"Amy Amy Amy"

This blog is about fashion and those who inspire trends. Amy Winehouse, although perhaps not in recent years, absolutely carved her own niche and created a look that no one else could have pulled off. Beehive extremities with the craziest liquid eyeliner I've ever seen, Amy was unmistakeably an individual.

Insanely sad that she's no longer, but we have her music to remember her incredible talent.

You'll be missed.

Camelia, Director of The Divine Image x

Simply The Best by LK Bennett

I’ve just treated myself to a sexy pair of nude coloured LK Bennett Sledge2 platform heels that our very own Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge was seen wearing at the Epsom’s Derby Races.

I wore these shoes when I was presenting at a fashion show in Kingston and they were just perfect – they looked sexy, they made my legs look longer and more toned, yet they didn’t make me feel nervous about striding out onto a stage in front of an audience. Nude patent shoes are a great trick anyhow – they really elongate your legs and look great with just about anything. Seriously. That’s why I own about four pairs of nude courts, but these are by far my favourite – and most frequently worn. The patent leather is superb, the shade of nude is spot-on – not too pinky, not too grey, and the glossy patent is drop dead sexy! Love it!

Camelia, Director of The Divine Image x

What To Wear On A First Date

Your first date is all about the entire package you present when you walk in the room.  So for just a minute, let’s forget about picking out your first date outfit.  The main focus is what attitude you will wear when you meet up with this new person. 

You want to stay true to who you are, not an overly exaggerated version of yourself.  Exude confidence and comfort with your own image, not necessarily arrogance.  Stay positive about the date and the possibilities it holds, but not overly eager.  Keep your energy up, but don’t get too intense or nervous.  Make the effort to remain open and attentive to the other person and what s/he is presenting to you.  And remember minding your manners or a little chivalry takes you a long way.

The goal is not to fake your date out with how great of a person you can pretend to be.  It is to see if they like you as you are, and vice versa.  Honestly putting forth the best you help to cut out half of the games, suspicions and early trust issues that many singles experience when getting to know a romantic interest.

With that understanding, we can get dressed.  So it’s time to get fly.  Turn up that swag.  Of course!  Alright, slow down.  Scroll back up to the beginning and apply similar ideas to your clothes, accessories, shoes and hair style/hair cut.  What’s your favourite (presentable) dress or shirt?  The one you know turns heads and accents all your hotness.  The one that makes you feel comfortable and you move around in easily.  Ladies, don’t bother with the dress you have to readjust all night to prevent your cleavage from hanging across the dinner table. Gentlemen, don’t even think about the tight muscle shirt you can’t breathe in because you’re too busy holding in your gut.  Leave the outfit that makes you look like you are trying too hard in the closet.  Go for your sexy, but hold back from the slutty and gaudy.  As much as you may love Katie Price or Tom Jones, this is not your opportunity to channel them. 

Adorn yourself in jewellery that complements your attire.  However, stay away from the huge ‘bling’ watch too heavy for your hand to carry.  Put on the shoes you can manage throughout the night.  Forget about the 5 inch stilettos if they make your ankles wobble.  You know which hair styles/cuts you get the most compliments on, so stick to one of those.

Here is your practical cheat sheet:

• Dress according to the weather and activity, if you know it ahead of time.
  Risk being overdressed, rather than showing up to a five-star restaurant in jeans and a t-shirt.
  Options for Ladies – Preferably a little black dress with a simple and sophisticated accessory.
  Options for Gentlemen - A dark suit, preferably in gray and a white shirt or my favourite, a navy pin stripe suit with a light pink shirt. For the day, wear a pair of jeans, a crisp white cotton short and a good blazer.
• Make sure everything is clean and pressed. (If you can tell it’s not fresh, they can too.)
• Opt for the better quality shoes.
  Ladies - Wear heels you can tolerate and carry flats in your purse.
• If you wear makeup, keep it close to a natural look.  Bright eye shadow and false eyelashes will more than likely scare your date.
• Avoid anything too trendy. 
• Follow the fabulous Coco Chanel’s advice, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and remove one accessory.”

Do not be afraid to try something new here.  Just make sure to first try it out a day or two before the date. This should take the initial anxiety out of what to wear on a first date.  Good Luck and Happy Dating!

