Liberating luxury
at Liberty Spa
I don’t know about you, but whenever I indulge in the luxury
of a body massage and facial all I want to do afterwards
is sleep. Unfortunately was not possible however after my
recent visit to Liberty Spa in Navan because I had to drive
home afterwards! I was pretty much in need of pampering after
driving from the hustle and bustle of Dublin, with nothing but
doom and gloom on the radio.
Liberty Spa is an old house in Trimgate Street, Navan, with 3
treatment rooms, a full mani pedi room and a dedicated spray
tanning room. I loved the whole atmosphere of the place, the
rooms are candle lit which is instantly calming and the house
itself is full of character.
Nicola Bohane who owns the spa met me on arrival with
a hugely welcome coffee (I could have had juice either) and
goodies. We then chatted about the various treatments available.
I opted for the Oxygen Skin Calm Facial as it sounded so
wonderful and I’ve heard and read so much about the benefits
of oxygenating the skin. I have to say it was pure unadulterated
bliss! My therapist Noreen told me exactly what she would be
putting on my skin ,which was an Elemis treatment using a
gentle rose exfoliator (I could actually smell the rose), a ginseng
toner and a procollegen cream. At my age every bit of collagen
helps! This facial can be tailored to suit any age and skin type
and is one of the nicest and best I’ve ever experienced. It was
gentle and luxurious. I adored it.
All of this was followed by a Well Being body massage. No
better girl than Noreen for this, she has the greatest pair of hands!
My back and neck had knots in them because I seem to gather
all my tension in these areas. She kneaded and worked on them
and I could feel them responding to her pressure, she seemed to
know exactly where to focus and I swear I could feel all tensions
dispersing under her touch. Of course that’s the whole purpose
of the exercise. Again, this massage is always tailored specifically
to the client’s needs.
This is going to be a fantastic year for Liberty customers as
they are offering all kind of ‘specials’. In these recession bound
times we all love a bargain so here are some of the treats available;
you can avail of an Eye Trio (lash tint, brow shape and brow
tint) and a Taster Facial all for €50. This means you’re really
getting your facial for €18, which has to be one of the best offers
around. The ladies here were telling me about the popularity of
their brow shaping and believe this particular treatment gives an
overall ‘lifted’ effect. When I saw some of the ladies who’d had
it done I have to say I agree. Cheap facelift girls?
If you buy 2 products from the Murad range you will get a
free Murad cleanser. As well as these offers they will also mix
and match packages to suit your skin and your pocket. They
have 3 for 1, six facials for the price of five and many more, all
you have to do is ask!
I’m not surprised that the ladies have built and retained a
strong, loyal customer base. They believe in offering personalized
customer service. So why not take a couple of hours out of your
stress filled day and treat yourself to one of the many treatments
available, maybe treat someone you love. Valentines day may be
over but sure what’s wrong with being ‘loved up’ every day of
the year! – Maggie Gibbons
Liberty Spa, 8 Trimgate Street, Navan
Tel 046 9076161
www.liberty-spa.com
PS. Don’t miss the Elemis Event at Liberty Spa on Friday, 5 March
and Saturday, 6 March. You can treat yourself to a fantastically
rejuvenating Visible Brilliance Facial and get a Limited Edition
Elemis Pro Collagen Collection worth €287 all for just €150, that’s
a saving of €135!
must
By Maggie Gibbons
Inspire
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Finding the perfect dress!
style beauty by Maggie
Finding the Perfect dress
How often have you stood in front
of the shop mirror sucking in your
stomach and/or bottom, kidding
yourself that the dress will look great once
you lose that couple of pounds? Go on
admit it, we’ve all done it. But guess what?
If it doesn’t fit you in the changing room
girls, it won’t fit you any better when you
get home!
It’s time to get used to the idea once and
for all that no matter how expensive your
clothes are, or what label is on them, if you
don’t know how to dress your body shape
you will never achieve a stylish look. You
will keep on buying because (a) you can’t
resist a bargain, (b) it’s a size 12 and you
normally take 14 or (c) your friend has it
and it looks fantastic on her.
Well guess what will happen to all these
buys? That’s right, they’ll become orphans!
Yes, they will hang alone in your wardrobe
like little orphans because they don’t suit
your particular body shape. Once you learn
and begin to follow a few simple tips you
can start to play up all your great assets and
downplay the not so good bits.
How to choose the perfect dress
for your body type
Ever know anyone with the ‘perfect’
body? Does it even exist? The answer is no,
it doesn’t. Although with all the trash that’s
being shoved in our faces about size 0 and
‘thin’ being perfection then it’s no wonder
we feel freakish at times! Every woman
has figure flaws, in all my years running
workshops, styling, and personal shopping
I have never come across a woman who was
totally happy with her body. The trick is to
learn to adorn it with clothes that flatter. So
let’s get cracking…
Pear shapes: The pear shaped woman
carries her weight on her bottom half, her
hips and thighs will be wider than her top
half and she will take a bigger size on the
bottom. The key here is to play up the
top half, anything decorative should be
worn here. If the knees are not good don’t
wear minis. An A line to the dress is very
flattering as it creates balance. The pear
shaped woman usually has a great waist
so take advantage of this by wearing belts.
Draw attention upwards with details like
frills, shawl collars, on top half. Wide set
straps will also help you balance out your
top half with your bottom. Also, avoid
wearing clingy fabrics on bottom as they
will draw unwanted attention.
Curvy: You have a full bust and hips
and will wear anything from size 14
upwards. Choose a wrap dress that you can
tailor to fit your shape. And remember to
choose dresses that aren’t too tight, while
still maintaining a smart shape. Wearing a
shapeless dress will make you look bigger
than you are, while choosing a too tight
dress will show off every bulge and ripple
of fat. The curvy woman should also avoid
shiny fabrics as they are very unforgiving.
Plus size: Dawn French is living proof
that you don’t need to be a size 10 to look
gorgeous and feminine. She wears her
Caftan dresses with style and panache. Look
for dresses in bold patterns, and wear v necks
to draw the attention upwards to the face.
And of course, accessorise with fabulous
jewellery. The plus size woman looks
wonderful in layers.
