Your Colour and Style

Call me:  07469 246722

Wardrobe Blog

How is Paris Fashion Week (3rd to 11 March) shaping what we wear this Spring/Summer season, 2025?

by Leave a Comment

To answer this question: how is Paris Fashion Week (3rd to 11 March) shaping what we wear this Spring/Summer season in 2025, I outline the features to note.

Most of us can’t afford (and probably wouldn’t want to wear) some of the high-end fashion pieces showcased on the Paris Fashion Week catwalk. But we do like to see the general trends that filter into what most of us buy from the High Street retailers. So, what can we expect from this most recent Paris Fashion Week to see in the shops this Spring/Summer?

1.  Sustainability

I expect sustainability to be advancing as a theme in fashion, given our focus on saving the planet. Since the first Climate Change Conference in 1995 it is generally accepted that action to be more sustainable is an urgent priority for many sectors, and the fashion industry should be no different.

Away from the catwalks, most of us are now plugged into using Vinted or other pre-loved recycling outlets, dress agencies, charity shops, swaps or swishes, and upcycling either our own pieces or those we may find from recycled sources, to make them fit, suit and be unique. Not only does this make resource-sense, it also is usually more economic for our budgets too. And, we’re all feeling the effects of inflation and higher bills in some form or another, so if we want to have something new to us, this makes absolute sense.

But, if we want to buy brand new, how are our retailers acting towards sustainability?

  • Materials are chosen to be more eco-friendly. For example, organic cotton, recycled polyester and innovative materials – perhaps using AI to create and digitally print. That’s exciting!
  • Recycling old garments into new ones. We are encouraged to drop our unwanted items with a store for points or a reduction on new purchases. Also, I see Debenhams.com is now running a pre-loved section.
  • Designing clothes with the whole lifecycle in mind. Did you see Dragon’s Den last Thursday (it was a rerun of Series 20, Episode 7) where Cally, creator of This Is Unfolded had quite a pasting with his sustainable idea. Anyway, suffice to say he’s still growing his business and is determined to change the basics of the fashion industry for the better. Read their story here. This episode is available for another 25 days, so watch it now before it disappears if you’re interested (Cally was the last in the Den if you haven’t got time to see the whole episode).
  • Reducing the carbon footprint, eg lowering emissions during the production process, eg for the energy-intensive processes like fabric dyeing. Also, they are investing in renewable energy in factories.
  • Water reduction. It is known that water consumption in the clothes-making traditional process is enormous, so some brands are investing in water-saving technologies and practices to address this.
  • Renting clothes. See Baukjen.com. I think this is in its infancy and will be a growing market, once it catches on. Remember how visiting a charity shop 10-15 years ago wasn’t something we would necessarily be transparent about!

This is all well and good, but what else are we going to see in terms of the actual fashion features?

2.  Sporty Chic

Materials and styles continue to include sports-type fabrics for comfort, but with elegant twists to enable wearing them in a work setting as well as play. How about this Gia Geo Print Jersey dress from Joe Browns at £49?

3.  Pink

In terms of colour, pink seems to be it! The softness of this colour will show feminity. But if you prefer a stronger pink, colour-blocking is still in vogue.

These wide-leg elasticated waist trousers not only come in pink, but also black, ivory and dark navy from Marks & Spencer, £29.50.

4) Fringing

This look can create sexiness in the movement of the garment. See it in tops, dresses and jackets. This Sosandar dress is £119.00.

5) Bubble hems

From mini to maxi, they’re around. See this mini Leopard print one from Next £30 (it comes in other colours) or this maxi one from Next £38 (black or white).

If you want some personal advice on what suits you, do get in touch as I’d love to help. I can help around the globe through Zoom: we don’t have to be in person together, although I do that too.

If you’ve acquired something new for you, please show us here, and tell us why you love it!

Fiona

Your Colour & Style Consultant

07469 246722

 

Goodbye summer, Hello autumn

by Leave a Comment

In climate terms, 1st September heralds the autumn months (September, October and November). The amount of light in the UK reduces because of the way the earth is tilted towards the sun at this time of year for us in the UK, and so we go from summer to autumn. I wonder what this year’s autumn weather will be: mild and dry or wet and windy? Who knows with the way the world’s weather seems to be changing and less predictable.

