Stylish Thoughts comes today from Geelong in Victoria (about an hours drive away from Melbourne) by blogger and jewellery maker Jeanie who writes the blog Inspired Wish and sells her gorgeous jewellery on madeit. Jeanie came to me as a client and I’m really inspired to see how she has blossomed since our consultation.
What is the secret to great style?
Knowing what styles suit your shape. Having elements in your look that work together.
Shoes and hair. I know that’s two but my purse opens quicker for these two.
I love to be comfortable, a well made and good fitting shoe is a must. If I’m in pain it will show on my face and in my walk. I’m always amused by women who may be wearing a great looking shoe, but who can barely walk. Fabulous shoes also show off my great legs. If you’re busy checking out my legs you’re not noticing my other less liked features.
Regular haircuts help to give me confidence and keeps my hair style current. I don’t mind paying extra for indulgent pampering at the salon.
What are your top tips for looking stylish when travelling?
I tend to pack items that don’t crush and travel well. That actually my philosophy all of the time, if I have to iron it I don’t want it.
I always over pack. I love when we travel by car because I can pack as many pairs of shoes as I like.
What’s the secret to looking polished?
Wearing good fitting, quality pieces teamed with good grooming.
What is your current obsession?
Necklaces and rings. I make my own jewellery, something I started doing 12 months ago. At the moment I’m craving to learn bezel settings so I can make my own chunky cocktail rings. Prior that I obsessed over a Nancy Bird handbag for three years. I refer to that as my 3 year impulse purchase.
Audi from Fashion for Nerds. Following her blog you can see how she puts pieces together to create new looks. Is it nerdy of me that I printed out some photos of her and kept them in my wardrobe to remind me to not keep wearing the same things in the same way. I also love how brave she is with colour. Audi inspired me to purchase a pair of John Fluevog shoes in purple. Pre-Audi my Malibrans would’ve been black. That women is inspirational.
What’s not worth the money?
Brand names. Seriously. There are some really popular brands out there, and frankly I just don’t get it. Someone suggested I check out Pandora’s range for inspiration in my own jewellery creations. I didn’t have the heart to explain that I find pandora boring. It’s just not for me. In general I find brand names hard to swallow. You pay more to be just like everyone else.
What’s your secret to making yourself stand out?
Having confidence by honing in my own style. I use a combination of colour and uniquely designed jewellery pieces to achieve this. In my 20’s I earned to look like everyone else. Now in my 30’s I just want to be the best version of me. Working out what suits and appeals to my tastes helps me to stand out because I’m exuding confidence and individuality.
The one piece of advice most women need but don’t get?
Understand colour! Know which tones and shades suit you (for your wardrobe and makeup). I think so many women, this once included me, turn to expensive brands and ‘miracle’ creams in an effort to look younger and vibrant. Knowing which colours work for you will make you look years younger and more fabulous.
Accessories are the quickest way to add style. For me it’s a bangle and a necklace, or statement ring with earrings and I’ve finished a look in a quick fashion. In the cooler weather it may be a scarf and gloves.
What are your favourite websites
I seem to have a thing for blogs lately, here are just a few…
http://madeitdotcomdotau.blogspot.com/
http://www.creativewomenscircle.com.au/
http://www.ladymelbourne.com.au/
http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/blog/
How would you describe your personal style?
Relaxed and creative. I’m still working on my style. As I’m becoming more comfortable within myself I’m becoming more brave on the outside.
Who are your style icons?
I’ve always admired Kate Winslet & Kate Hudson’s style. They always looks relaxed, feminine and sexy all at the same time. They exude confidence. Besides adoring Katie Noonan’s voice, I love how she uses colour and style in a very flattering way for her shape. She has a great style.