Big bust: Halter tops and deep Vs are
very attractive for women who want to
show off their assets. If you have a curvy
figure on top, wear dresses that cling to
those curves. If however you like to cover
up a bit then the wrap dress is a wonderful
choice. Avoid detail on top if you want
to draw attention away from bust. Before
buying a dress, make sure you have a good
well fitting bra, and get fitted for one if you
don’t.
Rectangle: This is a straight up and
down shape, often times with no defined
waist. The shift dress looks wonderful on
this shape as it hangs straight from the
shoulder, it might even be slightly fitted.
It skims your body nicely, but won’t cling.
Jackie Kennedy made them famous and
latterly Princess Diana. An empire line is
also a fab way of giving the illusion of a
waist as it cinches in just under the bust
which is the narrowest part of your body.
Hourglass: Often considered to be
the ideal shape, this woman has a narrow
waist and curvy bust and hips. Think
Nigella Lawson. Skim those curves and
wear fitted dresses with plunging necklines.
Femininity and hourglass go hand in hand.
She’s all about figure hugging dresses.
Petite: For all you petite ladies (5’
3” and under) the rules are simple and
unstructured. Don’t bury yourself in masses
of fabric and don’t swamp yourself in ankle
length clothes, they will only make you
look smaller. Avoid long dresses, simplicity
is the key here. I love a knee length dress
and coat on petites. Vertical lines work
brilliantly also as they create a longer
silhouette.
So there you have it ladies. Next time you
see a dress you love take time to figure out
what it will do for you. Think about your
particular shape first before you splurge.
Just remember there is a dress for everyone.
Enjoy yours.
You can find a beautiful dress that will
flatter your figure no matter what your
body type is. Just be sure you study your
image from all angles when you try one
on. From now on learn to highlight the
positive. If you know you look beautiful I
guarantee you will feel beautiful too.
Maggie Gibbons is an Image Coach and can
be contacted on 087 6782406 or
email maggiegibbons@iol.ie
maggie-gibbons.blogspot.com
Meath Chronicle inspire
Finding the Perfect dress
How often have you stood in front
of the shop mirror sucking in your
stomach and/or bottom, kidding
yourself that the dress will look great once
you lose that couple of pounds? Go on
admit it, we’ve all done it. But guess what?
If it doesn’t fit you in the changing room
girls, it won’t fit you any better when you
get home!
It’s time to get used to the idea once and
for all that no matter how expensive your
clothes are, or what label is on them, if you
don’t know how to dress your body shape
you will never achieve a stylish look. You
will keep on buying because (a) you can’t
resist a bargain, (b) it’s a size 12 and you
normally take 14 or (c) your friend has it
and it looks fantastic on her.
Well guess what will happen to all these
buys? That’s right, they’ll become orphans!
Yes, they will hang alone in your wardrobe
like little orphans because they don’t suit
your particular body shape. Once you learn
and begin to follow a few simple tips you
can start to play up all your great assets and
downplay the not so good bits.
How to choose the perfect dress
for your body type
Ever know anyone with the ‘perfect’
body? Does it even exist? The answer is no,
it doesn’t. Although with all the trash that’s
being shoved in our faces about size 0 and
‘thin’ being perfection then it’s no wonder
we feel freakish at times! Every woman
has figure flaws, in all my years running
workshops, styling, and personal shopping
I have never come across a woman who was
totally happy with her body. The trick is to
learn to adorn it with clothes that flatter. So
let’s get cracking…
Pear shapes: The pear shaped woman
carries her weight on her bottom half, her
hips and thighs will be wider than her top
half and she will take a bigger size on the
bottom. The key here is to play up the
top half, anything decorative should be
worn here. If the knees are not good don’t
wear minis. An A line to the dress is very
flattering as it creates balance. The pear
shaped woman usually has a great waist
so take advantage of this by wearing belts.
Draw attention upwards with details like
frills, shawl collars, on top half. Wide set
straps will also help you balance out your
top half with your bottom. Also, avoid
wearing clingy fabrics on bottom as they
will draw unwanted attention.
Curvy: You have a full bust and hips
and will wear anything from size 14
upwards. Choose a wrap dress that you can
tailor to fit your shape. And remember to
choose dresses that aren’t too tight, while
still maintaining a smart shape. Wearing a
shapeless dress will make you look bigger
than you are, while choosing a too tight
dress will show off every bulge and ripple
of fat. The curvy woman should also avoid
shiny fabrics as they are very unforgiving.
Plus size: Dawn French is living proof
that you don’t need to be a size 10 to look
gorgeous and feminine. She wears her
Caftan dresses with style and panache. Look
for dresses in bold patterns, and wear v necks
to draw the attention upwards to the face.
And of course, accessorise with fabulous
jewellery. The plus size woman looks
wonderful in layers.
Big bust: Halter tops and deep Vs are
very attractive for women who want to
show off their assets. If you have a curvy
figure on top, wear dresses that cling to
those curves. If however you like to cover
up a bit then the wrap dress is a wonderful
choice. Avoid detail on top if you want
to draw attention away from bust. Before
buying a dress, make sure you have a good
well fitting bra, and get fitted for one if you
don’t.
Rectangle: This is a straight up and
down shape, often times with no defined
waist. The shift dress looks wonderful on
this shape as it hangs straight from the
shoulder, it might even be slightly fitted.
It skims your body nicely, but won’t cling.
Jackie Kennedy made them famous and
latterly Princess Diana. An empire line is
also a fab way of giving the illusion of a
waist as it cinches in just under the bust
which is the narrowest part of your body.
Hourglass: Often considered to be
the ideal shape, this woman has a narrow
waist and curvy bust and hips. Think
Nigella Lawson. Skim those curves and
wear fitted dresses with plunging necklines.
Femininity and hourglass go hand in hand.
She’s all about figure hugging dresses.
Petite: For all you petite ladies (5’
3” and under) the rules are simple and
unstructured. Don’t bury yourself in masses
of fabric and don’t swamp yourself in ankle
length clothes, they will only make you
look smaller. Avoid long dresses, simplicity
is the key here. I love a knee length dress
and coat on petites. Vertical lines work
brilliantly also as they create a longer
silhouette.