Change

One thing’s for sure – this new month means change.

For me, this means changing my wardrobe, to suit the new cooler weather. I usually like to change over my wardrobe – rediscovering clothes I’d forgotten about – it’s almost like buying new without the expense! I can’t say they all fit me though! This is usually when I discover what’s happened with enjoying my social life too much, and I realise it’s time for wholesome home-made soup full of low calorie vegetables. Time for a re-set.

Now, this year has been not normal when it comes to my wardrobe! I would have usually brought out my summer wardrobe around one of the May Bank Holidays, but the weather seemed so cold I was wearing thick tights still into late June. And, here we are planning the cooler months already – it didn’t seem as if I had much time to wear my summer clothes and was reaching for warmer things more than usual this summer. So, instead of packing away my summer things and getting out autumn/winter, I’ve decided to do more of a half-and-half wardrobe. That way I think I’ll have every base covered.

It’s not just about colour

Normally in the summer months my wardrobe looks far more colourful (in lighter colours), and to help me decide what should go and what should stay will take more consideration if I’m going to split the weight of fabrics and colour choices. I will certainly be considering my layers more for this coming season, in case there is a warmer-than-expected day, and I can de-layer more quickly than if I’d worn an outfit without that in mind.

Comfort now seems key

A lot of people talk to me about “comfort” in their clothing choices nowadays. I think this has become a more important feature. So, the fabrics that have more stretch or give in them are great for our lifestyles today.

Sustainability is also key

Plus, a lot more people are thinking about sustainable fashion and are more aware of where clothes are coming from, what they’re made of, and how they are made. And, recirculating clothes for others’ enjoyment when they no longer serve ourselves is much more of a lifestyle choice. Of course I think that is an excellent idea, and will be considering joining the many who seem to think Vinted, eBay, or other opportunities to re-sell is a great way forward for all.

Embarrassment

When I say to ladies that I will review their wardrobe [for colour] as part of the colour analysis process, they often react with horror. After it has happened, 100% say it is the best part [as I’m bringing the theory to life for them]. I wonder if they’re worried that I will be judging how they have set up their wardrobe, or the clothes in it. If it is the clothes in it, my philosophy is that they wear those clothes, and everyone will be judging them then. Or is it that they have clothes in their wardrobe they don’t wear? I’d better allay that worry – I have clothes in my wardrobe I don’t wear … yet. My husband bought me a beautiful silk suit several years ago. I remember trying it on in the changing room but ever since I got it home I put on weight so have never worn it! That’s not the only piece. I also have a couple of dresses where I love them so much I’ve bought two sizes, so that if I do lose weight I will still be able to enjoy wearing them. There you have it, my confession.

Organisation

How to organise your wardrobe is equally personal, depending on how many items you have and the space you have. There are some practicalities that I can advise on, but mostly people utilise their available space wisely. Some clients love telling me how, after colour analysis, they have ordered their clothes in colour sequence. This is how I organise my wardrobe items too.

But the goal is …

But, the goal is not to have such an organised wardrobe that you only see this piece “going” with that piece. The goal is to use as many of your items as possible to get your wear out of them. So, it is about mixing and matching your wardrobe more, so that you need less. I find it fun and exciting when I try something with something it’s never been paired with before, and it seems to work. That is, though, when the colours, patterns and materials work together. That’s the secret of knowing what suits you (colour and style-wise) and choosing pieces that you know will go with multiple things you already own.

Acquiring new to you

I have said “acquiring new to you” rather than buying as people get their wardrobe pieces in many different ways nowadays. It seems very acceptable to shop pre-loved, “swish” [swap] or be gifted clothes.

So, “want” and “need” are different things! In the western world most of us are lucky enough to have more than we need, but this is changing with the economic situation, where people are “pulling their horns in” and the drive to be more sustainable in every way – including clothing – means the latest fashion trend is less desirable. Or is that just for me? Most of my clients acquire a few pieces each season that nods to the fashion – so they keep a current look, but haven’t totally overhauled their entire wardrobe.

