Swinter? A new term for the season we wish wasn’t here!

According to www.graziadaily.co.uk there’s a new term which unfortunately we need to embrace as this wet summer segues into autumn and winter: Swinter. Disappointing though it is, there’s one question on everyone’s lips, we’re sure – “What do we wear?”

As the clever journos at Grazia know, the best way to embrace all the seasons in one day is to layer up or down.

Your wardrobe should include maxi skirts and/or dresses to wear with t-shirts, knits and leather or suede jackets. 

French navy blue cashmere long waistcoat lined with Dupion Silk

Knits can be cotton, linen, wool or cashmere, depending on your budget. The new style ladylike pussy bow shirts are ideal with wide leg trousers, crops or culottes. Trench coats in lightweight fabrics like Tencel or cotton add a smart layer or can be casual with skinny jeans and tops.

Cream silk ruffle pussy bow blouse

A large scarf can be your go-to accessory of this season, adding a pop of colour and a comfy warmth for a chilly morning or evening, or a smart cover-up for occasion-wear. Also useful to cover your hairstyle during a sudden shower!

Mustard coloured cotton jersey long waistcoat, vintage silk scarf, leather belt over long knitted dress/top 

Don’t forget your trusty sunglasses and sunscreen too as the sun will still be sending down harmful rays; although a tan and quirky frames will only add to your overall canny fashion sense.

Pop in to see Toni Pickles at Get Waisted to see what seasonal delights are in-store now.

The Get Waisted Summer Sale in now on so grab some wonderful summer items to take you through Swinter!

You can see more about Get Waisted on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact Toni on: 

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk 

Steyning boutique, 98a High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD 

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays 

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

Hats off to Ascot

It’s Ascot again this week! We thought we’d remind you of the official dress code according to the Ascot website: www.ascot.co.uk:

One of Toni's creations, ideal for a day at the races

Premier Admission

Flat Season (April to October)

Ladies should dress as for a smart occasion.

Gentlemen are required to wear a jacket with a collared shirt and tie. Trainers are not allowed.

Children aged 17 and under should adhere to the Premier Admission dress code, however this does not apply to very young children.

Please note that fancy dress, novelty and branded or promotional clothing is not permitted within Premier Admission.

Grandstand Admission

While they encourage racegoers to wear smart clothing, no formal dress code applies in the Grandstand Admission area during either the Flat or Jumps season. Bare chests are not permitted at any time.

Ascot Racecourse reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone deemed to be dressed inappropriately.

So what constitutes “dressing for a smart occasion” these days? Surely anything from a gorgeous tea dress to smart jumpsuit, including everything from a pair of flowing wide trousers and a blazer to a smart maxi dress! And ladies, don’t forget a matching hat or fascinator.

Another lovely outfit from Toni at Get Waisted

Gentlemen, choose a smart suit in quality linen or lightweight wool or trousers with a blazer, shirt and tie.

We hope you have a wonderful time and enjoy the racing, Champagne, strawberries and cream!

You can see more about Get Waisted on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact Toni on: 

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk 

Steyning boutique, 98a High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD 

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays 

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

Summer brights

We just love this time of year! We've had those gorgeous spring flowers: daffodils, tulips, bluebells and now the promise of a sunny, warm summer to come (well, so they say). 

This year’s spring/summer colour palette reflects the flowers and signposts of the seasons: blues, yellows, corals, greens and, of course, seaside nautical navy and white.

Floral patterns are popular again, with the 60s and 70s making another comeback, this time with a modern twist. Floaty wide-leg trousers, floral crops, suede fringing on anything from waistcoats to handbags, denim, pantsuits, glam rock … it all brings back memories of the Summer of Love, Marc Bolan and Ziggy Stardust.

Textures and fabrics are important too. Suede, different weights of denim, sheer panels, crochet, linen and sport luxe are all in the mix. Leather is always bang on trend and can be teamed with virtually anything to give a rock chick, studded vibe or a luxurious, supple textured outfit with a light cashmere top, heels or ballet flats.

