As we approach September, we reach that awkward “summer into autumn” style phase and that eternal question, ‘what should I wear?!’ gets even trickier to answer! We melt in the heat of summer and shiver in the coolness of autumn and air-conditioning, making getting dressed difficult. The key is building a wardrobe with transitional pieces that will let you shift easily between both seasons.

Extremes are out – avoid shorts & flip-flops or ski-jackets & moon boots, you need clothing that keeps you cool in the heat and comfortable when it’s chilly. Our magic formula is…LAYERING! Layering will keep you warm when you’re cold, and turn your look from casual to professional in seconds.

Skirt + sleeveless blouse or dress + cardigan or jacket/blazer

A full skirt is a classic piece. This season there are so many full skirts to choose from: patterned, solid, tea length and knee length. Florals in deeper colours are a trend for Autumn 2014.

A floral full skirt will go right into the new season. Look for darker coloured backgrounds. Even though fabrics are light and flowing, the deeper colours guarantee you can wear this skirt into the next season, just trade your sandals in for a boot and you'll be good to go.

Sleeveless dress + cardigan/blazer

A blazer can really lift any outfit up a notch! If you’re pairing it with something sleeveless, make sure the neckline and strap-type are office appropriate, so you can take your blazer or cardigan off if you need to.

A note to remember, all these looks have a common feature – loose and flowing. Looser clothing allows more air to circulate, meaning you'll feel much cooler. Garments in natural fibers are more breathable than synthetics and will also keep you cooler.

Final thoughts…pick layers in your best colours but buy them in different fabrics – thin Sea Island Cotton for late summer and sumptuous cashmere for autumn.

Cropped pants do tend to make your legs look shorter and wider so try to tone your shoes to your pants to make your legs longer.

And, if you can, carry an extra pair of shoes. Keep a pair of flats handy, nothing works up a sweat quite like rushing around outside in heels, no matter how perfect for the weather the rest of your outfit is. An added plus....flats are in for this season!

Need some ideas of what to wear in the new season? Come in and see us!

When you’re in the business of colours, there’s nothing more satisfying than hearing about a success story! One of our clients came in for a consultation and through our colour analysis he discovered that his perfect palette was that of a ‘cool winter’. 

This means he was suited to very cool colours – so warm tones are out! With his new knowledge he went all out and found a new wardrobe while on holiday, check out his shopping haul!

“Friday I celebrated my 35th birthday and I followed my partner to Osaka for the weekend where I shopped till I dropped. We hit the outlet mall near Kansai airport (I think I mentioned I was going during my consultation). Although I had the colour palette with me, I just kept your advice in my head and went forth and shopped for seven hours straight. 

I walked away with a new wardrobe---at least for summer. Still need to build up my work wardrobe but will do that in August.”

He made perfect choices, lots of cool colours, some lighter pastels, some bold crip hues, and even some fantastic clear patterend shirts. Not to mention some fabulous looking shoes for summer – love it!

Do you know how having a colour analysis works? Using colour theory you can learn all about how your personal colours fits into the system. Once you understand if you look best in something deep or light, soft or clear, or warm or cool you can take our your palette and go shopping for your own colour corrected wardrobe!

While many of us typically turn to pretty frocks, skirts, or shorts when summer comes rolling around – we should really be looking at the fantastic pants for this season! Pants are perfect for the beginning of summer before you’ve had time to get a bit of colour on your legs, plus the styles this summer feature loose, breezy cuts and light material.

Wide legged trousers can make everyone look long and lean! This style of pant is a great choice for summer, it offers coverage and is nice and loose. Despite being long pants, you can choose from a variety of different materials and colours so you can pick something you feel comfortable in.

To slim down your lower half, look for trousers that feature a wide, but straight leg. This creates a long lean line from your hips down to your feet, balancing out your lower half. Draw attention to your waist with details such as buttons or a funky belt.

If you are looking to draw attention away from your midsection and down to your legs, choose a lightweight material like a linen blend for your trousers. You can choose a cut such as a modified wide leg with flat front pockets.

