LIFESTYLE : HOW TO BE ALONE AT CHRISTMAS

IF YOU ARE ALONE AT CHRISTMAS BY PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES , I WANT TO SHOW YOU HOW CHRISTMAS CAN STILL BE EXTRA SPECIAL. HERE IS YOUR SURVIVAL GUIDE…….

christmas presents under a christmas tree

THROUGH MY OWN PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES I WAS FORCED INTO MANY A SOLITARY CHRISTMAS AS A SINGLE MUM. SPENDING EVERY OTHER YEAR WITH HIS DAD WAS EXTREMELY HARD TO DEAL WITH AND I DID NOT REALLY FEEL LIKE CELEBRATING SO I WOULD TAKE MYSELF OFF TO A LUXURY HOTEL AND HAVE ROOM SERVICE IN BED ALL DAY. THEN SPEND ALL BOXING DAY IN THE SPA. SO STILL MANAGED TO MAKE FOND MEMORIES.

MANY PEOPLE I KNOW WOULD REJOICE AT SPENDING CHRISTMAS ALONE SO LETS SEE IF WE CAN GIVE YOU SOME GOOD TIPS ON ENJOYING THE “BIG’ DAY AND MAKING IT SPECIAL

  • FIRSTLY YOU COULD DO WHAT I DID AND JUST TREAT YOURSELF TO A FEW NIGHTS IN A SUMPTUOUS HOTEL. LET SOMEONE ELSE DO THE COOKING !! MAKE SURE THE HOTEL HAS A SPA TO SPOIL YOU ROTTEN.
  • IF STAYING HOME ALONE. SET THE SCENE. MAKE SURE THE HOUSEWORK IS ALL DONE . YOUR HOME IS TIDY NO WASHING AND IRONING PILES. LOTS OF CANDLES. COSY BLANKETS. LOVELY XMAS TREE. MAKE AN EFFORT ….FOR YOU….YOU DESERVE IT.
cat lying on cloth
  • IF YOU DECIDE TO HAVE A DECADENT DAY IN YOUR PJS TREAT YOURSELF TO SOME GLAMOROUS ONES. SEE BELOW FOR SOME SUGGESTIONS. (IF YOU CANNOT SEE THE IMAGES CLICK ON THE URL LINK AT THE BASE OF THIS PAGE)
  • JOJOS PICKS :
  • TREAT YOURSELF TO SOME LOVELY FOOD AS YOU ARE ONLY SHOPPING FOR ONE YOU CAN GO ALL OUT. TRY M&S STUFFED TURKEY PAUPIETTES WRAPPED IN BACON. AS YOU WON’T WANT A WHOLE TURKEY. SMOKED SALMON. CAVIAR. YES THE MORE EXTRAVAGANT THE BETTER !
  • AND DON’T FORGET THE CHAMPAGNE. BUY MINI BOTTLES OF A GOOD LABEL AS YOU DO NOT WANT TO DRINK TOO MUCH WHEN YOU ARE ON YOUR OWN. THE CHAMPAGNE COMPANY (thechampagnecompany.com)SELL MINI BOTTLES OF LAURENT PERRIER FOR £10 EACH .MY FRIDGE IS STOCKED FULL OF THESE FOR WHEN I WANT ONE AT BATHTIME ! SO GOODBYE TO DAY OLD FLAT CHAMPAGNE .
close up photo of wine glass
  • PUT ON THE CHRISTMAS MUSIC IN THE MORNING !! LIFT YOUR SPIRITS WITH A GOOD DANCE AROUND THE HOUSE. GOOD EXERCISE TOO !
cheerful elderly man listening to music in headphones
  • PLAN YOUR MOVIE AFTERNOON SCHEDULE. REMEMBER THERE IS ONLY YOU TO PLEASE. YOUR CHOICE ! SNUGGLE UNDER YOUR FUR BLANKET ON THE SOFA. PLUS YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SHARE THAT CHRISTMAS CHOCOLATE EITHER.
  • DO NOT FORGET THE PRESENTS. SO SELF GIFTING IS A MUST AND AT LEAST YOU KNOW WHAT YOU LIKE. SELF GIFTING MEANS NO RE GIFTING !!! WRAP THEM BEAUTIFULLY PRIOR TO THE DAY .
  • GET OUT IN NATURE FOR A LONG WALK IN THE FRESH AIR. APPRECIATE THE COLOURS , THE BIRDSONG AND THE PEACE AND JOY OF THE BEAUTY THAT SURROUNDS YOU ON THIS WONDROUS DAY.
  • PLAN A ZOOM PARTY WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY IF YOU CANNOT BE WITH THEM THIS CHRISTMAS. SCHEDULE A TIME IN ADVANCE.
  • IT CAN BE A DIFFICULT TIME AND IF DURING THE DAY YOU GET A TOUCH OF THE BLUES DO NOT FORGET THE TRIED AND TESTED “GRATITUDE LIST”. LIST 5 THINGS YOU ARE GRATEFUL FOR AND FOCUS ON THOSE. THERE IS MUCH TO BE GRATEFUL FOR. PLAN YOUR GOALS FOR 2021 IF YOU WANT TO MAKE CHANGES THIS CAN EXCITE YOU.

SO THERE YOU HAVE IT YOUR PLAN FOR A FABULOUS CHRISTMAS ALONE. AS A SELF CONFESSED CHRISTMAS FANATIC I PROMISE YOU IT CAN STILL BE A MAGICAL TIME. NO ARGUMENTS, NO SLAVING AWAY IN THE KITCHEN, NO MISSING YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIES. THINK OF IT AS A POSITIVE TIME. IN FACT AFTER READING THIS ARTICLE I CAN SENSE THE HOLLY GREEN ENVY AS PEOPLE ABANDON THEIR CHRISTMAS PLANS GLOBALLY ! AS LONG AS IT IS NOT YOU SPORTING GRINCH GREEN!!