Dresses of all types are still in vogue, from demure tea dresses to boho maxis. Easy to wear, just slip on a cardi or jacket to dress up or dress down, we love dresses. Toni Pickles here at Get Waisted can create any style, bespoke to your shape, skin tone, fabric choice and event so whether it’s a day dress for the office or holiday, something special for an anniversary or party, cruise wear or wedding day, you can rely on being the only one wearing it.

Beautiful maxi dress ideal for a cruise or that special occasion

You can see more about Get Waisted on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact Toni on: 

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk 

Steyning boutique, 98a High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD 

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays 

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

Will we see the usual last minute Christmas present shopping frenzy?!

Gentlemen (and ladies), we love you dearly but haven’t you picked up on all those tips we’ve been giving you all year round?

Full page adverts of gorgeous jewellery, gowns or handbags we’ve left out in full view?

Hints about colour schemes for our winter wardrobes? New ranges of winter outfits with warm shades are in stock – then again, why not brighten up your and others’ days with a splash of colour?

If not, never fear. Get Waisted will come to the rescue – although we’ve had record sales in-store this month, Toni’s been shopping again (as well as working her fingers to the bone in true Dickensian fashion to produce those one off items) so we still have a selection of superb gifts for your loved ones and will be open on Christmas Eve till 4 pm with some very special surprises too.

So even if you do leave things till the very last minute, call in to see us in Steyning and buy that special person in your life (male or female) some vintage accessories, jewellery, a handbag or scarf, knitwear or a voucher for something bespoke and truly unique for the New Year.

Think of the Christmas brownie points you’ll get!

Season's Greetings and a peaceful and healthy New Year from the Get Waisted team.

You can see more about Get Waisted on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact Toni on:

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk

Check out our brand new store and our wonderful Christmas window.

Pop in and say hello, have a glass of something bubbly with us and look through our rails of gorgeous garments just waiting to come home with you! You might spot some Christmas presents among the jewellery and accessories, or simply treat yourself – go on, you know you’re worth it!

Steyning boutique, 98a High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD 

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

After the maxi and the mini comes ... the midi skirt

We loved the maxi trend and wore our summer dresses to the ground. We loved the mini and showed off our exquisite pins! Now there’s something for everyone – the midi skirt.

Whether it’s pleated, tweed, wool, straight or flared, the midi looks great with smart shirts, cashmere jumpers and new season jackets like varsity bombers, and the plethora of superb coats on the market at the moment.

Wear with masculine brogues, knee length boots, trainer, ankle boots or loafers and still look on point. 

In fact, as long as you’re warm, comfortable and letting your outfit show off your personality as well as your shape to the max, then the midi is the skirt of the season.

Toni at Get Waisted can design and make a midi skirt (and any other length you’d like) just for you. After an initial consultation, Toni will recommend a fabric, colour and shape designed to flatter your shape and colouring. Then she’ll make it up and you’ll know you’re the only one in the world with your bespoke garment!

You can see more about Get Waisted on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact Toni on:

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk

Check out our brand new store and our wonderful Christmas window, and don’t forget if you’re in the area, it’s Steyning’s Christmas Evening on Wednesday 3rd December and we’ll be taking part.

Pop in and say hello, have a glass of something bubbly with us and look through our rails of gorgeous garments just waiting to come home with you! You might spot some Christmas presents among the jewellery and accessories, or simply treat yourself – go, you know you’re worth it!

Steyning boutique, 98a High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

Suits you, girls!

One trend which never seems to go out of fashion is the masculine look for women’s clothing and fashion. Whether it’s blazers, shirts with dickie bows, shorts, blouses or edgy tailoring, it seems it’s definitely here to stay.

Storming the runways at London Fashion Week were suits in pastel shades, mixed tailoring with skyscraper heels, and oversize androgynous trousers with metallic brogues.

