GLITTER MAGPIE

THE RETURN OF KILLER HEELS: Stiletto sales go sky high as women choose glamour over austerity.

2012-02-06T11:31:00.000-08:00

They're tall, good looking and sexy. What woman could resist them? We're talking high heels, of course. Shoe stores and fashion pages are crammed with these towering beauties, with heel heights soaring past 3 inches to 4 inches and higher. Yes, they elongate the leg. Yes, they're in style. And yes, they can hurt like hell – but that doesn’t seem to concern the women of Ireland who have been snapping them up by the truckload. Impossible to walk in? Perhaps. But these shoes are looking good.

So much so that celebrities, Victoria Beckham and Amanda Holden, continued to wear the ankle-worrying footwear well into the late stages of their pregnancies (No Ugg boots for these glamorous ladies). Now the trend is gathering pace. On a stroll down Grafton street, I recently spied at least 10 young women struggling to walk in these outlandish creations. It just goes to show that nothing comes between a fashion follower and a new pair of shoes - and the designs get wackier every season.

Just walk into a mainstream department store like Brown Thomas and you'll find a surprising array of totally impractical shoes. Not just a couple of pairs here and there. Lots: Tall, thin, rectangular heels that make you feel as though your entire weight is balanced on the head of a pin. There are heels shaped like curvaceous, hourglass figures, uber-pointy spikes and everything in between. No doubt about it, previously risque shoes, like platforms that never quite made it off the dance floors, are now mainstream. But why are women buying these towering and (often) expensive shoes now?

Maybe the collapsed economy has us longing for a little escapism. The 1940s, that era of make do and mend, of utility and frugality, certainly chimes with the present mood of austerity. Familiar images from that time - the broad-shouldered silhouette, the narrow waist with pencil skirt and high shoes suddenly seem relevant again – and they are back in style.

Now, with the future so uncertain, it seems that we are looking to fashion as an escape route from the humdrum, the mundane and the downright scary. Much has been written about the lipstick index (when an economy nosedives into recession- lipstick sales soar) but, it seems, women are embracing the highest of heels as their weapon of choice against the economic gloom and doom. And why not? Even if most of us cannot afford a pair of Christian Louboutin’s, that’s no excuse to feel down at heel, especially when there are so many affordable options on the highstreet. Check out Pennys, Dune, Office and Topshop for sky high heels at a fraction of the cost.

Gold & Sparkly Christmas look

2011-12-07T11:37:00.000-08:00

One of my favourite makeup artists, Lisa Eldridge on how to get a perfect party look for the festive season...

Get her look: Kathryn Thomas

2011-12-05T16:17:00.000-08:00

PRESENTER Kathryn Thomas certainly knows a thing or two about style. Whether, glomming it up in a figure hugging Stop Staring dress or dashing around jeans in skinny jeans, heels and a leather jacket - the presenter always looks effortlessly cool. As one of the hosts on Ireland’s new talent show The Voice, Kathryn seems to have won the style lottery, opting for a selection of brightly coloured dresses, which show off her enviable figure to perfection.

Gorgeous Kathryn said her years climbing the ladder at RTE prepared her for hosting The Voice. "This is definitely the high point of my career.” She told the Mirror in a recent interview," I've wanted to do a show like this for a long time. I feel it's the right show for my personality and it is the right time for me.

"It's a big show for RTE and this is an international collaboration so the fact I've been chosen to hold it all together, it's a real honour but I'm ready for it.”If this was three, four or five years ago I wouldn't have approached it with such certainty and determination.

"Now though I'm just ready to get stuck in, get my hands dirty and make this as big a success as it can be." But Kathryn said she would never turn down any position offered to her, admitting she's happy not to be on the dole given the state of the country. She said: "To be working at the moment is a great privilege.”I'm so conscious that there are people out there who aren't working and for me to be working on something that I love is fabulous."

Stylish at any age ; Fashion trends aren't just for 20-somethings ....

2011-11-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

"There is no fashion for the old," Coco Chanel once declared at what was presumably a youthful stage of her 87-year life. The mademoiselle's fashion fortune-telling was usually unerring. She brought black from funerals to the cocktail hour, embraced men's underwear (i.e., jersey), and insisted on mounds of costume jewellery. But regarding age, well, let's just say she never had the pleasure of meeting Madonna, who, at 53, looks better , and younger ,than ever before.

The same can be said for stars such as - Jennifer Aniston (42), Kim Catrell,(55) and Kylie Minogue (43) - who always manage to look incredibly stylish, regardless of their age.It just goes to show that, it doesn't matter how old you are; it's all about knowing how to accentuate your best assets and finding clothes that fit and flatter your shape. Everything you wear, whether it's a bra that helps you look good in your clothes, or an attention- getting accessory, should be chosen for the way it works with your body. After all, you should wear your clothes; your clothes should not wear you.