Don,t be a Grinch this Christmas !

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP: IF YOU THINK IT IS GOING TO BE TOUGH FOR YOU THIS CHRISTMAS DESPITE ALL THE ABOVE EXCITEMENT PLEASE REMEMBER IT IS JUST ONE DAY IT TOO SHALL PASS. AT LEAST YOU WILL BE STAYING SAFE AND HEALTHY . THE PARTICULAR XMAS THEME FOR 2020 .

MWAH MWAH

JOJO XXXXXX

STYLE: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GLASSES FOR YOU

Glasses are bang on trend right now. I know some people who wear glasses with plain lenses just to accessorise their overall look. but for some people it is a more permanent part of the way they look so it is essential that you select the right ones for you to maintain your super stylish (if you have been following this blog !) look. so whether it is reading glasses, driving glasses, all day glasses or sunglasses here is a style guide.

Glasses should not only complement your face but also your lifestyle and wardrobe. Think of them like jewellery they can add to or ruin an overall look. Either way they make a statement…..about you. Beware of overly fashionable styles as they will date quickly.

FRAME COLOUR

With metal frames if you have a cool colouring you will suit silver and a warmer tone will suit gold frames. If you are unsure hold a piece of gold or silver jewellery close to the face one will light up your complexion. If your preference is a coloured frame, then warmer skin tones will suit tan or tortoiseshell frames. Cooler tones will suit grey or cool blue. Only those with strong colouring and defined brows should consider black frames. If you have dyed hair consider its natural colour golden tones will suit warmer colours and ash tones or silver/grey will suit cooler colours.

SHAPE

Firstly let us consider your face shape. The shape of your glasses should balance your face shape. If you have a long face a wider style will look better. But a diamond shape face where the widest point is your cheekbones a narrower style will under emphasize the area. If you want to enhance your cheekbones for example on an oval face then choose a larger frame and maybe some detailed arms. Oval faces are lucky as most shapes suit their faces it is more about scale. A square face shape with wide cheekbones AND wide jawline than circular/aviator frames are good for softening defined lines and can look super stylish on this face shape.Avoid detail on the arms. On the other hand round faces should steer away from round glasses . Squared, angular or aviator are a much better choice and add definition and go larger.

Also especially for men body shape should be considered both in size and shape. Consider height, weight and bone structure. The size of the glasses you choose small, medium or large should correspond. Also determine if you are predominately straight or curved. A good gauge is to study the shoulders , ‘coat hanger’ shoulders (right angles) would demonstrate an angular body and softer line shoulders would be curved. So more sharper angular styles will suit you if you are an angular type. Whereas if you are trying to correct a very round face and your body is also curved ensure the angles on the glasses are soft angular edges.

STYLE

Finally the glasses have to suit your personality and personal style. if you have a dramatic personality and wear clothing that is equally dramatic then your glasses will fit in with that style. Whilst more natural types your glasses will be low key,not too dressy or formal. Classic dressers should choose neat glasses neither too big or too small that blend easily with your outfits. Remebr choose glasses that complement you and your wardrobe.

EYE MAKE UP

A quick word on make up. If you are shortsighted the lens will magnify eyes and show up clumpy mascara and poorly applied eyeshadow. So keep eyeshadow neutral and comb through lashes after applying mascara. Long sighted lenses makes eyes look smaller. So lighten eyeshadow a shade or two and clearly define in the crease to make eyes pop, curl lashes and apply lashing of mascara. For all don’t forget to clearly define eyebrows and ensure neatly plucked/trimmed as glasses bring focus to the area.

So there you have it a guide for you to take to the opticians next time you attend your eye test. You know yourself better than a sales assistant who are rarely trained in matters of style. For more tips view my video below from style channel youtube.com/c/stylelist

Watch This To Help You See It All More Clearly !

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP : TAKE A CLOSE UP PHOTOGRAPH OF YOUR FACE AND A FULL LENGTH OF YOUR BODY. NOW DRAW GLASSES ONTO YOUR FACE EVEN IF THEY LOOK GOOD ON YOUR FACE CHECK IT ON THE FULL LENGTH ONE OF YOUR BODY.

Mwah Mwah xxxxxxxx

JOJO XX

LIFESTYLE: BE A RADIATOR NOT A DRAIN !

RADIATING HAPPINESS

Its one thing to have a feeling of happiness but to radiate happiness to people around us is something we need to practise. Happiness is one contagion we do understand, the more we radiate happiness the more people want to be with us and more opportunities flow towards us.

Now doesn’t that sound good ?

Yes when you devlop the light within you and radiate the energy outwards it becomes a ripple effect. The best of you brings out the best in others. Can you imagine if this thought process spread throughout the world . What an amazing place this would be !

True happiness comes from our true self not our physical self, of limiting body , thoughts,fear and emotions. The true self is limitless and lies in the silence wisdom and grace that can be found in meditation. It has no bounds and is infinite. So you can tap into as much happiness that you choose.

Tune into your own thoughts and recognise how you are really feeling. The n notch it up a few levels on your “mood-o-meter” when you surrender to the joy and focus on the good things in your life and recognise that the bad moments are just distractions treat them as positive life lessons. Even forcing a smile releases endorphins and changes your mood in an instant.

DEPRESSED PEOPLE LIVE IN THE PAST

ANXIOUS PEOPLE LIVE IN THE FUTURE

HAPPY PEOPLE LIVE IN THE PRESENT

Deepak Chopra expresses some Do’s and Dont’s in order to radiate happiness.

