Put your fashion foot forward with help from these local experts who speak style fluently, and after following their fashion forecast, so shall you...
The Winter Staples
‘Currently, I see many shoppers gravitating towards their winter staples such as coats, boots and jumpers,’ shares Carlene Noel, stylist, personal shopper and presenter at Bluewater Shopping Centre. Carlene specialises in offering independent personal styling services.
‘October’s particularly busy as autumn is in full swing, prompting people to update their wardrobes with stylish, seasonal outfits,’ she adds. ‘Shoppers are prioritising quality pieces that are durable and timeless, aiming for items that will last beyond just one season.’
Carlene predicts that as we head into autumn and winter, we should expect to see more leopard print and leather. ‘Both are investment pieces that can last a lifetime,’ she explains. ‘Denim is also making a strong appearance, and not just in jeans. Additionally, cardigans, checks and the colour burgundy are trending. I’m getting excited just talking about the trends we can expect to emerge in the coming months!’
When asked to recommend three pieces readers should be on the hunt for this month, Carlene recommended a versatile cardigan, a khaki outfit and a burgundy bag.
‘One mistake to avoid making, however,’ Carlene advises, ‘is buying pieces simply because you like them and without considering if they suit your personal style or body type. It’s essential to balance fashion trends with what flatters you to enhance your look.’
Bluewater is one of Kent’s ultimate fashion destinations because of its extensive range of shops, all under one roof that cater to all styles, budgets and tastes. With food and leisure offerings on top, it’s a great destination for a day out. The personal styling service adds a touch of luxury for those needing extra help.
‘Whether you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed or simply can’t find what you’re looking for, booking a stylist at Bluewater can make shopping more enjoyable and productive,’ Carlene says. ‘The services I offer are among the latest guest experience initiatives provided by the centre. Our goal is to make personal shopping and styling accessible to the everyday shopper.
‘It begins with a private consultation in the personal styling lounge, where over a glass of prosecco, we delve into their style preferences, budgets and specific needs. Then understanding exactly what they’re looking for, we create a tailored plan of stores to visit, where I handpick pieces for the client.
‘They can then try them on and if they love something, can purchase it directly from the store. There’s no pressure to buy, but people often leave with more than they anticipated, having found items that leave them feeling confident and stylish.’ bluewater.co.uk
‘Family holiday shopping is what it’s all about at the moment,’ reveals Lauren Edmonds, centre marketing manager at Ashford Designer Outlet. ‘Many shoppers are focusing on versatile, travel-friendly pieces. Popular brands for this include AllSaints, M&S, Abercrombie and Fitch, White Stuff and Reiss.
‘We know customers are interested in investing in products that will last, seamlessly transition from day to night in multiple settings and are affordable.’
When asked what brands she felt customers would be on the lookout for in the coming months, Lauren answered that Birkenstock and Crocs would likely continue to be customer favourites, for their balanced offering of fashion and cosiness.
‘As the seasons change, we also expect to see more shoppers gravitating to our winter brands like UGG, Gant and Barbour for their blend of style, comfort and warmth,’ Lauren shares. ‘Other popular statement wardrobe pieces will include a handbag with a pop of colour from Coach and Kate Space or a high-quality coat from The North Face. These items are always at the forefront when the weather gets colder.’
Two must-haves Lauren recommends investing in this month are a pair of trainers from Nike or Adidas, as they’re the perfect footwear for workouts and will add a sporty edge to everyday outfits, as well as layering jumpers and tops from Reiss. ‘These are a great way to still look the part but versatile enough to easily adapt to chasing temperatures,’ she says.
With over 100 designer brands available at up to 60 per cent off RRP, Ashford Designer Outlet offers an exceptional shopping experience, all year round.
‘Whether you’re looking for premium brands or high street fashion, there’s something for everyone,’ Lauren says. ‘We also offer an exclusive service in The Styling Lounge, designed to elevate guests’ shopping experience.
‘Through our website, guests can book personalised one-to-one sessions with an expert stylist, who can help them explore new looks with style advice to push their wardrobe boundaries.
‘No matter if it’s colour analysis you need, are preparing for a special occasion, or wish to try out a new look, our stylists offer tailored advice and hands-on assistance to ensure you leave with pieces that leave you feeling your very best.’
Lauren’s other top style tip for this autumn and winter is to keep your eyes peeled for Marc Jacobs joining the Designer Outlet. She adds: ‘This iconic brand is a fantastic addition to our centre, offering shoppers even more options for luxury fashion with great deals. We’ve already seen a positive response from customers and have more fashion and food brands set to join us soon, so watch this space...’ ashforddesigneroutlet.com