So this season, whether you're celebrating 20, 40 or 60, don’t be afraid to expirement with your look. Go ahead and make a trend your own with these simple style secrets in mind .After all, that's what fashion is all about! Everyone can look good in these styles. It's just a matter of degree: Younger can go edgier; older more polished.

Skirting The Issue - The legs are the last to go, so if you've got a great pair, then by all means wear a hem above the knee. If you've got bad ankles, enter the shoe bootie to cover them up.

Belt It Out - An undeniably hot trend right now are belts. Whether they're wide, skinny, studded or chained, they are versatile enough to pair with jeans or couture, depending on the look. The trick is to pick one that accentuates your shape.

Accessible Accessories - Lots of young Hollywood is loaded down with accessories from head to toe, so don't be intimidated. There's something for everyone; just stick to what's proportional to your size and silhouette.

Divine Dresses - They can be great camouflage. Wear them with leggings, boots or even skinny pants. The waists can fall low in a chemise style, rise up high in the empire style or wrap to fit your body.

Skinny pants -They don't have to be skin-tight. The straighter the leg, the better. Get rid of the boot cut if you can. For slimming colors try not only black, but dark winter greens and browns.

When in doubt wear classics - You know ,those little black dresses, classic-fitting slacks, cashmere sweaters and blazers.

Stay True to You - Fashion is now more about your personality.If you're a businesswoman, socialite, or rocker, it doesn't matter if you're 30 or 60, you can wear the same things.

Fit is Everything - Poorly tailored clothes are a faux pas. Make sure your sleeve lengths are precise, your pants fall at the proper point, and that no unseemly bagginess compromises your silhouette.
No matter how expensive your clothes are or aren't, they won't look rich if they don't flatter you. Your shape, not the year on your driver's license, is often the determining factor.

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PROMOTION

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

"The idea that you could look the way you did in your prime is incredibly appealing but is it ever really possible? We dream of regaining our youthful good looks but for most of us that‘s just a dream.

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

Stars of shows such as Desperate Housewives and Sex & the City have totally changed our attitudes to ageing; instead of growing old gracefully we are facing the advancing years with lashings of glamour!

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

GeT her look: Florence Welch

2011-11-07T12:24:00.000-08:00

FLORENCE Welch, the 24 year old diva behind Florence and The Machine, is our latest fashion crush. Why? Her tousled, shiny red locks are surely the crowning glory of her effortlessly cool and quirky, slightly boho look - a look that's seen her wear everything from flowing maxi dresses and skin tight jumpsuits - to polka dots teamed with plaid. Florence's style goes from strength to strength and hasn't become any less bonkers just because she's a mega-selling artist. Although she is occasionally wardrobed by Topshop, you sense her heart is still in the 5p basket of her local Oxfam store, where she always manages to pull out just the right sort of insouciant dress to accompany her winsome image. We love her pale white twig legs in their ankle socks and the shapes she throws in her long, diaphanous stage outfits

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

Stars of shows such as Desperate Housewives and Sex & the City have totally changed our attitudes to ageing; instead of growing old gracefully we are facing the advancing years with lashings of glamour!

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

HOT TRENDS - POLKA DOTS

2011-11-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

Designers were feeling a little spotty as they paraded perky polka dots all over New York and Paris runways this season. There was an outbreak in the autumn/winter collections with Michael Kors, Miu Miu and Stella McCartney sending them down catwalks. As a result, everyone's gone dotty for the polka dots again. Though reminiscent of sixties beatniks and Lucille Ball in "I Love Lucy," these are not the polka dots of yesteryear. Crisp and graphic, this vintage look is pretty, but it is not precious.

Polka dots were first worn on silk scarves in the late 19th century across the pond in England. The earliest use of the term "polka dot" was in 1866 in The New York Times. Polka dots were traditionally seen on flamenco dancers and performers. The pattern of circles reappeared in the 1920s with Walt Disney's creation of Minnie Mouse.The 1950s created a new group known as "teenagers," who were influenced by film, television, magazines and music. As consumers, teenagers dominated styles from fashion to music, cars to bars. This decade would be credited with making the world go dotty for polka dots.

The ever impeccable New York designer Carolina Herrera often used polka dots in her collections in the 1980s, and who can forget Julia Roberts in a brown-and-cream polka-dot dress and wide-brimmed hat in the 1990 hit "Pretty Woman."
Now the trend has filtered down to the high street from Topshop to A Wear. Sixties inspired fitted dresses, Pencil skirts, handbags, platform heels and trench coats have all been given the polka dot makeover. River Island , Dorothy Perkins and ASOS also have well-rounded selections of styles and colour ways, while those after something a little more luxurious should head to Harvey Nichols, where the Rolls- Royce of polka-dot blouses, designed of course by Marc Jacobs, is currently available in store.

Looking for polka dot style inspiration? Check out Rihanna, Daisy Lowe and Alexa Chung sporting the style.

