News from Cascade Colour and Style

Start 2012 with a Fabulous New Image

2011-12-06T11:32:00.000-08:00

Great Christmas Offers to help you start 2012 in Style!

Save £20 - £25 on a Gift Voucher for a range of Personal Image Consultations

Make 2012 the year you treat yourself to the New You you’ve been thinking about for ages……Shake off those January Blues with a personal Image Consultation on your best Colours or Personal Style – what better time to re-vamp your image and your wardrobe and start looking your fabulous best?

Ask your loved ones for a Christmas present you’ll really enjoy - and will save you money for years to come. As an extra incentive, I’m offering a huge 20% off Consultation Gift Vouchers* ordered before 22^nd December 2011.

Gift Vouchers can be ordered for Consultations for

Ladies Colour
Ladies Style
Wardrobe Reviews (2 hours)
Men’s Image

Does Your Man do you credit?

It’s fair to say that most men don’t give quite the same time and thought to their ‘look’ that women do, but increasingly many men are more aware that a flattering and well presented image can make a big difference to how they feel – and to their business success! Why not treat him to a Men’s Image consultation to polish up his look for 2012? It includes:

- A full colour consultation with Men’s colour swatch wallet

- Advice on tailoring and clothing styles to suit their body shape

- Image Profile with all the guidance he will need for business and casual dressing to look his best

A Men's Image consultations normally lasts about 2 hours and of course you will be very welcome to accompany him, to see for yourself what really flatters him and encourage him to explore his best colours and style!

Alternatively - you can always enjoy some relaxing time to yourself......!

I don't suppose for a moment that your man actually looks like this, and I can't promise to turn him into James Bond, but I can certainly help him look his best, and understand what suits him - and what doesn't!

You can order your Gift Vouchers by calling me

on 01245 440162 or e- mail to info@cascadeimage.co.uk - do get in touch before 22nd December though or I can't get your vouchers to you in time for Christmas!

* Cannot be used in conjunction with other offers

Vouchers valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.

Best Wishes

Cass

CHRISTMAS STYLE ON A SHOESTRING

2011-11-23T11:08:00.000-08:00

According to the latest economic predictors, we are all planning to spend a lot less this Christmas than in previous years, as the nation tightens its belt.....

Many women tend to put themselves 'last on the list' when it comes to the family budget, so if you're feeling that there's no money to spare for any new 'razzle dazzle' for you this festive season, here are some ideas to get some glamour and glitter into your celebration outfits without breaking the bank from my......

'Supermarket Sweep'

Whether you are looking for a dress, a top, shoes or some inexpensive glitzy accessories to liven up an outfit you already have, Supermarket clothing ranges have come on in leaps and bounds in recent years. You could be pleasantly surprised at what your local supermarket has in store! You can find a very chic looking simple shift dress for £20 - £30.- Florence & Fred at Tesco's, Tu at Sainsbury's - with the help of the inimitable Gok Wan - and George at Asda's clothing ranges all include some very wearable festive pieces at affordable prices.

My favourite picks from the current offerings:

Dresses - below, left to right : Satin shift dress from George at Asda, Black lace dress from F & F at Tesco, Red shift dress from F & F at Tesco

In fact I'm so taken with the Little Red Dress that I'll be heading into town tomorrow to get one for myself.

Do I really need it? No.

Do I want it? OH YES!

A Stylish Tuxedo Jacket - only one contender here and Gok's fabulous

design is a wonderful choice for those who don't want to wear a dress and prefer their 'dressed up' look to be an elegant outfit with trousers instead. This is a classic piece which will stand anyone who looks fabulous in black in good stead for many occasions well beyond Christmas. At a mere £45 it's a snip and for all those in the Chelmsford area, Sainsbury's Springfield store stocks the Gok range

Accessories - If you don't want

a whole new outfit, how about a glamorous lacy cover up to complement and breathe new life into an existing dress?

These are also great for disguising any heaviness around the upper arms if you are wearing a sleeveless dress.....

Lace Embellished Shawl by F & F from Tesco's

Alternatively, you may just want to add some inexpensive glamour to an outfit you already have with new shoes or jewellery. A pair of satin or embellished shoes will lift any ensemble and your spirits! Tesco's and Asda both come up trumps again here with a simple but glamorous court style at under £20......

The glitter court shoe (left) is from Asda, whilst

the satin court shoe from Tesco shown comes in purple as well as the teal blue.

If you can only afford to spend a few ££s on yourself, then indulge in some bling jewellery and finishing touches to jazz up your look. Big bold bangles in dramatic designs or vivid colours can add some drama and interest to any simple outfit. Pile on the arm candy (one arm only!) with a stack of bangles or pearls bracelets in different sizes, or try adding colourful hair accessories or a flower corsage at the shoulder for contrast.

Pink beaded cuff and Flower accessory both from Tesco's

Inexpensive elasticated bead or imitation pearl bracelets can be twisted round to use as a scarf ring to add a little glamour as well.

You really don't have to spend a lot of money to look fabulous at

this or any other time of year!

If you'd like some help and ideas to boost your image, then do get in touch. Wishing you a glamorous and peaceful festive season,

Cass

Putting Colours Together

2011-11-11T09:07:00.003-08:00

When you've lived in black or other colours which felt 'safe' for a long time, discovering new and truly flattering colours is a wonderful and exciting experience - but can feel a little strange and overwhelming to start with. You may be starting to wear different colours from the ones you are used to, and it can take a little time to get comfortable with your new palette.

One of the most important questions to be considered is 'How should I go about putting colours together to make an outfit?'