So there you have it ladies. Next time you
see a dress you love take time to figure out
what it will do for you. Think about your
particular shape first before you splurge.
Just remember there is a dress for everyone.
Enjoy yours.
You can find a beautiful dress that will
flatter your figure no matter what your
body type is. Just be sure you study your
image from all angles when you try one
on. From now on learn to highlight the
positive. If you know you look beautiful I
guarantee you will feel beautiful too.
Maggie Gibbons is an Image Coach and can
be contacted on 087 6782406 or
email maggiegibbons@iol.ie
maggie-gibbons.blogspot.com
Meath Chronicle inspire
Saturday, February 20, 2010
For the man in your life!
I'm always giving advice to women on Colour, accessories etc, etc. and recently a male friend asked me for a few hints and tips on wearing belts, so I thought I'd share it with you. Men’s belts are such simple accessories; you wouldn’t think choosing them would require much thought, I mean it's not like the choices we girls have to make when it comes to shoes, bags, whatever! You know the small details have so much to do with the overall impact that it's well worth paying attention to them.So here are some tips:
* Have 3 belts in good quality leather, say black, Brown and Burgundy.
* Socks should always match your pants
* Belt should always match your shoes.
* Black belt and shoes. Dressier belts are generally, brown, grey black.
* Fasten through second hole.
* Don't wear it too tight
* Don't have it too slack.
* If trousers have loops always wear a belt.
* Have 3 belts in good quality leather, say black, Brown and Burgundy.
* Socks should always match your pants
* Belt should always match your shoes.
* Black belt and shoes. Dressier belts are generally, brown, grey black.
* Fasten through second hole.
* Don't wear it too tight
* Don't have it too slack.
* If trousers have loops always wear a belt.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Me feet are killing me!!
Why oh why do we continue to buy shoes that hurt our feet? Easy peasy, it's all in the name of fashion, or vanity, but whatever way you look at it we girls LOVE our shoes.I've tolerated blisters and corns just so's I could wear my stilettoes.Can a girl have too many shoes? Nah! No self respecting lady I know would wear something fab without appropriate shoes to enhance the look. There are some amazing designs out there at the moment, and the prices suit every pocket. Wheter you want high end designer or better value boutique versions they are all bang on trend. Just be aware that if you're not buying leather your little piggies may well suffer as a result. Buy hey, isn't it worth it, even if you have to change in the taxi to something less comfortable. Stilettoes are probably the least comfortable of all, what am I saying, they are damn right uncomfortable but it never stopped ME wearing them and swearing rings around me they were like a glove to wear. What are we like! Soraya at Coze di Roze always ahs wonderful design with accessories to compliment so you should pay her a visit if you're over southside.
In the meantime 'these shoes were made for walkin'. Enjoy!
In the meantime 'these shoes were made for walkin'. Enjoy!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Fancy a night filled with fun and Style?
Let’s talk Style!
With
Maggie Gibbons
How would you like a night full of Style and fun that won’t cost you more than the price of a few drinks? What can be better than a gang of women letting their hair down and having a good laugh while learning to bring colour and style into their busy lives. If you’d love a night out with a difference then come along to our next ‘Style Me’ night or host one with a group of friends.
Time to get some ‘me’ time back into your lives girls. Come along for a few hours and you will learn whether you suit Warm or Cool colours, what make up is good for your skin tone, what your body shape is and how to flatter it, how to accessorise an outfit and lots of tips and ideas on reinventing your wardrobe.
You will learn :
* 4 basic fashion rules
* 5 wardrobe staples
* 8 ways to look slimmer
* How to have fun with accessories
And lots more!
Venue : Newgrange Hotel, Navan, Co. Meath
When? Thursday March 11th 2010
From 7pm – 9.30pm
Cost €20 per person
Places will be limited so book your place early to avoid disappointment. Call Maggie to place your booking.
Maggie Gibbons can be contacted on 087 6782406 email maggiegibbons@iol.ie
With
Maggie Gibbons
How would you like a night full of Style and fun that won’t cost you more than the price of a few drinks? What can be better than a gang of women letting their hair down and having a good laugh while learning to bring colour and style into their busy lives. If you’d love a night out with a difference then come along to our next ‘Style Me’ night or host one with a group of friends.
Time to get some ‘me’ time back into your lives girls. Come along for a few hours and you will learn whether you suit Warm or Cool colours, what make up is good for your skin tone, what your body shape is and how to flatter it, how to accessorise an outfit and lots of tips and ideas on reinventing your wardrobe.
You will learn :
* 4 basic fashion rules
* 5 wardrobe staples
* 8 ways to look slimmer
* How to have fun with accessories
And lots more!
Venue : Newgrange Hotel, Navan, Co. Meath
When? Thursday March 11th 2010
From 7pm – 9.30pm
Cost €20 per person
Places will be limited so book your place early to avoid disappointment. Call Maggie to place your booking.
Maggie Gibbons can be contacted on 087 6782406 email maggiegibbons@iol.ie
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Wardrobe Musical
If your wardrobe was a Musical?
Would it be Snow White, Cinderella or something else? We all love a good musical with it's Heroine/hero, a real case of good against evil.
With every musical there is a good guy and a bad guy, Now what in God's name has this got to do with your wardrobe?
Okay, let's suppose the good guys in your wardrobe are your absolutely favourite pieces, they always gets you compliments, and provide the real feel good factor. It could be a fabulous jacket,a stylish beautifully cut coat, or the most wonderful pair of diamante stilettoes.It might also be some gorgeous jewellery.How often do you wear your good guys? They're statement pieces so don't they deserve to be shown off?
The bad guys are those that dont flatter you, maybe they are too tight, out of date, you know the sort of clothes that do absolutely nothing for you. It could be an unflattering colour or wrong style for your shape. They might be 'fat' clothes, or just old reliables, whatever they are they wont make you look and feel special. Why are you holding on to them? Or worse still, why do you continue to wear them? It's time to get rid.
The Chorus
An essential part of any musical is the chorus, These are the accessories that pull your outfits together,the bags, shoes, knitwear, scarves, hats, etc.etc.
