Question:

I am in my thirties, I work professionally and I am raising two young children. What would be the essential items I should have in my wardrobe that would carry me through the working week to the casual weekend?
I wish to look effortlessly stylish with pieces that could to a large degree be mixed and matched.

Penny, by email.

Answer:

Dear Penny,

Thank you for your email.

Your 30s and 40s are the most time poor of all the decades. For those of you in that generation multi tasking is an art-form!!

While you are busy concentrating on work, kids and all the other issues thrown up by the rollercoaster we call life, it is important you try and put a little time aside for yourself, whether it be a coffee with a friend, a fortnightly pedicure or a day of shopping!

It is in your 30s and 40s that your own style starts to emerge. You know your body and should have an idea of what shapes will flatter you. It is time to stop being a slave to fashion and start feeling comfortable with your own style. If you have your body and your shape established you should find that you are able to wear your clothes season after season.

Your wardrobe should be 60:40:

• 60% investment
• 40% of the moment

• A well cut black blazer
• White shirt
• Wrap dress
• Trench Coat
• Dark washed jeans
• Leggings (black opaque)
• Black opaque tights
• Slim black pants
• Ballet flats
• Black patent pumps
• Scarf
• Black flat knee high boots

All these pieces can be mixed and matched for a day in the office, a weekend with the kids or a movie night out with your husband.

• Eg: Weekend: blazer, jeans, boots and scarf
• Work: blazer, white shirt, slim legs pants and ballet flats.
• Evening: wrap dress and black patent pumps

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