Bring in the bell-bottom shape if you have an hourglass figure, it suits you perfectly. You can look for a style that is tighter through your hips and flares out gently at the knees. Make sure to choose a really standout belt to accentuate your waist!

Loose fit pants are another very popular style, they are generous in the hip and waist area and taper into a straight leg. These pants work for multiple shapes because the style is forgiving and can be worn in a variety of ways - make it work for you! This style of pant has been seen all over in some very exciting colours and patterns, so it is a perfect choice for drawing attention to your lower half.

The loose fit style of pant looks great with fitted tops but also looks equally as lovely styled with a more loose, baggy top. These pants are such a great choice for the hot weather!

Boyfriend jeans are as popular as ever! When it’s hot, humid, and sunny, wearing super tight skinny jeans may seem like the last thing you want to put on. Boyfriend jeans are the perfect solution, they come in a variety of styles that can flatter any figure. This season you can find your loose fitting boyfriend jeans in feather light denim and you can choose between high or low waisted depending on your figure.

Do you know which style of pants suits your figure best? You can always come in for a Style Consultation to teach you how to wear pants that will make you look fantastic! 

Art Basel begins tomorrow! Do you know what you're wearing? Get some tips on what to wear to an artsy event, whether it's a gallery stroll or a fancy gallery opening!

Quite frankly, entering the gallery atmosphere can be intimidating. You want to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing. There is no better time than visiting an art gallery than to wear a piece in your wardrobe you think is unusual or only matches a few things.  Avoid wearing something unusual head to toe, or you may venture into costume territory!

At an event like Art Basel expect to do some walking - and then some more walking! Located in the Convention Centre, Art Basel features over 2,000 artists so you will definitely need to wear shoes that are comfortable. Flats are always a classy and comfortable choice. For spring round and pointed toed styles look chic or choose a loafer style to match something trendy. If you're more comfortable wearing heels, consider a wedge or chunkier heel to distribute your weight over your foot so you won't experience foot pain.

While it is boiling and humid outside, you can be sure that in the Convention Center the thermostat will be turned way down! Prepare yourself and pack a light cardigan or shawl in a fantastic colour. Even if you feel like wearing black head to toe, add a pop of colour (in your best shade) with an accessory to keep you warm.

First looking back, the tea-length was a popular style in the 50s-70s. Today this silhouette reminds us of a vintage, ladylike feel. The key to pulling off this long, full skirt is to balance its demure characteristics with modern pieces.

Consider height:
When looking for the perfect tea-length, one of the most important things to keep in mind is your height. If you are petite you will want to avoid being overwhelmed by too much fabric and choose a tea-length that falls just below the knee. For taller ladies you can wear a skirt anywhere between your ankle and knee.

A general rule is that the most flattering place for a skirt to fall is the narrowest part of your legs. Generally this would be below the knee or a few inches above the ankle.

Create Balance:
Pleated, soft, or full, the tea-length skirt this season requires careful balance on top. Keep your top minimal and fitted, avoid baggy loose tops otherwise you will be swimming in fabric.

For shapes that are more top heavy, choose slimming necklines such as a v-neck or scoop neck. You can bring attention to your bottom half by wearing tea-length skirts that feature bold colours, patterns, or fuller silhouettes. 

Those who have bottom heavy shapes still need to choose sleek tops to avoid looking frumpy, but can choose to wear blouses with patterns or more details to create balance. To minimise your lower half, wear your tea-length skirt in a darker shade or choose a pleated or straight style. 

Accessorise:
Spring's full tea-length-skirts are soft and ladylike; to avoid looking in costume it's important to wear contrasting accessories. Look to your bags, shoes, and jewellery to create this contrast in style.

Structured handbags can still look ladylike, but their clean lines look elegant against a soft tea-length. Or you can choose a handbag that is very contrasting, detailed with hardware, grommets, or metallic. Avoid bags that are slouchy and soft.

In the past the tea-length was worn with tights, the modern take on this long skirt shows off bare legs. Only a little bit of your lower leg will be shown when wearing a tea-length, so make sure that your legs are exfoliated and looking their best! Whether you choose to wear heels or flats with your tea-length, be sure to wear shoes that open up your leg – so avoid ankle straps or details that climb up the ankle.