New for this autumn

I often get told “I can’t find my colours” at x time of year. So, I decided to set up four Zoom calls of an hour each to help each season find their colours at this time of year. I will go through at least 8 common brands of clothing and pull out items in the correct colours for you. They will be able to be recorded for those who can’t attend, but for those who do attend we can discuss style (if time permits), current fashion, as well as colour. If you want to book your place, find them on Eventbrite here (for autumns); (for springs); (for winters); and (for summers).

So, what do you do?

I’d love to know whether you change your wardrobe over, and if so how are you planning to cope with the changing weather?

If you’d like some input from a self-confessed hoarder [I won’t demand that you get rid of a lot of your favourites, but I will help you think about wearing them differently] then please get in touch.

Fiona

Your [16 years’ experienced] Colour & Style Consultant

07469 246722

 

A Guide to Layering

by Leave a Comment

Layering is one of those trends that come in and out of fashion from time to time, but which can also serve a very practical purpose too.  Whatever the season, layering clothes can help you go from indoor to outdoor or day to night with ease, and without having to plan a different wardrobe for every eventuality.  It also adds interest to your clothes and multiplies the number of potential outfits you have in your wardrobe.  To layer well (and not look like the Michelin man) just takes a little thought.  Here are my tips.

Start with your base layer

Think of your first layer like your canvas: it should provide a comfortable, smooth foundation for the rest of your outfit to build on.  In summer, you might choose a breathable camisole and, in winter, a lightweight long-sleeved t-shirt.  Your base layer should fit you well.  It is probably worth choosing a neutral colour for your base; whether you intend it to ever been seen or not, you don’t want it accidentally dominating the rest of your outfit.

Colour x Pattern x Texture: pick one to play with

If all your following layers were different colours, patterns and textures, it may look like you got dressed in the dark – unless you are deliberately making a statement of course!  To bring your layers together and make them look like one outfit, it’s usually better to not vary all of these too much.

For example, if your layers are dramatically different textures (which they might well be if you’re putting a chunky knit over a silky blouse) try to choose from the same colour palette or colour tones/depths.  Equally, if you want to be brave and mix different patterns in your outfit, it will look more polished if those garments share similar colours and didn’t vary too much in texture.  Consider the overall balance of your outfit.

Think about proportions

Think about proportions in two aspects.  Firstly, you probably want to wear bigger, chunkier garments on top rather than as your base layers.  Just practically, in terms of the size of your clothes, a tighter-fitting top that you’ve squeezed on over a chunky jumper just isn’t going to look right.  Many of us tend to buy jumpers or cardigans in sizes larger than tops or blouses for exactly the reason that we expect to wear something underneath them.

Secondly, you can choose to play with proportions but still retain a figure-flattering look.  For example, a fitted top paired with an oversize blazer will look comfortable and casual; an oversized top with an oversize blazer could make you look bigger than you are and is likely just to look like a poor fit.  Use proportions – and different lengths – to help balance your outfit.

Use accessories to good effect

Again, accessorising comes down to balance.  If you have a very busy outfit, with lots of texture or pattern, you probably don’t also want to pile on overly large or colourful scarves, handbags or jewellery as well (unless that’s your “clothing personality”).  However, if you have gone for a more pared-down look (think ‘Stealth Wealth’ quiet luxury in creams and tans, perhaps) you can probably afford to go with a quality, statement piece alongside it.

It helps if you have a full-length mirror to hand so you can assess your whole look before you leave the house. And, play or practice when you have time, and snap a photo to remind you of these looks for when you’re getting dressed in a hurry. Keep a folder of your clothing ideas somewhere handy – a specific folder in your phone, or printed out and near the wardrobe.

Build your layering wardrobe with versatile classics

Building a wardrobe that layers well is a bit like building a successful capsule wardrobe; you’ll want to buy classic items that will last and will go with many other garments in your wardrobe too.  Look for lightweight cotton cardigans in a range of plain or neutral colours, for example, to provide a year-round layer when you need it.  Look at versatile scarves – extra warmth in winter, sun protection in summer – that can help dress up other items.