My clients all receive guidance on how to create a capsule wardrobe using their best neutrals and accent colours, but here are some further general ideas to help anyone who is struggling to use colours effectively in their wardrobe, to help start those outfits coming together....

NEUTRALS

Neutrals are the foundation stones of your wardrobe - the colours you use for the majority of your basic garments and those classic 'investment pieces' - your trousers, skirts, jackets and other outerwear.

Black, greys, navies, browns, camels, olive greens, khaki, stone and shades of white are all neutrals. When you know which amongst them are the right ones for you, your first priority should be to make sure you have at least a couple of pairs of trousers, skirts and jackets in your best neutrals. A top or two in a neutral is also a very useful piece.

This will immediately give you the basis of a versatile capsule wardrobe! Your trousers/skirts and jackets can be matching suits but don't have to be - if you've chosen neutrals from your best colour palette, each piece will tone harmoniously with the others.

It's always useful to have basic accessories like shoes, belts, and bags in your best neutrals to start with - you can add more colourful accessories as your wardrobe and your confidence grows!

COLOURS

These are your brighter and more distinctive shades - use them initially for tops, blouses and accessories like scarves and jewellery. Blues, reds, greens, purples, pinks, shades of orange/rust, turquoises...There are a million variations out there and if you have a swatch of colours to guide you, you will be confident in knowing which ones are right for you to choose!

As you get more familiar with your colour palette and want to be more adventurous, you can add shoes and bags in more vibrant colours, and also start to introduce colour into skirts, jackets and trousers.

A word of warning though - bright colour draws the eye, so if your 'bottom half' isn't your best feature, it's wisest to keep trousers and skirts in your darker neutrals and put those vivid brights onto your top half.

How should you combine neutrals and colours in your outfit?

Here are some ideas to build from:

One Neutral

You can wear just neutrals of course. Some ladies can look very dramatic in a monochrome outfit of just black, grey or navy but to avoid look dull and rather funereal, you will need a vibrant lipstick and some interesting jewellery to lift your look!

This doesn't work so well with brown shades - it can look dowdy, so some contrast is always advised if you are a lady whose best neutrals are brown shades.

You can wear 2 or even 3 contrasting Neutrals in your outfit:

e.g. black jacket and trousers and silver grey blouse or dark chocolate skirt, oatmeal blouse and camel jacket.

A blend of different depths of shade of the same neutral can also look very elegant:

e.g. light to darker shades of blue/grey or light grey/green to deeper olive

Again, some vivid colour in your lipstick and something eye-catching in your accessories is recommended if you are dressing in just neutrals!

One Neutral and One Colour

Choose a neutral for your trousers/skirt and jacket and a vibrant colour for your top e.g. dark chocolate trousers and jacket with a terracotta blouse or top

Or, try a skirt/trousers and a top in a neutral with a vivid colour for your jacket or cardigan e.g. black with scarlet or fuchsia.

You can transform an otherwise monochrome outfit with colour and/or patterns in your accessories - shoes, bag, belt, scarves and jewellery.

Two Neutrals and One Colour

You might like to choose two different neutrals for your jacket and trousers/skirt e.g. navy skirt, grey jacket and add a colour for your top e.g. turquoise

Two Colours and One Neutral

This takes a bit more care - it's often a good idea to choose different depths of shade of the same colour - think of the Dulux paint charts where you see colours going from lightest to darkest depths - to put with a neutral.

So, you could choose trousers in a greyed navy and wear with a top in light aqua, with a jacket, cardigan or long wrap in a deeper blue/green or teal. Or maybe a skirt in dark grey with a top in a pale icy pink, and a jacket in a rich wine colour?

I always feel that some colour, somewhere in your outfit, is essential to brighten your look and get the most from your colours. A splash of a great accent colour can lift your mood and liven up even a simple outfit.

As you grow more confident with your own best colours, you will enjoy experimenting with different looks and combinations and there is so much to explore - I tried dark teal blue with soft white and one of my best reds recently and was surprised how well it worked!

The important thing is knowing which shades of colour will look fabulous on you, so if you feel in need of a bit of guidance with your colours, style or wardrobe, do feel free to give me a call. I'd be happy to chat through your particular concerns, and see whether I can be of help to you.

Best wishes

Cass

IS YOUR HAIR COLOUR RUINING YOUR LOOK?

2011-09-08T16:34:00.000-07:00

An important question if you colour your hair - does the colour you've chosen fit harmoniously with your natural colouring? If it doesn't, you could be looking much less than your best.....

Apparently around 80% of women colour their hair at some point during their lives, and of course we all love to experiment at times with a different colour - just to make a change or try a new look!

Few of us welcome the onset of grey hair and - though there are ladies who can look stunning with silvery tresses and celebrate their 'natural highlights' - the natural reaction for most of us is to rush to the hairdresser or grab a DIY hair colourant from the supermarket shelves..........

And therein can lie some serious pitfalls, because choosing a shade which is 'out of synch' with your natural 'seasonal' colouring can really spoil your look - you can end up looking washed out and worse still, colours which normally look fabulous on you can start to look wrong.

Take the example of Victoria

Beckham, a lady who seems to

change her hair as often as she changes her underwear. She is naturally dark and cool toned so looks wonderful in strong and vibrant colours - black, dark navy, bold fuchsia pinks, bright blues and pure white. But these colours would look horrid with her Californian Blonde Look....

Many a client has come to me feeling totally confused about what suits her and often the problem lies with how she has coloured her hair!