  • DO express appreciation in others.
  • DO be open to the other persons truth. Respect their point of view.
  • DO wear a smile
  • DO share your laughter
  • Do contribute to the joy of another
  • DO turn your inner happiness to an outer activity
  • DON’T make other people feel wrong. As your self judgement decreases so should judgement of others.
  • DON’T draw attention to how much you have changed and how happy you now are as it arouses distrust.
  • DON”T point out how unhappy someone else is. They are doing the best they can from their own level of awareness.

Psychologically studies show that positive behaviour spreads virally to others.

As more people see the change and the light in you those closest to you will see a new radiance , a new kind of lightness and vibrancy.

LET’S CHANGE THE WORLD TOGETHER !

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP: THIS IS ONE INFECTION WE DON’T MIND CATCHING ! STAY HAPPY AND CARRY ON.

Mwah Mwah

JOJO XXXXXXXX

STYLE : 5 AUTUMN/WINTER COAT TRENDS TO INVEST IN RIGHT NOW

We are all tightening our budgets this Autumn especially with the impending energy price rises. The real key is planning ahead and setting budgets . So let’s just concentrate on a few key COATS just to freshen up your Autumn wardrobe . A large part of your Autumn clothing budget should be a great coat it is the one piece you will wear more than any other so the price per wear (PPW) will add value to your wardrobe.

woman wearingbrown trench coat

I have selected 5 key coats that are prominent AW2022 . Depending on your personal style, your current wardrobe edit on what you REALLY need, clothing personality and body shape , all you have to do is select the right one for you.

THE QUITED COAT

Back for another season. I love the longer line of this one from SUPERDRY. Nice and warm for walking the dogs, those chilly mornings watching the children play sport, bonfire night etc. Head to stores aimed at teenagers for more value. This coat is superb value at £154.99.

THE CAMEL COAT

The eternal classic. The camel wrap around shawl collared coat, and no one does them better than Max Mara. Definitely an investment piece and will last for many winters to come.

THE BRIGHT COAT

Beautiful brights with a black polo neck and black leggings to make the colour pop. Wow what a look to shake those winter blues. Red, purple, turquoise, fuchsia anything goes !

THE HIPPY PRINT COAT

Great for the not too cold Autumn nights. Laid back, casual with a frisson of boldness and excitement. Throw over Jeans and a tee shirt for instant stand out from the crowd glamour. Loving this one of a kind ETRO coat , go on dare to be different AND it is in the sale right now.

THE MILITARY COAT

The hardy perennial of the coat world. Popping its head up every Autumn winter. Great investment buy. Sportmax and Holland Cooper get it right every year so two great labels to check out. Smart, elongating and dramatic. Is this you ? then snap it up today.

These are my five style picks today if you see anything you like then just click the pic and buy here today. if you subscribe to this magazine and receive it direct to your inbox then click on the URL link at the bottom of this page to view the images.

LIFESTYLE: HOW TO STIMULATE YOUR VAGUS NERVE

………….VIVA LOST VAGUS !!!

OK guys lets get the jokes out of the way. Vagus diametrically opposed to ‘Vegas” this is not a wild, partying drinking exercise but a calming, peaceful experience.

I first learned about the Vagus Nerve and the Thymus gland (fed by the VN) many years ago during my training to become a Sound Healing Practioner. The benefits of stimulating this nerve and gland are so great I thought i would share them with you today.

professional massage therapist treating a female patient s injured neck

WHAT IS THE VAGUS NERVE

The Vagus nerve is the longest of all cranial nerves. It travels from the brain through the trachea, larynx, heart, lungs, liver, spleen, pancreas and intestines.

BENEFITS OF STIMULATING THE VAGUS NERVE

Bearing in mind all the organs this nerve passes through the benefits to both your body and your mind can be huge. There is a direct link to mental health such as depression and anxiety. Coping with the effects of stress on the body by calming the heart rate and emotions. Inflammation in the organs. Responsible for making white blood cells therefore boosting immunity. Aids digestion as the nerve is supplying the digestive tract right down into the intestines. The health of this nerve therefore is important to the body holistically.

HOW TO STIMULATE THE VAGUS NERVE

MASSAGE

  1. To calm your anxiety immediately we can use the branch of the vagus nerve in the ear and neck. There are many nerve endings in this area stemming from the vagus nerve. So gently pull on each ear in turn. Massage gently behind the ear in front of the hairline and then in front of the ear. The massage should be light and sensory not full acupressure. When in front of the ear bring the middle finger and fore finger in a straight line down the side of each neck. You will find this action very calming and great for anxiety.

SINGING AND CHANTING

As the vagus nerve is connected to the vocal chords and throat this is a great way to stimulate them and reap all of the aforementioned benefits. Of course belting out Motorhead or heavy metal songs will not have the same effect as gentle music and gentle chants too. As you are probably aware chanting is normally deep in the throat try OHHHHHHH, AHHHHHHHH, EEEEEEEEEH. Humming is also good . Hum every morning when you are in the shower to wake that Vagus Nerve up.

BREATHING

Just rhythmic breathing from the abdomen can really help but combining this with Ujjai breathing is really powerful. If you practise yoga you will be familiar with this style of breathing, throat breathing. Vibrating a sound as you breathe out deep in the back of the throat.

YOGA

Holding poses, breathing, twisting, chanting relaxation. Doing a daily yoga practice can maintain a healthy vagus nerve and keep it at an optimum level.