And embrace your outer wear – your coat or jacket – as an extra layer too.  A leather jacket, classic trench or stylish winter coat can provide extra style to your overall outfit as well as extra warmth when you need it.  With classic items like this, it can often be worth considering them an ‘investment’ piece, perhaps paying a little more than you’re used to for a timeless piece that will last you well.

What to wear for a headshot or other important photographs

by Leave a Comment

When considering what to wear for a headshot, whether you’ve booked professional headshots for work, a family photoshoot or you’re at an event where you know people will be snapping pictures, it can bring you more confidence and you will project yourself better if you’re feeling comfortable and stylish in what you are wearing.

If you have had some colour analysis, you are already in a strong position as you know what shades suit you. If you haven’t been colour-analysed, there is a tip I can share, so please read on.  After that, think about pattern and style and you can be putting together a camera-ready outfit with ease when considering what to wear for a headshot!

These days, professional photos are as likely to be outdoors as indoors, so you may want to factor in whether there will be a bit of wind blowing your hair, or a bit of damp which may wreak havoc with your newly curled or straightened locks. In some circumstances the really natural look is what you want to achieve, so a bit of frizz or wind won’t feel like your look is ruined if you have prepared for that. Discussing the location with your photographer is great preparation.

Fiona showing a client what colours suit her best, especially when considering what to wear for a headshot
What are great colours to wear?

 If you’ve been colour-analysed, you already have a palette that you know flatters your natural skin, hair and eye colour.  If you haven’t, you can run a little experiment to see what suits you best.  First, find a spot in really good natural light, but not in direct, bright sunlight. If you’re wearing make-up, take it off.  Grab a mirror (free standing is easier if you have one) and a selection of tops from your wardrobe in the widest range of colours you can find.  Standing in front of the mirror, hold each top up under your chin and see what effect that colour has: some are likely to make you look pale, or even ill, while others will bring out the colour of your eyes or make your skin glow.  It’s those flattering colours we want!

Once you have a colour palette to work with, there are a few further tips.  Firstly, any colour that is too similar to your own skin tone can wash you out in a photo and you’ll risk blending in to your outfit.  It is usually better to pick something significantly lighter or darker than your skin tone to provide good contrast.  If you’re having a professional shoot for business, neutral colours – cream, grey and navy blue are better than black. You can then accent them with a pop of another, flattering colour using a scarf or necklace that matches your eyes, for example, which will bring a little more life and personality to the final image. If you do want to introduce colour into your outfit, perhaps think about green or purple as your base.

Finally on colour, if you know what your background is going to be, try to make sure your outfit contrasts with that so you don’t disappear into it.  This is where something like a pashmina or jacket in a contrasting colour can be useful; a bright jacket worn while you’re outdoors at a wedding reception so you don’t blend into the lawn, then removed when you’re indoors.  If you’re having a professional shoot, you may want to take two or three different tops or outfits with you anyway so just make sure they are not all the same colour to give you choice.

Pattern or plain?

As a general rule, it’s better to wear one plain, solid colour than patterns when you’re having your photo taken but that doesn’t suit everyone’s style or personality so here are a couple of things to consider.

Make sure the pattern you choose doesn’t distract from you.  A Hawaiian-loud shirt might be your thing but people will see the shirt before they see the person.  A pattern that is large scale is also likely to dominate more than a smaller one.  Equally, too small a print might not look great on the images. Either tone down the colours or go for a medium-scale pattern that won’t draw the eye so much. This also goes for large motifs or slogans (unless they are necessary as branding for example).

Some patterns can provoke quite a strong reaction or assumption in others.  What impression will an in-your-face pinstripe or bright tartan give to others?  A simple, subtle stripe may be more stylish or professional than a bold check. After all, when people see your photo, you probably want them to think “she looks lovely” rather than “she’ll be domineering ”!  This is particularly true if it’s a photo you’ll use for business.

If you want to know what else you can consider when thinking about what to wear for a headshot, you can find more in the box that contains more information: Your Stylist in a Box.

