Barbara Reid of Maison Monique maisonmonique.co.nz

Welcome to the month of May where a mixed bag of weather can be expected and one is never quite sure just what to wear. The lifestyle of living in the Bay of Plenty requires a wardrobe which contains a greater variety of casual to dressy-casual garments. A lightweight raincoat could be handy to have after the recent rain, but still with very mild temperatures.

Winter 2011

Showing for winter 2011 are a small range of traditional suiting which includes a well cut jacket, pants or skirt in quality fabric, including pure wool. Many ladies enjoy wearing a classic styled, lined jacket and have been finding it difficult to procure. These stylish garments can be confidentially mixed and matched to suit a vast variety of occasions, ranging from more formal invitations, to wearing over a winter dress, a variety of different skirts or pant or simply wearing over dress jeans. There are just so many options when choosing such garments, but do not forget if the fabric and finish is second rate, the garment will never be first class. This may mean paying a little more, however, this is what is termed 'investment dressing”.

Another winter must have

This is a little woollen dress for those chilly days. A well styled merino dress will never date and can be accessorised to suit so many occasions, allowing to create a more personal look. Stamp individual personality by adding a favourite piece of jewellery and maybe a belt or perhaps a colourful scarf, boots, heels – whatever suits the occasion. The team here at Maison Monique, Barbara, Jan and Adele do all they possibly can to assist in creating and personalising wardrobes. Maison Monique is also showing dresses in a variety of styles, fabrics and colours for those special moments.

Tips to stress free styling

Dress for your shape, not the fashion. Make simple clothes sparkle with accessories. Buy a stylish classic garment and spend that little bit extra on quality cloth, a good cut and finish plus dateless shade, then it will last the test of time. Celebrate individuality and never be afraid to ask for help and that is where Maison Monique's very experienced team can assist.

Until next month – look great, feel great and keep warm.