Camelia, MD of The Divine Image x

Happy Spring!

Happy Easter everyone and hope you're enjoying the  gorgeous sunshine! Apologies for going quiet in the last few weeks but I have been busy filming for a show which will be aired on ITV in June. 

I purchased two beautiful dresses from Reiss this weekend to wear on the show and absolutely love them! 

The first is the iconic Coral Vermillion Reiss Peacock dress with mesh and cording embroidery at the top, is the perfect occasion dress for Spring. 

The dress has a wide round neck, fastens with a concealed zip at the back and cinches in at the waist. The heavily lined and full skirt gave it a super flattering finish. The colour of this dress looked divine on my skin and it truly is one of my best ever buys. At £195, it is an absolute bargain.

My second purchase was the stunning Saffron Blue Reiss dress. A chic occasion wear option with a flattering gathered panelled waist. This beautiful dress is sleeveless with a deep v-neck and a fully lined skirt. A feminine and romantic dress at only £189 teamed up with cream or  black patent high heels and a clutch for high impact glamour. 

Fashion has got brighter this season with bold and eclectic pops of colour. Utilising colour on both clothing and accessories is a simple way to rescue your wardrobe from a drab winter palette and add a touch of Spring to any ensemble. 

Have a gorgeous Spring everyone! 

Director of The Divine Image, Camelia x

Dating Divas

I had a researcher contact me this morning from a tv production company who asked me to be on the panel of experts for a dating show. We talked about dating etiquette and what women should do on a first date and I shared some practical tips with her. 

It made me think that there was a time when dating was so simple.

Men were expected to be gentlemen and women were expected to be ladies. Their roles were clear-cut. In recent times single women are often mixed up about proper dating etiquette. This is particularly true if you are re-entering the singles scene after years of being half of a married couple. It can be quite traumatic to play the "dating game" without knowing the rules.

Singles often feel in a "damned if I do, damned if I don't" situation. For example, if you're a man and automatically pick up the check at a restaurant, you may gain points with one woman but antagonize another. If you're a woman and prefer to pay your own way you'll find that some men love it and others hate it. So what are the rules for dating in London today?

Be Confident

Confidence is one of the sexiest things about a woman. You’re nervous, but so is your date. Be comfortable with who you are, though. If you’re confident, it’ll show. Both you and your date will be more at ease. No matter what flaws you think you have, put them to the side. You want your date to see you as the strong, confident woman you really are. Remember, be confident, but not overbearing. Making your date feel weak and insignificant won’t exactly endear them to you.

Be Polite

Be polite to your date. Respect them. Listen to what they have to say. Basically, follow the golden rule – treat them as you wish to be treated. Even if you’ve been set up on a blind date, be nice. If you’re polite, you’ll make your date feel more comfortable which will help conversation flow better. At the very least, even a bad date won’t be quite so bad if you’re both nice to each other.

Leave the Past Behind

The last thing your date wants to hear is stories about your exes. Women are notorious for verbally comparing their exes to whomever they’re currently dating. If your date asks about your past, give them minor details and not your entire life story. The more you focus on your past dates, the more you’ll not only bore, but drive away your date. Plus, if you tell your date everything in the first few dates you’ll have nothing left to tell them later. Some information should be kept to yourself, especially your love life before them.

Stay Sober

Drinking may seem like a great way to take the edge off your nerves. However, alcohol can actually limit your ability to assess your date. If your date keeps buying you drinks, they probably don’t have the best intentions. However, if you’re drunk or even tipsy you may not notice this. Staying sober will help you be more yourself and learn more about your date. Both of you will enjoy yourselves more and have few or no regrets about your date.

Dress Decently

Dress like you want to be treated. Most women want to look sexy or attractive on their date. However, this doesn’t mean clothes so tight you can’t breathe or clothes that don’t cover more than a few inches of skin. You want your date to respect you. Wearing revealing clothing is fine if that’s what you’re comfortable in. However, don’t try to be someone you’re not. You’ll give your date the wrong idea. Dress like a lady and be confident with your looks. Remember that leaving a little to the imagination is a good thing.

