We talk Summer holiday style with Red’s Fashion Director, Emily Gegg. Here’s her ultimate Staycation vs. Vacation outfits.

“If you choose to stay closer to home over the summer this versatile look will guide you through the slightly unpredictable weather forecasts. These great pastel jeans are so on trend, roll them up slightly at the ankle and team with wedges, perfect for women on the go. Stripes are so flattering and I love the grey and ivory combination on this slouchy vest, style it with this lightweight trench to provide the perfect solution for any summer showers. To give the look more of a fashion edge you could replace the belt on the trench with this skinny version or with a gorgeous leather bag slung cross body.”

“This is the perfect holiday outfit, simple but chic, I love the vibrant green of this dress (coming soon) and it would look great with a tan. Team it with a belt simply tied at the waist with a knot, flat sandals to show off your summer pedi, oversized sunglasses for all out glamour and finish the look with a statement necklace.”

We catch up with our favourite Journalist and all round funny girl, Dawn Porter.

Who or what inspired you most when you were starting out in your career?
OK, this will sound ridiculous, but when The Spice Girls took over the world I honestly thought ‘if they can do it, I can do it’. Turns out, it is quite hard to do.

What has been your career highlight?
Signing the deal for my first piece of fiction. It was always the dream but I never thought I would achieve it. I actually sobbed with joy.

What are you working on at the moment?
I am writing the first in a series of two books about two young girls called, Renée and Flo. It focuses on women’s relationships with each other. How awful we can be to each other, but how life changing a true friendship really is. It is loosely based on my own teenage years.

What’s the last useful thing you learned?
To let the past go and to focus on the present. I have never been one to obsess about the future and what it might bring, but I do have a tendency to wallow in the past.

Where do you go to get away from it all?
I walk my dog. That is an hour of personal therapy every morning. It is when I do all of my thinking. I can leave the house one person, and come back another.

What can you simply not live without?
Food. As fuel to stay alive but also as the thing I get the most pleasure from that doesn’t have a heartbeat.

Who or what makes you laugh?
My fiancé. We laugh all the time. I am quite a bit funnier than him though, but he tries. Bless him!

What’s your best piece of styling advice you were ever given?
Dress for you, not for fashion. Trying to be fashionable is the kiss of death for most people.

What do you love from MV’s current collection?
The navy and stone shift is really cool!

What’s your motto?
Deal with it! (Or at least try).

Read Dawn’s blog, The Dawn Report, here

Interview in association with Wellbeing of Women

We interviewed Maria Hatzistefanis, founder of Rodial, on her top tips to achieving the perfect summer glow.

Maria knows just what women want from a beauty range; as a Beauty Editor at a top Greek glossy mag, she listened to her readers, and realised that there was a gap in the market for a skincare range that would tackle real beauty challenges using natural ingredients.

Each and every Rodial product contains Pomegranate Ellagic Tannin, specifically chosen by Maria for its collagen-boosting, skin firming properties. Maria was inspired by her Greek grandmother who used to make a rich face cream made with pomegranate juice to protect her skin from the sun.

Now living in London, with her husband and two sons, Maria continues to develop her range of clinically proven skin care products. She heads back to her roots each year to take time out on the beaches of Mykono.

Is it advisable to tan before going on holiday, or does this hinder the chances of developing a natural tan?
I would definitely recommend using a tan before going on holiday to feel uber confident when you hit the beach. It won’t affect the chances of developing a natural tan but remember to use an SPF for sun protection!

What are your top tips on achieving an even application and avoiding a streaky tan?
Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! This is a must as it helps to leave skin with a smooth base that will allow tan to glide on without those tell-tale streaks! Rodial’s new Brazilian tan Scrub is my new obsession. Once you have exfoliated, use a moisturiser on dry areas like elbows and knees to prevent patches forming. Apply the tan evenly starting from the face and gently smoothly all over the body. Let it dry and voila, your perfect tan!

Would you advise using a different product on your face than that used on your body?
Yes as the skin on your face is much more delicate. I created Brazilian tan FACE that hydrates with hyaluronic acid and also contains with skin smoothing peptides for that flawless glow with added benefits!

How do you prevent fake tan rubbing off on clothing?
Firstly, make sure your tan is completely dry before putting on clothing. Wear dark, loose fitted clothing to ensure it does not stain!

What is the best procedure to avoid those dreaded brown palms when applying?
You can either use a mitt or gloves to avoid tan staining your hands. Another top tip is to rub toothpaste on your palms after tanning for a quick fix for any tanning mishaps!

Which products are best used for fair and dark skin?
I would advise using Brazilian tan LIGHT for fair skin, as it leaves an instant caramel tint that really suits the English rose complexion. You could also try mixing the tan with glamtox day SPF18 for a light, protecting face tint! For darker skin, Brazilian tan DARK develops into a really rich colour that leaves a gorgeous, dark glow!

WIN A LUXURY RODIAL HAMPER
Win a luxury hamper full of of Rodial Self Tanning products. For a chance to win simply tell us what is the best way to avoid a streaky tan? Send in your answer to relaxedglamour@mintvelvet.co.uk.

