TAKE A FEW MORE STYLE RISKS
With a milestone birthday ahead of her, Julie Tovey has had enough of playing it safe
As I approach my 50th, I feel increasingly unsure about my wardrobe. I know I need to refresh my style, and I’d love a new look for my big birthday, but I don’t know how to go about it.
I’m an assistant headteacher, and day to day I wear a plain skirt or trouser suit, usually in grey, black or navy. I have to be smart, but my style is more functional than fashionable. I envy more stylish women who accessorise their look with a big necklace, beautifully-tied scarf or stand-out shoes. I never try because I don’t feel I can carry it off.
Two of my favourite dresses are postbox red and emerald green, but they only come out when I go on holiday. I’d like to introduce more colour into my daily dress code, adding a funky edge to some classic pieces. My aim is to be stylish but also age-appropriate.
THE FASHION BOOST
‘Being bolder with your choice of colour is a great way to refresh your wardrobe and gain confidence,’ says Jo. ‘For Julie, we chose an orange leather skirt as a statement piece, but by teaming it with a crisp white shirt, she didn’t feel overwhelmed by such a strong colour. This new approach can be incorporated into both her work and weekend wardrobe. Simply by adding a block colour piece, print shoes or a stand-out piece of jewellery, Julie can feel self-assured knowing she has a more modern, stylish look.’
LOOK AT ME NOW!
‘My new look has inspired me to try new things,’ says Julie. ‘I’d never have chosen a leather skirt and certainly not in bright orange, but I love it. I’ve definitely been taken out of my fashion comfort zone – and I’m excited to explore more on my own.’