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

Forties fashions are still fabulous

2011-10-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

They had to endure rationing, having no bananas and Vera Lynn on the radio, but if there was one boon for women in the 1940s, it was fashion. In the history of couture, very few eras can match the innovation and originality of the post-war period. With difficulties in sourcing high quality materials, style had to come from somewhere else.

Design, cut and detail became a priority, and the current trend amongst today's designers to take their influence from the period is testament to its enduring legacy of style. There were lots of forties references on the international catwalks this season and the best approach to reinvent this fashion era has been realized by Mui Mui, as well as by Gucci, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton and Jonathan Saunders.

Talk of 'austerity chic' was de rigueur in the 1940s, and 'make do and mend' was the mantra of the day. But it's not just the philosophy of the decade that is suddenly relevant again - it's also the clothes and accessories. Straight out of a noir film, the retro look - featuring sleek skirt suits and elegant dresses paired with peep-toe pumps and slingbacks - embodies the elegance of the era. The key looks are fur collars, silk blouses, pencil skirts, pill box hats and the most delicate of tea and shift dresses.
But it's in the detail, the accessories, that this romantic trend really comes into its own. If you like having fun completing a look with just the right finishing touch, then you're going to love immersing yourself in this new style. The essential rule to remember is to keep your accessories sweet and sophisticated.
While your clothes may be vintage-looking, reminiscent of wartime glamour, your bag, shoes and jewellery need to be polished and sharp, for balance.

But there's so much fun to be had in accessorising this look: leather driving gloves, for example, are back in style and red leather ones couldn't be more fashionable. Bright, roomy tweed bags with wooden or metal frames will house all your essentials - or you could add a trilby for an unexpected twist. Jewellery is also key - vintage pieces add that unusual and one-off look to your outfit.

And, of course, no outfit is complete without a fantastic pair of shoes. For day, choose a pair with a good heel, blocked and tapered a peep toe and for evening, bring the look right up to date with a slim ankle strap heel, with a matching clutch bag in satin. Groomed, neat and as sophisticated as a shaken Martini. Perfect for a night of Art Deco decadence. After all, you may be Forties inspired, but there's no need for rationing.

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

SHADES OF AUTUMN; Makeup artist Julianna Grogan gives us her tips on the season’s hottest beauty trends

2011-10-13T15:19:00.000-07:00

What is your favourite make up look coming through for Autumn/winter 2011?I have to say that I’m a big fan of the bold lip trends this season. With a huge range in the colour palette from blood reds to deep berries and my favourite acid orange; everyone can rock this look.

How do you wear it?The best way to wear a strong lip colour whether its red, orange or plum is to downplay everything else. Soft camel or barely there nude shades on the eyes will bring out the colour of the eyes and won’t look over powering with a bold lip. The skin should be creamy and flawless with little or no blush. The only exception to this rule is the lashes - mascara can be heavily applied and it's all natural lashes this season - falsies are out!

What were some of the more inspirational or outrageous looks on the international catwalks?This season on the catwalk was all about strength and definition teamed with understated softness. Some designers went for glowing natural skin with subtle fleshy tones while others took more risks – such as Marc Jacobs' fluro oranges on the eyes and lips. Gucci's influence was seen all over the catwalks with strong glassy red lips paired with nude or caramel shades on the eyes.Sculpted liner in all shades from metallic’s to amazing electric blues and classic black were winged out to create cat like definition. We also saw a lot of metallic shades in this season's smoky look to create smoulder with shimmer and glow.

Are any particular cosmetic brands or products you've totally falling in love with this season?Brows are huge this season and the bigger the better. Smashbox 'Brow tech to go' is my must have to create this look. It has a gel on one end to create a 'boyish' brow and the colour stick on the other end to add definition and density to the brows- it’s the perfect two in one. On the lips I’m totally in love with MAC's matt lipsticks in shades like 'Ruby Woo', 'Sin' and 'Lady Danger' and my absolute favourite product this season is my MAC gel liners to create the perfect winged effect without mess.

What look should we avoid and why?Avoid going too silver or shiny with eye shadows this season. Metallics are in but not sparkle princess style. A touch of silver, grey, bronze or gold is great but too much shine on the eyes will look garish and sit in any fine lines or dryness that often appears during the cold months. The best way to avoid the shine overload is to use a palette with complementary tones to create your metallic look. Another look to avoid this season is heavy foundation. Even though the sunshine is gone, healthy glowing skin is still in and can be achieved without excess product if you rely on your concealer for the coverage rather than foundation.
　
　
Any interesting looks for eyes/ lips?On the lips: tangerines, burgundy, berry or hot red are in but make sure lips are well conditioned before applying. Cold temperatures combined with central heating can really dry out the lips and ruin the look. If you’re not into colour then the classic nude hydrated lips will work with any of the eye looks this season.
On the eyes: Apart from the metallic’s, warm autumnal camel shades will enhance any eye colour and still look soft this season or if you’re feeling creative go for the nude eye with striking winged eye liner in your favourite colour.