THE THYMUS GLAND

This gland is located in the centre of your chest just behind the breastbone and directly connected to the vagus nerve. Leading Psychotherapists state that the Thymus Gland “controls the life energy of the body”. Tapping on the Thymus is a simple technique you can use anytime if you want to strengthen your immune system.

a woman putting a worded statement on her chest

The tapping should be heavy enough to make a drumming sound in your chest. Tap in an anti clockwise direction for about 30 seconds. breathe naturally as you do this. The vibration caused by the tapping stimulates the gland and the vagus nerve it is attached to, massaging the heart, lungs and bronchial tubes and draws blood and energy to nourish the thymus.

The thymus tap is also good for jet lag. Tap every hour while travelling to reset your body clock.

So this extra long nerve and this little gland are incredibly powerful and by giving them a little extra attention and some love and care you will reap some amazing rewards.

MWAH MWAH

JOJO xxxxxx

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP: As a Sound and Vibration expert never underestimate the power of vibration on the body. Remember 60% of the body is water. Vibration helps to clear the channels and pools of stagnation within the body. .Think of it like a flowing mountain stream with clear fresh water and eliminating those muddy little pools. These exercises contained in these articles will help you to connect with your body and get to know it better.

STYLE : THE GENTLEMANS GUIDE TO WEARING SHORTS

Many of you have requested some style articles for men. Many of my clients are men so let’s start with shorts. One of the most difficult things to get right……. men in shorts. Indeed Tom Ford himself said”shorts should only be worn on the tennis court or on the beach” BUT that was in 2011 and today they are at the forefront of mens fashion. Many men carry off the ‘shorts style’ with great aplomb but there are still many disasters out there in the city sidewalks. So lets keep it hot in the city !!

So lets take a closer look how and when we should wear these bad boys……

OCCASION

Firstly let us consider where we are going to wear them, yes Mr Ford we are kind of listening. Of course shorts are acceptable in a sports environment and on the beach (the current trend is shorter the better) but we are talking about updating your everyday wardrobe. In a formal office situation then shorts are still unacceptable. Also not good at an evening event. Unless of course you are Pharell Williams. But during the day , for days out, at lunch, at the pub, shopping meeting your blood brothers all good. so to sum uo when temperature, environment and location call for it.

CUT

The trend is for tailored slim shorts that follow the line of the leg and are flat fronted.. But you have to take into consideration your body type. If you are a muscular mesomorph than obviously you don’t want it too tight around bulky thighs so you may want a little bit more room here. Also endomorphs with a more rounded tummy may opt for a single or double pleated front to flatter the area. No baggy/excess fabric and no cargo pockets they will add bulk—– this applies to every body shape when it comes to shorts. Just not a good look. So try to stay with a tailored straight short .

IF YOU ARE HAVING TROUBLE VIEWING THE FOLLOWING IMAGES IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED THIS BY E MAIL CLICK ON THE URL LINK AT THE BASE OF THE E MAIL :

SHOP THE SHORTS

LENGTH

The length should fall 1 or 2 inches above the knee. If you have skinny legs a turn up can add a bit of bulk . Men under 25 can wear the fashionable trend for even shorter shorts. But mature adult males please stick to the just above the knee rule !

COLOUR

Stick to the muted/classic colours. The same colouring rules applies to men as well as women (please see my earlier blog on assessing your colour season).So tan/cream for Autumns/Spring, Navy for winters/Summers and even pastels can look great on Summers. But stick to one basic anchor colour. Save the florals and bright prints for the beach. Checks and stripes can look good on dramatic personality types but can be trickier to match so unless you are shopping with your stylist lets keep it foolproof. Solid colours are traditional and therefore more stylish.

SHOP THE LOOK PASTELS

MATERIALS

Keep it breathable in cotton or linen……natural fabrics. Linen has a tendency to crease and normally I hate that crumpled look but it works in a short.

WHAT TO WEAR IT WITH

No baggy t shirts try to keep the top as neat as slim as the bottoms. Polo shirts are a good look if you are going somewhere more casual. The best look is a fitted button through shirt with a collar. if long sleeved roll the sleeves up or a fitted short sleeve can look good too. The big question to tuck or to untuck ? Keep it untucked. . But bear in mind your height if you are taller you will want a longer fitting shirt and certainly if you are short ensure your shirt length is shorter in the body.

SHOP THE LOOK POLO SHIRTS
SHOP THE LOOK SHIRTS

FOOTWEAR

NO SOCKS. Loafers or deck shoes worn with invisible/ballet socks so your feet do not sweat and smell. Save the flip flops and sliders for the beach and NO sandals whatever age you are. Yes I am talking to you !!!

SHOP THE LOOK FOOTWEAR FOR SHORTS

So there you have it the foolproof guide to keeping the men stylish in shorts so you can dare to bare without putting a step wrong.

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP:AS WITH ALL THINGS STYLE YOU HAVE TO HAVE A FULL TRYING ON SESSION IN FRONT OF A FULL LENGTH MIRROR . IF YOU ARE A GUY READING THIS I HOPE YOU FOUND THIS USEFUL. IF YOU ARE A GIRL THEN ITS OVER TO YOU TO ENSURE THE MEN IN YOUR LIFE GET IT RIGHT !!! GOOD LUCK GIRLS.

MWAH MWAH

JOJO XXXXXX

STYLE: 12 TIPS FOR TRUE STYLE !