We all make mistakes, persuaded by St Cheryl of Cole or some other celebrity advertisement, I've done it myself; I tried a very dark brown shade once when I was much younger, misguidedly

thinking that with a suntan it would work - the results were simply frightful. The colour was much too harsh and I looked as if I should be in intensive care.....

Interestingly, Cheryl Cole who is also naturally dark haired but with a warm skin tone, can carry off lightening her hair to a blonder look much more successfully - the mistake she has made in the picture on the right is with her lipstick - a cool fuchsia pink is not a good choice for her, whatever her hair colour! The warm red lip colour on the left is much more flattering...

Our hair is so visible, and such an important element of how we look and feel, that it really does pay to get our 'crowning glory' right.

Some common mistakes to avoid:

If you are naturally fair or light brown haired, don't choose a dark hair colour - it will completely overpower you
If you have a cool skin tone and eye colour, don't be tempted to put a warm or russet toned colourant on your hair - it will look perfectly awful
Dark haired ladies should be very careful about attempting to 'go blonde' or covering grey with blonde hair colourants - it often leaves you with reddish, brassy tones in your hair which can be very unflattering
Ladies who naturally have warm reddish tones in their hair - from the strawberry blonde to a rich darker auburn - should avoid allowing themselves to go grey. Cool silver tones in the hair will be at odds with your naturally warm skin and eye colour, and colours which normally look great on you will start to look less good
If you are choosing a colourant to cover grey, it's best to go a couple of shades lighter than your natural hair colour

Colour your hair by all means - but choose a shade which really flatters your natural colouring. If you're not sure what this is, then it's well worth investing in finding out! It will stand you in good stead for many years to come!

Best wishes

Cass

YOUR BUSINESS IMAGE

2011-09-07T16:13:00.000-07:00

ARE YOU SCARING YOUR CLIENTS AWAY?

It’s pretty well known that people subconsciously form an opinion about someone within a matter of seconds of meeting them for the first time – and much of that opinion is based on visual impression.

So, it’s surprising how many businessmen and women still neglect to put the necessary thought and effort into projecting a positive business image for themselves.

After all, what’s the point of spending large

sums of money on a great looking website,

slick brochures and advertising if you

don’t inspire confidence in prospective clients when they actually meet you?

How can you ensure that potential clients are already formin

g a positive impression of you by the time you shake their hand, and not thinking about running for the hills?

People tend to buy from people they trust - not only to be honest and professional, but also to be capable and energetic on their clients’ behalf - so your business image should suggest all of those qualities without your having to say a word!

OK, so you don’t have a bolt through your neck, but if you’re wearing colours which are harsh or overpowering on you, you can look washed out and drained – leading prospective customers or employers to wonder secretly whether you have "what it takes" to do a good job for them.....

The COLOURS you wear play a really important part in the image you project. Choosing colours to flatter your natural colouring will not only help you to look better generally, you'll look healthy, brighter and full of energy - and by association give an impression of competence and capability.

Choosing the right shades of colour will make all the difference as to whether you look ‘in the pink,’ or in urgent need of medical attention!

You can clearly see the contrast between these two pictures showing the

effect of different shades of pink.

Below Left - Rose Pink is flattering Below Right - Salmon Pink is draining and harsh

Here are some general tips to guide your business wear choices:

A FORMAL BUSINESS LOOK - a suit is always ideal for business

meetings and will be a requirement for many working in a large corporate environment or one of the more conservative business sectors. Lapels on your jacket mean business and accentuate professionalism.

But what colours to choose?

An Authoritative Look - to project leadership and authority, choose a suit in a very dark neutral colour, and team it with a shirt or blouse in a very light neutral.

The sharp contrast in this look is great when you need to chair meetings or to convey a powerful "Don't mess with me" impression. For someone with dark hair and dark eyes, this might be a black suit and a white shirt. Very dark grey or dark navy for the suit could also work.

Right – Lord Sugar fires yet another Apprentice “hopeful!”

For those whose colouring is warm toned though, or who have red hair, these cool dark colours can be very draining – try a dark charcoal brown with a pale oatmeal instead.

Right - the actor Damien Lewis

looks good in a warm light brown jacket (near picture) but the navy/sky blue combination really doesn’t flatter his colouring! (far picture)

Fair haired people may find that very strong, deep shades will be overpowering for their colouring and leave them looking ‘washed out’, so choose a lighter navy or medium grey, worn with ivory or off-white.

Professional but Approachable - If you'd like a friendlier image or to appear more of a 'team player’, choose a shirt or blouse which blends with your suit colour, rather than contrasting with it. For a black or dark grey suit, this could be a lighter grey/red striped shirt, a light rust or warm beige shirt with a suit in dark chocolate or coffee, or a lighter blue shirt worn with a navy suit.

Brighter Colours always introduce a more approachable note. For men, a splash of a flattering colour in their tie will immediately make their image a little more relaxed. This also helps to soften the effect of suit colours which may not flatter you, but are demanded by your profession. Ladies can do the same with a scarf, and should also remember that a tailored jacket in a vivid colour is still business-like, but good for occasions when you want people to talk to you!

Take Care with Black - it's a very powerful colour and suggests a commanding image, but can also create 'subconscious' barriers to trust. You can soften the impact with a pinstripe in your black suit. For those business people who need to create strong relationships of trust, relaxation and openness with their clients - therapists, counsellors and coaches for example - I'd advise against too much black in your outfit.

CASUAL BUSINESS STYLE - Men can achieve a less formal impression by swapping very structured tailoring for slightly looser styles, or more casual fabrics (needle-cord, linen, suede, leather, tweed) and slightly brighter colours or patterned shirts.