Style

Your style should reflect the purpose or the occasion that the photos are being taken for: if you’re having professional headshots, you’ll want to look (probably) business-like and proficient; if you’re at a wedding, you’ll want to look stylish and like you’re having fun!  That is clearly your starting point.

After that, you will want your choice of outfit to reflect – at least in part – your own personal style.  If you never wear suits for work, you might feel really uncomfortable if you’re wearing one for your shoot and that will probably show in the final image.  These days, workwear is much less formal. If you do not have a uniform, a dress without a jacket can look appropriate, or a blouse or neat jumper. Perhaps a waistcoat could be an interesting alternative over a blouse.

If you are wearing an ‘old favourite’ piece, check it really carefully for loose threads, missing buttons and whether it’s faded a little.  You might not notice little imperfections like this but you can almost guarantee they’ll show up in a photo!  Does the outfit still fit you well?  Losing or gaining weight can mean an outfit looks unflattering: stretches or gapes are often exaggerated by the camera, especially when you sit down. Whether you go for a completely new outfit or a trusted piece, make sure it is clean and wrinkle-free.

Bear current fashion in mind when choosing your outfit. As you age, and fashion changes, pictures can quickly date.  A more ‘timeless’ choice of outfit will probably date less quickly than others.

Hair, make-up and accessories

Your choice of hair style, make-up and jewellery or scarf can really enhance your look, or it can seriously detract from it.  It’s usually better to go for less, more subtle and stylish, than more so they don’t draw attention away from your face.  Ask someone you trust about your choice of lipstick. Some lipsticks can make you look scary and that may not be how you want to come across.

You might find it useful to slip a comb and some translucent powder into your bag for the day, just to keep on top of any developing shine or loose wisps of hair.  Remember that stills photography requires a lighter touch on make-up than video does; you don’t want to end up looking like the cartoon version of yourself!

If you are a glasses wearer, don’t worry about how they will look in the photos.  They are part of you and you’ll probably feel more like yourself if you are wearing them.  However, do make sure they are clean!  Dust or finger-marks may well show up in the final image, particularly if you’re having individual headshots.  If you do decide to go without in your photos, remember to take your glasses off at least half hour beforehand so those tell-tale little red nose marks have time to disappear!

Final thoughts

Do not ignore your footwear!  Footwear is a real give-away to your personality. And, if you do not present it in the best way (it looks uncomfortable, inappropriate for the situation, or unkempt) you are also giving a message. I have met clients that find it difficult to find footwear because they have a particular issue. Of course that happens, but just be mindful that your full silhouette may be captured, and therefore you need to plan literally from head to toe, just in case.

If you are worried about how you will look (you wish you had done something about losing a few pounds before the day), I recommend a great bra and firm undies, providing it doesn’t drain the colour from your face!

Ultimately, a photo of yourself that you like will be flattering but will still look like you.  You therefore need to feel like yourself when the photo is taken.  Taking a little time to plan your outfit(s) that you feel comfortable and confident in is definitely the key to that.

Want to book a professional photography session?

If reading this has made you think it is time for a refresh of your headshot, you’re in luck!   Brilliant photographer Amanda Herbert is based on the Isle of Wight and will be only too happy to help.  If you want to book me to do your make-up, I will be on the island on Friday 12th April so you can have the benefit of both our expertise!  Book your slot with both of us here.

I’d also recommend Amanda’s lovely free gift, a guide to help you prepare for your shoot, here.

You contact also Amanda on 07719 316609 or me, Fiona, on 07469 246722 if you have questions.

We look forward to working with you.

Some tips for practical and elegant Christmas fashion

by Leave a Comment

To quote American model and actress Lauren Hutton “Fashion is what you’re offered…by designers. And style is what you choose.”   (She turned 80 in November and still looks fabulous so she clearly knows what she’s talking about!)

The distance between fashion and style never seems to be as great as at Christmas.  The shops are full of everything from colourful Christmas jumpers to sequined evening wear, things that might be fashionable but what if they are just not your style?  And I think we all want to look stylish and comfortable at Christmas.  Even if you’ve spent Christmas morning in the kitchen, slaving over a hot turkey, we would all like to emerge looking immaculate and cool as a cucumber!

