Thursday, March 6, 2014

Doing more with LESS - 12 Pieces to be exact


Whether we’re time poor, lacking confidence or just a little overwhelmed by choice, sometimes we all need a little help in the wardrobe department.

Silver Maple would love for you to come indulge with us over a glass of bubbles and learn how to make the most of your wardrobe with one of Australia’s top image stylists, Helen Robinett.

She has worked as a stylist for 10 years, with many more years experience in the industry, and is well known for her warmth and humour and knowledge of personal branding

While most of us are guilty of only wearing a fraction of what is in our wardrobe, she’ll show you how to make your purchases really earn their rent.

Helen is not afraid of breaking the styling rules and is set on smashing the myths on what we should and shouldn’t wear both for business and pleasure.

You will see 12 key pieces transformed on a real body into more than 50 different outfit options for work, cocktails, Friday night drinks, Sunday brunch, Prahran Market on Saturday, Dinner with friends, casual BBQ, Job interview, night club and dinner with your folks.


She is one of only six image professionals in Australia who has achieved the designation of Certified Image Professional through the Association of Image Consultants International and has published a book on Personal Branding, Apprentice to Business Ace. Helen also chairs the board for TRY Australia and Big Brothers Big Sisters in Melbourne.

We will be serving light refreshments.

Numbers are limited and bookings are essential at $30 per head.

When:   Wednesday 12 March 2014 1030am-1230pm in Brighton

             Wednesday 12 March 2014 630pm - 830pm in Ashburton

Where:  2/50 Church Street Brighton
              216 High Street Ashburton

Call Helen to book now 9592 2608.

Business Casual - Getting it right


Do you struggle with what to wear for the business conference? Casual Friday? Work events that are simply NOT corporate? This is the biggest styling problem for professional women across the globe.

The solution is simple. When you lower the dress code, you must increase the quality and keep it simple. There is a formula for getting this right every time. Working with only 10 pieces we will reveal the solution guaranteed to take the stress out of these situations for you. After all,
anyone can wear a suit! That's easy!

Et Al is an accomplished Melbourne brand with a cult following know for its relaxed tailoring and timeless pieces. Fluid and flattering lines, quality
fabrication and thoughtful detailing are tailored to suit the classic women who wants a little innovation. The Et Al woman is busy, active, appreciates quality, insists on trans seasonal pieces that will earn their rent in her wardrobe. Et Al is for those who appreciate refined workmanship with a mix of eccentricity and contemporary style. Sizes range from 8 - 18 and clever design ensures all body types are catered for.

Join leading Melbourne Executive Stylist Helen Robinett at Etal in Armadale as she reveals the formula to 'Business Casual' and demonstrates how to make
it work with 'real' women modelling for you.

With over 25 years experience in corporate roles and executive styling, Helen is well placed to help you manage your business casual wardrobe to ensure it is earning its rent. 
 
It's time to dispel the myths on what Business Casual really is.
 
When:   Sunday 16 March 11am - 1pm
 
Where:    EtAl, 1003 High St, Armadale Vic

Limited places. Bookings essential. $30 per head. Call Deborah now on 9822 1777.

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

How about coffee with your own Personal Stylist?


Ten things you SHOULD know by now ......



1.     Your most flattering hairstyle. 
Your hair stylist is one of your major image makers.  If they don’t know you, your work or your lifestyle they are below average on the scale.  They must create a style to suit you as an individual, respect your style direction and be a reflection of how you earn your income.  You can’t afford to get this wrong.

2.     Transform a business outfit from work to cocktail/dinner/drinks in 3 simple steps .
You are too busy to think about a complete change of clothing.  You know that!  Your business suit will serve you well to transform for cocktail the minute you change your earrings to add a little sparkle (diamonds or zircons that drop and dangle are perfect).  Next change your top to a simple silk cami.  The sheen will transform into evening.  Forget the cleavage.  You are still in a work environment!  Add a little depth to your lipstick and you are done.

3.     What to wear for the annual conference?
Business casual is the order of the day here.  Ditch the suit and relax the code a little.  This does not translate into denim, track pants, cropped pants or what you would wear at home or on the beach.  Smart casual pants and a relaxed knit top with a smart casual jacket will serve you well.  Use one jacket in an accent colour for you that will work back with each outfit.

4.     How to choose an appropriate business shoe that IS comfortable
Your best business shoe is leather and at between one and three inches high.  A wedge gives you a solid base and will ensure you are taken seriously in business.  Keep the colour in a neutral.  Match your hair colour.  Check out this utube video on topping and tailing with hair and shoes http://bit.ly/wL4eb1  Get topy soles put on and consider gel inserts.  They will add to your comfort levels.  Purchase only quality.  You are worth it!

5.     How to identify your best business handbag without changing it every dayYou need to carry your ipad, phone, and essential bag stuff so what you need is a tote.  Carrying your bag over your shoulder can Shoulder can do some damage to your garments as well as your shoulder.  Carrying two bags is cumbersome and has you look a little disorganized.  Hey, a light coloured lining means you can see the contents of your bag easily.

6.     The role accessories play in extending your wardrobe
Boring basics like your suits, simple tops and basic shoes are the staples of your wardrobe.  Accessorising close to the face with earrings, necklace or a scarf is what makes the same suit-top combination a completely new outfit.  Think about this one – saves money! Your collection needs to consist of six to ten pieces that work back with all your basics.  Choose them in your signature colours for rapport building in business.   More about that here: http://bit.ly/yuLjSB

7.     How to use contrast like a leader
Leaders use contrast to their advantage.  This is a skill you should know by now.  Contrasting light/dark close to your face using a light top and darker jacket will bring the focus of attention to your face and what you are saying.  Check out how it works here:  http://bit.ly/AeFtsD

8.     How to apply a professional daytime make up in a flash

Research has proven that women who wear a moderate amount of make up consistently are rated as being more professional among their peers.  Leaders are consistent.  Role models know how to play this game.  Tips and tricks on corporate make up here: Iridis Cosmetics. 

9.     The importance of your professional accessories
A simple thing often forgotten.  The pen you use and your mobile phone speak volumes about you.  Choose a quality pen that reflects your position.  Similarly, choose the ring on your mobile phone with care.  You can’t afford to have ACDC as your ring tone.   Nor can you afford to be using a 20 cent bic pen.  Think about that one …….

10.  Understand your unique signature colours
Wearing them helps immensely with rapport building.  Politicians, news readers and leaders understand this well.  Make it work for you.  It’s a powerful tool.  Get the visual here:  http://bit.ly/yuLjSB