Ladies can substitute a tailored jacket for a longer line draped cardigan or waistcoat, and introduce vivid colours for their top, shoes/accessories to immediately look more relaxed - great for those 'dress down' days when no one knows what to wear........!

It’s essential that your style of work wear reflects the values and qualities associated with the business sector you work in – a well tailored suit is an absolute necessity for anyone working in any of the more traditional professions such as law, accountancy or banking and is highly recommended in any business which offers to manage people’s money or investments! A scruffy, unkempt appearance will not encourage anyone to hand over their hard earned savings to your care………

Those in more “creative” professions can afford be rather more relaxed about their business style; prospective clients won’t be too alarmed if a designer or concept artist shows some individualism in the way they dress, and might well be slightly worried if the artistic genius they are relying on for exciting fresh ideas for their brand turns up to a meeting in a sober pinstriped suit!

So – dress appropriately, but remember that whatever your profession, the basics of good personal grooming are important:

Nasal hair (in men or women!) is extremely off putting – remove it. Now.
Invest in a good hair cut and make sure (men) that any facial hair you wear is neatly trimmed.
Clean fingernails
Polish your shoes
No stained, frayed or crumpled clothes
Wear clothes which fit you properly – tight, ill-fitting clothes do not inspire confidence……

And finally – why ladies should always wear lipstick
It’s astonishing what a difference just a lip colour in the right shade can make.Every lady has her own views about how much make up she likes to wear – some may never leave the house without ensuring that they are perfectly made up, while others take some persuading to bother at all.

Of course every individual is entitled to their own opinion on this, but do be aware that you may be selling yourselves short if you don’t, at the very least, put on lipstick. It takes only a few seconds but really brightens your face, and also enhances your eyes by balancing their colour with colour on the lower half of the face.

These pictures, taken within a few minutes of each other, show the difference – in the lower picture, the lady is not wearing any makeup, in the top picture she has just added a bright red lipstick to complement her best combination of black and scarlet. Yet how much brighter her eyes and complexion appear!

It is worth bearing in mind that women who wear make up in the work-place earn, on average, 25% more than women who do not.

Why is this?
Firstly – they look healthier and brighter, which suggests effectiveness, competence and energy in doing their job.
Secondly – if they are sufficiently well organised to be able to present themselves at work looking smartly groomed, bosses or prospective clients will conclude that they are also likely to bring those organisational skills to their business activities.
Thirdly – they are telling the world that they place a value on themselves and how they appear, and that they expect to be taken seriously.

So ladies, if you are looking to promote your business, or to progress in your present career, it pays to take the trouble to wear at least a little make-up!

If you'd like to find out how to achieve a great business image, and which colours will work brilliantly for you - then please get in touch to see how I can help you on info@cascadeimage.co.uk

Wishing you success with your image and your business!

Cass Edwards

Cascade Colour & Style

01245 440162

www.cascadeimage.co.uk

Does Your Bra Fit You Properly?

2011-07-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

A well fitted bra makes a huge difference to how good your figure looks, but sadly the majority of women don't take the trouble to make sure they are wearing the correct size and cup......

Here are 5 tell-tale signs that you may be wearing the wrong one:

Surplus flesh spilling over the top of the bra cups giving you a 'double boob' look
A roll of flesh under the arms
Your bra does not fit snugly under the bosom and rides up
The bra straps are digging into your shoulders
The bra is not supporting your bosom properly so it tends to sag towards your tummy.

Lots of women are wearing a bra which is too big in terms of chest measurement size, when actually it is the cup size which they need to change. For example, a lady who is wearing a size 38B might actually be much more comfortable and properly supported in a 36C.

You find that all your clothes look so much better when your bosom has support and definition - and you'll probably look slimmer too!

It really is worth having your bra size measured and correctly fitted by someone who knows how - lots of shops offer a free bra fitting service - Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and John Lewis to name but some. There are on-line services too, for example The Bra Spa

If you live in the Essex area, you could contact Megan Clatworthy at Think Violet Lingerie for a personal fitting and a great choice of bras. She provides clients with the convenience of a fitting at home and expert advice on the perfect bra to suit their figure! Megan can be contacted on:

megan@thinkviolet.co.uk or see her website www.thinkviolet.co.uk

Don't let yourself down - quite literally - by wearing an ill fitting bra! It's easy to get it right and you'll feel much more comfortable, as well as doing your figure a big favour, when you wear the right size and cup for you. You can see the difference!

Picture courtesy of www.thebraspa.co.uk

Best wishes

Cass

A Fresh Start for your Wardrobe

2011-02-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

I hope the start of 2011 finds you well. Don’t lower your spirits too much with resolutions which leave you depressed and demoralised – the best time to make a resolution to get slimmer, take more exercise, change your habits etc. is in the Spring, when the sun starts to shine again and we feel a burst of new energy!

What about your wardrobe? One thing you can do to get that great feeling of having ‘made a fresh start’ to the new year is to clear out those clothes and accessories which take up space, but you just don’t seem to wear any more – if you ever did! Why not make a resolution only to wear clothes that you really love and feel fantastic in, rather than ones which are just ‘OK for now’? Too often, we keep the clothes we love most only for ‘special occasions’. You may not want to dig the garden in your most treasured silk dress, but you get the drift……..
And which one of the wardrobes pictured would you rather have?
(pictures courtesy of www.organiseplus.com.au)

Here are some key tips to a successful ‘de-cluttering’ of your wardrobe:
• Set aside plenty of time - 4 hours should do it, to review your wardrobe piece by piece. Get together with a friend who can be objective about what suits you – include a glass or two of wine to make it fun!
• Separate your clothes out into groups of the same item – e.g. dresses, jackets, trousers, blouses etc. Try splitting suits into individual jackets/skirts or jackets/trousers which can often open up new possibilities for outfit combinations and make more of the things you have.
• Weed out clothes which are obviously past their best – bobbly sweaters, tatty tee shirts, stained or frayed clothes which can’t be repaired. These should go for recycling – Charity shops can get £5 per bag for clothes which can’t be resold!