From Coco Chanel’s time through Jean-Paul Gaultier to Giorgio Armani and Stella McCartney, fashion designers and couturiers love this look. And we love it on the high street too, as it’s easy to wear and takes us comfortably from office to evening.

Key to this summer’s look have been designer trainers and flats of every type, with man-size watches and chunky chains, as well as metallics and brights stealing the show. Autumn/winter sees the welcome return of cosy woollens, boiled wool, hats, scarves and gloves to finish off this trend, but in muted heathers, berry shades and naturals. Clutches, small angular handbags and totes are aplenty too.

Faux fur, fluffy jumpers and coats, and the constant delight of leather are also on the agenda. But it’s the masculine look which we’re replicating at the moment at Get Waisted to the delight of our clients, cinched in with glorious belts to showcase a feminine shape. We’re not talking the harsh padded shoulders and shapeless trends of the 80s (think Annie Lennox) but a sophisticated take for the season.

Jason Wu outfit 

Photo source: www.vogue.co.uk 

You can see more about Get Waisted on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact Toni on:

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk

Steyning boutique, 94 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD 

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

How to dress for the changing seasons

As late summer leads on to early autumn, and temperatures vary significantly throughout the days and evenings, it can be difficult to get your clothing right so you’re not sweltering in knits or shivering in shirts. Here in the UK, it all seemed to change overnight. With sudden torrential rain some weeks ago came cooler temperatures and it’s all too easy to turn your back on your summer clothing. But we’re promised a warm September, so the answer lies in clever layering and natural fabrics which let your skin breathe and keep you warm when you need it and cool when that’s right too. Linen is, of course, a summertime favourite despite the creased look of some varieties. Hemp, bamboo and organic cotton are fast coming up the league table as credible alternatives. Layering any of these with a lightweight cotton knit or jacket could be the answer to a ‘cool’ look in the office or at work. Casual linen shirts, skirts, trousers and dresses are always popular and are great for weekends and evening socialising, shopping or just late summer walks. Thankfully flat shoes, sandals and boots are de rigeur this year so we don’t have to suffer in six-inch heels unless we really want to! Pastels and brights are making way for a more muted colour palette, with reds and burgundies still in the mix. Leather, tweeds, Aztec and geometric designs are ‘hot’, along with anoraks, sheepskins and an 80s feel. There are some great images featured on the Vogue website:  Vogue fashion trends for autumn Toni Pickles at Get Waisted will report back on more trends from upcoming fashion shows, and don’t forget she can create any look you want. Following an initial consultation when shapes, fabrics, colours and styles are discussed, Toni will create the right look, bespoke for you, with an autumn/winter wardrobe to make you even more of a star than you already are. If you’ve looked in your closet and found items which can be recycled and restyled, Toni can do that too. Anything that won’t make the grade can be donated to charity, leaving even more room for wonderful Get Waisted creations! You can see more about Get Waisted on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact Toni on: Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk Steyning boutique, 94 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD  Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays Tel: 01903 812992 Mobile: 07947 497342

Recycling is the new black!

Most of us feel there is too much waste, whether it’s food, packaging, clothing or household goods. Putting aside that one can never have too many handbags or shoes, we can recycle many of the garments which are destined for the bin by just a little thought and expertise.

Toni Pickles at Get Waisted certainly has that expertise.

It may be that you’ve lost weight (hurrah), gained weight (the scales were wrong) or just want to revive a favourite item which needs updating (there are only so many times you can keep wearing those 1970s flares).

From August, on the last Thursday of each month Get Waisted will be hosting the first in a series of open evenings: this will focus on  Restyling  so you can either turn up and talk to Toni, look through the range of new and vintage clothing on offer, or book a free consultation appointment beforehand when Toni will look at your items and advise on the best way to make your clothes look on trend and make the best of your figure.

And even better, there’ll be a special 20% discount available on all purchases on the night, plus a raffle, drinks and tasty nibbles. 

