Charlotta of Afternoon Apparel
I love the photography on Afternoon Apparel a blog by Espoo (that’s a city right next to Helskini in Finland) based blogger Charlotta.
What is the secret to great style?
Is there one? Please share, haha!
What is the one thing you would spend a lot of money on?
A medium sized or an a bit bigger handbag in a classic shape and colour and made of a beautiful, thick leather. One I could carry all my things in for work or school (if I visit the library I will use an additional cotton bag not to put too much weight in the leather one). I love my Longchamp handbag (a few examples of outfits here, here and here) as it looks great with everything I own.
What is the one thing you wouldn’t spend a lot of money on?
I wouldn’t spend a lot of money on clothing that follows a certain trend I wouldn’t be able to mix and match after the trend has passed. Everything I spend my money on has to have the ability to blend in with my style so I can wear that item for many seasons to come.
What are your top tips for looking stylish when travelling?
Stay comfortable, wear classics you feel good in, layer up rather than wearing one thick layer, keep makeup and hair simple and easy. Don’t pile on metallic accessories if you’re flying, as you’ll regret it while taking your outfit apart at the metal detectors.
Gul&Blå jeans
What’s the secret to looking polished?
Know what works for you and what doesn’t. Even when you’re in a hurry you’ll be able to pick what suits you and is right for the occasion/location you’re headed to. When you have found the perfect foundation (if you wear makeup, that is), have a favourite pair of well fitting jeans and a dress that makes you feel beautiful (or any other pieces of clothing that never disappoints), you will be able to get out of the door in no time! My favourite pieces are my Gul&Blå jeans.
My angora blend sweater from H&M and my Piano boots that go with almost everything.
Who inspires you?
People don’t inspire me that much when it comes to clothing. Sometimes I get good ideas from other blogs or people on the street, but it’s usually some colour combination in nature that makes me try something new. It might also be the radical seasonal changes here in Finland that make me crave certain things, like warm wool and angora sweaters for winter.
The one piece of advice most women need but don’t get?
While walking the streets of southern Finland I would say “smile”. Smiling makes everything about a person instantly more likeable. Smiling is an instant face lift, it lightens up your eyes and people respond to you in a friendly and interested way. The most simple, casual and colourless outfit you own will look so much better when you wear your best smile with it.
What is your favourite current trend?
Probably burgundy coloured leather. It’s a classic at the same time as it’s trendy and back in style. I believe it’s a colour and a material that will last for long and will be totally wearable later, too!
What’s the worst current trend?
Flatforms! Can’t find anything likeable about them.
How would you describe your personal style?
My style is colourful and I wear simple accessories. I like feminine pieces that are wearable and easy to mix and match.
