Blog piece for Style Counsel and WESTFIELD Shopping centre mag NZ

 My name is Pauline and I am a jacket addict

You cannot beat a jacket to elevate a look. It quite simply gives a pulled-together feel. I am a massive fan and own far too many!  I have Victoria Beckham tuxedo jackets, blazing blazers, chic statement jackets with explosions of colour and print, kitsch kimonos, quirky capes and edgy biker jackets. They can express your personal style, update your look and add polish to any ensemble.  Nothing says “I mean business” more than a tailored jacket.   A wardrobe staple that can shake up your image, add a layer of warmth in the colder months and in my opinion the best trans seasonal purchase for Autumn.

So what’s the difference between a jacket and a blazer I hear you ask…well peeps a blazer is a jacket of a softer construction, not as haughty as the suit jacket and not as structured especially in the shoulder area. When cardigans seem too relaxed for an occasion and jackets too stiff and bulky, blazers are your answer. Think blazers with boyfriend jeans – a versatile garment that can dress up an outfit and adds a feeling of sophistication. A fitted blazer makes distressed jeans look far less casual. Don’t be afraid of colour or mixing prints. The trick is to keep the colours similar and do small patterns.  A blazer can break up an outfit, i.e. denim on denim and a more structured one with a statement necklace can instantly make any outfit look totally glam.

 Dropping off the kids to school? Throw on a waterfall jacket that drapes the body beautifully, is elegant and effortlessly smart and you’re stylishly good to go!  Fast-track to May ….Colder in the evenings but not sub-zero temperatures yet? Keep your gorgeous summer frock on, swap bare legs for tights and style with a blazer that gives shape to your silhouette and edge. Corporate climbing? A tailored fitted jacket can empower and exude your inner Anna Wintour.

The ‘shoulder robing’ phenomenon in London and New York is something I haven’t subscribed to yet. I’m just geographically challenged at the moment! Somehow it hasn’t caught on in the mighty Waikato. YES shoulder robing is a verb and is quite simply draping a jacket over your shoulders, not actually wearing it, God forbid! The A list are so over that!  It’s a very irritating trend but….. I kinda love it too. It screams MOVIE STAR.   It’s said to flatter the figure by slimming the hips. Sleeves have been given the cold shoulder it seems! 

Buying the right style for your body shape is crucial to looking your best.  Your personal style will dictate your choice and set you apart.  It’s all about balance and scale.  Curious?  Let Style Counsel help you discern which look you can adopt for your body shape. Take me to my happy place!