Take a shirt like this ...

and turn it into a shirt like this!

What better way to spend a Thursday evening – looking at clothes, handbags, shoes, jewellery and accessories – getting useful tips from Toni on recycling outfits – mixing with like-minded friends, old and new – and a super discount?!

There’s free parking in the car parks nearby (see www.steyningsouthdowns.co.uk/downloads/steyningmap.pdf)  as well as on nearby roads, on a first come basis, and plenty of lovely hostelries and restaurants in Steyning to visit before or afterwards.

Recycling clothing will also make you feel you’re doing your bit towards alleviating all those waste products and minimising your carbon footprint. Those dresses, skirts and trousers lurking at the back of your wardrobe can come into their own again.

Here are some interesting government statistics about the amount of household waste in the UK, for example, did you know that the energy required to collect, process and sell a reused item of clothing is only 2% of the energy required to manufacture a new garment?*

So we’re totally behind recycling as well as the delights and excellent quality workmanship you can find in vintage clothing. Come along, chat with Toni and see how she can help you save money, time and all those lovely clothes you thought you might never wear again!

You can see more about us on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact us on:

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk

Steyning boutique, 94 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

*(Source: http://clothesaid.co.uk/news/media-centre/facts-and-figures-about-clothes-collections/)

Get Waisted hosts a Fashion Show for Brighton College

Toni Pickles firmly believes in supporting local charities as well as education, so it’s no surprise that for the third year running, Get Waisted helped the girls of Fenwick House, one of the houses at leading independent school, Brighton College, put on a fashion show (www.brightoncollege.org.uk).

Last year the theme was ‘James Bond’, the year before ‘Moulin Rouge’ – so there’s never a shortage of glamour. This year the theme was 1940’s and ‘50’s ‘Hollywood Glamour’ so of course it was just the ticket for Get Waisted.

After music and dance from some extremely talented students, brave members of staff strutted their stuff in front of the student body wearing pieces from a number of local shops including Passport, Lucia’s Workshop and Foxed Up Vintage, for the ‘Teachers Runway’.

This was followed by collections from Get Waisted, Dig for Victory and Pretty Eccentric, varying from fun outfits through to vintage-inspired day and cocktail dresses, and evening glamour.

With financial contributions from a raffle as well ticket sales for the event, catering and a fun photo booth with accessories for a record of the event from Emmest Photography (www.emmestphotography.co.uk/), the final amount raised for Chestnut Tree House is still being calculated - but with around 200 people there on the night (a full house), the evening was a great success and much enjoyed by everyone.

To see more about Chestnut Tree House, see www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk

You can see more about Get Waisted, see www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact us on:

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk

Steyning boutique, 94 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD (from 4^th March)

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

It's not just about the ladies this Valentine's Day!

We’ve had so many men coming into our Steyning boutique to buy Valentine’s gifts for their ladies over the last week or two, but how about you stylish and fashion focused ladies getting your special man something that’ll warm the cockles of his heart?

There are some interesting general suggestions in this article from Harper’s Bazaar: http://www.harpersbazaar.co.uk/fashion/inside/valentines-day-gift-guide-for-him#slide-1 and a photo of Matthew McConaughey in Esquire sporting a chic charcoal grey suit.

One of the most versatile items in a gentleman’s wardrobe is the grey suit and for Autumn/Winter 2014, it’s making a big return to tailoring in a range of shades – in fact probably more than 50 shades of grey! The colour palette goes from graphite to silver and tone on tone is also so wearable, which you can use through fabrics, textures and cuts.

Tweed is also making a comeback as well as the sophisticated grey suit – check out great British brand Bladen (http://www.bladentailoring.co.uk/home.aspx), Skopes (http://www.skopes.com/retail/) and Purple Label by Benvenuto (http://benvenuto.de/en/anzuege/purple-label/).