Do you know which colours suit you best? If you do, then follow these steps next. If you don't, there's some advice on how to weed-out your wardrobe further down..
• If you already know your best colours, check each item against your seasonal colour fan (in good daylight!) to see if it blends. Put items into 2 piles – those which are a good match for your colour palette, and those which aren’t.
• Go through the first pile of clothes which are within your season’s colours initially, and ask yourself these questions for each garment:
- Do you love it and enjoy wearing it? If so, put back into your wardrobe in a ‘favourites’ section!
- If you’re not all that keen on it, have you at least worn the garment at all in the past 2 years? If you haven’t (and it isn’t a ‘special occasion’ dress or top which doesn’t get many outings) - why not? It may be that the style is one you don’t feel has ever really suited you, it may no longer be a good fit, or it may seem dated.
- Are you really ever going to wear it again? If not, then put it into your ‘Charity Shop’ or ‘Sell on E-Bay’ pile.
Alternatively, it might be that you would want to wear it again with a few alterations. If the garment is one you are fond of, but no longer fits well, can it be taken in or let out to suit you now? Can the hem length be raised or lowered to look better? A brilliant way to give jackets or cardigans a new lease of life can be just by changing the buttons, which doesn’t require great skills as a seamstress!
• If the garment is one which is a bit too tight now but you don’t want to part with it just yet, you could always make a “Just in case” storage box so the clothes will still be there if you lose that half-stone, but aren’t cluttering up your wardrobe and reproaching you each time you open the door!
• Next, look at all the clothes which don’t blend well with your seasonal colours. You should be much more ruthless here!
- Again, the first question for each garment must be, have you worn it all in the last 2 years? Anything which you haven’t worn for 2 years and is in the wrong colour should definitely be disposed of – it could do someone else some good!
- Now consider the remainder. These are clothes which you do wear regularly even though the colours may not be quite right – perhaps you love the style of the garment, or it is essential work-wear which you need to keep until it can be replaced with something better. Remember – your best lightest neutral will rescue any darker “wrong” colours and your best darkest neutral will do the same for lighter ones. Jewellery in your seasonal palette will also work well, as will a scarf.

If you don't yet know which colours work best for you:
Split your clothes into two piles - those you have worn in the past 2 years and those you haven't.
Consider the clothes in the pile you haven't worn recently first - ask yourself honestly why have they been neglected? If they aren't "special occasion wear", and you don't think you will ever wear them again, or they can't be altered in some way (see above) to look better, then it's time to part with them!
Now look at the clothes you have worn in the last 2 years - try grouping together garments in colours which co-ordinate well, or into sections for 'workwear', casual wear, evening or smart occasion wear, which may help you to see where a couple of additions - a pair of trousers, jacket or some tops - could give you more flexibility and versatility to your outfit options.

Everyone
• Go through the same process with your shoes, belts, scarves and other accessories.
• If your clear-out leaves a few gaps, look at the colours and styles of the clothes you love to guide you when choosing replacements.
• What to do with the clothes you no longer want? Is there anyone – a friend or relative – who would look great in something that simply isn’t “you”? If you’re thinking of donating the clothes to charity, The Helen Rollason Cancer Charity has shops across Essex and will even come and collect your items.
• I recommend a wardrobe clear-out at least once every year – you sometimes come across clothes you’d forgotten about and are delighted to re-discover, and it’s great to have a bit more space – if only for a while......
If you'd like some professional help with a review of your wardrobe and some ideas on how you can make the most of the clothes you already have, please do drop me a line or give me a call!
Best wishes
Cass

Come to a Charity Multi-Colour Clothes Swap!

2011-01-08T11:09:00.000-08:00

ENJOY A FABULOUS AFTERNOON FOR LADIES
AT A
MULTI- COLOUR CLOTHES SWAP
In support of the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity
sponsored by Cascade Colour & Style, The Athena Network and Five Lakes Hotel

At Five Lakes Hotel on 27th January 2011 from 1.00 – 4.00 pm

Bring along your unwanted clothes and accessories, and swap them for pieces which will really suit you – and benefit a truly worthwhile cause at the same time!
For a small donation to a charity which helps thousands of people cope with the devastating effects of cancer, you can dispose of clothes and accessories which aren’t right for you and which are cluttering up your wardrobe – and SWAP them for clothes which will look great on you and which you will love to wear!
Discover the colours which will most flatter your individual colouring with help from Cass Edwards, Image Consultant at Cascade Colour & Style, before you choose your ‘swap’ items.
Would you like to exchange unwanted clothes, accessories or toiletries (unopened) – maybe a well meant but unsuitable Christmas Present?
Don’t miss out on a great opportunity to refresh your wardrobe for just a few ££s! Book Now – Tickets are just £6.00 and include entrance to the event, plus tea/coffee and a talk on colours to suit you, to guide your Swap choices

Tickets must be booked in advance by 20th January
To book your ticket, call:
Cass Edwards at Cascade Colour & Style on 01245 440162
Suki Fusi at the Athena Network on 07962 014746
Rosemary Jensen at the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity on 01245 514325
Mary Deeb at Five Lakes Hotel on 07866 751119

Event Guidelines:
Items for Swapping should be undamaged, clean and in good condition – such as you would be happy to receive yourself!
Swap items can include Ladies’ Clothing, Accessories – Handbags, Shoes, Scarves, Jewellery (excluding earrings) – Unopened Toiletries and Cosmetics.