“FASHION FADES. STYLE IS ETERNAL “

– YVES ST LAURENT

photo of woman in red coat sitting on red sofa

STYLE IS NOT FASHION. STYLE IS NOT GLAMOROUS. STYLE IS NOT TRYING TOO HARD. EFFORTLESS CHIC. SLEEK. SIMPLE.KNOWING YOURSELF. GETTING IT RIGHT EVERY TIME. LEARN IT AND BUILD IT INTO YOUR LIFE STARTING WITH THESE 12 POINTERS TO RAISING YOUR STYLE QUOTA AND STANDING OUT FOR THE RIGHT REASON

  • 1. DO NOT BE A SLAVE TO FASHION BE A MASTER OF DEVELOPING YOUR OWN PERSONAL STYLE AND DISCOVERING WHAT REALLY SUITS YOU.
  • 2. INVEST MORE MONEY (ACCORDING TO YOUR BUDGET) ON KEY PIECES FOR LONGER TERM CLASSIC PIECES. E.G COATS,SUITS,TAILORED TROUSERS.BLAZERS. YOU CAN TELL THE DIFFERENCE.
  • 3. QUALITY ACCESSORIES CAN LIFT A WHOLE OUTFIT. AIM TO BUY ONE CLASSIC DESIGNER ITEM IN THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES. SUNGLASSES, JEWELLERY,BELTS,PEN,BRIEFCASE,HANDBAG. THESE ARE YOUR STATEMENT PIECES, YOUR ARMOURY AS YOU HEAD OUT TO FACE THE WORLD.
  • 4. KNOW YOUR BODY SHAPE AND COLOUR PALETTE. ENLIST THE HELP OF A STYLIST/COLOUR THERAPIST. THIS CAN TAKE YEARS OFF YOU AND ONCE YOU KNOW YOUR COLOUR PALETTE EVERYTHING IN YOUR WARDROBE WILL MATCH. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO DRESS ACCORDING TO YOUR BODY SHAPE . THE SECRET OF MANY STYLISH WOMEN IS TO KNOW WHAT TO ACCENTUATE AND KNOW WHAT TO DISTRACT FROM. THE SCIENCE OF STYLISH DRESSING.
  • 5. RSVP WITHIN24 HOURS OF RECEIVING AN INVITATION. DO NOT WAIT TO SEE IF A BETTER INVITE COMES ALONG. DO NOT CANCEL ONCE ACCEPTED UNLESS IT IS ABSOLUTELY UNAVOIDABLE.
  • 6. ALWAYS BE ON TIME. BEING ‘FASHIONABLY’ LATE IS ABOUT FASHION NOT STYLE (SEE POINT 1 !!). BEING LATE IS INCREDIBLY DISRESPECTFUL TO THE OTHER PARTIES AND YOU WILL FIND YOURSELF LESS INVITED IF YOU MAKE A HABIT OF THIS. THERE IS NOTHING LESS STYLISH THAN BAD MANNERS.
  • 7. THERE IS NO NEED TO OFFER TO PAY HALF WHEN ON A DATE WITH A GENTLEMAN. LET THE GENTLEMAN ENJOY LOOKING AFTER YOU . KNOW YOUR WORTH . BUT BE GRACIOUS , THANK THEM AND COMPLIMENT ON THEIR CHOICE OF VENUE. ANY ‘GENTLEMEN’ I KNOW WOULD BE INSULTED IF I INSISTED ON PAYING. ITS TIME TO LET MEN BE MEN AGAIN.
  • 8. READ THE BUSINESS AND POLITICS SECTION OF THE BROADSHEETS OFTEN. STAY INFORMED AND EDUCATED. GOOD CONVERSATION STARTERS.
  • 9. LIVE WELL. LAUGH OFTEN. LOVE ALL. EVEN IF YOU ARE FEELING ANY OF THESE !!!
  • 10. REDISCOVER THE ART OF HANDWRITTEN ‘THANK YOU’ NOTES. THERE IS NOTHING NICER THAN RECEIVING A BEAUTIFUL AUTHENTIC HANDWRITTEN NOTE AS A HOST.
  • 11. AS IN YOUR PERSONAL STYLE THE SAME RULES APPLY TO YOUR HOME. NEUTRAL, BEAUTIFUL,UNCLUTTERED ACCENTUATED WITH KEP PIECES.
  • 12. BE CONFIDENT. QUIETLY CONFIDENT NOT LOUDLY CONFIDENT. ACT AS THOUGH YOU KNOW A SECRET THAT NO ONE ELSE KNOWS………AFTER ALL ITS GOOD TO BE YOU !

CLICK AND SHOP MY CURRENT STYLE PICKS BELOW. IF YOU CANNOT VIEW THESE IMAGES CLICK ON THE URL LINK AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE.

THESE ARE PERFECT POINTERS TO START FILLING YOUR STYLE FILE. SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR……..

JOJO STYLELIST TIP: I THINK IT WAS COCO CHANEL WHO SAID”ELEGANCE IS WHEN THE INSIDE IS AS BEAUTIFUL AS THE OUTSIDE” THIS IS THE EPITOME OF STYLE.

MWAH MWAH

JOJO XX

BEAUTY: SAVE MONEY WITH AN AT HOME SPA DAY !

WELL WE MANAGED TO GET THROUGH A NUMBER OF LOCKDOWNS AND NOW IN THE MIDDLE OF RISING COST OF FOOD AND FUEL COSTS., YOU OWE YOURSELF SOME KINDNESS. A PAMPERING DAY AT HOME CAN SAVE YOU A TON OF MONEY TOO !

WHAT BETTER TIME THAN TO TREAT YOURSELF TO AN AT HOME SPA DAY. THE BEAUTY OF BEING IN YOUR OWN HOME IN THE PEACE AND QUIET….AND NO ONE SEEING YOU WITHOUT YOUR MAKE UP ON. SO LETS TAKE YOU THROUGH YOUR SPA RITUAL FOR TODAY………

FIRST OF ALL GET ALL YOUR CHORES, EMAILS AND TELEPHONE CALLS OUT OF THE WAY. MAKE SURE YOUR HOME IS TIDY AND LOOKING BEAUTIFUL. ENSURE ALL YOUR BEAUTY PRODUCTS ARE DELIVERED. CREATE A BEAUTIFUL SPACE WITH CANDLES, ROBES LOTS OF GORGEOUS MAGAZINES. OKAY PREP DONE.

