Coco Rose

Little Black Book: Style Secrets from Women in the Know

A lot of what I do focuses on the outside image we portray to the world and finding the right pieces which not only show off our awareness of trend but also our sense of style.

But what about the less talked about side of style. We all have our own little tricks to make ourselves feel confident and practical. Tips which help us navigate modern life as the style queens we are.

Here are some of mine… But shhh….don’t tell everyone.

Lazy Girl Pants

For days when I am wearing slinky jersey dresses but don’t feel like doing some early morning crunches, or sucking in my tummy all day, I swear by M&S shape wear. Far from ultra-tight Spanx, these light control pants are perfect for days when you just need a little extra help. They smooth out any bumps and the thong version prevents the dreaded leg roll/VPL.

M&S light control

Feet Saving Flats

No one can stand in heels all day and night and not feel the effects, but I refuse to let practicality dictate my shoe choice, especially for an important day or event. For days when I need to dash around between meetings or when I am anticipating a long journey home at the end of the night I make sure I pack some folding pumps. Small enough to carry in a teeny clutch bag, these are feet saviours which you and your other half will be thankful for. Coco rose hs just teamed up with the Royal Ballet to bring this collection of folding pumps which come complete with their own carry case – practical and pretty. I love!

Coco Rose

Bag Buddies Go-Go

Are you a lady of many handbags? I can’t help myself, especially in summer. I like to ring the changes to match my mood and look. But if you have ever experienced the problem of switching bags last minute, only to leave a vital piece of kit (umbrella, iPod, lipstick) behind then you will appreciate my next trick. Meet the bag within a bag.  Strictly this bag inset from Muji is designed to carry note books and pens, but its many zips and compartments mean it can pretty much accommodate all the things you need for modern life. From lip gloss to diaries, purses to iPads, everything will fit it. This carry-all case can be moved from bag to bag without leaving anything behind and saving the lining of your prized Anya H to boot.

Muji bag in a bag          Anya Hindmarch tote

A Girl’s Best Friend

And of course, where would any of us be without our hairdressers. Not only for the fabulous styles and colours they help us achieve but also for the little moments of relaxation they provide in our hectic lives. Bob hair on Fulham Road is my best kept hairdressing secret. I love this place. This boutique salon is ultra-stylish, so friendly and it is a joy to spend an hour with Lajja and the team. Not only do I always love what the stylist do to my hair, the salon also has a great atmosphere with fab music and a glass of wine when you need it. If you are in the area pop and see for yourself, mention Style Eyes and you will get a 20% discount.

Being a stylish, successful, sorted gal is never going to be a walk in the park, but with a few clever tricks we can pull it off.

Rowan McKinnon
Rowan is a Fulham-based personal stylist and owner of style consultancy Style Eyes. www.styleeyesme.blogspot.com; www.styleeyes.me

Rowan is offering WLL readers 10% discount on her styling service.

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