Swap Fees – a small donation to the Charity is requested for each swap made.

Venue: Five Lakes Hotel and Golf Club, Colchester Road, Tolleshunt Knights, Maldon, Essex CM9 8XH

Hope to see you there!
Best Wishes
Cass

Ideas for a sparkling Christmas Party Look....

2010-12-03T06:15:00.000-08:00

The festive season is fast approaching, so let's lift our spirits away from deep snow and economic gloom with some fabulous frocks to add glamour to your seasonal celebrations!
There's a wealth of styles to choose from - long, short, figure hugging or gently draped, ruched or flowing. A one shouldered dress or asymmetric hemline can provide an extra dramatic evening look. You can indulge your inner screen goddess with luxurious and sensuous fabrics like silk jerseys, satin, brocades and velvets, and add a touch of old school glamour by complementing them with a faux fur shrug or wrap.
(Right - Ivory faux fur wrap from John Lewis)
The trend of 'minimalist' neutral colours - black, greys, muted nudes, shades of camel and soft white continues but these are now livened up by lacy designs, metallic fabrics, sequin trims, beading, animal prints and faux fur embellishments.
Besides traditional gold or silver metallics, look out for "gilver" a sort of mix of the two! Leopard prints are everywhere - for tops, shoes, bags and scarves, which is great news for the lady with warm toned colouring, but if you don't want to channel too much Bet Lynch, it's best to keep to just one leopard print item in your outfit!
Below from left - Closet Zip Leopard Print Dress from Dorothy Perkins
Black Lace dress from Wallis
Gold Slinky Dress by Pearl Lowe Christmas Collection for Peacocks
Purple Satin Column Dress by Planet from John Lewis

Ladies with strong, dark coluring can rejoice in black and white zebra prints, but those with fairer, softer colouring should think of an alternative - animal prints rarely work for you! A touch of faux fur in a rosy beige or cocoa brown shade or a silvery grey would be a better idea.

For those who crave some vibrant colour for their Christmas party look, there is plenty on offer, rich reds, flame oranges and gorgeous purples are especially popular. The designer franchises at stores like Debenhams and John Lewis offer a great choice of knee and full length evening or party wear - Planet, Phase Eight, Star by Julien McDonald, Matthew Williamson and Ben de Lisi are all worth a look, as is Debenhams own Debut label.
Your dress doesn't have to break the bank either - whilst few of us could easily afford the fabulous Notte red silk crepe dress by Marchesa £880 from http://www.net-a-porter.com/ shown top right, the designer collaborations with some of the less expensive High St shops, like Pearl Lowe's Christmas Collection for Peacocks, offer some terrific outfits on a modest budget!

Some hints on looking your best.....

If you're wearing a very sparkly, embellished or brightly coloured dress, keep your accessories (shoes, bag and jewellery) fairly plain and understated.

If your dress is a simple, neutral coloured one, add interest to the outfit with popping colour, pattern or embellishments for your shoes and bag, or a sequinned or jewelled scarf, or dramatic colourful jewellery.

Many dress styles are on the short side this winter - if you feel your legs aren't flattered by a shorter style, try wearing it with thicker opaque tights or close fitting leggings in a darker neutral shade to suit your colouring and heeled ankle boots.

If dresses just aren't 'You', opt for a well cut pair of trousers in one of your best darker neutral colours, worn with a smart tuxedo style blazer and a really glamorous top.

Every lady looks best when wearing some colour, somewhere in her outfit, so if you choose to keep to a 'less is more' neutral palette for your clothing, don't forget to wear at least a lipstick in a brighter or deeper colour which suits you. The colour on your lips will make your eyes look brighter and bring life to your face!

Stuck for an idea for a Christmas present for someone special this year?

Why not choose something which won't be used up or forgotten by the end of January - a Colour or Style Consultation which will help them to look and feel fantastic for years to come? We're offering an amazing £25.00 off the cost of a Gift Voucher for a Ladies' Colour. Ladies' Style or Men's Image Consultation this Christmas so if you would like to give a present which will be valued always - or would like to discover how to look fabulous for less yourself! - then call 01245 440162 or e-mail info@cascadeimage.co.uk to order your Voucher.

Orders must be received by 17th December in order to guarantee arrival in time for Christmas.

Best Wishes

Cass

2010-10-10T09:15:00.000-07:00

The last opportunity this year to attend a

“FIRST IMPRESSIONS COUNT" WORKSHOP
A workshop designed for women who want to project a positive and successful image – an essential in both business and personal life!
Over 3 hours of advice on colour, wardrobe, makeup and body language to help you Look Great, Grow in Confidence and Feel Fantastic.....
At the Ivory Rooms, Billericay, Essex CM12 9LD
From 10.00 – 13.30 on Thursday 11th November 2010
Your Image Speaks Volumes
People often make up their minds about someone within just a few minutes of meeting. A positive first impression can make all the difference when you're meeting new or prospective clients, promoting your business, or looking for a new job.
Whether you want to improve your business image or just to enjoy gaining some new ideas on how to update your look, the expert consultants at this First Impressions Count workshop are ready to give you helpful advice.