You've recently been working at New Zealand fashion week- what looks did you create on the models and why?For the designer selection show at New Zealand fashion week the makeup look had to work for every designer showing in fashion week. Two main looks were create done - metallic purple smoky eye with a tangerine matt lip and the other - a soft gold eye with a strong liner and matt pink lip. There were also alterations backstage during the shows to suit the various collections.

I've heard that 'flawless skin' is a key look this season. How can you fake an amazing complexion - when your skin is misbehaving?Flawless skin never goes out of fashion and this season is no exception. Luminous, bright and creamy skin is a must. The best way to achieve it or fake it is to use less foundation and cover with a good concealer. A lighter foundation or tinted moisturiser will keep the skin hydrated and avoid that masked look on the skin. In the areas where more coverage is needed dust a matching concealer - which has a thicker consistency - to adhere to problem areas and keep it undercover. If all that's not enough, then finish with some mineral powder on top which will give you extra coverage without a chalky or caked look. Smashbox Halo Hydrating Powder, MAC Mineralize loose powder or L’Oreal Bare Naturals are some of my favorites

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

HAT TRICK - the seventies favourite is back

2011-10-13T03:35:00.000-07:00

This seasons seventies revival puts felt hats at the very top of our wish list. Designers went back in time with a catwalk tribute to the era featuring big flares, big hair, platform soles - and even bigger floppy hats.These styles are sure to add the finishing touch to any winter wardrobe.

Here's a few of my favourites...

Felt Floppy, Subtitle:
£28, €47 (Eire), €43
Accessorize

Blue Wool Felted Fedora Hat, £9.99/€12.99
New Look

Felt Fedora, 99145650, October
£26, €40
Accessorize

Red animal print floppy hat £55/€88 Biba
House of Fraser

Kate Moss launches jewellery collection

2011-10-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

Supermodel Kate Moss launched her first jewellery collection at the Paris Fashion Week.
Sold online and through luxury department store Harrods in Britain, the price of the line ranges between 400 pounds and 40,000 pounds, reports contactmusic.com.

Queen Mary; As her new TV series begins, Mary Portas criticizes the fashion industry for ignoring the over forties.

2011-10-05T14:56:00.000-07:00

MARY Portas has made it her business to be crowned Queen of Shops. The retail guru has earned her title by ruthlessly knocking failing retail outlets into shape. And now, in a new series for Channel 4, the critic and consultant is risking it all by taking on the high street. The 49-year-old reckons she has spotted a gap in the market and has designed and launched a collection - aimed at women, not young girls.

With a film crew following her every step of the way, the show makes compelling viewing, as we witness Mary fighting every step of the way to bring her vision to life."It is quite nervy and quite worrying," she told the Sunday Mail "It is actually quite fly on the wall so you get a real insight into me, my working day, how I live and this massive project.

"I have put myself right in the firing line. I am not sure there is anyone else who does what I do. Look here: "I have spent my whole career reviewing shops and writing about them. So the risk for me and my reputation is very high because I have set a benchmark, which I believe is about great retailing. And now I have opened up my own shop. I'm a bit mad in doing it but it has always been a dream and I've done it."

Mary’s ambition is a big one - to transform the way 40 something dress – but with attitudes slow to change, she is challenged every step of the way. "At the moment in fashion, youth represents sex appeal, and the fashion industry and the media are responsible for this. We need to shift perceptions." she told The Telegraph.

"It's about fashion that's age-appropriate that can also be glamorous and sexy," says Portas, who, as part of her new series, will open a shop that will radically reinvent how fashion is sold to older women. "Even if businesses do cater for older women, they don't want to show it. I want to challenge that. There are so many women who don't want to be sold clothes by a size-8,
18-year-old shop assistant. These are the most powerful and influential consumers, so why aren't they being served?"

But with her own label and a TV crew following her every step of the way - Mary has managed to create a line of clothing that , not only look incredible but will suit almost every type of woman.She said: "I am really proud of so much. I think it gets back to people all the time. I brought in a whole team of people. I saw a little spark in the characters and trained them and they have been phenomenal. "I come on the shop floor, see them with the customers, guiding and explaining everything that I taught them, about the cut and the size and where the fabric is from. I feel proud of them and what we have achieved together. It feels like a family. You will see it all in the show."

Mary Queen of Frocks, is on Channel 4 on Tuesdays at 9pm.

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

HOW TO WEAR THE PENCIL SKIRT

2011-10-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

IT seems that fashion designers like to challenge us with a new skirt each season. We'd barely mastered the midi, before the Forties- inspired pencil version, as seen on the Diane von Furstenberg autumn/ winter 2011 catwalk, appeared on the scene. It can, however, be an undeniably flattering style if you follow the rules, as explained below.

