Colour. Never underestimate the power of wearing a vibrant, bright, flattering colour. If you’re feeling tired, or just not at your best, the energy inducing effects of a well chosen hue against your skin is remarkable. I think that as we get older and life admin and other people’s needs take over from our own, it is easy to slip into a wardrobe of muted tones. Black, navy, grey…..all tones that are easy to put together and require no effort. Don’t get me wrong, these are all colours that I love in a wardrobe - and are necessary as ‘linking’ pieces - but don’t let them sap all the brightness out of your closet. For example, mum’s outfit here is predominantly navy and white. That is fine, and a chic combination, but the burnt orange scarf adds interest, flair and brings life to the outfit. Putting colour around your face can be as effective as a full face of make up - and a lot less time consuming when you’re on the run.

It is possible to have your ‘colours done’, and there is merit to this as most people have colours that suit them better than others. However, don’t allow yourself to become too preoccupied with this concept. There is also a lot to be said for a great outfit, and indeed fab colour combination, speaking for itself. As a general rule, the only hues that spring to mind which can be quite tricky to wear are acidic colours, particularly yellows and orange with plenty of yellow in it. Otherwise most blues, greens and pinks suit most complexions. SO have fun with it! Wear what you are drawn to and you won’t go too wrong.

N.B. Navy is generally an easier base tone than black. Black is a very harsh colour and can be trickier to pair with brighter hues than navy.

When putting together an outfit, it can be helpful to think in terms of three colours. So here, mum’s base colour is navy, the dominant colour is burnt orange and her burgundy shoes and socks are a tone of the dominant colour.

Otherwise, you can do as I have done and choose two dominant colours - navy and green - then add a pop of something completely different but complimentary, in this case, orange. I hope that this helps!