9.OO AM (A LIE IN ESSENTIAL FOR SPA DAY)

START THE DAY WITH A SMALL GLASS OF KEFIR. THEN MAKE YOURSELF A HOT GLASS OF WATER WITH LEMON SLICES.

BODY BRUSH YOUR ENTIRE BODY IN UPWARD STROKES TOWARDS THE HEART. GENTLY BRUSH YOUR FACE WITH A SMALL FACE BRUSH.

NOW MASSAGE IN ORGANIC SESAME OIL PAYING PARTICULAR CIRCULAR MOTIONS IN KNEE AND ELBOW JOINTS. USE HEAVY PETRISSAGE MOVEMENTS REALLY KNEAD AND WRING THE MUSCLES OUT. INCLUDE THE FACE AND SCALP. WRAP HAIR IN A HOT TOWEL OR TURBAN. OIL AND MASSAGE THE FEET TOO. PUT SOME SOCKS ON.

SHOP SPA BELOW

SHOP THE PRODUCT

10.00AM

STILL OILED. LAY ON A PRANA RELEXOLOGY MAT. OR JUST A YOGA MAT. LISTEN TO A MEDITATION DOWNLOAD WITH HEAD PHONES ON.

SHOP YOGA MATS BELOW

10.30AM

JUMP IN THE SHOWER. EXFOLIATE WITH SOME SUGAR COMBINED WITH A BIT MORE SESAME OIL. RINSE OFF THE OIL. WASH HAIR AND PUT ON A HAIR MASK . MY FAVOURITE IS BLEACH LONDON REINCARNATION MASK £7.50. CLIP UP HAIR AND PUT ON YOUR HOT TURBAN AGAIN.

SHOP SPA BELOW:

11.00 AM

GENTLE YOGA. DOWNLOAD DENISE AUSTEN 100S OF DIFFERENT YOGA WORKOUTS. CHOOSE A 20 MINUTE SESSION. THE LESS CLOTHES THE BETTER GET TO KNOW YOUR BODY AND HOW IT WORKS IN FRONT OF A MIRROR PREFERABLY.

REWARD YOURSELF WITH A CLEANSING GREEN JUICE. MAKE YOUR BASE DETOXIFYING WITH PARSLEY,CELERY AND CUCUMBER. ADD SOME ROOT GINGER, CHIA SEED, FLAX OIL AND SPIRULINA POWDER.

11.30AM

RINSE HAIR BLASTING FROM HOT TO COLD TO CLOSE THE CUTICLES.

BLOW DRY HAIR FOR A FEW MINUTES BUT NOT UNTIL FULLY DRY. POP IN SOME EXTRA LARGE VELCRO ROLLERS THE BEST WAY TO GIVE A SMOOTH FINISH. THE LESS HEAT ON THE HAIR THE BETTER.

SHOP SPA BELOW:

12.30PM

LUNCHTIME. AS WE HAVE FASTED ALL MORNING, YOU CAN HAVE A SUBSTANTIAL LUNCH OF RAW SALAD AND VEGETABLE SPRINKLED WITH SEEDS.

HERBAL TEA./WATER

1.30PM

FRESH AIR AFTER LUNCH WITH A GENTLE POWER WALK (GET DRESSED FOR THIS ONE) TRY TO GO MAKE UP FREE, OKAY YOU CAN WEAR MASCARA GIRLS. USE SPF 50 SUNSCREEN.

2.30PM

FACIAL. NOW YOUR SKIN IS NICELY PLUMPED FROM THE MASSAGE THIS MORNING AND THE OXYGEN BLITZ FROM THE FRESH AIR. LETS STEAM THE FACE . A HOT BOWL OF WATER AND A TOWEL WILL DO THE TRICK OR INVEST IN ONE OF THE MANY NEW FACIAL STEAMERS TO RECENTLY HIT THE MARKET. CARRY OUT ANY EXTRACTIONS AS REQUIRED USING A BLACKHEAD REMOVER TOOL. DO NOT SQUEEZE. APPLY A FACE MASK TO SUIT YOUR SKIN TYPE. POP AN EYE MASK OR SLICES OF CUCUMBER . RELAX WITH YOUR FEET ELEVATED.

RINSE OFF MASK. APPLY VITAMIN C SERUM. THEN MOISTERIZE.

SHOP SPA BELOW:

3.30PM

PEDICURE AND MANICURE.

YOUR FEET AND HANDS WERE ALREADY MASSAGED AND EXFOLIATED THIS MORNING. SO LETS DO CUTICLE WORK. FILE THE NAILS. IF YOU FEEL ARE ADEPT AT PAINTING YOUR OWN NAILS THEN GO AHEAD. I AM USELESS BUT SINCE LOCKDOWN I HAVE BOUGHT THIS AMAZING JAPANESE BUFFER THAT GIVES NAILS A FANTASTICALLY HEALTHY SHINE.

WE ARE ALL DESPERATE FOR NAIL BARS TO REOPEN BUT DONT NEGLECT YOUR HANDS AND FEET DURING THIS TIME.

SHOP SPA BELOW:

4.30PM

OKAY AS IT IS A SPA DAY WE HAVE BUILT IN SOME RELAXATION TIME. YOU MAY HAVE A MINI BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE (SAFER THAN OPENING A LARGE BOTTLE) FLICK THROUGH SOME MAGAZINES DISCOVER THE LATEST TRENDS. READ SOME CULTURAL ART AND WINE BOOKS. THINGS YOU DONT NORMALLY HAVE TIME FOR.