Whenever you're faced with a style or colour dilemma, Savvy Style is here to help! Book one of our Style consultations to learn how to wear this pretty tea-length skirt this Spring. Click here to see all of our consultations!

Spring has Sprung! Wondering what to wear for Spring 2014? Look no further! We have read all the magazines, blogs, websites, newspapers store trends, tweets...in fact anything and everything to do with fashion this season. Check out our A to Z list of Fashion trends. If we missed anything.... let us know! 

Savvy Style's A to Z Fashion Trends Spring Summer 2014 

Athletic stripes have been spotted on trousers! Look out for smart, tailored trousers featuring a dramatic, elongating stripe down the outside of the leg.

Blush hues are soft and delicate, look out for powdery pinks and corals to be on top of the trends.

Cropped, boxy jackets are popping up all over the runways! Look for a jacket featuring a fantastic intricate pattern to thrown on over a simple summer shift.

Double denim is all the rage, just be sure not to wear two pieces of denim in the same hue! Mix and match with different shades, washes, and textures of denim this season.

Embellishments on blouses are very S/S 2014, whether it’s leather, lace, pleating, quilting, beading, fringe – anything goes as long as it’s lovely!

Florals are everywhere! Spring is all about new life, so whether you wear an oversized flower broach or in patterns, make sure to pay tribute to the coming of the new season!

Gilded in gold. Opulent lame’ fabrics have been seen on this season’s boxy jackets, shift blouses, and even on super tailored trousers. 

Higher hemlines have been making an appearance this year, pair them with Spring’s conservative boxy tops and jackets to bring the focus to your legs!

Intricate graphic prints are all over! They’re bold, so pair these dramatic clean prints with simple, solid pieces to let them stand out.

Jump into a jumpsuit, they’re fun, funky, and a must have item for this summer. Look for a jumpsuit in a soft, elegant material, and pair it with your hottest heels for a smouldering evening look!

Knotted up. Twists, folds, pleats – they’re everywhere! From clothes to accessories knots can be seen all over.

Leather is not longer reserved for bags, shoes, or jackets! Look for buttery soft leather on a high waisted skirt, or for something subtler a blouse with leather detailing.

Masculine shapes. From blazers to utility coats, a masculine cut is very S/S 2014!

Nude nails featuring coloured tips are a fun way to freshen up a French manicure! Whether you choose a nude nail paired with black for absolute elegance, or funky neon tips for something fun – your nails will look fabulous!

Over-the-top details abound. From romantic ruffles to jewels to liquid silk to sparkling sequins, Spring and Summer are your time to dazzle and shine!

Pleats are back! This season they can be found anywhere from pants to blouses and dresses.

Quaint and humble fabrics are soft as can be. Watch out for these fabrics in the dusty shades of summer featured in the oh so popular ladylike looks of the season.

Radiant Orchid is the shade of the season, but a red dress works too! Whether you wear it in a garment or in an accessory form be sure not to miss out on this season’s hottest hue!

Shift silhouettes have been seen in the form of short blouses (to be paired with tailored trousers) and summer dresses. Wear this elegant cut in a solid pattern and dress up with fantastic accessories!

Tea-length skirts so ladylike, be on the lookout for this skirt in a soft fabric in one of this season’s featured hues.

Up in the clouds! Welcome in spring by sporting soft, cloudy, white hues. This season white is big and featured in head to toe looks. If you’re not ready for something so dramatic look for a key piece like a jacket or trousers for this season.

V is for one of the most unexpected fashion accessories of the season: visors! The athletic trend is going strong, so protect your face from the sun and sport a visor. 

Wide leg trousers are perfect for summer, they’re loose, breezy, and so chic. Look for higher waisted trousers that don’t feature a dramatic flair for the most flattering silhouette.

X is for x-ray vision. Layer a delicate tank under a sheer blouse to take advantage of Spring’s beautiful sheer, draping fabrics.

Y is for yellow, from something bright and sunny to a pale primrose, this cheerful colour screams “Spring is here!”