Terms and Conditions: The prize is one hamper full of Rodial Self Tanning products. Entry to this draw implies acceptance of these conditions. By entering this competition you are agreeing to receive communications from Mint Velvet by email, post or text message. You can opt out at any time. Only one entry per person, per household. Entrants must be UK residents. Employees of Mint Velvet and any associated companies may not enter the draw. Likewise any of their dependants, relatives, agents, or any other persons connected with the promotion may not enter the draw.
All entries must be received by 16.00pm on 11th May 2012. The winner will be drawn on May 11th 2012. The prizes must be accepted as offered. No cash alternatives. The winner will be notified within 5 days of the relevant draw. No purchase is necessary. The promoter is Sabre Retail Fashion Limited t/a Mint Velvet, Prospect House, Crendon St, High Wycombe, HP13 6LA.

I am having trouble finding spring summer clothes. I love your 1950s inspired dress however, would this would be ok on a middle-aged woman? Help. Linda, Coventry.

I think it is important to remember that middle aged women can still follow the trends without feeling as though they have tried to recapture their youth. Achieving the right look is all about styling, and as a rule of thumb I would always remember two things; choose the right colours and find the perfect fit.

A perfect fit can help hide those problem areas and the Luisa Print 50s Dress has a figure flattering design, drawing in at the waist to create an hourglass silhouette. The print is very on trend for this season but if you didn’t want to brave the pinks you could always opt for a more subtle approach to the 50s trend with a printed full skirt. This season is full of vibrant colours and pastel shades so if you’re looking for a new wardrobe, why not mix it up with a bright summer dress like the Caitlyn print – perfect for a summer occasion.

Lisa, MV Buying Director

To ask our Style SOS team a question email: email relaxedglamour@mintvelvet.co.uk

We take 10 minutes with Sharon Small, Scottish” Mistresses” actress, acclaimed for her dramatic work in film, radio, theatre and television.

Who or what inspired you most when you were starting out in your career?
Seeing Sally Field in “Sybil” inspired me to act before I even thought it was possible to go to drama school and the ambition to work at the great theatres. I still pinch myself when I get the chance to work at the National and the Donmar Warehouse.

What has been your career highlight?
Theatre: “Men Should Weep” at the National theatre last year and “Insignificance” playing Marilyn Monroe at Chichester.
TV: “Glasgow Kiss” and “Mistresses”
Film: “Dear Frankie” and “About a Boy”

What are you working on at the moment?
Mostly being a mum, but about to play guest lead in “Silent Witness”

What’s the last useful thing you learned?
You can remove water marks from furniture by placing a tea towel over them and ironing them. Sounds daft but it works like magic.

Where do you go to get away from it all?
I’ve just started running and that gives me space to think (in a good way). Alternatively, getting lost in a good film.

What can you simply not live without?
Cuddles from my sons. Hairspray (in that order).

Who or what makes you laugh?
The quiet, silly wit of my nearly husband and Modern Family.

What’s your best piece of styling advice you were ever given?
Pay more for good tailoring and Rigby and Peller bras.

What do you love from MV’s current collection?
Stone long leather boots, The Ivory lace scarf, Shell pink Ruffle top, and the Slate Trench coat.

What’s your motto?
Every day is a new start. Use it well and with love.

Interview in association with Wellbeing of Women

My wardrobe is in desperate need of a Spring clean. I have a budget of £200 and am determined to get a great buy to see me through the season. Is there a key piece from MV you would suggest?

One of our leather jackets would be a perfect buy to last you through this season and beyond! They are such a versatile edition to your wardobe, work great paired with casual jeans and can add a cool, edgy look to a summer dress. There are not many things that look better with age but a leather jacket is definitely one of them. MV leather is so butter soft it wears incredibly well and adds authentic glamour to any outfit.

Liz, Managing Director, MV

To ask our Style SOS team a question email: email relaxedglamour@mintvelvet.co.uk

We’re true believers that being a mum doesn’t mean sacrificing your style, and that’s why we’re paying homage to those mums who arrive at the school gates looking effortlessly cool (even if they’ve been knee deep in Marmite, homework and floods of tears 5 minutes earlier). To all the MIS we salute you.

We headed to our Muswell Hill store, where some of our MIS showed us what they’re wearing this season!

