Do you have a values based ethos at work?

Many workplace studies show a direct link between productivity and employee well-being. A fit and happy workforce will reap benefits to an employer through enhanced performance, increased morale, reduced absenteeism and attrition as well as lower health care costs.



The question that often needs to be asked is: why are these strategies needed? Is the work situation causing stress? Do employees have time to reassess their working situations, their health mentally and physically so that illness and stress can be avoided? Each business and employee base is unique and true leadership can often need a helping hand to develop the right strategies and work practices that support a values based ethos that supports the well-being of its workforce.

Moore Associates Hampshire Limited, mahl, offers such a service to businesses of all sizes across the South of England and imaginestyle has been fortunate to work in association with them on their Presenting Yourself Positively At Work workshop, part of the Generating Energy and Well Being program. In conjunction with Work and Well-Being Ltd, mahl has developed a unique approach to employee well-being that is research-based focused on allowing leaders to identify areas of difficulty and to deal with them effectively with workable approaches suited to their specific needs.

As an image consultant, I was impressed with the drive and passion behind mahl and some of the themes presented have a natural connection with the work I do at imaginestyle. I'm looking forward to future sessions and meeting new delegates! Why not take a look at some of their up and coming course dates:

Presenting Yourself Positively At Work - Tuesday 30th March 2010A half-day workshop developing skills that encourage positive approaches to work, that new job situation and colleagues. Techniques such as perceptual positioning, anchoring techniques and time management are included as practical sessions that relate to your individual situations.
Find out more including how to book or register your interest.

Generating Energy and Well Being - Thursday 22nd April 2010Aimed at those who want to learn strategies for managing difficult situations, to improve interactions with colleagues and clients and not only feel  positive about the routine of work but also improve quality of life generally.
This Workshop is delivered in surroundings that allow the delegates to relax and enjoy their day. The purpose of the workshop is to allow delegates to reflect on their work situation and how they can identify strategies to improve the way they manage their working life.
- Your well-being at work
- Presenting yourself positively
- Goal Setting
- Planning to improve personal performance
- Perceptual Positions
- Seeing things from different points of view
Find out more including how to book or register your interest.

The courses offered help leaders and individuals to mitigate situations that cause difficulties and will help their well being in the work situation. Are you an organisation that could benefit from this? Contact Shelagh Moore of Moore Associates Hampshire Limited or Min directly.

Pantone Colour of the Year - 2010

Pantone Unveils Color of the Year for 2010
PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise
"Turquoise transports us to an exciting, tropical paradise while offering a sense of protection and healing in stressful times"

Before I go any further on this one, it's struck me that perhaps not everyone knows who Pantone are and what does it matter what they say about colour? Let me humbly educate. Pantone are considered to be the global authority on colour and provide the professional colour standards for todays design industries. In addition to regularly announcing their chosen Colour of the Year, they also report the top trend colours for the fashion industry, typically released to coincide with major international fashion events like New York Fashion Week.

So if the fashion dons are taking notice, we might as well keep up.

Personally, I love Turquoise but I'm biased to all colours (part of my confusion in life is to choose a favourite...). Turquoise is a blue-green hue with the name taken from the naturally occurring gemstone representing Sagittarius (if you're into astrology).

In one of my first blogs I touched on the psychology of colour and how it has a very definite effect on us. Turquoise and shades of blue, green and aqua are associated with positivity and calm, spiritual in nature offering, protection and sophistication.

“In many cultures, Turquoise occupies a very special position in the world of color,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “It is believed to be a protective talisman, a color of deep compassion and healing, and a color of faith and truth,
inspired by water and sky. Through years of color word-association studies, we also find that Turquoise represents an escape to many – taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.”

Being true to the mineral, Turquoise shades range from almost sky blue to deep greenish blues so able to able to cover the the spectrum colour directions from Deep to Muted. The lighter shades provide a feminine feel through to Warm teals, while the more blue shades will work well for Cools.  if you're primary colour direction is a Bright then this particular turquoise would work well and for those with more Muted tones they may prefer a more dusky version of turquiose. That's why knowing your colour direction can be so powerful - want to know what yours is?