Always pair your skirt with heels, and, this time round, avoid teaming it with a pussy bow blouse (the sexy secretary look is just a little bit too fancy dress).They're also incredibly flattering for a wide range of figures, but the trick is finding the right hemline for your shape .Too low down on the lower leg and even the longest pins can look abbreviated, while too high up on the hip, the pencil skirt can look as if it shrunk in the wash.

Look for a cut that hits right at the knee so you can walk and sit comfortably. The trick lies in wearing something billowy and diaphanous to make your bottom half look as slim and sleek as possible. Keep cleavages covered - too Bet Lynch, otherwise - and aim for a bit of prissiness. The skirt will do all the teasing, believe me.

THE RULES

- Pencil skirts that hit right at the knee are wardrobe gold because they can be worn with almost any heels. Skip the wedges, as those can look too casual with something as polished as a fitted pencil skirt.

- Don't wear a pencil skirt with boots unless you have a black belt in fashion and a gigantic closet with lots of options. Finding a boot that hits at the exact right place on your leg when you've got a to-the-knee skirt is harder than solving the toughest Sunday crossword.

- When wearing something as fitted as a pencil skirt, always tuck in your blouse or shirt to help create a long, lean silhouette.

-Pair a pencil skirt in a dark or muted hue with a light-toned sweater (since dark colors visually shrink and light colors accentuate).

-Pick a top that covers the first few inches of the skirt but stops short of the widest part of your hips. Or wear a fitted blazer left open to reveal your waistline.

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

Germans and Americans are worst dressed while the Brits are catching the French in the style stakes, reveals Skyscanner

2011-10-03T03:25:00.000-07:00

Skyscanner surveyed over 500 people on which countries they believed to be home to the most stylish people and who were the biggest losers on the catwalk. Perhaps not surprisingly, it was the Italians who were crowned the kings and queens of the catwalk, taking almost half (44%) of the votes. The fashion heavyweights famed for top fashion houses such as Armani and Versace, are well known for their love of dressing well.

Taking 17% of the vote was the French. With labels like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Dior, fashion is taken very seriously in France -- however hot on their Louboutin heels are the Brits, with an impressive 14% of the vote. With influential designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney it appears that Brits are managing to shirk their "Brits abroad" fashion reputation for one that is far more stylish.

The Germans were voted as the least stylish, receiving just 0.5% of the votes, but a shock for the nation that is home to Vogue and designers such as Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren, the Americans were also lagging behind in the fashion stakes with just 1.5% of the votes.

Sam Baldwin, Skyscanner's fashion editor commented:
"Whilst every city has dedicated followers of fashion, our perceptions of the style of other nationalities tend to be based on our travel experiences and seeing foreign tourists in our own country. The image of the American tourist wearing a Hawaiian shirt, chinos, white socks and black shoes is a pervasive one, though not actually very representative of how the average American dresses."

Top 10 Most Stylish Nations

1. Italians (44%)
2. French (17%)
3. British (15%)
4. Spanish (8%)
5. Swedish (6%)
6. Japanese (4%)
7. Russians (3.5%)
8. Americans (1.5%)
9. Germans (0.5%)
10. Other ( 0.5%)

The long and the short of it; your winter coat should be your best friend, so it's worth spending time choosing the right one.I guide you through the options.

2011-10-01T16:06:00.000-07:00

AS the nights draw in and the weather grows colder, a girl's thoughts turn to the winter coat lurking at the back of her wardrobe. But if your coat turns out to be tatty beyond belief or the buttons are falling off, it could be time to invest in a new one. And, since you and your coat will have a close relationship for the next six months, it's important to choose wisely. The shops are now stocked full of different styles, with bright pea coats to complement the trendy 60s look and traditional tweeds for a taste of the countryside. Thankfully, such coats are no longer typically black. These days, we'll wear frivolous pieces featuring bold prints and unusual details.

Traditionally autumn/winter is the time for perennial plaids and checks, and none more so than this forthcoming season. The trend for English heritage pieces on the New York runways proved they're here to stay, in this year's new midi length coat. Watch out for '70s-style knitted ponchos, while heavy wool swing coats provide warmth. Last year's capes go from directional to mainstream. Pea coats get cropped; while in a move towards luxurious outerwear, sequined jackets add some glitz and glamour for evenings and patterned coats come into the spotlight.

This season, the classic camel coat is back with a new smartness and a touch of sassiness that should melt the ice on a cold morning - opt for a style with mannish tailoring – because this autumn there's more than a hint of masculinity about fashion. Remember to let your outerwear do all the talking this season, and then you won't have to worry so much about the rest. Go for a bold colour, or a sleek cut, and you'll be laughing all the way to spring. In our gallery, you'll see a selection of our seasonal favourites at prices to suit a variety of pockets. So wrap up, step out and enjoy the big chill...