5.15PM

COOK A BEAUTIFUL DINNER BUT REALLY ENJOY DOING THIS. BE MINDFUL OF TEXTURES , THE BEAUTY OF THE FOOD AND ALL THE PROCESSES. SOMETHING THAT IS QUICK AND EASY TO PREPARE. EG PAN FRIED SALMON AND STEAMED VEGETABLES, CHICKEN STIR FRY A BEAUTIFUL SOUP. KEEP CARBS TO A MINIMUM. A BIG BOWL OF STRAWBERRIES FOR DESSERT.

6.30PM

DRAW A NICE BATH ADDING SOME MEDICINAL PROPERTIES DEPENDING ON WHAT YOUR BODY NEEDS. THE BATH PROJECT BOOK BY DR BARBARA KUBICKA THE ART AND SCIENCE OF BATHING GIVES SOME GREAT IDEAS TO HEAL YOUR BODY AND MIND. ITS TIME TO TURN BATH TIME INTO A RITUAL. FOR ME TONIGHT IT WILL BE EPSOM SALTS FOR ACHY MUSCLES AND WATER RETENTION. BUT I ALWAYS ADD OCCITANE LEMON VERBENA FOAMING BATH AS I CANNOT HAVE A BATH WITHOUT BUBBLES !!! SACRILEGE !! LIGHT SOME BEAUTIFUL CANDLES AND DIM THE LIGHTS. PLAY SOME GENTLE MUSIC. PIN UP YOUR HAIR OR PUT INTO YOUR TURBAN

PAT YOURSELF DRY AND WRAP YOURSELF IN A BIG FLUFFY TERRY ROBE. TURN DOWN THE BED JUST AS THEY DO IN HOTELS READY FOR BED TIME A BIT LATER.

SHOP SPA BELOW:

NOW YOU ARE FULLY DRY MASSAGE IN YOUR FAVOURITE BODY LOTION INCLUDING THE FEET.

7.30PM

SIT CROSSED LEGGED AND FIND A RELAXING WIND DOWN MEDITATION TO PREPARE YOU FOR SLEEP. GIVE THANKS FOR A BEAUTIFUL DAY.

8.00PM

GOLDEN MILK. IN AYURVEDIC MEDICINE THIS IS KNOWN AS THE “FEELGOOD” MILK. IT IS NOT ONLY GOOD FOR YOU BUT HAS A VERY COMFORTING FEEL AND GENERATES A GREAT NIGHT SLEEP.

SIMMER ALMOND/COCONUT MILK ADD A TEASPOON OF TURMERIC ,CINNAMON AND 5 CARDAMOM PODS AND SOME BLACK PEPPER TO ENSURE THE TURMERIC IS ABSORBED BY THE BODY. AFTER 10 MINUTES POUR INTO A MUG REMOVING THE CARDAMOM PODS. SWEETEN WITH SOME PALM SUGAR AND SPRINKLE WITH NUTMEG.

TAKE TO BED.

8.30PM

TIME FOR AN EARLY NIGHT AND A MOVIE…….AND OKAY YOU HAVE BEEN SO GOOD AND A LITTLE BIT OF CHOCOLATE !

I HOPE YOU ENJOYED YOUR DAY AND ARE LOOKING EVEN MORE BEAUTIFUL XX

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP: A SUCCESSFUL SPA DAY IS ALL ABOUT THE PREPARATION, INCLUDING NO INTERRUPTIONS. THIS IS YOU TIME. SO PLAN AHEAD.

MWAH MWAH

JOJO XXXXXX

TRAVEL: AN EASTER BREAK – ROME IN 24 HOURS

AS WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE GREEN LIGHT FOR TRAVEL (well you know what I mean!)I THOUGHT I WOULD REPUBLISH SOME OF OUR QUICK GETAWAY ARTICLES. DESPERATE FOR A CHANGE OF SCENERY THAN THOSE FOUR WALLS YOU HAVE BEEN STARING AT FOR TWO YEARS. TRY ROME FOR 24 HOURS… YES START SMALL AND WORK YOUR WAY UP TO THOSE LONG HAUL DESTINATIONS. LIVE LIFE. START NOW.

HAPPY Birthday to me ! I was lucky enough to be taken to Rome for dinner on my birthday to one of my favourite restaurants. Sometimes as you get older we need to throw caution to the wind and embrace adventure. At this age we are able to be more spontaneous. Now most people would not do a travel guide in less than 48 hours but 24 hours allows you to shoot off without too much planning or even booking time off work ! So lets do it !!

Firstly im assuming by your fifties most of you reading this would have visited the tourist sites of this eternal city. So there will be no queueing for the coliseum (although they now do a moonlight tour..) or visits to the Trevi Fountain or Pantheon. If you haven’t seen these then AUGUST is NOT the time to do it !!! So this is my 24 hours……………..

ARRIVE 2.30pm ( I never do early morning flights !!)

Our Chauffeur (BLACKLANE) takes us to the Hotel de La Ville located at the top of the Spanish Steps. I love to stay around this area personally there are many choices to suit all budgets here and along the VIA VENETO. a beautiful spa and rooftop bar overlooking the city. No need to spend time unpacking the beauty of a one day stay ! so head to the spa for a massage to prepare me for the evening.

SPANISH STEPS

5.30pm

A lovely evening stroll down the Spanish Steps (low heels only girls) and into PIAZZA DE SPAGNA. Great buzz on a warm balmy evening. Continue along the VIA CONDOTTI one of the most fashionable and stylish streets in Rome. Window shopping or otherwise ! Gucci, Hermes, Dolce and Gabbana, Harry Winston you name it they are all here .