Zoo prints are still all the rage, from zebra to leopard to tiger, these ferocious prints are here for another season!

COPYRIGHT INFO : The copyright of the above article is owned by Savvy Style. Permission to publish this article in print or online is available at no charge when properly credited to Savvy Style with a link back to our website, www.savvystyle.com

We all want to look fashionable 24 hours a day, but adding a dose of style and pizazz to our regular 9-5 wardrobe can be a challenge. After all, there are rules and boundaries in the office arena-it’s not the place to try out all the latest trends fresh off the runway! 

So how do you introduce this season’s trends into an office appropriate ensemble for your everyday work gear, without getting a call from the Human Resources Department? Read on and find out!

A printed sheath dress: Unlike a cocktail dress, a sheath dress typically falls right below the knee or on the knee. Michelle Obama and Kate Middleton are huge fans of this cut. Fitting close to the body with relatively simple adornments, this makes a perfect staple in your work or play wardrobe. Nip it in the waist with a thin or chunky belt depending on your needs. Choose one in this season’s hottest prints, whether it be florals, stripes, chequered, oriental, 60’s or graphics.


A blazer, cropped trousers and a printed Tee: Put a twist to your regular suit ensemble by wearing a printed T-shirt underneath . Give it a Spring update by wearing cropped tailored trousers as opposed to your regular long straight legged or flared ones. Instant pizazz and a modern take on the traditional blazer/trouser ensemble!

Print on print in a conservative silhouette: Prints can be worn in the workplace so long as the cut and fit are modest. Play with the print on print trend this Spring, keeping in mind not to overdo it by sticking to the same colour family. Go for an outfit that’s bold in print, but simple in colour and style. For example, wear a striped pencil skirt with a polka dot blouse in black and white.


A longer skirt: This is the ultimate ideal conservative skirt, reminiscent of the 1950’s. You can’t go wrong with this style in the office! Pair it with a slim blouse or fitted blazer to balance out the volume below. Choose feminine, floaty, floral designs this Spring.

Black and white with a statement accessory: A classic look that will never go out of style, a black and white monochromatic ensemble will always be on trend. Spice things up a little with a statement piece of jewellery such as a chunky necklace or cocktail ring, or a bright colourful handbag or pair of pumps.  Don’t forget the red lipstick!  

Layering neutrals: This is a big trend right now, you just need to figure out the shades or tones which suit your complexion best. Instead of just wearing your regular suit, layer on a variety of neutral knits, or mix and match various types of neutral coloured fabrics.

Peplum: A great, feminine option to have at any time. Goes well with pencil skirts or straight legged trousers. Choose a more subtle peplum flair to avoid looking too high fashion for the office. 

Need help co-ordinating your Spring wardrobe for work? Savvy Style is here to help! Simply give us a call at 2522 2524 or email us at [email protected] to set up your very own personal Image Consultation!  

Graphics- The 60’s have had a strong influence in this season’s collections, hence the multitude of colourful graphic prints everywhere! Bold and striking, these prints are not for the faint hearted. Wear it as a cardigan over a shift dress for work, or as a blouse. Too loud for your taste? Try the print in your purse or clutch! 

Black and whites- Whether it be stripes, chequered squares, psychedelic prints or florals, it is all about the back and white ensemble this spring! You can easily wear this print in a blouse, a nice 60’s shift dress which is red hot right now, or as a pair of slim cut pin straight pants. Add mod accessories to pull it all together. 

Florals – The perfect summery print. Feminine and flirty, you can incorporate florals into almost everything and anything this season! 

Floral pants are still stylish as ever-just keep in mind that if you are slightly heavier on your bottom half, larger print patterns will disguise the extra weight, whereas smaller floral prints would enlarge your curves. 

Mix up your regular top with a sheer floral one, or add a small floral print accessory if you find this print too loud, such as a scarf or a floral purse. 

Oriental inspired prints-  We saw a glimpse of Orientalism infiltrating the fashions of last  season, and now they’re here stronger than ever before in the Spring Summer 2013 collections! From phoenix’s to dragons to cherry blossoms, designers have introduced an Asian flair to dresses, jackets and blouses. Try this exotic print out! 