Don’t Force Conversation

Never try to force the conversation. The more you force, the more awkward you’ll both feel. Let the conversation flow naturally. Ask your date about their job and hobbies. Answer their questions as well. Don’t dominate the conversation either. If you really want to get to know your date, keep the conversation balanced. Listen as much as you speak. If you appear to be a good listener as well as a conversationalist, the conversation will go well. If there are silent moments, act naturally. Take the time to study your date or your surroundings and process what you’ve learned so far.

Ending a Bad Date

Sometimes you’re date just isn’t someone you find yourself attracted to. This doesn’t mean you need to rush out on them or be rude. There are correct and polite ways to end the date. Wait until the date is over. Don’t lead them on in any way. Cut off the flirting, but still be respectful. When the time comes to say goodnight, tell them goodnight and thank them for the date itself. If they do ask if you want to go out again, tell them you had a nice time, but just didn’t feel any connection with them. Never give them a goodnight kiss unless you want a second date.

Dating etiquette for women is fairly easy to master. Be yourself, be confident and be respectful. Women should remember that men are just as nervous about dating as they are. Pay attention to your date and just enjoy yourself. Life is short and we only live once...you may not meet that someone special but you will have a lovely evening and even make a good friend out of it so have fun, girls!

Camelia x

Personal Training - My Guilty Pleasure

Personal training in my own home, at my own pace. All the kit is brought along. My wonderful trainer and now good friend is enthusiastic, goal orientated, and knows how to motivate me further each time. I pay for the time and expertise of a brilliant trainer, no sweaty gym or fancy club to support with my fees. No parking or traffic issues. It's all about me! And it works. 


Since I have been training with Carrie, I have found myself looking forward to the work outs and sessions. As a personal stylist, I need to set a good example to my clients and indeed for myself. To say I feel better for it would be an understatement. I have more energy, I look so much healthier and I'm generally enjoying life so much more. I'm even running my first 10k in a few months!! Roll on the summer!


I highly recommend Carrie from Enrich Fitness - http://www.enrichfitness.co.uk/   

Dream Dress: NW3 Collection at Hobbs

In the interests of full disclosure, I should probably admit that I wore this NW3 Military Dress (£149) for Afternoon Tea with the girls at The Petersham today.  I absolutely adore every single element of this dress, from the incredibly right shade of emerald green to its amazing feminine shape (making it perfect if you want to accentuate those va-va-va-voom curves). I especially love the little flare on the skirt, and the bow around the waist, which means you can cinch it in to accentuate your shape.   Plus, it's incredibly soft, making it feel more like you're wearing a hug than a dress. Teamed with bright red lipstick and a killer pair of heels, it's definitely the thing to wear if you're looking to make a (very) stylish statement.


Back to NW3, I love it's heritage. The name comes from Hampstead's post code, NW3 - the location of Hobbs' first store. The NW3 branding, namely a gold coin, is based on the original currency used in Hampstead a few centuries ago.The idea was to have regionalised currency so people would have to buy local and stay local..makes sense! The attention to detail is impressive, the NW3 coin is cleverly woven throughout dresses and jackets, into lining and stamped on buttons. I absolutely love this brand! 


Camelia, The Director of The Divine Image x

The 5 Minute Rule

Running? Love it or hate it, it’s one of the cheapest ways of getting fit. All you need is a pair of trainers.  But what if you’re one of those people who say “I hate running”? Try this, and I can make you enjoy, maybe even LOVE running.

Too many people think that they should be able to just put their kit on and run a couple of miles and find they get disappointed when they struggle or worse, they hurt! It’s simply because their body wasn’t ready for the stress that was put on it.  You wouldn’t run a marathon without any training but to your body a marathon could be just two miles.Get yourself a stopwatch and follow the beginners or intermediate program detailed below:

Beginners

The aim here is to get you exercising for a full 30 minutes without you getting frustrated, giving up and chucking your trainers at the cat.  

For this, we follow the “5 Minute Rule”. We treat each 5 minute segment separately and split it into a jog/walk ratio.  Firstly, walk for 5 minutes as a warm up and then jog for 1 minute before walking again for 4. During the jog, go at a comfortable pace, this isn’t about speed!  The walk is so you can recover enough to do the next 1 minute jog at the end of the 4 minutes. Do this 5 times and you’ll have been exercising for a total of 30 minutes. Who cares that you’ve only been jogging for 5 minutes in total? You! Once you get over that and realise that you were exercising for 30 minutes then you’ll start enjoying it!  Honest.