7.30pm

ZUMA

Arrive at ZUMA , one of my favourite restaurants located in FENDI SQUARE. Head straight in the elevator to the rooftop terrace for a RHUBABU a rhubarb infused sake and vodka martini cocktail. Views across Rome.

8.30pm

Head down to the restaurant. Booking is absolutely advised. Whether in London, Dubai, Hong Kong, Miami or Rome the menu and format is never strays to far. We order my favourite dishes Tuna Tartare, Shrimp tempura , jumbo shrimp (the size of a lobster in its shell !!) spicy beef tenderloin and a selection of sushi. The food has to be tried to be believed please everyone just go at least once it never disappoints. Phenomenal !!

Inside the amazing Zuma

THE FOLLOWING MORNING

8.30am

Don my trainers and shorts for a brisk morning power walk along the VIA VENETO and down through PIAZZA DE SPAGNA a useful way of avoiding the thousands of steps. End up at CAFE VITTI in PIAZZA di SAN LORENZO a quiet , picturesque square with the best breakfast menu. Italian for 8E or an American breakfast for 20E if you want to go all out.

Cafe Vitti

11am

After changing into our lunch attire and checking out of the hotel we leave our small amount of hand luggage with the concierge and head to an art gallery before lunch.

Now there are obviously many art galleries in Rome but not many people have heard of the VILLA AURORA on VIA LOMBARDIA. A spectacular 16th century villa full of art. Once one of the most spectacular gardens in Rome. This Villa has the only painting that Caravaggio executed on a ceiling ! A private visit can be organised by your concierge but needs to be booked in advance.

When in Rome

12.30pm

If we are going to make our flight we opt for an early lunch. We discover a fabulous restaurant away from the busy crowds close to the art gallery IL PICCOLO MONDO on VIA AURORA I do not hesitate in sharing this little gem with you. Freshly made pasta and market fish of the day. Reasonable prices and great service very relaxing. We dined on lobster pasta and beautifully fresh sea bass grilled.

IL PICCOLO MONDO

2.30PM

After a few more glasses of wine and complimentary limoncellos we enjoy a sleepy one hour journey back to the airport where prior to boarding we find time for a “dry flotation tank” why have I never seen one of these in UK?? Fabulously relaxing and a perfect way to end our whirlwind 24 hours in ROME.

IN THE TERMINAL- ROME AIRPORT

JOJOS STYLE LIST TIP : TRAVEL LIGHT TAKING HAND LUGGAGE IS THE ONLY WAY THIS CAN BE DONE. DONT OVERTHINK IT JUST DO IT 24 HOURS IS ALL IT NEEDS TO GET YOU OUT OF A RUT !!!!!!! DON’T THINK IT JUST DO IT. LIFE IS FOR LIVING.

CIAO!!!

JOJO XXXXXX

STYLE : 5 FABULOUS SPRING DRESSES

back view photo of six girls wearing swimsuit sitting on white sand
Its Coming Get Ready

Okay as Im writing this Spring seems to have disappeared and we are plunged back into Winter weather but there has to be warmer months ahead, doesn’t there ??

Dresses are nice and simple no mixing and matching just one garment to get right. The right colour and the right fit for your body shape and the perfect accessories and your good to go !

FASHION CATWALK

Before we take a look at my style choices for Spring dresses let me walk you through them

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG DRESS £556. I love the colour combination of pink and green. This dress is perfect for the polo season which starts next week or all those Spring garden parties and even a weekend in the City visiting art galleries and cultural events. A lovely adaptable dress price per wear definitely makes it value for money.

STAUD DRESS £400. Orange my favourite colour. Dare to be noticed in this bright sunshiney dress. Bring out your inner boho chic with this stunning maxi dress pair with flats,/gladiator sandals. LA vibe. A great dress for festivals and Spring picnics in the park.

BATSHEVA DRESS £395. Short and flirty. great with flats then change it up with some strappy sandals depending on the occasion. Or be perfectly on trend with some Doc Marten boots just ideal for an alfresco pub lunch. Just a word of warning if you are getting your peaky white legs out for the first time since Winter then a little self tan is a requirement !!

REMAIN DRESS £230 this beautiful green colour is on all the catwalks for the Spring/Summer collections and is knitted so great for those chilly, Spring evenings. The length of this dress dictates it is worn with heels. Keep this elegant dress sophisticated. Great for all the wonderful elegant evening events you have to look forward to this season.

KAREN MILLEN DRESS £143.20 . KM doing some wonderful pieces now it is based mostly on line and the prices are wonderful too !! Give your workwear wardrobe a Spring update with this smart tailored tuxedo dress in classic navy. You mean business in this dress whilst keeping your cool ! It is always difficult in the hotter months to dress appropriately while suiting the climate. This dress does just that but get it now as it is now on sale and KM sells out pretty fast.

So there we have it below you will find my five style picks for this Season. I have covered most scenarios with a different dress. You may need all five if you have a lot going on in which case you have Spring all wrapped up.

IF YOU FIND YOUR PERFECT DRESS HERE THEN JUST CLICK ON THE DRESS TO PURCHASE. SHOPPING MADE SIMPLE.

If for any reason you cannot see the images or are having this article delivered straight to your inbox just click on the URL at the base of this page.

JOJOS STYLELIST TIP:AS YOU KNOW AS A STYLIST I HATE OVERSTUFFED CLOSETS THERE IS A DRESS HERE FOR EVERY SITUATION THROUGH THE SPRING IF YOU ARE BUSY GET ALL FIVE. BUT YOU ONLY NEED ONE DRESS FOR EACH EVENT AND THESE DAYS YOU WILL BE APPLAUDED AND FAWNED OVER IF YOU WEAR THE SAME DRESS TWICE. YOU ECO WARRIOR YOU !!!

MWAH MWAH

JOJO XXXXX

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