Lessons in layering
Freezing temperatures and over-zealous indoor heating makes layering an essential skill in winter. Layering is also a great way to show flair.
Start with a cotton T-shirt, dress shirt or skivvy, then add heavier items such as a jumper, blazer or jacket. Only layer with items you’d wear on their own (in other words, ditch the holey old singlet). Layering creates bulk so try to balance full trousers with a snug-fitting top and vice versa. Keep accessories simple and remember comfort is key. Layering is fun so trust your instincts and go for it!
Use colour to create shape
Neutral shades look elegant when accented with brighter colours but remember to define your figure with contrasting colours. A light-coloured belt over a dark dress will draw attention to the waist. If you're wearing light colours, pair with black tights or leggings.
Stay warm with the basics
Chunky knits, silk blouses and scarves are easy to layer and are always in style. Extra long, heavy scarves are great to layer over a coat – you can switch to a light silk scarf for indoors or wrap scarves together. Invest in a good pair of tights – patterned tights add an edge to any outfit. Leggings also look good under dresses or with extra-long tops and knee-high boots.
Get creative in summer
Smart tank tops can work well over a blouse, under a cardigan or deep V-neck top. Wear a shirt over a t-shirt and add a blazer for warmth. Or layer a t-shirt over a t-shirt for a cool urban look.
The young Christchurch promotions model determined to walk again after tragically losing her legs in the February earthquake is still coping with the ongoing complications ... More
You need to know
Sign up for our newsletters and get the latest in gossip, beauty and food sent direct to your inbox... Sign up now
Over the Teacups
My four-year-old grandson was at the supermarket with his mother when he exclaimed, “You’re buying something, Mummy, auntie is buying something – I want to buy something!” Mum replied, “You have to be big, have a wife, have a job, then you can buy things.” He replied, “I have a wife – Maia,” meaning his four-year-old friend. Mum said, “What about a job?” Master Four replied, “My job is having a wife!”
Robyn, Whangarei
Water you want?
I was in the car and asking Master Three what he wanted for Christmas. He said he was going to ask Santa for a water pistol. “And Nanny,” he added, “I’m going to ask for some water for our paddling pool.” Now that could be interesting!
Julie, by email
Bee gone
Master Three had his first bee sting recently. The incident broke his heart, but after many cuddles he came right. Later he said, “I never want to see another bee again. I don’t like bees any more, I only like flies.”
Gaileen, by email
Fraud with worry
My daughter warned me that “old people are being taken for a ride,” and that I shouldn’t engage in conversation with phone sales people. To this, Master Five piped up, “Nana can’t go on that ride, she’s old.”
Joseph’s Nana, Hamilton
... More