Pauline Bishop Image

06/06/2026

This is why I love what I do - simple changes, understanding and knowledge (rather than just shopping), and confidence to be who you are.

Get in touch if you'd like to know more.

05/06/2026

We’ve all bought that "bargain" sweater that sits in the wardrobe with the tags on because it makes us look washed out. In finance, they call this a sunk cost; in fashion, it’s the Bad Colour Tax.

The true value of a garment is measured by Cost Per Wear (CPW):

A £200 coat you wear every day costs pennies over time. A £15 "final sale" shirt that drains the life from your face costs infinite pounds because you'll never wear it. And if it's too cheap, there's a good chance it's not a quality garments and won't last anyway.

Colour Analysis is more than a makeover - it’s a financial filter. When you know your palette, you stop guessing when you’re shopping. You eliminate impulse buys that don't love you back and ensure every penny spent contributes to a high-use, high-ROI (return on investment) wardrobe.

The Bottom Line: think like an accountant. Stop wasting money on "cheap" mistakes. Invest in your palette once, and never pay the Bad Colour Tax again.

Deciding not to fall for spontaneous sale bargains will also make you consider your purchases more carefully. As well as harmonising with your colouring:

will it make an outfit with something you already have? 

is it appropriate for your lifestyle?

does it work with your shape?

is it likely that someone has been exploited in its manufacture? (this will also ensure its quality - a sweatshop garment is not going to last)

is it made of a sustainable fabric?

Lots of questions to consider, but purchases SHOULD be carefully thought through before you spend your precious cash.

As Vivienne Westwood said, 'buy less, choose well, make it last.'

04/06/2026

Satin slip dresses are everywhere right now, but the secret to making them look chic rather than like nightwear is contrast (and I don’t mean colour!). Add structure with a blazer or knit, pair with block heel sandals or trainers, and mix satin with matte textures such as suede or denim for an effortlessly stylish look. Lace trims are what usually push satin into lingerie territory. Cleaner, minimalist slip dresses are easier to style for daytime.

It will depend on your personality, but mixing levels of formality in an outfit often works really well - think trainers and a denim jacket with your floral dress or smart skirt. It's a little bit edgier, and not one for traditional Classics, but an easy update to your look.

02/06/2026

If you love it, yes it is! Who am I to say you can't wear a colour you love? Colour should bring you joy, but also the confidence that it's working to enhance you, not drain you.

One of the many strengths of the tonal system is that it's as much about HOW to wear colour as the colour to wear, or just 'wear this colour'. See how one blue shade can work in every palette!

01/06/2026

email [email protected]

01/06/2026

It's a lot about the fabric, and there are no surprises here: curvy bodies need soft, fluid fabrics to fit over them; straight bodies need more structured, straighter woven fabrics.

More importantly, If a dress doesn't seem to fit, it's not you that’s wrong, but check the fabric of the dress against your type of body as a first pointer.

02/05/2026

02/05/2026

Polka dots are making a strong comeback, but the key is choosing the right dot for you. They come in different sizes, scales and colour combinations, so think beyond the classic black and white. See how more delicate combinations, like pale blue and white, can be especially flattering on those with lighter colouring and create a fresh, elegant look, while a stronger shade will reflect a deeper appearance.

Also bear in mind the level of contrast - a strong contrast harmonises with those who have clear contrast between their hair and eye colour; this may overwhelm those with more muted colouring, who would shine in a more medium blend.

And consider scale in relation to your frame: larger dots tend to work beautifully on bigger frames, while smaller, more delicate dots can complement petite proportions.

The most flattering print is one that feels balanced with your colouring, shape and personal style. Understanding this is the key to a wardrobe that works, and avoiding buying things you don’t wear enough

Pic from Next

29/04/2026

As time goes by, appearance changes. We lose pigment from our hair (that's what makes it appear grey), and often from our skin as well. Colour analysis determines the type of colours that harmonise with your appearance, so it follows that if your appearance changes, your colour palette will change too. For some, this will require just a small tweak, but for others, it can be quite drastic. Imagine someone who had deep auburn hair when they were younger, but is now completely grey - the same colour palette couldn't possibly make both these appearances look radiant.

Take a look in the mirror. Now close your eyes and open them again. What do you see first? Is your attention drawn first to your clothing or your face? If it is your clothing, that may be a sign that your palette needs an update.

I still love yellow and bright blue together, but I will keep it my kitchen, rather than on me.

Look great, feel confident and be yourself, whenever, whatever!

02/04/2026

colour and style ideas for the new season - available now to your email inbox
[email protected]