When clients complain to me that they've nothing to wear I usually find they have plenty, the problem is they wear their bad guys most of the time. If I ask them to identify a good guy and ask why they're not wearing it they will invariably say it's 'too good'. Imagine! it has probably cost a fortune yet it lies in the wardrobe like orphan Annie.
You HAVE to put on clothes every day ladies so why not wear something that makes you feel great. Stop settling for 'alright'!
As they say at L'Oreal...you're worth it!
Would it be Snow White, Cinderella or something else? We all love a good musical with it's Heroine/hero, a real case of good against evil.
With every musical there is a good guy and a bad guy, Now what in God's name has this got to do with your wardrobe?
Okay, let's suppose the good guys in your wardrobe are your absolutely favourite pieces, they always gets you compliments, and provide the real feel good factor. It could be a fabulous jacket,a stylish beautifully cut coat, or the most wonderful pair of diamante stilettoes.It might also be some gorgeous jewellery.How often do you wear your good guys? They're statement pieces so don't they deserve to be shown off?
The bad guys are those that dont flatter you, maybe they are too tight, out of date, you know the sort of clothes that do absolutely nothing for you. It could be an unflattering colour or wrong style for your shape. They might be 'fat' clothes, or just old reliables, whatever they are they wont make you look and feel special. Why are you holding on to them? Or worse still, why do you continue to wear them? It's time to get rid.
The Chorus
An essential part of any musical is the chorus, These are the accessories that pull your outfits together,the bags, shoes, knitwear, scarves, hats, etc.etc.
When clients complain to me that they've nothing to wear I usually find they have plenty, the problem is they wear their bad guys most of the time. If I ask them to identify a good guy and ask why they're not wearing it they will invariably say it's 'too good'. Imagine! it has probably cost a fortune yet it lies in the wardrobe like orphan Annie.
You HAVE to put on clothes every day ladies so why not wear something that makes you feel great. Stop settling for 'alright'!
As they say at L'Oreal...you're worth it!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Love who you are right now!
Are you your own worst critic?
Stylish, well-dressed women
come in all shapes and sizes. Stop bemoaning the fact that you don't fit into a size 10, 12, whatever!There's no such thing as the 'perfect' body. The well-dressed, confident woman takes care of the body she has right now and buys clothing styles to complement it.
Yearning for the body you had in your 20's/30's will only give you grief and serves absolutely no purpose. Bodies change with age...fact! So comparing yourself to catwalk models is style suicide. Comparisons are odious.
You will be filled with resentment and angst.Beauty really does work from the inside out.
Treat yourself to something nice NOW, don't wait until you lose those few extra pounds or you really are missing out on so much pleasure and fun right now. Carpe Diem!
Love the body you have and dress it with love and attention.
live in the now and give up worshipping at the altar of unrealistic expectations.
Stylish, well-dressed women
come in all shapes and sizes. Stop bemoaning the fact that you don't fit into a size 10, 12, whatever!There's no such thing as the 'perfect' body. The well-dressed, confident woman takes care of the body she has right now and buys clothing styles to complement it.
Yearning for the body you had in your 20's/30's will only give you grief and serves absolutely no purpose. Bodies change with age...fact! So comparing yourself to catwalk models is style suicide. Comparisons are odious.
You will be filled with resentment and angst.Beauty really does work from the inside out.
Treat yourself to something nice NOW, don't wait until you lose those few extra pounds or you really are missing out on so much pleasure and fun right now. Carpe Diem!
Love the body you have and dress it with love and attention.
live in the now and give up worshipping at the altar of unrealistic expectations.
To girlfriends everywhere!
Girlfriends
Someone will always be prettier,
They will always be smarter,
Their house will be bigger,
They will drive a better car,
Their children will do better at school,
And their husband will fix more things around the house.
So let it go,
And love you and your circumstances.
Think about it.
The prettiest woman in the world can have hell in her heart,
And the most highly favoured woman on your job
May be unable to have children,
And the richest woman you know,
who’s got the car, the house, the clothes…might be lonely,
And The Word says “If I have not love I am nothing”.
So, again, love you.
Love who you are.
Look in the mirror and smile and say
“I am too blessed to be stressed and too anointed to be disappointed”
“Winners make things happen,
Losers let things happen”
Be Blessed ladies and pass this on to encourage another woman.
“To the world you might be one person,
but to one person you just might be the world”.
Maggie
Someone will always be prettier,
They will always be smarter,
Their house will be bigger,
They will drive a better car,
Their children will do better at school,
And their husband will fix more things around the house.
So let it go,
And love you and your circumstances.
Think about it.
The prettiest woman in the world can have hell in her heart,
And the most highly favoured woman on your job
May be unable to have children,
And the richest woman you know,
who’s got the car, the house, the clothes…might be lonely,
And The Word says “If I have not love I am nothing”.
So, again, love you.
Love who you are.
Look in the mirror and smile and say
“I am too blessed to be stressed and too anointed to be disappointed”
“Winners make things happen,
Losers let things happen”
Be Blessed ladies and pass this on to encourage another woman.
“To the world you might be one person,
but to one person you just might be the world”.
Maggie
Thursday, January 28, 2010
It's all an illusion!
You know in recession times everybody seems to be worried about what to-morrow will bring so it’s important when you are buying that you know what suits your shape. There is no room for mistakes in the current climate!
It is vital that you work with your body and recognise your body shape and proportions. Consider your current wardrobe...are you wearing all your clothes or just some old tried and tested favourites? If you are like most women, with a mixture of successes and disasters in your wardrobe, you wear 20% of your clothes 80% of the time. It would be ideal to be able to go to your wardrobe and be able to just grab an outfit and know it will look good and feel comfortable. It is all about knowing what colours complement your colouring and learning which styles complement your body.
There are numerous body shapes to take under consideration. I’ve highlighted the main ones.
It is a good idea to stand naked in front of a full-length mirror and see what your good and bad points are. Then it is all about camouflaging what you don’t like and emphasising what you do like about yourself .If you are petite it is advisable to wear the same block colour. Also short or cropped jackets with trousers give the illusion of longer legs.