Tropical animal prints – this is the ultimate summer print of all. Birds of paradise, zebras, tigers and leopards, wear this summery print in your sheer blouses or as a bathing suit for the ensuing summer months to come! 

Spring is here! Say bye to those grey winter blues and say hello to sunny skies and the cool breeze. It's a brand new season with exciting new spring toned hues and shades! 

We’ll break all the colours trends down for you to make shopping and getting ready for work in the morning a piece of cake. 

Colour Trends

Bright hues-Express yourself in an array of rainbow candy colours this Spring. With so much to choose from, you just have to find out the shades that suit your hair, skin and eyes the best! From emerald greens, nectarines, cobalt blues, canary yellows to hot pinks, this season is all about colour! Wear them as a blouse or a skirt for work, toning it down with neutrals. Or, if your workplace does not allow for too much pizzazz in your office wear, carry a bright pop coloured bag. 

Sweet and pretty macaroon pastels-Fresh and feminine define the look of Spring 2013 and we can’t help but love the soft shades of pistachio green, fondant blue, candy floss pink and lemon yellow. You can easily wear this colour as a blouse or blazer for work, shifting into pastel coloured denim on weekends, which is a red hot trend for this season. Pair pastels with crisp whites and you’re right on trend. 

Neutrals-Go minimalistic this Spring with neutral shades of white, cream, beige, grey and black and white combos. Try layering a number of neutrals together to get the look.

Metallics- this isn’t just for the party season. You can add a punch of metallics to your Spring wardrobe with some cool accessories such as shiny gold or silver flats and sandals. For dinners and nights out, go a little more daring with a shimmery silver skirt or top. 

Makeup Trends

You can find pastels all over this Spring as well! Wear your eyeshadows in creamy mints, lilacs and pinks. They're light enough for the office so you can wear them on a daily basis as long as you keep it natural looking. 

Eyeliners are not just in black anymore but rather in colourful brights this season! Experiment with bright turquoises or aquas-spring's it colours.

Keep your cheeks and lips nude, peach or pastel pink depending on your colouring.

Not sure of what makeup colours suit your face? Well then book an appointment with Savvy Style and get a Spring Makeup Makeover! We'll teach you how to select the most flattering shades for your face and prescribe you cosmetics.

Neon brights are great for this season as they add pizzazz and vivacity to your wardrobe, helping you endure and hopefully enjoy the hot, humid Hong Kong summer. Here at Savvy Style, we understand how the combination of the steam room like heat and Hong Kong pollution can drive you nuts. But wearing bright colours can help put you in a better mood and help you enjoy putting your outfit together for work/play in the morning.

So how is a girl to decide the right shade of neon for herself? The key is to understand the undertones of your skin colour, and to work with it by choosing the correct bright colours which enhance your skin tone. 

Fair-choose colours that are slightly softer and milder. Steer clear of overly loud colours that tend to make you look more washed out than refreshed. Opt for warmer neons such as acid pink, fuchsia and coral that give your cheeks that “flushed” summer glow. 


Olive-this is the perfect shade of skin tone for wearing bright colours, as the deep seated warm undertones of your skin allow more room for creativity. Lime greens, hot pinks and ultramarine blues would all complement your skin tone well. Best advice for you lovely Mediterranean skin toned gazelles? Have fun and experiment! 

Medium-medium skinned lasses are you girls who are neither fair nor tanned, but have slighter cooler undertones in your skin than your olive skinned friends. Go for cooler shades of turquoise, electric blue and royal purple which will flatter you best. 

Dark-you have the benefit of having a great coloured canvas to begin your neon bright ‘paint’ application. The chocolate tones of your skin make wearing bright colours a piece of cake, as the darker tones of your skin offer a great contrast to vivid neons. Choose tangerine oranges, bright lemon yellows and tomato reds to stand out from the crowd.

Tip: Find colours which complement your personality. How do you go about this? Well, there is no standard rule of thumb, but the colours you choose should make you feel happy, confident and comfortable in your own skin.