The Daily Telegraph - Saturday - The Telegraph Magazine
PRUE’S STYLE GURUS SHARE THEIR MAKEOVER GUIDE
STEP 1 FOUNDATION
Are you wearing the right size bra? Check your measurements or get a professional bra fitting. Wearing your true size will boost confidence as your clothes will fit better; we always recommend a T-shirt bra for smooth lines.
STEP 2 EDIT
What garments in your wardrobe get you excited and why? Acknowledge the silhouettes, colours and shapes you feel good in.
STEP 3 BUILDING BLOCKS
Create a list of the core items missing from your wardrobe: jeans, soft-line or tailored jacket, Breton-style T-shirt, dress, knitwear, coat, trainer, boot, feature accessories and so on.
STEP 4 UPDATE
Make a day of filling in the gaps. Book time with a personal shopper online or make it a fun day out with a friend. Be logical – if you don’t love it, don’t buy it!
STEP 5 COLOUR
Experiment with colours you are drawn to: hold them to your face, preferably in daylight. Each colour has a multitude of tonal shades, so if a scarlet red doesn’t suit, try a different shade.
STEP 6 LAYERING
Learn how to layer. This is a trial-and-error process – try a jumper, cardigan, tunic or jacket worn over a long-sleeved top. Play with prints, interesting fabrics and bursts of colour.
STEP 7 ACCESSORISE
Step up with a statement necklace. If you wear glasses, try a new colour or explore a new frame shape. Not into jewellery? Try watches (Prue wears Swatch watches) with interchangeable fun straps, or wear trainers with colourful laces.
STEP 8 PRINTS
Play around with bold prints and patterns. If you’re used to florals then scale up to brighter, bolder florals. If you wear Breton-style tops, look for a wider or more colourful stripe for impact.
STEP 9 RECYCLE
Recycle items you’re not likely to wear. Sell online, donate to charity shops, or set up a swap-shop coffee morning with friends. Make room for the new.
STEP 10 ADAPT
Change how you shop. Explore independent brands/designers, renting online, markets, vintage outlets, charity shops and word of mouth/ social media.