Long jackets with long skirts are only really for people over 5’7” and those with long legs. This style jacket lengthens the torso and really suits the taller person. If you are petite avoid this style as it will only take over, stick to the short-style jacket. If you are short and have a full figure and are inclined to be a bit hippy then the jacket to the hips will suit you best.
I will return to this topic soon again with lots of tips and hints on what to wear.
Why shape glasses should I wear?
What Eyeglass frames are good for me?
Now that Spring is coming (fingers crossed) it’s time to get the sunnies out or buy some new ones. There are some cool designs and colours but have you ever thought about the shape that suits you ?
For many of us the most important aspect of choosing eyeglass frames is how they look on our face. However if you took the time to narrow down the selection beforehand then you could save yourself a lot of time and frustration.
The guidelines for this are as follows:
• The frame shape should contrast with your face shape.
• The frame shape should be in scale with your face size.
• Eyewear should enhance your colouring.
While our faces tend to be a combination of shapes and angles there are some basic face shapes. These are, Round, Oblong, diamond, square, and oval shaped.
Round:
A round face is usually the same length as width with no angles. To make the face appear longer and thinner try angular frames to lengthen the face and frames that are wider than they are deep.
Oval:
Often considered the ideal shape because of it’s balanced proportions. To keep the balance look for frames that are as wide as the widest part of the face.
Oblong:
The oblong face is longer than it is wide. To make it appear more balanced draw attention to the top part of the frames.
Diamond:
Diamond shapes are narrow at the eye line and jawline, cheekbones are often high and dramatic. This is the rarest face shape. To highlight the eyes and emphasise the cheekbones try frames that have detailing, like distinctive brow lines or go for rimless frames.
Square:
A square face has a strong jawline and a broad forehead, plus the width and length are in the same proportions. To make the square face look longer and soften the angles try narrow frames that have more width than depth
Lastly… only wear your sunglasses outside, far too affected to keep them on indoors, also wearing them on your head is not good for the frames.
Warm regards
maggie
Now that Spring is coming (fingers crossed) it’s time to get the sunnies out or buy some new ones. There are some cool designs and colours but have you ever thought about the shape that suits you ?
For many of us the most important aspect of choosing eyeglass frames is how they look on our face. However if you took the time to narrow down the selection beforehand then you could save yourself a lot of time and frustration.
The guidelines for this are as follows:
• The frame shape should contrast with your face shape.
• The frame shape should be in scale with your face size.
• Eyewear should enhance your colouring.
While our faces tend to be a combination of shapes and angles there are some basic face shapes. These are, Round, Oblong, diamond, square, and oval shaped.
Round:
A round face is usually the same length as width with no angles. To make the face appear longer and thinner try angular frames to lengthen the face and frames that are wider than they are deep.
Oval:
Often considered the ideal shape because of it’s balanced proportions. To keep the balance look for frames that are as wide as the widest part of the face.
Oblong:
The oblong face is longer than it is wide. To make it appear more balanced draw attention to the top part of the frames.
Diamond:
Diamond shapes are narrow at the eye line and jawline, cheekbones are often high and dramatic. This is the rarest face shape. To highlight the eyes and emphasise the cheekbones try frames that have detailing, like distinctive brow lines or go for rimless frames.
Square:
A square face has a strong jawline and a broad forehead, plus the width and length are in the same proportions. To make the square face look longer and soften the angles try narrow frames that have more width than depth
Lastly… only wear your sunglasses outside, far too affected to keep them on indoors, also wearing them on your head is not good for the frames.
Warm regards
maggie
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Is looking good sometimes ok for you?...read on.....
Help! I want a whole new look!!
Can you learn to look elegant? Some women seem to be born that way. Put them in the proverbial black sack and they’d still look perfectly groomed. Think Audrey Hepburn, gorgeous!
Are you one of these or does it take huge amounts of time and effort to look half decent? Do you start your day looking pretty stylish but by evening your make up has worn off and your clothes are crumpled and stained? The minute I put on something white or cream then I can guarantee that I will spill something on it before the day is out.
While you may never achieve the Hepburn look you most certainly can achieve something authentically yours. The key to looking stylish is consistency, no point in appearing like a fashion plate one day and a dogs dinner the next. You need to pay attention to detail at all times.
To get you started I recommend keeping a Style Journal, make a note of what you are wearing each day, how you accessorise, what shoes you are wearing, and where you wore it. Be aware of the responses you get, compliments etc. Have people commented on the colour? Asked perhaps if you lost weight? Note how you felt wearing it, was it comfortable, any gaping bits? Were the shoes comfortable? As the day went on did you feel as good as you did that morning? This may all seem a bit tedious at first but believe me it’s well worth the bit of effort.
How does ‘Stylish’ look?
Have you ever seen a truly stylish lady dripping with brand names? I don’t think so, she has no need to, she’s self confident and knows her body well enough to drape it in clothes that she feels wonderful in. She wears her clothes with confidence. Her style is timeless, not for her the fickle vagaries of ‘must have’ trends.
Know your body.
Whether she’s size 10 or size 20 the truly stylish woman dresses to suit her particular shape, she dresses for the body she has now not the one she had 20 years ago. She will only ever buy clothes that flatter her shape. Not for her the shapeless sacks that most women who are over size 16 think does them huge favours. She discovered long ago that drawing attention to your good parts and taking attention away from the not so good ones works far better. Sure sizing is so off the wall nowadays you could be a 12 in one shop and a 16 in the next. Fit matters!
Study different price ranges.
Go to different stores and feel fabrics, study line, stitching, and see if you can tell the difference between well made and cheap. Not always terribly obvious. We mistakenly believe that because we pay a fortune for something it must be well made. Not necessarily so, same goes for something that cost very little, it doesn’t always follow that it’s rubbish. Do your research before you purchase.
Getting started
Here are a few tips to get you started on your journey:
*Treat yourself to a new hairdo: This really is one of the best things to revamp your image. Make sure you discuss it with your hairdresser though, don’t go when he/she is too busy, and get something that’s easy to manage.
*Sort out your make up: Are you stuck in a time warp, using the same old stuff for years. Time to get rid girl and take yourself into one of the department stores for some good advice. There’s loads of fab stuff to be had. Get yourself a free facial and ask the make up artist about the products she’s using.
