style Is In The Details

Hi Gals, nothing cheers me up better than sifting through a beautiful box of vintage buttons, I get so excited about the way that small beautiful detail's styled in the right way, can totally personalise your look and your image and help you stand out from the crowd!

 So I was smitten when on one of my Fashionable Frolicks through the blogsphere, I happened upon the Button Company. I could not resist sharing these fun charming Christmas decoration makes on their site, now your Christmas tree can look every bit as Stylish as you, enjoy! For full instructions on how to make these Christmas tree decorations visit www.buttoncompany.co.uk

  Have a Stylish day!

                                                                        

                                                                        

                                        Sharon xx

Be Inspired To Transform Your Image This Christmas Season With A Wardrobe Workout!

Giving your Image a makeover and stepping out of your comfort zone when it comes to your wardrobe is just what every gp should have on prescription to beat the winter blues. My philosphy as a Style and Image consultant is be inspired by the seasons and the sometimes miserable weather and use it to jump start a whole range of new looks that harness the drama and romance of the seasons and make you feel the power of reinvention.We all have our favourite basics, but playing too safe can get a little dull.

 If I can do this whilst snuffling into a tissue, so can you! So when I think of snow and ice, am I thinking will there be enough grit on the roads? Or will I tramp melted pool's of water into my home?

Certainly not! I'm thinking of casting off slouchy warm hats in favour of 40's style snood's and skater style hair net's, (to channel my  grown up skater girl look) combining with a cheeky luxe caplet, 70a style pants a black roll neck and a faux fur bag that doubles as hand muff for full on sleek winter glamour. Don't get me started on my wardrobe for wet weather! Have fun trying a new style on for size.    

                                                                           

                                        Sharon x x 

Top Tip's To Ensure Your Bra Fits You Perfectly!

                              

Hi Gals, craving a curvy silhouette for this Autumn/ Winter 2010 and the party season? Then you need to follow my top tip's to ensure that your bra fits correctly, the fastest route to sculpting your body shape ready for those figure hugging favourites and for creating the hourglass look that is so on trend at the moment.

Follow My Check List To Ensure Your Bra Fits You Perfectly






1.First take a look at the back of your bra, is your back strap riding high and not in line with the rest of the bra? Then this means that your band size is too big and your cup size maybe too small.






2. Next with your bra fastened on its regular fastening, loop two fingers into the back band or ask a family member or friend if it is awkward. Then pull gently on the back strap, if you can pull it more than 2 inches away from your back, then the band size is too big and you need to adjust the strap to ensure a snugger fit or replace your bra if it is already on the tightest fastening.






3. If you have dents marks on your shoulder's it means that your band size is too large and not supporting your bust properly.










4. Check the underwire on your bra cups, they should be flush with the rest of your body and not raised up away from your body or rubbing against any breast tissue. If your under wire is raised your cup size is too small.


5. If you have a bust is bulging or spilling out of your bra again your cup size is too small.


6. Finally under wired bras should be washed by hand or in a pillow case to keep them performing well and looking good.

                                                                 

                                    Sharon x x 

Top Tips For Party Dressing This Christmas Season 2010!

                                                

As a Personal Shopper and Image consultant based in Lancashire who works in the North West of the UK. I know that Christmas and the New Year can often be a busy time for most women and with the party season snapping at our heel's I thought I would play fairy godmother by rounding up my hottest Style and Image tip's for adding polish to your Christmas and New Years party look's without busting your budget!

                                                                                

1) Red lipstick has had a revival and help create instant party glam, if your thinking of wearing a red lipstick this party season, follow my two foolproof tips-

a) pull your lower lip out and match the colour red you select to the shade of the your skin tone on your lower lip.

b) Remember to use a nude lip liner to stop any bleeding or feathering, apply your lipstick with a brush for best coverage, blot with tissue and reapply, this is the most important part- Put the first half of your index finger in your mouth and pucker up your lips whilst removing your finger. This will ensure that any access lipstick appears on your finger and not your teeth, when you smile!

2) One of the best ways to achieve instant glamour is with a hair up, this season the catwalks were awash with clean sophisticated hair ups ala Grace Kelly, such as the top know.

Want to achieve the look but don't think your fine or shoulder length hair will allow you to reach those dizzy heights? You need a little boost with the greatest invention since a jammy dodger! A  foam doughnut,  small hair brush,  stack of long pin's, some hair spray and a strong hair elastic.

Using a small brush gather all your hair into a high pony tail, on the top of the  your head, slide the doughnut over your ponytail, depending on your hair length, in front of a mirror wrap the ends of your hair round the doughnut till there is no more hair to tuck under, securing with the long pins to match your hair colour. Comb through some hair spray to the front and spray the back, voila your done! Foam  doughnuts to build your hairstyle can be bought on Amazon for as little as £1.99.

3) Strong brows are essential for this seasons retro party feel and always add strength to the face, brow kit's can cost £25.00 upwards, own a good waterproof eyeliner in a shade lighter than your brows? Then why try this budget busting grooming advice, purchase a baby sized tooth brush I usually opt for pink! Lightly stroke on your eyeliner following the shape of your brow, brush hairs backwards and then brush back into shape dust with translucent powder and your good to go!

4) For top to toe grooming I often advocate a full manicure, however with this season being all about full on glamour, I have the perfect style solution that will save you time and rescue you from feeling guilty about forgetting take care of your hands! For uber glamour with a modern twist, ditch your washing up gloves, for full length evening gloves in this seasons bright colours! Spanx currently sell a vast range of mouth watering colours on Amazon for just $8.99!

6) Personalise your tights by layering a thick opaque pair with a cheap sheer glittery pair over the top, great for when the temperature drops! Try purple tights with a glittery silver finish or black tights with a purple finish and dark grey with a silver finish , for a sophisticated after dark look.

7)Finally do you have a whole array of soft clutch bags but want to update them a little? Brightly coloured vintage style diamante brooches add instant chic to your clutch or why not glue some black marabou trim to the bottom edge of your bag or even a wide black Alice band as well, if you fancy adding a bit of Audrey sparkle to your up do!

You shall go to the ball!