Style file with Weekend stylist Kate Parker
Q. I'm going skiing for the first time and haven't a clue what to pack? Is it best to go cheap just in case I don't like it?
A. The key is to stay warm and dry. There's no point being cold and miserable in kit that doesn't make you feel good.
If you choose well you can always wear your ski pieces for extreme weather days in the UK.
Jackets shouldn't be bulky as you need to move freely. Thicker doesn't necessarily mean warmer. Create a waterproof skin over multiple layers – thermals, long sleeve top and fleece, aiming for a sleek silhouette. There is currently a trend to colour clash on the slopes. Ellis Brigham at www.ellis-brigham.com has a great selection of ski wear and kit for both men and women, including this pink Salomon jacket (£280), blue trousers (£160) and North Face Mossbud Hoodie (£69.99). Their nearest store is in Bristol.
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For cosy après ski toes, these boots from Mou (£299) are both stylish and warm. This pair is aptly named Blizzard and is available at www.mou-online.com. Also chic for the chalet is this gently striped knit (£55) from Laura Ashley. Have fun.
Q. I would like some smart casual pieces for the office, but don't want to spend a fortune. I particularly need a smart coat. What would you suggest?
A. Last month Paul Costelloe opened a menswear outlet store at Gloucester Quays. They have a great selection of pieces by the Dublin-born designer and all at greatly reduced prices. This classic, single-breasted coat is a mix of wool and cashmere and is shown in a sophisticated dark charcoal, which is easier to wear than black. It is currently reduced from £299 to £149. The striped scarf is also reduced by 50 per cent and is now £15. I also like this blue and brown gingham shirt, which is especially good value at just £25, reduced from £65. The blue and brown colour combination makes it a very versatile piece which would work well with smart dark wash jeans; open-necked under a navy, dark brown or charcoal grey blazer, or with a simple crew or V-neck knit. The three pieces shown here would make a great start to a smart casual wardrobe, all for under £200.
Q. My future husband has booked a luxury honeymoon for us in Mauritius and I would love to invest in a swimwear wardrobe that is super chic and glamorous. Will I need to go to London to find something?
A. No need to head to London, you will find just what you're looking for in Cheltenham's Montpellier Courtyard.
Lingerie and swimwear store Verite Louise has just taken delivery of the most divine collection from British designer label Heidi Klein.
Famous for providing swimwear to the stars, including Gwyneth Paltrow and Kylie Minogue, Heidi Klein is perfect if you're looking for something super stylish that will fit and wear well.
Prices start from £120 for a bikini, while beach dresses such as this marine blue one sell for around £350.
Design team Heidi Gosman and Penny Klein are renowned for selecting fabrics that perform equally well in the water as they do on the beach and into the evening.
This yellow and white bikini would look amazing next to tanned skin and I particularly like the seductive subtlety of this sheer cover-up edged with gold. You will certainly feel just as glamorous on the beach as you did on your wedding day. Have a wonderful time.
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