Accessorise: The stylish woman know the secret of accessorizing, a necklace, earrings, scarf, bangles, any of these will enhance an outfit, just don’t overdo it. Look through magazines and pull out looks you love. It may be a colour here, a shape there, or even a luxurious scarf. Start a Style Board for yourself and study it to see what it’s telling you. If you were getting a new kitchen you’d be buying every magazine you could get your hands on, and going to showrooms until you were perfectly satisfied with the choice you were making. From now on think of yourself as your new project. Now you surely deserve more time and care that an old kitchen??
Have fun
Yours in Style
Maggie
Can you learn to look elegant? Some women seem to be born that way. Put them in the proverbial black sack and they’d still look perfectly groomed. Think Audrey Hepburn, gorgeous!
Are you one of these or does it take huge amounts of time and effort to look half decent? Do you start your day looking pretty stylish but by evening your make up has worn off and your clothes are crumpled and stained? The minute I put on something white or cream then I can guarantee that I will spill something on it before the day is out.
While you may never achieve the Hepburn look you most certainly can achieve something authentically yours. The key to looking stylish is consistency, no point in appearing like a fashion plate one day and a dogs dinner the next. You need to pay attention to detail at all times.
To get you started I recommend keeping a Style Journal, make a note of what you are wearing each day, how you accessorise, what shoes you are wearing, and where you wore it. Be aware of the responses you get, compliments etc. Have people commented on the colour? Asked perhaps if you lost weight? Note how you felt wearing it, was it comfortable, any gaping bits? Were the shoes comfortable? As the day went on did you feel as good as you did that morning? This may all seem a bit tedious at first but believe me it’s well worth the bit of effort.
How does ‘Stylish’ look?
Have you ever seen a truly stylish lady dripping with brand names? I don’t think so, she has no need to, she’s self confident and knows her body well enough to drape it in clothes that she feels wonderful in. She wears her clothes with confidence. Her style is timeless, not for her the fickle vagaries of ‘must have’ trends.
Know your body.
Whether she’s size 10 or size 20 the truly stylish woman dresses to suit her particular shape, she dresses for the body she has now not the one she had 20 years ago. She will only ever buy clothes that flatter her shape. Not for her the shapeless sacks that most women who are over size 16 think does them huge favours. She discovered long ago that drawing attention to your good parts and taking attention away from the not so good ones works far better. Sure sizing is so off the wall nowadays you could be a 12 in one shop and a 16 in the next. Fit matters!
Study different price ranges.
Go to different stores and feel fabrics, study line, stitching, and see if you can tell the difference between well made and cheap. Not always terribly obvious. We mistakenly believe that because we pay a fortune for something it must be well made. Not necessarily so, same goes for something that cost very little, it doesn’t always follow that it’s rubbish. Do your research before you purchase.
Getting started
Here are a few tips to get you started on your journey:
*Treat yourself to a new hairdo: This really is one of the best things to revamp your image. Make sure you discuss it with your hairdresser though, don’t go when he/she is too busy, and get something that’s easy to manage.
*Sort out your make up: Are you stuck in a time warp, using the same old stuff for years. Time to get rid girl and take yourself into one of the department stores for some good advice. There’s loads of fab stuff to be had. Get yourself a free facial and ask the make up artist about the products she’s using.
Accessorise: The stylish woman know the secret of accessorizing, a necklace, earrings, scarf, bangles, any of these will enhance an outfit, just don’t overdo it. Look through magazines and pull out looks you love. It may be a colour here, a shape there, or even a luxurious scarf. Start a Style Board for yourself and study it to see what it’s telling you. If you were getting a new kitchen you’d be buying every magazine you could get your hands on, and going to showrooms until you were perfectly satisfied with the choice you were making. From now on think of yourself as your new project. Now you surely deserve more time and care that an old kitchen??
Have fun
Yours in Style
Maggie
Tame those wobbles!
Dealing with your Jiggly Bits
New year, new resolutions! Yes it’s January again and here I go again with promises to myself that I will definitely give up desserts, (and chocolate and ice cream). This happens every year. Call it post Christmas guilt or even just a sense of live healthier, live longer! Whatever, the older I get the more all the junk settles in a nice bulge of fat around my middle that just refuses to budge.
The wardrobe has been de cluttered, I know my shape, gravity has taken a grip and I take a long hard look at myself. I’d love to think the mirror lied sometimes (could it be bad light)? But sadly what’s staring back at me is not a pretty sight. Rolls of wobbly fat…aaargghh!
Time to tame the jiggly bits! There are all sorts of body shapers on the market today from the ‘magic knickers’ to a far more comfortable all in one shaper. You need to shop around but you can get anything you want whether It’s something for thighs, bottom or tummy. I always recommend Dunnes or Penneys if this is virgin territory for you. After all why waste €70 -€80 on something you find so uncomfortable you will never wear it again. You will pick something that does the job very effectively in Dunnes/Penneys for less than €15. In fact the shapewear tights with the control panel are pretty fantastic if you want to get a great silouhette.
Does anyone out there remember the famous ‘roll on’? If you’re a certain age as they say then you will most likely have worn one. I did, and I think that’s why my particular generation has such loathing for these ‘sucky ins’! Rest assured ladies the underwear today is nothing like what it was 30 years ago. No self respecting lady should have an undies drawer without at least one figure shaping piece of engineering.
Can I tell you though unless you wear the right foundation garments you will never look your best. When were you last fitted for a bra? This is so fundamental yet most of us are still wearing the same size we started out with a hundred years ago. Boobs change with age, childbirth, and for myriad reasons so go to your nearest department store and ask to be fitted . You will be amazed at the difference it makes. Even tightening your bra straps can have an instant slimming effect as it visually lengthens the torso as well as emphasising the waist.
To hide a full stomach you need shapewear that comes right up to your ribcage. People keep telling me they roll down which can be very uncomfortable and of course defeats the purpose, what I always recommend is stitching it to your bra and hey presto you have an all in one! Trouble is what to do when you need the loo? Easy peasy, I just cut a hole in them, not very elegant, but sure who sees them anyway and it works! Trust me.