Sandra wears: Ivory linen shorts, Red sandals
Jenny wears: Red sandals, Navy slouch T, Red leather wedges
Fran wears: Pink jeans, Mink espadrilles

Seren wears: Stone leather jacket, Sorbet linen vest, Skinny jean, Black suede boots
Natasha wears: Sequin top, Sateen trouser, Stone patent pumps
Diane wears: Vest, Stripe jacket, Taupe sandal

Sandra wears: Neutral leather jacket, Black jegging
Seren wears: Charlotte sunglasses, Black tregging, Stone patent pumps
Natasha wears: Luisa dress, Stone patent pumps

Photography by Haley Monty-Bell

1. Begin with 3-step skin care: Cleanse tone and moisturise. Preparing the skin well is a really important part of your make-up application routine. Give yourself a little more time if possible and apply the moisturiser, gently massaging the face. This will help your skin to look healthier and more radiant as it improves the blood circulation. If your skin tends to go shiny during the day use a gentle exfoliating scrub in the AM before you start you routine.
2. Apply foundation lightly on to skin with fingers, and use a sponge to take of the excess.
3. Conceal under the eyes and over any blemishes with a small amount, dabbing rather than smoothing on.
4. Groom the eyebrows into a neat shape with an eyebrow tool or brush.
5. Sculpt face to bring your cheekbones out. This can be done with a bronzer. Follow the shape of your cheekbones under the apple with a brush. Then from the outer corner of your eyes on the temples and gently around the hairline and on the forehead. This technique is used by professional make-up artists to make the models face looks slimmer. Follow with a light dusting of light pink summery blusher in a C shape on the apple cheeks.
6. Lightly apply a base to the eyes. This will ensure your makeup stays put even on the hottest of days.
7. For a fresh spring look, apply brown eye shadow in the outer corner of the eye in the socket line and lash line, blending only half way over into the middle of the lid, and creating in a V shape. Use the same eye shadow underneath the eye line towards the inner corner. Brown tones will work with most skin types and give a natural look. Brown also brings out the blue in the blue eyes or pushes out the green in lighter shades of brown eyes.
8. To open the apply white eyeliner in the water line.
9. Highlight the arch under the eyebrow with a pale shape eye shadow. We love champagne or beige.
10. Using a brush apply powder to set the foundation, and only on the places that need it, such as T zone and the chin and the forehead.
11. Curl the lashes, and apply mascara to the top lashes only. This keeps the eyes wide and fresh
12. If you want to define the eyes more, use a liner on the top – this is has been a key beauty trend over the last few seasons, and is here to stay, so give it a try!
13. For the final touches, apply lipstick (this season, we love the candy pink shades) or dab on a high shine lip-gloss.

Photography by Haley Monty-Bell

What advice would you give to keep me on trend this season?

It’s always best to invest in a couple of trends each season, rather than a mixture of everything. That way your look is coordinated and will work with your existing wardrobe. This Summer the big trends are florals, fit and full 50s silhouettes, cosmetic tones, pastels, block brights and tailoring. If you prefer neutral tones, then perhaps invest in some floral prints to give your look a colourful update. If you’re a denim lover, why not try some sorbet coloured denim, or team jeans with peplum tops and cardis for a cool retro look. If workwear dictates your wardrobe, invest in some new cool tailoring for summer. A relaxed boyfriend blazer is smart enough for the office but can also be dressed down at the weekend for a more chic vibe. Try opting for a punchy colour, like our candy pink style, to add a playful twist to the look.

Beth, PR and Marketing Manager, MV

To ask our Style SOS team a question email: email relaxedglamour@mintvelvet.co.uk

Spring has sprung, and wedding season is just around the corner, but what to wear? With weddings coming in all shapes and sizes now, we’re no longer bound by the strict style rules of occasions past. Kate Rose Morris, Deputy Fashion Editor at Stella, takes us through her ultimate wedding outfits to suit the occasion.

An evening wedding is likely to be a fairly formal affair, but that shouldn’t mean you need to splash out on something you’ll never wear again. Try high shine, high impact pieces, like a metallic skirt or silk blouse. Keep the look tonal and the accessories to a delicate finishing touch.
1 – Sequin Skirt
2 – Silk Blouse
3 – Sateen Blazer
4 – Suede Strap Sandal
5 – Humming Bird Necklace

An Ibiza style wedding is all about bohemian glamour. Keep it simple and chic in a feminine dress, teamed with statement accesries
1 – Blocked A-Line Dress
2 – Marlin Sunglasses
3 – Ochre Strap Sandal
4 – Patent Clutch (coming soon)

A beach style wedding is a chilled out affair. Take it easy, and look gorgeous at the same time, in a floor sweeping maxi. Team with easy wedges and must-have sunnies. A cute cropped jacket will add some glamour to the look.
1 – Sateen Jacket
2 – Talia Print Maxi (coming soon)
3 – Rope Wedges
4 – Sunna Margot Sunglasses

With the roaring 20s well and truly in Vogue, vintage style weddings are becoming even more popular. Opt for understated glamour in a 20s flapper style dress. Team with an ivory blazer for some wow appeal.
1 – Scallop Hem Dress
2 – Ivory Boyfriend Blazer
3 – Ivory Long Beads
4 – Jane Sunglasses
5 – Nude Leather Slingbacks

Heading off to the country? Then embrace the floral trends and inject some English Country Garden into the look. Team with killer heels and a soft cardi. Let the prints do the talking, and keep accessories to a bare minimum.
1 – Sophie Print Dress (coming soon)
2 – Teacup charm necklace
3 – Ivory Lurex Trim Cardigan
4 – Patent Peep Toes