Loreal Melbourne Fashion Festival

Fashion to die for

By Alison Kinkade

The people are beautiful and their clothes are to die for and it’s all because it’s that time of the again.

The time when Melbourne shines and comes into its own and everyday people transform into models as they embrace their stylist within. It’s that time of the year when all of Australia’s fashion elite, as well as some overseas visitors, descend on Melbourne.

It is the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival (LMFF) and it is taking place this month. So to celebrate LMFF and its many shows taking place in Docklands, we are endeavouring to make this autumn and winter easier for you by delivering to you the season’s trends.

1950s glam

Inspired by the hit TV show Mad Man, 1950s glamour is the major trend for the season. Pretty and feminine lady-like pieces will feature in all major collections. Elegant synched-waist skirts as well as full skirts will have you on trend for the season. Lace is also a hit and for something a little more laid-back there is a huge range of beautiful knitwear to choose from that will give you that 1950s glam look.  Men are also falling for this trend with tailored jackets and blazers. The must-have is a pea jacket.

A day in the country

Relaxed country-club style clothing is a weekend-wear must-have. Soft patterns featuring beautiful florals are a hit. Soft coats and cardigans with fur trimmings are right on trend. Laced ankle boots set off the look. Men can wear beautiful preppy knitwear to stay in trend with the ladies.

Sign up to military style

Military style jackets are a must-have for both women and men, but the women’s jackets are a lot softer than last season’s.  Slim fitted cargo pants are also on trend for women and men can express their masculinity in a pair of military boots.

The 80s return

For those who love the 80s glam of last season, you will be pleased to know it features in the season’s collection. Though it is softer than the previous collection, embellishment will give you that glitzy kick that you’re after.

Accessories galore

Accessories are great if you want to update your wardrobe without spending a fortune on new pieces.  Look for shoes with soft toes and bow trims. Fur trimming and classic silk will also add a touch of 1950s glam without spending a fortune.

Go and get styled before stepping out this month

To coincide with L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival, Docklands resident and personal stylist Chris Maines is hosting ‘Style Yourself – The Basics’ – an information session on fashion-styling.

A qualified personal stylist, Ms Maines will host two free one-hour information sessions on Wednesday, March 16 and Thursday, March 17 from 5-6pm at The Hub on Harbour Esplanade.

Ms Maines will present a PowerPoint presentation focusing on: understanding the importance of image; how lines and design of a garment can create illusions; a simple way to work out your general body shape; and which clothes and designs flatter you best.

Ms Maines said her aim was to show women of all sizes and budgets that they could look and feel gorgeous and confident everyday.

“Great style doesn’t necessarily come naturally to most people. Like a lot of other skills, it is something that can be learned and it gets better with practise,” Ms Maines said.

Ms Maines has just finished volunteer training on a nine-month project organised by Eastern Region Community Health aimed at assisting women and men who are trying to rebuild their lives after experiencing the devastation of problem gambling.

“My training focussed on helping the women in particular, to rekindle and develop an interest in their appearance as a means of gaining the self-esteem and confidence needed to reconnect socially and develop professionally,” she said.

Ms Maines’ business, Style Reflections, focuses on helping everyday women improve many aspects of their lives by simply accepting their bodies, as they learn how to make the best of what they have.

“Too often we focus on the negative rather than highlighting the positive and the switch to achieving a better image is as simple as learning a few basic rules,” she said.

Ms Maines encourages participants to book early as there is limited availability.

For more information please visit http://www.StyleReflections.com.au or contact Ms Maines on [email protected]  or call her on 0422 770 481.