A sumptuous grey suit can make a man look stunning for events like a wedding, a day at the races or a night on the red carpet. It can also ooze confidence and elegance if you need to look your best as a professional, but grey suits are nothing if not useful and so are ideal for office wear, with or without a tie (as long as the tone of grey and the shirt colour go well with your skin and eyes), Valentine’s dinners or dressed down with a designer black t-shirt, scarf and cashmere coat.

Our gift to you this Valentine’s – a photo of Brad Pitt in tone on tone grey

Photo: celebritysuits.com

Whatever your style, Toni Pickles at Get Waisted (www.getwaisted.co.uk) is able to make a bespoke tailored suit for every discerning gentleman about town. Toni’s background is in tailoring and she will advise on tone, fabric, design and cut. If you’d like a suit that is made-to-measure and won’t be seen anywhere on the high street, just get in touch with Toni.

You can see more about us on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact us on:

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk

Steyning boutique, 98 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

Spread the love with fashion, jewellery or lingerie this Valentine's Day

Whether it's a divine piece of bespoke corsetry, some fabulous jewellery or a fashion piece to make every heart melt, we have it here at the Get Waisted boutique in Steyning. And our sale is on till the end of the month, with up to 50% off selected items.

Valentine's Day is a time to celebrate romance and love, but its origins were actually rather dark. It's believed to have started in ancient Rome with the feast of Lupercalia where drunken men would hit willing women with the hides of slain animals, believing it would make them more fertile.

The ancient Romans may also be responsible for the name of our modern day of love. Emperor Claudius II executed two men called Valentine on February 14th (different years) in the 3rd century AD. Their martyrdom was honoured by the Catholic Church with the celebration of St Valentine's Day, although there appears to be some confusion with other festivals and rituals in later centuries.

As the years went on, the holiday grew somewhat more enchanting. Chaucer and Shakespeare romanticised Valentine's, which gained popularity throughout Britain and the rest of Europe. Handmade paper cards became the thing to give in the Middle Ages.

Eventually the tradition made its way to America. The industrial revolution lead to factory-made cards in the 19th century and in 1913, Hallmark Cards began mass producing Valentines.

Woe betide any partner who forgets Valentine's Day! But here's the good news ... you can shop early with our 'up to 50% off' sale going on till the end of January. Take your pick from our superb range of high fashion affordable clothing, jewellery, beautiful corsets, handbags and other accessories. There's even something for the man in your life too!

Some, though, will celebrate Valentine's in a SAD (that's Single Awareness Day) way but that's even more reason to come along to Get Waisted and choose something really great to make you feel special.

Will it be some knitwear to snuggle up to, a coat to take you out on Friday night, a bangle to dangle, or some stiletto shoes or boots to make your point?!




Don't forget - come and see us soon in Steyning. Those sale pieces won't hang around for long, and if you need something tailor made bespoke for you, we can't wait to get cracking.

You can see more about us on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact us at:

Steyning boutique, 98 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk

Tel: 01903 812992
Mobile: 07947 497342

Shopping frenzy hits the high street

Sky News[1] says shoppers are expected to spend £12bn in just four days as they make the most of slashed prices and promotions, according to retail forecasters. There’s going to be a big battle both on the high street and online.

About three-quarters of retailers are now offering deals and 13m people are expected to shop on the high street today, the last Saturday before Christmas, with many having finished work for the festive season yesterday. Clothing, fashion, jewellery and lingerie are always popular.

People are becoming more canny though, waiting for the sales and hoping the items they’re after are going to be reduced. In larger stores which stock many of each size and design, that’s possible but in independent boutiques like Get Waisted in Steyning and Brighton, it’s a different story.

If you’ve been window shopping recently or popped in and seen something you love, as we have room for a bijou selection of unique clothing and accessories, you might be disappointed if you think they’ll still be there for you in a few days.

We’ve all done it – we think we’ll grab a bargain when the sale starts but only found the few items the gannets have left when we turn up. Instead of hoping for the best and taking the risk of getting what you want, we say that our clothes and accessories are good value to start with and as you certainly won’t see them anywhere else on the high street, you’re getting a great deal anyway!