If you can create a ‘V’ shape at your neckline this will give the illusion of a long slim neck. In fact vertical lines will always help make you look slimmer. Also remember to hide the bits you don’t like. Draw lots of attention to the bits you’re happy with. Thing is, do you know what you’re happy with? Think about it and you go girl!
New year, new resolutions! Yes it’s January again and here I go again with promises to myself that I will definitely give up desserts, (and chocolate and ice cream). This happens every year. Call it post Christmas guilt or even just a sense of live healthier, live longer! Whatever, the older I get the more all the junk settles in a nice bulge of fat around my middle that just refuses to budge.
The wardrobe has been de cluttered, I know my shape, gravity has taken a grip and I take a long hard look at myself. I’d love to think the mirror lied sometimes (could it be bad light)? But sadly what’s staring back at me is not a pretty sight. Rolls of wobbly fat…aaargghh!
Time to tame the jiggly bits! There are all sorts of body shapers on the market today from the ‘magic knickers’ to a far more comfortable all in one shaper. You need to shop around but you can get anything you want whether It’s something for thighs, bottom or tummy. I always recommend Dunnes or Penneys if this is virgin territory for you. After all why waste €70 -€80 on something you find so uncomfortable you will never wear it again. You will pick something that does the job very effectively in Dunnes/Penneys for less than €15. In fact the shapewear tights with the control panel are pretty fantastic if you want to get a great silouhette.
Does anyone out there remember the famous ‘roll on’? If you’re a certain age as they say then you will most likely have worn one. I did, and I think that’s why my particular generation has such loathing for these ‘sucky ins’! Rest assured ladies the underwear today is nothing like what it was 30 years ago. No self respecting lady should have an undies drawer without at least one figure shaping piece of engineering.
Can I tell you though unless you wear the right foundation garments you will never look your best. When were you last fitted for a bra? This is so fundamental yet most of us are still wearing the same size we started out with a hundred years ago. Boobs change with age, childbirth, and for myriad reasons so go to your nearest department store and ask to be fitted . You will be amazed at the difference it makes. Even tightening your bra straps can have an instant slimming effect as it visually lengthens the torso as well as emphasising the waist.
To hide a full stomach you need shapewear that comes right up to your ribcage. People keep telling me they roll down which can be very uncomfortable and of course defeats the purpose, what I always recommend is stitching it to your bra and hey presto you have an all in one! Trouble is what to do when you need the loo? Easy peasy, I just cut a hole in them, not very elegant, but sure who sees them anyway and it works! Trust me.
If you can create a ‘V’ shape at your neckline this will give the illusion of a long slim neck. In fact vertical lines will always help make you look slimmer. Also remember to hide the bits you don’t like. Draw lots of attention to the bits you’re happy with. Thing is, do you know what you’re happy with? Think about it and you go girl!
Friday, January 15, 2010
Sales savvy!
Savvy sales
shopping
We’re all guilty of buying clothes that we will
never wear just because the price tag is attractive.
The blitz is on, ladies, and it’s your
chance to grab some bargains now that
the the sales season is upon us. But think
carefully before you lose the run of yourself and
buy the wrong styles just because ‘they are such
a bargain’.
I adore shopping. I could shop for Ireland.
The minute the sales start I’m out there. However
I’ve made so many mistakes over the years and
collected so many ‘orphans’ (clothes that went
with nothing else) that I really had to rethink my
strategy and learn to shop smarter. After all who
needs more wardrobe clutter?
So before you whip yourself into a shopping
frenzy and start burning up the bit of plastic
here are a few tips:
1. Look at what you have in your wardrobe.
Only buy something that will fit in with your
existing clothes, in fact as a general rule I suggest
you only ever buy something that will go with
three items you already have.
2. When trying on clothes make sure they fit
perfectly, if you’re tugging and pulling at them
to make them sit right or fit more comfortably
then put them back on the hangar and leave
them there. They will not fit you any better
when you get home.
3. Does the colour suit you? Be aware that some
colours might look great under artificial lighting
but could end up making you look drained in
natural light.
4. Ask yourself if you need it? How many more
pairs of black trousers or white shirts do you
need? Work out your plan before you go shopping.
A bargain is only a bargain if you need it
and will wear it.
5. What about the fabric? Can you wash it or is
it dry clean only. If you have to bring it to the
cleaners after every wear then it’s false economy.
6. Can you really afford it? By this I mean will
you be paying cash for it or will you just be adding
more on to the credit card. Is it worth that?
If the only reason you are buying something is that it’s drastically
reduced then I suggest leaving it there.
Always examine something before you purchase
and ask yourself if you would be prepared
to pay the full price for it. If not, why? Are you
only buying for the label? You know you can’t
wear the label on the outside of your clothes so
unless it makes you look good and feel great,
then desist. Only buy it if you really love it!
If you’re unsure about something take time
to think about it - if it’s the last item in your size
ask the shop if they will hold it for you while you
decide. If you find yourself thinking about it a
lot then it’s probably a good buy.
Because she’s worth it
I’m constantly learning from my clients. One
young lady I met last week told me she prefers
to save for something that excites her rather than
endlessly purchasing ‘it’s ok’ items. She showed
me a tiny Valentino bag that was to die for. She
had watched it for ages and delayed the gratification
until she had saved the €1,000 to afford it.
Yes, girls, you’re reading it right - €1,000.
In a million years I could never justify that
kind of spending but then again if I added up
all my bargain and impulse buys they would
amount to a sizable sum that would have let me
afford an exclusive coat, handbag, etc.
But she has a point. I once tried on a pair
of shoes that made me feel absolutely wonderful
but on checking the price I nearly choked!
They were €400, so I walked away, unsatisfied.
How could I possibly justify spending €400 on
one pair of shoes?
Old habits die hard!
Later on the same day I totally compromised
myself by buying two pairs of ‘nice’ shoes for €80
each. If you find yourself in a similar situation -
trying to decide between something that makes
you feel fantastic and something that makes you
feel ‘nice’ - ask yourself which item you will get
more wear out of.