In fashion, Turquoise can make a very elegant statement and lends itself well to dress up fine silks to dress down cottons so appealing to both men and women. As an accent colour you'll be spoilt for choice with versatile Turquoise, particularly for jewellery but even as a daring choice for your nails. Have fun with it this Spring/Summer!

If you'd like to know how to wear your colours to best suit your unique natural colouring, then why not book your session with Min and start looking great and shopping better.

Need a Party idea? Thow a Style Party

Why not get a group of friends together for the ultimate Girls Night In - a Style Party experience with Min and imaginestyle

All you need to do is decide on a Style Party theme, arrange some refreshments and most importantly, do the inviting. Leave the rest to me. I will make sure that you all have a fun and inspiring evening learning and sharing the art of looking great.

• Some suggested Style Party themes:
• Learn how to dress for your body shape
• What colour am I? Mini colour analysis for everyone
• Understanding your wardrobe personality
• Be a shopping vixen, not a shopping victim - how to avoid shopping mistakes
• Re-invent outfits with the art of accessorising and wardrobe capsules

Or call Min to tailor an evening just for you and your friends

For a hen night, birthday treat, or just to have some fun with friends, a Style Party can be just the thing!
To book, call Min on 07973 634392 or email min@imaginestyle.com.
A Style Party costs £96 for 3 hours for up to 6 friends, including a gift for the lucky hostess.

Book early for fab Christmas idea!

Boat Show Chic at Ladies Day

There are those amongst us that organise their social diaries down to the last minute and probably had Ladies Day at the Southampton Boat Show planned for months. We, on the other hand, made the firm decision to go only a few days prior which may have been more to do with watching what the weather had planned...the thought of tottering on heels in the wind and rain really didn't appeal.
Personally, I've been wanting to go to a 'Ladies Day' at something for a while now but so far had never made it to Ascot or Epsom so this was going to be my first. And let's face it, there's nothing like an event completely focused on ladies that brings out the best in us, as well as our best outfits and proves the point that we just love dressing up. And don't be silly, it has nothing to do with the lure of champagne.
So although I opted out of wearing a hat, mainly because I couldn't get the darn flower thing to stay in my hair, I was curious to see what us South Coast ladies would be wearing to this prestigious event (well...Princess Anne was going to be there). I decided to take the camera along, introduce myself and snap away. These are are the pictures so do enjoy if you were there and a huge thanks to Anna Matthews and Sheryl Andrews and the lovely ladies who didn't mind me disturbing their champagne for a pose!

Off with the flip flops and on with the heels!
It did take us a while to find the Champagne Bar (I know you'd think we'd be able to sniff it out) and we were left a bit bemused when we were directed to the Ladies Loo but we did make it to claim our glass of bubbly - yum!




It was all happening even a bit of filming for the Boat Show which starred Angie Tidbury and Lou Jones looking gorgeous.

Found a great view for a bit of 'Lady Spotting' and spotted a hat - yay!



We weren't the only ladies 'working', Sonya Gibbs and Alison Parsley were collecting money in style for action medical research - a charity dedicated to improving the health of babies and children. We spotted them again later enjoying their well deserved bottle of champers!

More ladies looking fab in colour and all posing rather well!




A bit of effortless style I think - spotted the animal print bag and shoes - got my vote for the on-trend accessories for the day!




Well I have to say, we quite enjoyed our little expedition to Ladies Day and yes it did help that the sun shone brightly so we didn't look too silly wearing our sunglasses and pretty dresses. There was a prize for the Best Dressed Lady courtesy of the Daily Echo but unfortunately we couldn't stay for the duration, although did meet the Daily Echo photographer, Paul Collins, very nice man who does a spot of painting on the side. Congratulations to Angie Jones, who won.

We'll be back for next years event...and look forward to it.