We’ll be open today, tomorrow and Christmas Eve until 2pm so there’s still time to pop in to say hello and look at the wonderful display we’ve put on just for you.

Meantime, everyone at Get Waisted wishes you a sparkly Christmas and fun-packed New Year.

You can see more about us on www.getwaisted.co.uk or contact us on:

Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk

Steyning boutique, 98 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD

Open 9.30am-5.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, closed on Mondays

Tel: 01903 812992

Mobile: 07947 497342

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[1] Source: http://news.sky.com/story/1185618/christmas-shoppers-to-spend-12bn-in-four-days

The Fashion Show Steyning has been waiting for!

We don’t think Steyning has seen anything like our recent Fashion Show.

Nearly 100 people came along, either sitting back enjoying the range of women’s dresses and accessories displayed on our beautiful models, or helping behind the scenes.

We had thirteen models altogether – ladies of all shapes and sizes – hair and make up team, lighting and music assistants, those serving drinks and canapés, selling raffle tickets, manning the welcome desk, not to mention the compère and those taking photos and shooting a video. It was a wonderful team effort, designed to make sure everyone had the best time possible.

There was much shimmying and sashaying along the catwalk as we showed the crème de la crème that Get Waisted has to offer in our boutique and on-line. We even auctioned a gorgeous black corset outfit modelled by Caitlin (see below).

The most important thing though (apart from showing that Steyning is clearly the centre of upmarket yet affordable glam and chic) is that we raised £300 for Chestnut Tree House (www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/) children’s hospice care.

This month we also took part in Steyning’s Late Night Christmas Shopping Extravaganza, where we welcomed more Get Waisted friends and customers with a hearty glass of mulled wine and festive mince pies. Once again, good fun was had by all!

We’re delighted we launched our arrival in Steyning with such a bang and we’ve certainly had many new visitors to our boutique in the high street as a result.

We still have plenty of unique women’s fashion clothes and accessories for those upcoming Christmas and New Year parties and we even have some you can hire. There’s just enough time if you need something special made bespoke too (but please don’t leave it too late!).

We’ve been up in London visiting buyers so we can bring you the very latest affordable designer and individually fashioned pieces before Christmas, so there’ll be new and exciting items arriving by the day.

Just give us a call on 01903 812992 or pop in to Get Waisted Boutique and we’ll tell you more.

Get Waisted for 15% less!

At the risk of you throwing things at your laptop/phone/tablet or even PC, I am going to refer to the 'C' word. With less than 12 weeks to Christmas (sorry, won't do it again) now is the right time to think about 'that outfit'. Whether you are looking to wow them at the office party, put a distant relative in his or her place or just make hubby look twice; you could do no better than to get into a dress that is made to satisfy your every whim. It costs much less than you might think and, until November 1st, Get Waisted is offering 15% off all commissions.

So, what to use for inspiration? Well, I have been glued to the 'fashion season' and checking out the New York, Paris, London and Milan Fashion Weeks in particular I have been struck by the number of designers going for a neat, classic look featuring a belted or 'nipped in waist' for both trousers/jacket combos and dresses.

YSL & Dior at New York 2012

The looks presented this year by Saint Laurent and Dior are a good example of how you can take something classic and bring it right up to date for 2012. What's more they are pretty and wearable too.

It is no secret that here at Get Waisted we are big fans of the 1950's look and how it flatters.  These tailored designs make the most of your shape (whatever it is) and are guaranteed to turn heads too!

So email me now on toni@getwaisted.co.uk with your ideas and requirements - and don't forget to ask for your discount!

Toni.

London Fashion Week - Feed the Beast

So, here we are again. New York Fashion Week is in full swing and London gets under way this week. I am really looking forward to seeing catwalk shows for Anya Hindmarch and Louise Gray as well sampling the 'Off-schedule' shows of Jena Theo and Sabina Bryntesson...and as for the after parties..well it would be rude not to wouldn't it?