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

HOW TO WEAR THE PUSSY BOW BLOUSE

2011-10-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

Back in the 1980’s - everyone from Thatcher to Diana, from Joan Collins to Princess Anne- wore those prim little blouses.Joyfully, we don't have to stomach Maggie's early years again, but the pussy-bow has crept back into fashion as quietly as a Siamese approaching its Whiskas. It is one of the signature elements of the Yves Saint Laurent look, which is hot as hell's core in fashion right now.Should you wish to purchase a designer creation, you could pop into Brown Thomas and pick up Gucci's silk-chiffon pussy-bow, which is modern update of classic '70s style. But those without €890 to spare (hello everyone!)can pick up one on the highstreet for significantly less - Pennys are doing them for a mere €13 .

To work the look, team them with pencil skirts, wide leg pants and smart high heels. Smart is the word, and blouses this season should be dressed up, not down. Think silk or satin, and with a pussy bow, sweeping sashes or frilly panels. The tight, curve-enhancing pencil skirt is another key ingredient to the seductive look. Pearls, brooches and heels complete the look. For the office, wear it with a haughty expression and a pair of high-waisted trousers (one of winter's key trends, as seen at Louis Vuitton), and you might get away with looking more like a late Seventies uber-model than an early Eighties prime minister. Fingers crossed.

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

Dolce & Gabbana Spring 2012 Ready-to-Wear

2011-09-26T14:42:00.000-07:00

HOT OFF THE CATWALK!!

Close your eyes, think about Dolce & Gabbana, and what comes to mind? Sopia Loren, Italian summers in the fifties, boundless womanly sensuality, and a huge, optimistic appetite for life. Of course!

GIRLS WILL BE BOYS…Man up and embrace autumn's masculine tailoring - keep it fresh with a soft edge and the essential brogue.

2011-09-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Katherine Hepburn will be smoking a celebratory cigar in Heaven alongside Dietrich and Garbo, for the reign of the maxi dress has ended and the golden age of the gentleman's wardrobe has begun. Fashion for autumn/winter 2011 is made-to measure for boy-girls everywhere, with men's tailoring the only true way for a lady to dress.

Of course, ladies dressing like men isn't exactly unheard of. The grandaddy of designers, Yves Saint Laurent, unveiled the first women's tuxedo suit, Le Smoking, in 1966, prompting an androgynous revolution which gripped the imagination of fashion intellectuals for decades. Think Angelica Huston looking fabulous during her Jack Nicholson days.

In the 1980s the masculine look was hijacked by iron-willed career women who thought dressing like men with shoulder pads might help net them manly six-figure salaries. Calvin Klein also had a bash at androgyny in the 1990s, but this take on the trend was more about flat chested teenagers with boyish haircuts and minimal make-up.

The current incarnation, championed by Dries Van Noten, Salvatore Ferragamo and Jason Wu , however, is much easier to wear, combining masculine tailoring with a very welcome touch of glamour.
Take your cues from Hollywood starlets Rihanna, Kate Moss, Kate Blanchett and Katie Homes amongst others. The fashionable ladies have been recently spotted in well-cut tuxedo jackets coupled with skinny jeans, over sized suits, wide-legged pants with tucked in tops, halter waistcoats and check shirts; nailing the look perfectly.

But not everyone gets it right -Victoria Beckham couldn't pull off the suit look because she doesn't have the relaxed confidence to be sexy without showing off her cleavage or painted red nails. It seems that the best accessory for the menswear look is a confident attitude that is not trying too hard. While nonchalance might be something money can't yet buy, a well-cut suit is.
Just make sure that it suits you.

Here's how to employ those feminine wiles and make modish masculine styles turn heads this autumn.

GET SHIRTY: An oversize shirt requires zero effort but achieves maximum impact, Go slouchy and pull in at the waist with a patent belt for instant femme appeal.

MANLY LEG-ACY: Go boyish and baggy in wide leg trousers. Those seeking a sharper suited-and booted look should head straight for the skinny straight-leg slacks.

BOYISH BLAZERS: Blazers are having a resurgence on the style radar and there's a shape to suit all, from oversized mannish shapes to cute, cropped tuxedo numbers. Don't fancy a blazer? Slip on a waistcoat over a slinky tee for a boyish take on the trend.

MASCULINE EDGE: When the girly vibe is just too strong in you, avoid going man overboard with a couple of choice accessories. For example, a masculine inspired handbag made from a more rigid leather, in earthy tones, is the perfect choice for a polished business outfit (Fendi). If you want to complete a masculine outfit, wear a bowler hat as seen at Hermès and Dior. Accessories like chunky watches, brogues, ties and braces finish the look.

HOW TO GET PIPPA MIDDLETON'S BOTTOM..