Autumn/Winter 09 Fashion Trends For Her

We’re still in the grip of a recession with some forecasts telling us not to fret as we’re coming out of it and others claiming more doom and gloom. But fashion is not to be kept at bay...it just responds accordingly. So as with last season and much to my joy the general ethos is still in investment buying and looking for pieces that you will wear and wear again...and wear again, you get the idea.
To sum up, for the fashion aware, look for well defined shoulder lines and detailing, coats as your investment buy, animal prints, flat brogues, over the knee boots, belts. Also note the use of velvet and the expected sequins and furs. So we've done our research and here are our 10 Key Fashion Trends:

(1) The Killer ShouldersWith some of the shoulder designs coming off the catwalks they could just kill someone...or at least have their out. The 80‘s are further making a comeback with a lot of attention being paid to shoulders and ladies, we’re not just talking shoulder pads. The shoulder line has widened and there are variations from full-on puffs to structured sleeves. Look for pointed, polished silhouette definition, shoulder padding and fussy and over embellishment.
The celebrities are all donning them and while treading that sometimes fine line of style genius and comedy - anything goes!
Min says:
Shoulder emphasis adds width so bear this in mind when dressing for your body shape and scale. If you're short, stick to smaller shoulders to avoid a stocky look. Keep with a look that defines the waist and avoid if your arms are overly large - they will just look bigger.
We like: Embellished Biker Jacket - Top Shop £150, Printed Puff Sleeve Dress - Lipsy £55, Rapture Shoulder Dress - Oasis £70

(2) The Asymmeric cut & tea dresses
We had the asymmetric dress of the summer which continues with the winter version of baring one shoulder. Choose from a relaxed option for the day or a glammed up look for the evening.

We love: Rose Corsage Dress - Karen Millen £180, Starlight One Shoulder Dress - Top Shop £50, Flower Print One Shoulder Dress - Mango £75

(3) Slimmer trouser linesYes they're still here from Summer but more structured now in winter materials. Look for flat or peg top trousers with a narrow leg and a shorted hem, typically worn with pumps.
Min says:
If you have a longer 'peg' style pair of trousers then why not just pin them up for the shorter length. If you're wider around the middle then avoid the baggy trouser look - stick to flat fronted. Bare in mind your body proportions so the narrower and shorter length will cut you off if you have short legs. Balance with a wider top silhouette.

We like: Taupe Twill Harem - £25, Grey Pleat Crops - £25 both Dorothy Perkins

(4) Tulips, draped and pleated shapesThere are a versatile set of skirt and dress shapes to suit any body shape and personal style from creating volume and draping to slim and pleated classic cuts.

We like: Grey Hitched Skirt - Rocha John Rocha for Debenhams £40, Bow Tuilp Dress - TopShop £50, Black Ruffle Front Skirt - Star by Julien McDonald for Debenhams £40

(5) The Androgynous LookNot for everyone but you can't avoid the trend for the Boyfriend blazer and cardigans, distressed and even ripped jeans (shock, horror...they're back!). The 'manly' military look is still in - inspired from Michael Jackson. A fabulously cheap chic option if you have a man in your life where you can raid his wardrobe, if not, here are some options.

We like: Pleat Placket Longline Cardigan - £30, Braided Military Jacket - £55, Helene Berman Long Boyfriend Blazer - £95 all from ASOS

(6) Investment Buy - Statement CoatIf you haven’t done it yet, consider a statement coat as your staple buy.  The trick here is to know the length and style that will suit your body shape. Keep with a coat that really does do the job of keeping you warm, allows for movement and feels comfortable. Your 'statement coat' has to be seen as an investment and so remember to consider the cost per wear. Good value may mean spending a bit more but if it's an item you will happily pull out and wear Season after Season, then it will pay itself back.

(7) Oooh love those shoes!For the slim of leg amongst us the 'over the knee boot' is for you, flat or heeled. Lovely lace up ankle boots in the seasons colours and look out for the flattest of flat brogues competing for centre stage with spiky heels. You'll see a variety of materials and textures from animal prints to roses, ribbon and lace.

We love: Black Tassell Stud Boot - Wallis £60, ASTRIDE Lace Up Ankle Boot - Top Shop £85, DUFFY Suede Over The Knee Boot - Top Shop £85, Sir - Dune £75

8 - Layered knitsThe season for layering - in addition to chunky cable knits to wrap up warm, look for fine knits that drape and give an air of luxury.