And just in case you are thinking 'who really cares?', here's a few numbers. Fashion is worth between  £25 and £35 billion (yes billion) to the UK economy. London Fashion Week (LFW) alone contributes £20 million to the London economy and with over 25 years of history is one of the highest profile events in the world. So it is hardly surprising that some major brands want to get on board.

What may be a surprise is just who those brands are. Vodafone is an LFW headline sponsor, Mercedes uses fashion as part of its global marketing platform sponsoring events in over 30 countries and this year Kinder Bueno is heavily involved with the consumer facing London Fashion Weekend (rather than the trade oriented LFW). Marketing Week had a fascinating insight (if you're into these things) into the thinking behind these associations - essentially all are trying to reach out to their target audiences some of whom (women!) have been under-represented in previous deals (esp. Mercedes and Vodafone).

Enough of the business - what's hot? Well from the look of the collections presented for SS2013 in New York we are going to be seeing a lot of prints. I think this is great - you can indulge your inner girlie or go for a vibrant tribal (all the while staying 'on trend' - should you care to do so). Just take a look at this photomontage to see what I mean.

Perhaps the biggest surprise - FLAT SHOES EVERYWHERE. And I mean everywhere. Victoria Beckham, Marc Jacobs and Carolina Herrera were just a few all using catwalk models in flats - who knew? Perhaps we get to look good and feel comfortable too.

At Get Waisted we are really looking forward to picking this one up. There are some wonderful fabrics out there and you don't have to look like a Masai warrior (unless you want to) - just take a little inspiration. All you need to do is call Toni on 07947 497342 or email Toni@getwaisted.co.uk and Get Waisted would be delighted to help.

Lots of love,

Toni

Made in Britain

Do you remember when all sorts of manufacturers proudly displayed a 'Made in Britain' label on their goods? The answer is, if you are under 30, then probably not...but why...and are we seeing a reversal of the trend?

Back in 2011 we saw a campaign to adopt a new logo to proudly proclaim goods as British made (following a competition won by Cynthia Lee at Nottingham University). Since then all sorts of people from Ed Milliband to Mary Portas have been keen to show their support. More importantly over 600 manufacturers have now signed up.

Moving to my particular 'oevre', how is this being reflected in the fashion industry? It is clear that British fashion design and designers have a major place on the world stage yet it is increasingly difficult to find clothes exclusively made in Britain. Still Made In Britain is a site dedicated to promoting goods still manufactured in Britain. It is still possible to find a number of companies making clothes that are traditional or 'country' based - Original Montgomery is an example (and about as traditional as it gets - established in 1890 and chosen by the British Admiralty to make the first duffle coats). But you have to dig deeper to find many newer enterprises - especially of any scale.

In fact, at last there does seem to be something of a 'seachange' - to continue the metaphor. During the first of this years London Fashion Weeks there was a distinct focus on British manufacturing. Mulberry (right) has received £2.5mil to build a new factory in Somerset and Sir Philip Green argued for manufacturers to support Britain.

Research suggests this makes commercial sense. 67% of consumers want to see an 'official seal of approval' like the logo shown at the top of this blog and 52% want to see more manufacturing in the UK. As costs rise in China and other parts of the far east an increasing number of manufacturers both within and beyond clothing, are questioning the location of their manufacturing facilities.

For the sake of our young aspiring designers and entrepreneurs as well as the future of jobs for our young people and the economy in general, let's hope we can sustain this trend and create an environment where it is not just an emotional decision but a sound commercial one to locate manufacturing facilities in this country.

A Get Waisted creation - photography by Tristan at Apix Photography

At Get Waisted everything is made here in the UK. In fact even our suppliers of source fabrics and accessories are overwhelmingly UK based - often with a real heritage of their own. Your support is really appreciated. Of course, if you are thinking about a new, special dress why not go bespoke, buy British and Get Waisted!

Love,

Toni.