What are we including?
Advice on image, wardrobe and colours to suit you - Cass Edwards, Cascade Colour & Style
A properly fitting bra – the right foundation for your look – Megan Clatworthy, Think Violet Lingerie
Makeup for all occasions with demonstrations – Sharon Kavanagh, Envy Me Make-up Artists
The Importance of Body Language – Cass Edwards, Cascade Colour & Style
An extra bonus - Megan is offering a FREE and private personal bra measurement for everyone attending! and there will be plenty of opportunity for a one-to-one chat with our experts on any aspect of your own image.
Our themes will include some Festive sparkle in your look as we approach the Christmas party season, with some seasonal treats and gift ideas to browse as well!
We are looking forward to a half-day of fun and interaction, as well as helpful tips on the right look for you.
Tea/Coffee and light nibbles included in the price - you are also welcome to stay on after the workshop and join the team for lunch for a further chat if you wish (Cost of lunch not included).
Bring a friend and you will receive a 10% discount on the workshop fee!

What does it cost?
£25.00 per person – and if you bring a friend, you’ll both save 10%!

How do I book my place?
To book your place(s), contact Cass Edwards on 01245 440162 or e-mail to info@cascadeimage.co.uk

Don't take our word for it - this is what a previous attendee thought.....
"I thoroughly enjoyed the "First Impressions Count" workshop. I wondered if giving up a sunny Sunday morning was going to be worthwhile: it most certainly was! It was good fun and good value. All of the presentations were excellent - very professional and very informative. I particularly enjoyed the first session when Cass Edwards gave us tips on the right clothes for the right occasion - and how to build a capsule wardrobe. Extremely useful and very pertinent for me: it is essential I am seen as a very professional business woman. That means the right style of clothes and colours that suit me but are also give the right impression. I'm ready for that shopping trip now and I know exactly what to look for! "
Jill Poet
Organisation for Responsible Businesses
http://www.orbuk.org/

FIRST IMPRESSIONS COUNT

2010-05-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

Would you like to learn more about creating a positive first impression? Why not come along to this workshop - which is all about helping ladies to develop a confident image.......

“First Impressions Count”
A workshop designed for women who want to project a positive and successful image – an essential in both business and personal life!
Over 3 hours of advice on colour, wardrobe, makeup, diet and body language to help you Look Great, Grow in Confidence and Feel Fantastic

At the Ivory Rooms, Billericay, Essex CM12 9LD

From 10.00 – 13.30 on either 15th July or 1st August 2010

Your Image Speaks Volumes
People often make up their minds about someone within just a few minutes of meeting. A positive first impression can make all the difference when you're meeting new or prospective clients, promoting your business, or looking for a new job.
Whether you want to improve your business image or just to enjoy gaining some new ideas on how to update your look, the expert consultants at this First Impressions Count workshop are ready to give you helpful advice.

Workshop Content

Advice on image, wardrobe and colours to suit you - Cass Edwards, Cascade Colour & Style

Makeup for all occasions with demonstrations - Sharon Kavanagh

Healthy Eating - Kirsty Powell, Simply Wellness

The Importance of Body Language - Debbie Boultbee, DB Learning & Development Consultants Ltd

We are looking forward to a half-day of fun and interaction, as well as helpful tips on the right look for you.
Tea and Coffee included in the price - you are also welcome to stay on after the workshop and join the team for lunch for a further chat if you wish (Cost of lunch not included).
Bring a friend and you will receive a 10% discount on the workshop fee!
What does it cost?
£35.00 per person
How do I book a place?
To book your place, contact Debbie Boultbee on 0778090476 or e-mail info@headstartu.co.uk

Special Jewellery in Vibrant Colours

2010-01-13T07:59:00.000-08:00

Cascade Colour & Style offers fabulous colourful jewellery to complement your seasonal colours perfectly - all made in dichroic glass which changes colour according to the light.

A wide range of necklaces, pendants, rings and earrings in both stud and drop styles are available. Earrings wires are in sterling silver. Here are just a few drop earrings which would really flatter the rich warm colouring of the Autum lady...... A pair of drop earrings are £10.00.

Deep Amber Deep Rust

Light Gold Brown Gold Brown

Leaf Green Yellow Green

Emerald Turquoise

If you would like to see the full range of colours and styles, just contact Cass Edwards at info@cascadeimage.co.uk

Would you like to host a Jewellery Party for you and your friends in the Essex area? These pieces make wonderful presents, or your can treat yourself! Browse the full range during a fun evening with friends with a glass of wine or two, with plenty of helpful advice on which colours suit each lady best.

AND - as hostess, you can choose jewellery to the value of 10% of sales on the night as a "Thank You" for hosting the event!
Contact info@cascadeimage.co.uk to find out more, or to book your Jewellery Party.

Add Colour to your look with Special Jewellery!

2009-12-18T07:29:00.000-08:00

If you are stuck for present ideas for a special lady, or just want to treat yourself over the festive season, take a look at these beautiful dichroic glass pendants in a range of dazzling colours, which change depending on how the light catches them. Matching earrings are available for all pendants.

Each piece is handmade and completely unique - you'll never see anyone else wearing something similar!

Small Pendants - Price £12.50

Many people prefer to use their own gold or silver chains with a pendant, or to complement it with a velvet ribbon on black or other colour velvet to make their necklace completely personal.

So these larger pendants come without a chain - Price £18.00 each

If you prefer a larger pendant already on a necklace fixing...... Price £20.00

If you don't see a colour you like, and have something particular in mind, please do contact me, and I can arrange to have your piece of jewellery made specially to suit you perfectly!