9 - Leather Mania, Velvet Chic, Houndstooth, Tweeds and MoreRock chic, heavy metal and a bit of punk, that would sum up some of the materials for the season. Add to that zips, studs and buckles and you have it - see them being used unusually on just about everything from clothing to accessories.

Animal prints are back - in true 80's style, they're back in a variety of bright colours and if it suits your wardrobe style, wear them clashing!
We like: Animal Print Dress - Warehouse £60


Dog/houndstooth (remember them!) and tweeds. The influence of Chanel isn't over and you'll see modern updates to these classic looks from full length to cropped styles. We like: Halsey Coat - Hobbs £229

An exciting come back is the use of velvet - it's fantastic for the feeling of luxury and elegance. I can't wait to see more of it in the stores for dresses to jackets. Talking of jackets - don't forget faux fur and if you don't have a gilet - good time to get one.

(10) Accessorise with chic updates My favourite section so here are my accessory update tips:
- Bags - Keep them smaller, clutch like, more vintage with the influence again of the Chanel braided handles. Bags take on all the colour and materal trends of the season - a good time to have a look at what you have at the back of the wardrobe and certainly permission to rummage the charity stores or TKMAXX is always good fun!
- Opaque coloured tights - fab for dressing down a formal outfit or brightening one up
- Belts - Wear your belts Mobama style which is over your coat or cardigan. Another cost effective way to bring outfits together and introduce a seasons colour. If you're larger around the waist, usually belts are not for you - use another accessory to achieve the same effect.
- Jewellery - Invest in the use of ribbon and appliques in necklaces and look for oversized metal necklaces with clashing colours of the season.
- Flowers - Love this trend as it's a favourite of mine already. You'll see flowers of all descriptions on anything from corsages, necklaces, hair-pieces to show and dress decoration. This can be another cheap way of updating of not only an outfit but another accessory - try pinning on your bag.

We hope you've enjoyed reading the Seasons update and if you're left wondering where to start. Why not invest in a Personal Shopping session with Min from imaginestyle (www.imaginestyle.com) and ensure you shop not only for the Autumn/Winter but for your personal colouring, style and body shape. What are you waiting for?

This Seasons Colours

We’re just loving the colours being bought out this season as they're certainly a break from the the usual autumnal range that we see this time of year. Great for my profession and the fashion conscious as they'll be something for all colour tones from the Deep & Dusky through to Bright & Cool. So all you ladies that have your colour swatches at hand, take a look...you'll now know what suits and how to wear them. Look out for them (or as close to) in the stores!

What does Pantone say? Your Autumn/Winter '09 colour trends

American Beauty is a balanced true red - a nice feel good colour. Purple Heart, purple continues its regal reign as a key colour of refinement. Pair these together for a wow combination. The pantone Colour of the Year, Mimosa has a warmer, more subdued edge as move into Autumn with the warm Honey Yellow.

Added to the mix are some timeless neutrals. Look out for Iron as the new black...yes I know they keep changing the ‘new black’ but I rather like this one. Crème Brûlée, a grayed-down beige, and Nomad, which bridges the gap between beige and light gray. If you're natural colouring allows, you can combine these neutrals and look fab, otherwise combine with another hue to create contrast and interest.

Slightly different and a welcome addition is the feminine Rapture Rose to provide some vibrancy and spark - think dusky fuchsia and it certainly lifts the more traditional autumn/winter shades.

Also look out for Warm Olive, a rich yellow-green, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. One of my favourites this season is the Majolica Blue - it’s being described as a vibrant, deep, mysterious blue….oooh but that's so me.

Now the season wouldn't be complete without a usual suspect or two and for that we have the autumn sunset shade of Burnt Sienna to bring that orange touch. And as we move into the silly season of partying, they'll be an abundance of metallic tones of bronze, gold and silver sequins and shimmer on just about everything.