In my view, the secret to stylish and comfortable Christmas dressing comes down to one thing: a little advanced planning.  The good news is that ladies ‘of a certain age’ generally know better what suits them and what they feel comfortable in so we have a head start over our younger sisters!  After that, it’s down to planning ahead. Here are my suggestions on what to focus on.

Get the basics right

Particularly as we age, there are some little, personal grooming points that can make the difference between looking effortlessly elegant and just thrown together.  Things that might have looked ‘boho’ or trendy when we were younger just don’t do us any favours as we get older.

Three words:  hair, nails, undies.  If you have a hectic holiday season ahead, whether you’re entertaining at home or away visiting family or friends, invest a little time ahead in getting these right.  Does your hair need a trim or a colour touch-up?  How about a shorter mani/pedi in a nude colour to help survive chips or breaks?  And have you got comfortable but supportive lingerie to go under each outfit?  These should be ‘bankable’ items that you can take off the ‘things to worry about’ list.

Plan a Christmas wardrobe

Look ahead at what you’re likely to be doing each day and plan for it.  Think about the practicals: Will I be sitting, standing or walking?  How hot/cold will it be indoors/outdoors?  How dressy do I want to be?  Often times, layers and accessories can be key allies in coping with all these eventualities.  Could you quickly dress-up a more casual outfit with a statement piece of jewellery if unexpected guests arrive?  Can you peel off some layers (and keep your modesty!), if all that partying raises the temperature?

The principles of a capsule wardrobe – where most pieces go with most other pieces – can be really useful, especially if you’re going away.  Not only does it help save packing space but it will give you flexibility of knowing that you can dress to suit almost any eventuality.

Have an emergency outfit on standby

Whether it’s gravy splashes or red wine drops, increased sociability increases the likelihood of unfortunate accidents.  Plan ahead to avoid panic!  If you’re away, have a pretty scarf or light cardigan rolled neatly in your bag that you can quickly slip over any unsightly marks.  If you’re at home, you can have thought ahead of time which other top goes with this skirt/trousers (or vice versa) so you can nip and do a quick change without missing the fun.  (And remember to treat the mark as soon as you can before it becomes a permanent stain!)

Don’t let your shoes let you down

As we age, we tend to get a little boring (dare I say it!) with our choice of footwear.  Whilst I completely understand that we might have bunions to cope with, or we just don’t feel steady walking in high heels anymore, that’s no excuse for boring shoes!  There are so many styles, sizes, widths and colours to choose from these days, don’t let your footwear age you prematurely.  If there was ever a time to splash out on some sequined espadrilles, for example, (flat, comfortable and festively bling!) Christmas is surely it!

Go easy on the make-up

At Christmas, particularly if we’re going out to parties, it’s tempting to go a bit heavy on the make-up: dark colours for drama on both eyes and lips.  However, dark colours can be quite aging, and no one wants to have eyeshadow clumping up in their laughter lines!  Instead, go with one statement feature (either eyes or lips) and go with a more paired-back glam everywhere else.  Bright lipstick in a shade that really suits you will help detract from any dark circles caused by late-night gift-wrapping sessions.  At this time of year, we can all get away with more metallic, sparkly nudes (either gold- or silver-tones, depending on your season), which look festive and far more effortlessly elegant.

Two Christmas items I never go without

Finally, there are two items that I always keep to hand at Christmas, whether I’m at home or away.  The first is a large scarf or pashmina, probably in some of my subtle but festive colour(s).  It can help dress up any outfit when required or provide an extra layer if it’s got chilly.  The second is a smart pair of slippers.  Again, I don’t like cold feet so they are practical first and foremost.  But whether I’m at home or staying away, I also don’t want my ‘old favourites’ dragging down the look of my Christmas outfits.  There are so many comfortable but festive and sparkly choices out there now, there are no excuses for not having warm and stylish feet, even when you’re indoors!

Read about dressing for Christmas parties here.

