I spent my whole adult life believing I had a pear-shaped figure. So you can imagine my surprise to discover that I was in fact hiding an hour-glass shape underneath ill-suited clothing for years.
This revelation came as a result of a one-on-one styling session with the ever-fabulous Fleur Marks, director of boutique shopping and styling studio Chic in the City. Fleur’s creative passion for style has seen her work with many international stylists and celebrities on TV and print shoots across Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Hong Kong, India, Italy, and Singapore.
We have been lucky enough to have Fleur share her expert knowledge with our very own Travelling Divas in the past and I am thrilled to be working with her again on our Pre-Christmas Pamper Tour in Sydney. Sometimes you need an objective eye to tell you if you really do look good in ‘that’ ‘ and Fleur’s eye for style is better than most.
I sat down with Fleur recently for some top tips for looking stylish whilst travelling, and to see if her innate ability to always look effortlessly chic would rub off on me.
Q. How does Australian style stack up to fashion overseas?
Australia has its own aesthetic. Women here tend to dress well and have more structure to their looks. We like our skirts and dresses short relative to the rest of world! We are fashion conscious and there is a unique look in Melbourne vs Sydney. I love Australian style and think we are adventurous and spoilt with such a breadth of designers here. We just need to keep supporting our Australian designers.
Q. What is the number one style mistake you see made by women?
A lot of women get into a style rut and stick to the same look. It is a great idea to actually develop a wardrobe plan that allows you to get the most out of your wardrobe and keep your look fresh. Avoid buying an item in the spur of the moment and instead consider how you will make it work with the rest of your wardrobe.
Q. What would you say are the most important items to pack on a holiday to ensure you are prepared for all occasions?
Ballet flats are a travel essential plus a cashmere wrap in your best colour – good for when you are on the plane or caught out on a chilly night. Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream is always handy for dry lips too.
Q. What are your tips for shopping in a new city?
Pick up a luxe travel guide and do a little research before you get there. Try to avoid the tourist spots and find shopping areas that the locals go to.
You only regret what you don’t buy when travelling, but buy less and buy well. Ask yourself, is this something I can get anywhere else or at home? Will this be an interesting piece to add to my wardrobe that I absolutely love and can’t live without? Will it be something I will wear in 5 years time?
Q. What is your number one piece of fashion advice for women?
Dress in fabrics that make you feel good. Listen to your inner diva and reflect your personality in your style.
Q. What is the biggest thing women will take away from the styling session as part of the Travelling Divas Pre-Christmas Pamper Tour?
They will learn what body shape they are and how to dress for that shape. Plus once they know their colours, they will be able to de-clutter a rack in a store to pick out the items that work best for them. The main thing we want to do is help build women’s confidence and encourage them to own their individual sense of style.
Check out our tours page for more information on the Pre-Christmas Pamper in Sydney. It is going to be a fabulous weekend, make sure you get in quickly as there are limited spaces available!
Chief Diva, Andrea xo
