Oh Sweet Sweet September….the promise of all the new magic that comes with Spring. Everything seems possible. There is optimism in the air and the store windows seem so inviting with their bright sunny colours. It is my favourite time to shop! With winter being so balmy this year, the spring collections have been introduced earlier than ever before, so I really encourage you to get out there and enjoy the vibrancy that is in store now.

Brights with a more than a hint of an 80’s influence are fabulous especially for ‘Springs’ and ‘Winters’ which will perfectly compliment their bright eyes, clear skin and shiny hair. Summers and Autumns are in luck too with lots of earthy colours as the environmental trend continues with beautiful blues, greens and especially nudes.

Nude shoes are HUGE. They are extra special because they elongate your legs which is a bonus for absolutely everyone. Sandals , especially with lots of straps, will make summer casual yet still sophisticated. Be careful of ankle straps though if you have fuller calf muscles. The Metallic trend in shoes and accessories continues this year, with the addition of even more sparkle- think sequins, shiny stones and lots of bling. I attended a lunch recently with Samantha Wills and her designs are divine. I especially love the way you can layer the pieces together- this year it is not about being “matchy matchy” but creating your own unique combination. Have fun layering different sizes and colours of accessories together and don’t be afraid to mix golds, silver and bronze together- it is all about creating your own look.

Prints continue to be a huge trend. The hot fun trend is leopard print- traditional tan and black in Lisa Ho, or unusual colours in Wayne Cooper- there is something for everyone. You can also add just a touch through a bag or shoes for a bit of daring flare! Pretty feminine floral prints are also truly beautiful this year with paisleys being a new trend out and about- Marc Jacobs has some really fun funky neon brights which are very ‘punk glam’.

Hair is getting bigger! More bounce and body with that 80’s Farrah Fawcett influence again (although don’t put away your GHD just yet- the straight trend will be here for a tad longer!).

Look out for new fragrances to give to inspire a new summer you. My two new favourites are Essence by Narciso Rodriguez and the Sunshine Fragrance by Clarins for a really sunny day- it gives you the feeling of being at the beach. Heavenly!

I am also loving Cover Girl’s new lip stains which are BRILLIANT! They stain your lips in shades of berry, pinks or red and then you can add your favourite lip gloss for a look that will stay for a lot longer than lip gloss alone. I am a raving fan! This is also a good time of year to whiten your teeth as you are likely to wear more white in summer and you don’t want your teeth to be looking yellow against your summer white tanks! I personally like the trays that you get from your dentist that are moulded especially for your teeth, and then you use a serum with the trays for about 30 mins for about 10 days to have a really sparkling smile!

And finally, fake tan. For a special occasion, I love to get a spray tan (Ciao Bella in Darlinghurst is the one I highly recommend). I also love Palmers Cocoa Butter Everyday Tan as it smells yummy and gives you a lovely golden tan gradually and will keep your spray tan for longer. It is wonderful! And it is also a good idea to pat some on a couple of days before swim suit shopping- be kind to yourself!
Remember I am here to help you if you would like a special spring clean for your wardrobe to make extra room for some new spectacular additions, or if you would like some new ideas on how to wear your favourite pieces, or if you are feeling unsure of what to wear with what- it is my absolute favourite thing to do! Or if you have a desire for an expert to take you shopping, it would be my honour- especially on these sunny days it is a true joy.

Your smile and posture are just as important as anything you are wearing, so stand tall with a genuine smile as you celebrate that spring is really here- enjoy!

Some of my favourite Spring Beauty must haves:

• Covergirl Lash Blast Volumizing Mascara- very easy to use and gives your lashes extra oomph and is easy to remove. The Lash Blast in luxe gives you a hint of shimmer too
• Georgio Armani Silk Foundation- glides on and gives medium coverage and doesn’t clog your pores
• Shu Umera Eye Lash Curler- every woman should have one! Instant gratification!
• Chanel Lipgloss- I adore colour 105 in the “Levres Scintillantes Glossimer” range which has enough delicious pink pigment and sparkle to brighten any smile
• Nars Jungle Red Lip Liner- helps keep your red lipstick in place and is perfect for cool clear “winter” colour palettes
• Body Shop Exfoliating Gloves- your skin will feel like silk- you will become addicted
• Essie and OPI Nail Polish- my favourites are OPI Red, Essie Exotic Liras for a berry pink tone- guaranteed to make you smile