Beating the cold and the credit crunch

By the award-winning Tommy McEwan, Glasgow Fort fashion expert

The weather may be as gloomy as the economy just now, but you and your bank balance can both stay warm this season with my pick of the must-have items your wardrobe needs to keep out the chill and keep you out of the red.

The autumn/winter 2008 fashion shows were full of girly prom dresses and extravagant details. For 2009, it is very much back to basics with cosy knits, chic waistcoats, fun jumpsuits and easy layering, to make sure you get the best value for your hard-earned money.

Looking for some new knitwear but not sure where to find it? Principles has a great selection of warm tunics, cardigans and jumpers. Including the oatmeal linen mix organic waistcoat for £39. This would look ideal with a roll-neck jumper, jeans and boots. Another place to look is Top Shop, which has a great, heavy knit cardigan in black/grey and purple/grey for £38.

One trend which is going to be big this spring, is the jumpsuit, like Top Shop’s ruffle front jumpsuit for £45. Wear with tights, a roll-neck and high heels.

If it’s jeans you’re after, look no further than Oasis which has one of the best selections at the moment. They are currently selling mid- to high-rise jeans which are great if you’re trying to hide your post-Christmas stomach. The mid-rise jeans in black for £45 are the perfect staple for every wardrobe.

Mamas and Papas do maternity wear for every occasion, including a beautiful embroidered tunic for £45. Enjoy the luxury of silk, decadence of a rich purple hue and exquisitely detailed embroidery in sizes 8-18.

If you want to invest in some stylish boots, but only want to pay half the price, Faith has some ‘Just Sheepskin’ boots which are virtually identical to the well-known Australian brand for only £95.

Go all rock-chick whilst keeping warm in a faux leather bomber jacket, £35 from Dorothy Perkins, which is practical and great value for money.

Finally, if your work wardrobe could do with sprucing up, get your new suit from Next. Their grey pin-stripe jacket costs £65, with matching trousers for £35. This is guaranteed to keep you looking your best during the morning rush-hour

What to wear to spark some fireworks this Guy Fawkes night!

By the award-winning Tommy McEwan, Glasgow Fort Fashion Expert

Pink to make the boys wink!
By the award-winning Tommy McEwan, Glasgow Fort Fashion Expert

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and there’s no better time to be pretty in pink. Lots of shops are stocking pink-hued items and you can be as bold or subtle as you like. Also, some of the ranges are donating a percentage of the sale to the various breast cancer charities – so it’s good to know that you’re helping a worthy cause whilst looking stylish at the same time.

For those girlies who love pink - the brighter the colour the better - magenta or hot pink coloured high heels look great when teamed with black tights and a slinky black pencil skirt. Or a bright cardi is ideal to wear over a plain black dress. If you’re not keen on bubblegum pink, then why no got for flashes of colour in the form of accessories. Cute leather driving gloves are not only practical, but they look great too, especially if you have a matching handbag – very Victoria Beckham.

But if you want to keep the pink colours behind closed doors, opt for some sexy pyjamas and lingerie. Asda Living is stocking the Tickled Pink range and there’s an array of gorgeous goodies to choose from –you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Credit Crunch Chic!
By the award-winning Tommy McEwan, Glasgow Fort Fashion Expert

The credit crunch maybe a pain in the purse at the moment, but even if the cash isn’t flowing as easily as you’d like it that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look good.

First of all: take a look at your wardrobe. You might have a couple of weddings coming up or a friend’s barbeque to attend, so how can you make the most of what you already have whilst incorporating some of this season’s key trends to keep you looking cool and trendy all summer long?

Glasgow Fort fashion expert Tommy McEwan has the answer:

Just now, everyone is feeling the pinch in their pockets.  But you can brighten up a dull wardrobe and enjoy a little slice of retail therapy by buying trendy accessories which will keep you looking up-to-date.

You don’t have to spend a fortune in looking good as the key is to invest in fashion that you can wear in different ways, like pretty scarves or funky belts with unusual buckles.

Also, think like Gok Wan and inject some colour with skinny or extra-wide waisted belts, clutch bags and big jewellery – so simple, yet so effective.

Also, as you get your finances sorted, have a look through your wardobe and ask yourself, does it fit?  Will I ever wear this again?  What do you really need to buy, as opposed to what you want to buy.  Shopping is far less stressfull when you are making investment in something necessary that will last that bit longer, just like when you are buying a car or new furniture.

Glasgow Fort has some great treasures like the following picks:

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