Five fashion swaps
Stuck in a shopping rut? Try these five style swaps.
Do you always return from shopping with more jeans and another Breton top?
Do you envy other people's clothes, but fear you couldn't carry them off? You're probably stuck in a style rut.
Overhaul your whole look starting with one tweak and you'll find the others will follow. Think how great it feels when you step out of your comfort zone, and try one thing you wouldn't usually next time you're shopping.
If you always wear: Jeans
Try: Leather trousers
Stay with us! Gap and H&M do leather trousers but they aren't the Bon Jovi midlife monstrosities you think. In fact, with a sheer blouse or metallic jumper, they're practically workwear. And if you're wedded to your skinnies, they're the perfect alternative - tomboy-sexy, casual but glamorous and ideal if your legs are your best bit.
If you want to splash out, J Brand's £289 Maria High Rise Coated Skinny is as flattering as its jeans. If not, try Topshop's Shiny Faux Leather Trousers, £32.
[See also: How to dress for your body shape]
If you always wear: Converse trainers
Try: Ballet pumps
The trouble with Converse is that — classic, cute and comfy though they are — they're definitely on the scruff side. The ballet pump has the same run-around appeal, but its daintier proportions means it works with dresses as well as trousers. Go for metallics or bright colours if you find classic tan and black too lady-like. Russell & Bromley ballet pumps are flatteringly low-cut, as are French Sole and Pretty Ballerina.
If you always wear: Short skirts
Try: Shorts
Well why not? If you can pull off a mini, it's a small step to mid thigh tailored shorts or culottes - which definitely have the edge over your usual skirt. Wear them with jackets, blouses and heels for a sharp office appropriate look. Whistles do super flattering cuts, as do Tibi and Jaeger London, both available at my-wardrobe.com. And don't shy away from prints and bright colours - A-line shorts are just as kind to hips as skirts.
If you always wear: Black
Try: Navy, charcoal
Yes, yes black's slimming. But it's also pretty harsh against most skin-tones, and tends to look either formal or forgettable. We're not saying you should slip into lemon yellow. But navy, charcoal grey and aubergine are all easier to wear than black as they don't drain your skin of colour — and no less slimming or serious. Introduce more colour with accessories - charcoal grey goes well with a flash of mustard yellow, and navy is nice with tan and brown.
If you always wear: Mascara
Try: Liquid eyeliner
Too much mascara can be ageing and actually make eyes appear smaller. A thick flick of liquid eyeliner along the upper lash line has the same eye opening effect, but isn't as grubby looking as OTT mascara.
Versace for H&M part II: The cruise collection
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