The lady is a vamp
Before I finish I thought I should mention a
fantastic workshop we had recently where we
ran a session on ideas for revamping your existing
wardrobe. We had clothes that were dyed,
shoes that were dyed, clothes with new buttons
added, nets added to skirts, corsages stitched on
tops, and hundreds of ideas were shared on how
to layer, and wear clothes differently. We even
ended up with a little sale when people bought
other people’s mistakes. After all one man’s meat
is another man’s poison. A great day was had by
all. I will look at some of these revamping ideas
over the coming months.
shopping
We’re all guilty of buying clothes that we will
never wear just because the price tag is attractive.
The blitz is on, ladies, and it’s your
chance to grab some bargains now that
the the sales season is upon us. But think
carefully before you lose the run of yourself and
buy the wrong styles just because ‘they are such
a bargain’.
I adore shopping. I could shop for Ireland.
The minute the sales start I’m out there. However
I’ve made so many mistakes over the years and
collected so many ‘orphans’ (clothes that went
with nothing else) that I really had to rethink my
strategy and learn to shop smarter. After all who
needs more wardrobe clutter?
So before you whip yourself into a shopping
frenzy and start burning up the bit of plastic
here are a few tips:
1. Look at what you have in your wardrobe.
Only buy something that will fit in with your
existing clothes, in fact as a general rule I suggest
you only ever buy something that will go with
three items you already have.
2. When trying on clothes make sure they fit
perfectly, if you’re tugging and pulling at them
to make them sit right or fit more comfortably
then put them back on the hangar and leave
them there. They will not fit you any better
when you get home.
3. Does the colour suit you? Be aware that some
colours might look great under artificial lighting
but could end up making you look drained in
natural light.
4. Ask yourself if you need it? How many more
pairs of black trousers or white shirts do you
need? Work out your plan before you go shopping.
A bargain is only a bargain if you need it
and will wear it.
5. What about the fabric? Can you wash it or is
it dry clean only. If you have to bring it to the
cleaners after every wear then it’s false economy.
6. Can you really afford it? By this I mean will
you be paying cash for it or will you just be adding
more on to the credit card. Is it worth that?
If the only reason you are buying something is that it’s drastically
reduced then I suggest leaving it there.
Always examine something before you purchase
and ask yourself if you would be prepared
to pay the full price for it. If not, why? Are you
only buying for the label? You know you can’t
wear the label on the outside of your clothes so
unless it makes you look good and feel great,
then desist. Only buy it if you really love it!
If you’re unsure about something take time
to think about it - if it’s the last item in your size
ask the shop if they will hold it for you while you
decide. If you find yourself thinking about it a
lot then it’s probably a good buy.
Because she’s worth it
I’m constantly learning from my clients. One
young lady I met last week told me she prefers
to save for something that excites her rather than
endlessly purchasing ‘it’s ok’ items. She showed
me a tiny Valentino bag that was to die for. She
had watched it for ages and delayed the gratification
until she had saved the €1,000 to afford it.
Yes, girls, you’re reading it right - €1,000.
In a million years I could never justify that
kind of spending but then again if I added up
all my bargain and impulse buys they would
amount to a sizable sum that would have let me
afford an exclusive coat, handbag, etc.
But she has a point. I once tried on a pair
of shoes that made me feel absolutely wonderful
but on checking the price I nearly choked!
They were €400, so I walked away, unsatisfied.
How could I possibly justify spending €400 on
one pair of shoes?
Old habits die hard!
Later on the same day I totally compromised
myself by buying two pairs of ‘nice’ shoes for €80
each. If you find yourself in a similar situation -
trying to decide between something that makes
you feel fantastic and something that makes you
feel ‘nice’ - ask yourself which item you will get
more wear out of.
The lady is a vamp
Before I finish I thought I should mention a
fantastic workshop we had recently where we
ran a session on ideas for revamping your existing
wardrobe. We had clothes that were dyed,
shoes that were dyed, clothes with new buttons
added, nets added to skirts, corsages stitched on
tops, and hundreds of ideas were shared on how
to layer, and wear clothes differently. We even
ended up with a little sale when people bought
other people’s mistakes. After all one man’s meat
is another man’s poison. A great day was had by
all. I will look at some of these revamping ideas
over the coming months.
Toxic wardrobe syndrome!
Are you suffering with toxic wardrobe syndrome?
Do you hate even going there because you know in your heart of hearts you will end up pulling out the same old clothes time and time again!
Is everything squashed together, a total mess – clothes everywhere, no system and you can’t find anything.
There’s nothing in it you feel like wearing.
It’s full of one offs, you know the type of thing that goes with nothing else, I call them my ‘orphans’!
You have a mish mash of different shapes and sizes.
You have every colour under the rainbow.
Well New year, new resolutions and all that, so why don’t you get cracking on your wardrobe and sort it once and for all so that every time you go there you will be filled with happiness.
I know right now you can’t imagine this scenario, but bear with me and soon it will be restored to a haven of fabulousness.
Why tolerate this toxic wardrobe anymore? Our Style evenings will help you to banish this evil once and for all. . We will teach you techniques for tackling this chronic issue. Every step you take brings you one step closer to creating a practical working wardrobe you love. This in turn will save you time, money and make getting dressed a whole lot more pleasurable. Time to de junk your life girls, and now is the perfect time to start.
Do you hate even going there because you know in your heart of hearts you will end up pulling out the same old clothes time and time again!
Is everything squashed together, a total mess – clothes everywhere, no system and you can’t find anything.
There’s nothing in it you feel like wearing.
It’s full of one offs, you know the type of thing that goes with nothing else, I call them my ‘orphans’!
You have a mish mash of different shapes and sizes.
You have every colour under the rainbow.
Well New year, new resolutions and all that, so why don’t you get cracking on your wardrobe and sort it once and for all so that every time you go there you will be filled with happiness.
I know right now you can’t imagine this scenario, but bear with me and soon it will be restored to a haven of fabulousness.
Why tolerate this toxic wardrobe anymore? Our Style evenings will help you to banish this evil once and for all. . We will teach you techniques for tackling this chronic issue. Every step you take brings you one step closer to creating a practical working wardrobe you love. This in turn will save you time, money and make getting dressed a whole lot more pleasurable. Time to de junk your life girls, and now is the perfect time to start.
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