Fed up with black? Get some more colour into your Christmas wardrobe here.

Don’t forget, if you want some personal help, I’m here if you’d like to contact me. Although I will be enjoying festivities leading up to Christmas, I do love helping you if you are needing some input. Message me and I’ll reply as soon as I can.

Fiona

Your Colour & Style Consultant: 07469 246722

Choosing to go cruising?

by 2 Comments

The adverts on are TV already: book your 2024 summer holiday now!  Not that I mind watching images of sun-soaked beaches or glorious European castles, of course, and the change in weather has me dreaming of warmer climes and holidays, too.

Increasingly, cruise holidays are becoming a popular choice and for an ever-widening cross-section of people.  Disney Cruises from Southampton, for example, are specifically designed to appeal to families with young children, not a demographic who would traditionally have considered a cruise.  And the list of popular destinations is interesting.  I spotted this article in Good Housekeeping which listed our top ten cruise destination searches during 2023: Norway topped the list, followed closely by Italy and Spain.

If you’re thinking of booking a cruise, I have a few tips for you.  Not all cruise lines or cruise holidays are the same and a little advanced planning will help ensure you don’t spend your whole holiday worrying about whether you’ve packed the right things!

 

What to pack for your cruise holiday?

Dress-codes, in-cabin facilities and activities all vary between ships and cruise lines.  Take something as simple as ironing or laundry services: some ships have self-service launderettes on board, some only have the (paid) housekeeping laundry service.  Many seem to have banned irons (including travel irons) as they are a fire hazard (where they are available, make sure you take a cotton tea towel to iron through to protect your clothes from whatever the last person left stuck to the iron!).

Then there’s the baggage-limit presented by flying to join your ship. If you’re leaving from a UK port, you will be able to exploit the (almost) unlimited baggage allowance that cruising offers.  However, if you’re flying to your departure port, you will be limited to whatever your airline’s luggage limit is.  That can bring a whole new dimension to your packing.

Making the most of your carry-on bag is another great tip.  When boarding your ship, you will usually leave your baggage in the terminal and walk on with just your bag – and it could be a few hours before your cases are brought up to your cabin for you.  Most cruise ships seem to operate an informal dress code for dinner on the first day out, so you may not need to squeeze an evening dress into your handbag.  However, planning the contents of your carry-on bag to get you through your first day without your other cases can be a real asset.

 

My essential cruise tips

The packing essentials for any cruise should include:

  • Something to change into that meets your ship’s dress code for dinner
  • A simple first aid kit, and your own medications
  • A light jacket, cardigan or pashmina that can get you through unexpected weather
  • A waterproof jacket in case excursions encounter rain
  • Comfortable shoes (whether you’re spending your time on- or off-board!)
  • Sun and insect protection
  • Chargers for your devices; check if you will need adaptor plugs on board

Of course, this list is also a useful prompt to ask your cruise line what their onboard conditions are.  For example, many check electrical items (like multi-plug extensions and adaptors) for surge protection, as this can be a hazard on board.  Anything that is confiscated will be returned when you disembark but better to know the limits in advance!

 

Help in planning your cruise wardrobe

If the idea of packing for a cruise is putting you off, the good news is that I can help!  Typically, I offer help and advice on:

  • Shopping for your cruise: help with covering your ship’s dress-code and the activities you’ll be enjoying.
  • Utilising your existing wardrobe: you may already have your cruise outfits; I can help you plan them.
  • Capsule wardrobe planning: how to get multiple looks from the least combination of clothes.
  • Tips on packing and storing your clothes so that you and your wardrobe arrive looking your best.
  • Make the most of your carry-on bag so your first day on board is smooth sailing.
  • Planning for the weather: from departing in English weather to arriving in Alaska or the Caribbean, I can help make sure your wardrobe will cope.
  • Colour and style consultation: if you’ve never been colour- or style-analysed, this essential service can help get all your wardrobe planning off on the right foot.

 

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser, planning your first fly-cruise trip, or are a seasoned traveller departing from a home port, my advice can help make your holiday. 
Find out more about my cruise wardrobe planning services here.