Besides pendants, we also offer necklaces featuring up to 7 colourful pieces of dichroic glass, matching drop or stud earrings, and rings .
If you are interested in purchasing some jewellery, or would like to see the full range at first hand, then please contact me at info@cascadeimage.co.uk to discuss your particular requirements.

Have a wonderful colourful Christmas,

Best wishes

Cass

Why Ladies should always wear Lipstick

2009-09-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

WHY SHOULD WOMEN ALWAYS WEAR LIPSTICK?

You will always look at your best when you wear the colours which truly flatter you, but most vital of all - for every woman under the sun – is to take one of your best accent colours onto your face, with a LIPSTICK. If your colours help you to look great when worn on the body, how much more will they do for you when worn on your face?
It’s astonishing what a difference just a lip colour in the right shade can make.
Every lady has her own views about how much make up she likes to wear – the Dramatic may never leave her house without ensuring that she is fully and perfectly made up, while the Natural takes some persuading to bother at all. Of course every individual is entitled to their own opinion on this but do be aware, Natural ladies, that you may be selling yourselves short if you don’t, AT THE VERY LEAST, put on lipstick. It takes only a few seconds but really brightens your face, and also enhances your eyes by balancing their colour with colour on the lower half of the face.

Take a look at these un-retouched pictures to see the difference. They were taken within a few minutes of each other. My client is not wearing any makeup, other than the addition of a bright Winter red lipstick in the lower picture , to complement her best combination of black/scarlet. Yet how much brighter her eyes and complexion appear!

It is worth bearing in mind that women who wear make up in the work-place earn, on average, 25% more than women who do not.

Why is this?

Firstly – they look healthier and brighter, which suggests effectiveness, competence and energy in doing their job.

Secondly – if they are sufficiently well organised to be able to present themselves at work looking smartly groomed, bosses will conclude that they are also likely to bring those organisational skills to their business activities.

Thirdly – they are telling the world that they place a value on themselves and how they appear, and that they expect to be taken seriously.

Don’t forget, that how you look tells the world how you expect to be treated!
If you look scruffy, you can expect scruffy treatment – if you look smart and professional you are far more likely to be treated as such.

So, if you are looking for a new job, or to progress in your present career, it pays to take the trouble to wear at least a little make-up!

If you would like to learn more about how the right colours for clothes and lipstick can help you to look fantasic in either a work or a social situation, contact me on info@cascadeimage.co.uk. You may be pleasantly surprised at just how good you can look!

Best wishes

Cass

The last gasp for this Summer's fashions?

2009-09-03T05:06:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Well the weather has turned very autumnal all of a sudden, but in the hope we might have a few more nice sunny days before we have to start thinking about winter woollies, my feature for this month is on 2 key looks to make the most of the sunshine:

That perennial favourite for Summer wear – White

Making a splash with bold Bright colour

GET YOUR WHITES RIGHT!
In cool linens and cottons, white can be crisp and fresh on a warm day. In delicate broderie anglaise, lace, silk and soft jerseys, white is also the essence of femininity and romance.
But whether you prefer the Romantic look of ruffles and embroidery, or a sharper, more pared down style, it’s essential that you choose a shade of white which will flatter your seasonal colouring!
Much of the white clothing on sale in Summer time is the pure white which belongs to the Winter lady alone. It is a cool bright white well suited to Winter’s strong and vivid palette, but it can look harsh against the warmer-toned skins of the Spring and Autumn lady, and its stark clarity will overpower the softer Summer complexion.
It’s true that having some suntan to the skin will help these seasonal types to look better in pure white than they otherwise would, but nonetheless there are much better shades of white for you non-Winter ladies to choose!

Winters should stick firmly to the dazzling bright white of the washing powder commercial :

This Linen Rich White Dress is from the Limited Collection Per Una range at Marks & Spencer

A classic white shirt - White Pintuck Shirt from New Look

Summer women will look best in a softer, slightly off-white, often known (confusingly) as Winter White. This shade is also frequently described as Ecru.

Ecru Crochet Trim Blouse from New Look

The Autumn toned lady will be most flattered by white with a touch of pinkish brown in it – an Oyster White. The very light brown often described as Stone, or Oatmeal, will be perfect for an Autumn lady.
Pointelle Dress in Stone from New Look

The Spring lady will look fantastic in Ivory or very pale shades of Cream :
Cream stitch crop cardigan from Dorothy Perkins

VIVID BRIGHTS
If a whiter shade of pale doesn’t appeal to you, then why not go for this season’s other big trend - bold prints in eye-catching colours! You could choose a brightly patterned dress in your best colours, or get the best of both worlds and match a colourful top worn with skinny trousers in your best lightest neutral colour.
Winter ladies need have no fear of going “too bright” – they can carry very vivid colours off perfectly. Bright Springs and deep or warm Autumn ladies too, will be on safe ground with their strongest accent colours.
Muted Autumn and Summer ladies, and fair Springs, be careful though – your best bright colours are a little softer than much of what you will find in the shops just now, so use your fabric swatches wisely to make sure the colours in any new purchases are not too strong!

Monsoon is always great for gorgeous patterned dresses and tunic style tops – all items below are from http://www.monsoon.co.uk/ :

Spring Autumn Summer
Red Sara Tunic Crystal Print Dress Jaipur Print Dress

Winter
Seventies Print Dress

Enjoy what sunshine we have over the next few weeks!
In my next issue, I'll be considering one of the key colours for the Autumn/Winter season 2009 - Blueberry. How will you wear it?
If you'd like more information on Colour or Style topics, please contact me at info@cascadeimage.co.uk

Best wishes

Cass Edwards