2011-09-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

Pippa Middleton’s bottom has been the envy of women everywhere since she sashayed around at the Royal Wedding, seeing a huge rise in the popularity of many different forms of sculpting exercises, and even in painful and invasive surgeries such as bottom lifts and fat injections to achieve a fuller and more rounded rear.

The fact is that we aren’t all lucky enough to have this ideal shape naturally, and the buttocks are a notoriously difficult area to sculpt through exercise. Leading online lingerie store MaxCleavage decided there must be an easier way, and set about researching the best ‘butt-boosting’ lingerie, bringing only the most effective and stylish together on their site. Making the bottom appear more rounded and pert makes the waist look smaller and more toned, creating an ideal figure to dress.

Available online at E23.70 - www.maxcleavage.com

Vogue Fashion's Night Out

2011-09-21T04:05:00.000-07:00

A FEW HIGHLIGHTS - from Vogue's fashion night out, which was held in Brown Thomas earlier this month. Enjoy!

HOW TO WEAR - THE PARKA

2011-09-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

Kate Moss, Stella McCartney, Kate Beckinsale, and Natalie Portman - they're all doing it. Wearing parkas that is. Fur-lined hoods are what you need to be seen in this season to make a fashion statement, as well as keep out the cold, and there are plenty to choose from on the high street. The name parka was apparently first used in the early 1900s to describe a particular kind of woollen garment, and is Russian in origin.

Fishtail parkas, which are longer at the back, were worn by mods during the 1960s and 1970s but, going back a few years, most people remember them as the anorak of choice for thousands of schoolchildren across Ireland. Geek chic is now back in a big way though and have been spotted on the catwalks of Jean Paul Gaultier, Vera Wang, and Alexander McQueen.

Now parkas of all shapes, sizes and colours are pouring into shops at the moment as the autumn and winter collections are unveiled in Irish stores including Pennys, Debenhams, Ted Baker and New Look. The sheer variety of parkas on the highstreet reflects the fact the jacket can be worn by everyone and in many different ways. Team it with a pair of skinny jeans and ankle boots for a casual look or wear it over a floaty dress (just like Kate Moss) if you want to make a real style statement. .

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

Forties fashions are still fabulous

2011-09-11T14:43:00.000-07:00

THEY had to endure rationing, having no bananas and Vera Lynn on the radio, but if there was one boon for women in the 1940s, it was fashion. In the history of couture, very few eras can match the innovation and originality of the post-war period. With difficulties in sourcing high quality materials, style had to come from somewhere else.

Design, cut and detail became a priority, and the current trend amongst today's designers to take their influence from the period is testament to its enduring legacy of style. There were lots of forties references on the international catwalks this season and the best approach to reinvent this fashion era has been realized by Mui Mui, as well as by Gucci, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton and Jonathan Saunders.

Talk of 'austerity chic' was de rigueur in the 1940s, and 'make do and mend' was the mantra of the day. But it's not just the philosophy of the decade that is suddenly relevant again -- it's also the clothes and accessories. Straight out of a noir film, the retro look -- featuring sleek skirt suits and elegant dresses paired with peep-toe pumps and slingbacks -- embodies the elegance of the era .The key looks are fur collars, silk blouses , pencil skirts , pill box hats and the most delicate of tea and shift dresses.

But it’s in the detail, the accessories, that this romantic trend really comes into its own. If you like having fun completing a look with just the right finishing touch, then you're going to love immersing yourself in this new style. The essential rule to remember is to keep your accessories sweet and sophisticated. While your clothes may be vintage-looking, reminiscent of wartime glamour, your bag, shoes and jewellery need to be polished and sharp, for balance.

But there's so much fun to be had in accessorising this look: leather driving gloves, for example, are back in style and red leather ones couldn't be more fashionable. Bright, roomy tweed bags with wooden or metal frames will house all your essentials - or you could add a trilby for an unexpected twist. Jewellery is also key - vintage pieces add that unusual and one-off look to your outfit.

And, of course, no outfit is complete without a fantastic pair of shoes. For day, choose a pair with a good heel, blocked and tapered a peep toe and for evening, bring the look right up to date with a slim ankle strap heel, with a matching clutch bag in satin. Groomed, neat and as sophisticated as a shaken Martini. Perfect for a night of Art Deco decadence. After all, you may be Forties inspired, but there's no need for rationing...

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

CAST OFF YOUR CARDIES - THE ONLY THING TO BE SEEN IN THIS AUTUMN IS A PONCHO.

2011-09-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

IT appears that 18th-century Chileans, 1970s hippies and this year's shelves have something in common and it's nothing as saucy as a burrito. The subject is ponchos, those blankets with a hole in the center and fringe on the edges that have been ridiculed for more than 20 years. Like other staples of the hippie-chick and handcrafted-fashion era, the poncho has been resurrected.