So have fun looking out for these colours around you and in the stores. And if you've still not had the treat of knowing what colours best flatter you, why not take away the confusion and hassle and book yourself an appointment with Min at imaginestyle (www.imaginestyle.com) or put it on your Christmas Style Wish List?

Take control back of your wardrobe space

Are you standing (or crouching) in front of your wardrobe not just thinking I have nothing to wear but...what on earth have I got in there?
A mixed up array of t-shirts, blouses, scarves all screaming for your attention every time you open the closet? Trousers, jackets and dresses, squashed and creased to the point where ironing them before they go into the great chasm was a pointless exercise?In a time when we are all being that extra careful with our spend, it's even more important to know what you have, maximise on it and get back to enjoying the experience of getting dressed! It’s time to take control back of one of your major investments - your wardrobe.

And that starts with a de-clutter, here are my 5 top tips to get you started:

1. There’s no getting away from it, everything piece of clothing and accessory has to come out of your closet, not only to allow each item to be scrutinised and understand what you have but to allow you to see what space you have to organise...before anything goes back.
2. Be ruthless! Try each piece of clothing on in front of the mirror and get the recycling bags ready for anything that does not fit anymore or is uncomfortable (remember ladies - you can always save it for our next swish event). And this includes those items in there being saved for when you lose the weight.
3. Know the colours, shapes and styles that best suit you for your work and personal lifestyle and apply this knowledge - a must for a really honest wardrobe de-clutter.
4. Can it be revamped or updated? If you love a piece of clothing but know it’s not your best then if it can be salvaged using the tricks of accessorising, the haberdasery tool box or given a new lease of life with a sewing machine, it can have a ticket back into the wardrobe.
5. Does it need mending, if so...mend it or have it mended - still a less expensive option than buying new.

Note: I can't emphasise enough what a liberating experience this can be!

But before you even contemplate going shopping for those now identified wardrobe gaps, remember you have a bedroom full of clothes, accessories and shoes that need to go back in...so time to organise, organise, organise and get clever with some workable storage solutions - here are the basics with some ideas:

• While everything is out of your wardrobe, it's a good opportunity to give it a good clean!
• Spend a bit of time to evaluate the space you have versus the kinds of garments you have. While it's unlikely you can have a whole new wardrobe appropriate for your garments, there are many storage solutions to explore that means you can at least maximise on the space you have.
• Ensure there is sufficient hanging space for longer items like your dresses, jackets and coats, as well as shorter space for shirts, blouses and trousers.
• Ensure you have adequate shelving space for folded items such as jumpers and t-shirts. Become a folding expert, be strict with yourselves - it really is the only way not to introduce chaos! When the seasons change, there is no harm in rearranging items or storing the big woolly sweaters away.
• Invest in space saving and instant tidying storage solutions for your shoes (you'll wonder how you ever managed without see through shoe boxes).
• Try boot shapers for keeping boots not only tidy but upright as well.
• Invest in good quality wooden hangers. This does not have to be expensive and something you can build up over time but it's a must over metal hangers. Ikea and Tescos provide fantastic value and I love these pink wooden ones from www.aplaceforeverything.co.uk.
• Get clever with hanging space for accessories that you can see alongside with items in your wardrobe, for example for belts, hats, scarves and even jewellery. Even those clever stick on hooks from a DIY store can be cheap and easy way of hanging necklaces and scarves on the inside of your cupboard door. Failing that, opt for hanging shelves and good old Ikea is a good place to start.
• There are some simple and quite innovative options for managing drawer space that can help with keeping your smalls organised, avoid odd socks or even keep belts and scarves in check.
• Hanging sachets and drawer liners are a good anti-moth option. Try lavendar - I've read that while us humans love the aroma of fresh lavender, moths and ants don't (so no laughing if your grandmother still sprinkles lavender in the linen closet...she knows what she's doing).
• Finally make sure you leave some breathing space for new items! 

It can be overwhelming trying to do this all on your own, which is exactly where imaginestyle can help. Not just for the being ruthless bit but to help you understand how to manage your wardrobe - from space management to what goes back in and why - giving you back control. Why not get in touch and get to grips with yours?