Do this a couple of times a week and then when you feel ready, increase the ratio to 1.5 mins jogging and 3.5 mins walking. If you stick to the program you’ll be progressing at a pace that your body can cope with. Your next mission is to steadily increase the ratio until you’re doing 4 mins jogging and 1 min walking. At this stage I’d class you as an intermediate runner, nice one!!!  It is important to let your body get used to this new regime, so every 4 weeks, have an easier week by stepping back a ratio or reduce the times you jog and also make sure you stretch after each session.

Intermediate –

The aim here is to get you exercising for a full 60 minutes

Simple, follow the beginners programme but run instead of jog, increase your pace to increase the benefits.  Once you can achieve this for 30 mins, progress on to the 10 minute rule.  Start with a 6/4 ratio and when you feel ready then move onto 7/3, 8/2 etc.  By the time you achieve the 9/1 ratio, you’ll be well on your way to running your first 5k or 10 k or marathon!

When I trained a certain Irish ex Blue Peter presenter for the 2006 London Marathon, we adopted this method to complete it and she never ‘hit the wall’.

Good Luck and I’ll see you in the 2012 Olympics!!! 

Stuart Amory x

Find True Love for Valentine’s Day

Are you looking for love online but not having much luck with internet dating?  

Have you ever visited an online dating website and come away with the feeling that you just can’t measure up? All of these people have posted terrific profiles and you just don’t have the time or the writing experience to match them? That’s where The Divine Image can bail you out of this situation and put you on the road to success in time for Valentines!

Camelia Fredericks, London’s Female Version of Hitch and Style Guru offers “Find True Love for Valentines”.  This wonderful pampering package includes a make-up (for women only) and hair styling session, a professional photo session, website selection that fits your needs and a bespoke dating profile written just for you, by Camelia Fredericks.

Camelia will carefully craft your online dating profile to ensure it has the va va voom!  Your enticing profile, complete with a witty user name and headline and eye catching photos will make you stand out amongst the rest.

This fantastic pampering package offered to you in the comfort of your home costs £550 for both men and women. Get ready for Valentines and find true love very soon! 

.

Introducing Stuart Amory - Our New Personal Trainer

My name's Stuart Amory of In-Kilter Fitness. I've been a well known personal trainer for over 5 years and a RAF Physical Training Instructor for 10 before that. I have a Diploma in Personal Training and am also an Advanced Kettlebell and Boxercise Instructor, qualified in pre and post natal exercise and am soon to be one of a handful of Certified Bulgarian Bag Instructors in the world!

In teaching and motivating clients, celebrities and soldiers for so long it qualifies me to give to you that little helpful guidance or push in the right direction. However, it's up to you as you'll only be able to reach your goals if you really want to.

I am passionate in what I do which then drives you, the client forward to behaving and becoming healthier, fitter, more confident and look amazing. 2011 is going to be my fittest and healthiest. Follow my tips below and let this year be yours too!


Start with long term goals and then break them down into smaller short term ones that will help you on your way. Decide monthly activities, then weekly and finally daily ones, 'so to achieve my long term goal, I must
do this today'.


Be focussed with your goal. Write your goal(s) down along with a date on piece of paper and attach it to your bathroom mirror or fridge.
Dream of what you WILL feel like when you achieve that goal...if it doesn't excite you then it's not strong enough!
 
Exercise doesn't always mean 60mins at the gym, you could probably do some exercise right now! 

Saying "I have no time for exercise" will get you nowhere. Find ways to get fit...Stairs not lift, get off tube/train/bus a stop earlier, do 3 squats before you sit down.

Make this fun, why would you do something you don't enjoy and why on earth would you stick to it?!?


Get a support group and do it together. Follow @inkilterfitness on twitter and you'll join thousands feeling the same as you.


Celebrate success. We are all big kids at heart and love getting a 'well done' pat on the head, so before you achieve your goal, plan a reward!


Good luck and let's make 2011 your fittest and healthiest year yet!!!

 Stuart Amory