Once again that one-size-fits-all item has style status, having recently being spotted on the likes of Kate Moss and Victoria Beckham.Layering is big for this season, so a poncho is perfect for our erratic Irish weather. When it's scorching one minute and like an October's day the next, the poncho is an essential cover up over a dress or vest and jeans. If you want an authentic vintage piece, trawl through second hand shops for the real deal, but there are some brilliant ponchos on the high street, everything from huge capes to chic capulets.

When it comes to colour, play it safe with versatile shades that work well with your wardrobe. Avoid multi-colours or patterns to refrain from the little old lady look, and pick a length and shape that works. With ponchos set to be big, inject some individuality into the look by accessorising with chunky jewellery or a belt. However, if you are in any doubt about wearing something that is likely to make you look shorter and plumper, leave the ponchos to Clint Eastwood.

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

HOW TO WEAR: THE GLOBAL TRAVELLER TREND

2011-09-05T03:32:00.000-07:00

ITCHY feet? Take your fashion inspiration far and wide this season. Native American embroidery, African tribal prints, Indian saris ... designers took their style cue from first-class global travel.

Image - River Island

COULD it be time to cast off our urban apparel for something, well, a little more all-encompassing? While Aztec prints and hand-crafted fabrics have always been a popular choice for beach holidays and festivals, this season's designers have embraced the polished, global traveller look with everything from coats to cocktail dresses.

Now while exotic locations and the jet-set lifestyle are nothing new to the world of fashion, the difference this time is that - while many of the clothes may well still be from the fashion houses of London, New York, Paris and Milan - the look and accessories can be picked up inexpensively on the highstreet.

So what will you need to go global? Well it's very much a non- prescriptive state of mind, but for starters try clashing colours, an array of textures, as many hand-crafted details as you can muster and throw in North African influences with any other cultural references you choose to mention - remember: too much of one influence and it ceases to be global.

At its best, the global trend tells the world what a truly urbane and well-travelled sophisticate you are - equally at home in the world's four corners as sauntering down Grafton Street. At its worst, you will look like you are going to Glastonbury (best avoided unless, of course, you happen to be going to Glastonbury). Not that the trend necessitates actually going anywhere.

The real point of global traveller, is to look like you've been there, done that and avoided buying the T-shirt. Think citizen of the world and you'll be half-way there...

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

Cut the mustard: how to wear this season’s hottest shade…

2011-09-03T02:58:00.000-07:00

YELLOW is one of those shades that instantly calls to mind food. There's the deliciously comforting banana hue of Bird's Custard, the deeper shade of Colman's mustard and the exotic allure of saffron. Who knows, perhaps the likes of Bottega Veneta Chloé and Jil Sander were in the kitchen when they found inspiration, but one thing is certain - this season designers have got a serious case of yellow fever and the high street isn't far behind. Sadly, it's a colour that strikes fashion-fear into even the most sartorially savvy. We can just about get our heads around yellow worn with a deep tan during summer, but in winter it's just plain scary. In the past, yellow has unfairly been labelled difficult to wear; in fact, you just have to choose how you combine it with care.

There are a few simple rules to follow. If you wear yellow head to toe people will think you are off to a fancy dress party dressed as Big Bird. For the moment, the fashion emphasis is on wearing chic blocks of colour in your outfit, so look out for a mustard dress or top that you can pair with matching accessories.

Wear your new purchases with this season's coolest colour, grey, or play it safe by accessorising with denim and black. But you don't have to pair it with neutrals: for a really edgy look, add shots of bold red, royal blue and purple. The best news is that yellow is an ongoing trend for spring 2012, so miss out at your peril.

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PROMOTION

You cannot turn back the clock, no, but you can transform yourself with the right cosmetic treatments, make-up choices and styling tricks.

You may look at pictures of those stars and think 'How do they do it?' I'm about to share their secrets with you..."

Georgina Heffernan

A Question of Style is the fashion bible for the over forties . Created by fashion journalist Georgina Heffernan , it is currently available from Amazon.com

'I love Kate Middleton's style' says Anne Hathaway

2011-08-29T15:40:00.000-07:00

Anne Hathaway says she is inspired by Kate Middleton's style - because she "dresses like a lady". The 28-year-old actress, who played the role of a princess in a handful of movies, insists being more inspired by real-life royalty, reported US magazine. "Can I tell you how grateful I am to Kate Middleton? Because she is such an advocate for dressing like a lady," she said. 'The Devil Wears Prada' star also confessed that the Duchess of Cambridge's style inspired her to re think her own look.

"I think for a few years that slightly dirty look was adopted by Hollywood -- you know, the stringy hair, homeless thing. And I really tried. I was like, 'Ok, I'm going to give that a go.' But it doesn't suit me, and I don't suit it. I always looked kind of chubby," she added. Hathaway credits the 29-year-old Duchess of Cambridge for proving that skin isn't always in. "I'm just very grateful to Kate Middleton for making looking appropriate really fun again. So right now my fashion choices are all about Kate Middleton," said Hathaway.