We’re well into 2017 and along with the influx of ‘SALE’ and ‘MONEY OFF’ emails, we’re also seeing lots of ‘NOTHING NEW’ messages; people who are shying away from the shops and instead vowing to buy no new clothes!

You may have heard the statistic that most of us wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time; we get into the habit of reaching for the same items time and again, leaving clothes lurking at the back of the wardrobe (some with their labels still on), never to see the light of day

Whether you have a wardrobe bursting at the hinges with purchases or a modest collection of clothes, it is likely that there will be items in there that you may not have worn for several months, or perhaps even forgotten about. January is a great time to take stock of many things, your wardrobe included, so this month we’re encouraging you to shun the sales and instead go through your existing clothes, weeding out anything you don’t wear and perhaps discover some new outfits that you may not have come across before!

​Here are my top tips to help you perform a successful wardrobe weed…

• Is the item in your colour palette? If not, can you wear it with something that is to ensure it flatters your natural colour characteristics? If the answer to both of these questions is no, then we’d suggest you remove it from your wardrobe.
• Does the style of item fit you well? Does it flatter your body shape and proportions? If you don’t feel comfortable in something then it’s unlikely you’re going to wear it, so it’s best to get rid of it
• Has it worn well? Is it bobbled? Does is have holes or pulls in it? Sometimes we hold onto clothing for longer than we should do because we love them so much. However, wearing clothes that have seen better days can make you appear scruffy, it may be time to keep this item for days when you’re relaxing at home!
• How do you feel in the item of clothing? Feeling comfortable in your clothes is so important – if you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious then you won’t be able to relax and feel your best. If there is anything in your wardrobe that you really don’t like wearing it definitely needs to go!
• When did you last wear it? If it’s more than six months ago, then it’s unlikely you’re going to wear it again (unless it’s a seasonal piece of course). The exception to this would be classic items like skirts or trousers in a neutral colour, in which case give yourself another three months to get back into wearing them, if you’re still not reaching for them after this time then time to pop them on eBay or send to the charity shop.

Once you’ve completed this process you should have an edited wardrobe which only contains clothing which fits, flatters and makes you look and feel great!
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​Now it’s time to look at your clothes with a fresh pair of eyes. Experiment with different combinations of clothing, try accessorising with belts, statement necklaces and scarves. Have fun with your clothes and enjoy discovering new outfits without leaving the house (or spending any money!)
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Every year Pantone select a shade that they feel represents what is happening in our global culture and therefore serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude. For 2017 that shade is Greenery;

“A refreshing and revitalising shade, Greenery is symbolic of new beginnings.”Most shades of green are associated with nature and Pantone’s ‘Greenery’, which is very similar to Apple Green in our colour me beautiful swatches, is a zesty, yellow green tone, making it perfect for those of you who fall into our Light dominant colour category and who have a Warm undertone!
The way you wear this shade will vary depending on your dominant colour category, here are a few tips from us on how to wear this stunning shade!

Deep and contrasting
If you fall into the Deep or Clear dominant colour category you ideally want to pair Greenery with a contrasting shade. Neutrals like Charcoal and Black Brown will work well. You could also pair Greenery with Damson for a rich, contrasting combination or Lapis to provide a striking pop of colour.

Light and delicate ​
Those of you who fall into the Light dominant colour category will want to add a shade of a similar, or slightly lighter depth to Greenery, to complement your colouring. Try wearing it with subtle colours like Soft White, Shell or even Powder Blue, which will give a lovely, fresh feel to your look as we move into Spring.

Go green!
If you fall into the Warm dominant colour category you may wish to wear Greenery all on its own, or with some simple gold jewellery; either way, it will certainly complement your warm colour characteristics. Those who are Dramatic and Warm may want to try some more unusual colour combinations, perhaps a pop of Pumpkin or Primrose to really spice things up!