The temperatures are dropping and it’s time to say farewell to the trusty jacket and bring out those winter coats. We’re starting to feel the chill now and so this is the perfect time to go out and purchase possibly one of the winter wardrobe’s least favourite item; the winter coat.

Winter coats can be big and bulky as they’re meant to keep us warm, however you don’t have to loose your shape by wearing a winter sac, instead opt for coats that have some sort of tailoring, or details such as belts to nip you in at the waist and reveal your feminine figure.

Take this beautiful Reiss coat, the large collar is a great feature, and the tailoring behind it will ensure your shape is not lost in the midst of a warm, thick coat. The colour is great as well as it creates a softer look against a harsh winter backdrop.

Don’t be afraid to embrace colour and go for a winter coat that isn’t black or grey. Wearing this Diane von furstenberg coat will warm you up instantly in this great, deep red colour. The belt helps enhance the feminie figure and the length will be sure to keep you warm on those cold winter days.

If you’re budget can’t quite stretch to DVF prices – head to French Connection who always have a great range of winter coats to choose from, such as this cream belted coat which is under £200. A feminine neckline and the belt making another appearence, this will be a winner for lots of you I’m sure!

I hope that has given you some inspiration to find your perfect winter coat – if you find anything else, feel free to comment and share your purchases, we’re always keen to see what our readers have been buying!

Smell is extremely powerful and associated with mood, behaviour and memory, which is why perfume is an important part of our image.It can help us stand out, is it a great way to create impact, project a positive image, and leave a lasting impression.

But as with clothes, how we choose the fragrance we wear is very important. It can either support us, if working harmoniously with our personality, style and skin, or play against us if it is not. Think about what you would like people to know about you, and your personal style and chose your perfume accordingly.

It can be overwhelming shopping for the right perfume. The perfume aisles are generally crowded, and smelly as everybody is busy spraying away! In some stores, they actually wait for you near the entrance, ready to “shoot” you with the latest new scent, and ruining your chances to objectively smell any perfume you want to try next.

My advice is to take your time, and get samples to try on at home. Wear a fragrance for a day and see how it evolves, so that you get the full picture. Some fragrances might start with a lovely top note, and evolve to a trail that you find unbearable.

Make note of your first impressions, then wear it another time and see if you still find the same accords or not.

Perfumes like to play tricks on us, one day revealing one of their facet’s, and the next another. Different days will blow different smells your way, and your nose will adjust.
Repeat this until you find a perfume that works with your favourite outfits and colours, says who you are, and blends with your skin. Most importantly choose one you love, no matter what!

 
If you would like expert advice choosing a new perfume, Virginie offers luxurious fragrance sessions to help you chose the perfect perfume.

Special November offer for Lizzie Edwards Blog Readers

Contact Virginie – info@parfumparfait.co.uk with the reference LIZZIE to book 1 1/2 hour personal consultation for £75 (regular price £95.00) Gift Vouchers Available.

www.parfumparfait.co.uk

Virginie is a trained chemist and has subsequently worked as creative fragrance Manager at Givaudan, the biggest scent and taste companies in the world. A member of the British Society of Perfumers, she has worked in the fragrance industry developing fragrances for successful brands and products, as well as working with private clients. She is in demand as an industry expert, speaker and corporate consultant.

With the chilly weather setting in, a good winter hat is a must!

Hats are high up on the style stakes again. There are many on the high street to choose from to give your wardrobe a cosy winter look, and being stylish at the same time.

Long gone are the days when bobble hats were seen as geeky. They are now very on trend and the chunkier the better!

This one from Topshop £16 , is a great accessory to have throughout the winter months. Geek chis all the way!

Team with your favourite oversized jumper and skinny jeans for a cosy autumnal look.

We are still slightly obsessed with leopard print, this print can be seen everywhere on the high street at the moment.  As said before don’t be afraid to add print to your outfits, adding a subtle hint of leopard print can work better.

This hat is perfect for this from Topshop £16. The Beret has also become a classic over the years and is a staple hat for your wardrobe!

If you feel like trying a different look, this cute Primrose Hat from Monsoon £30, is great for the work into evening look.  Very 1920s, and very much like Angelina Jolie in the film Changeling. Elegant and sophisticated, this hat will look stunning. Adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to your wardrobe, but warm at the same time!

Last but not least this will definitely keep you warm all winter.

Fur is also another element you can add to your wardrobe to complete and build outfits. This hat will add texture to different styles and can be worn with just about everything.

This is a gorgeous faux fur hat from Jigsaw £39. Very chic and glamorous and in classic black you can’t go wrong.

These are the main styles of hats you will find in stores so pick your style or two and keep cosy and stylish all winter long !