Ask Louise
How did you get started in TV presenting?
By accident! I was at a bridal magazine when the editor got asked to appear on BBC News. She was too nervous and asked me, and I loved it! I never planned to pursue presenting but that same day I got a call from a presenter, and things started to happen.
From Gracie
Posted 30/06/2010
Who makes clothing for hanging on campus all day all week, that can be styled in a variety of ways?
LNA makes stylish but casualwear, including thin cotton tanks, soft leather jackets and leggings in an array of crazy fabrics. www.venice291.com also makes great hoodies in bright colours.
From Tiffany Lee
Posted 30/06/2010
I have my prom soon. Do you have any good websites where i can find a dress?
If you’re in the UK – www.oli.co.uk, and worldwide, www.asos.co.uk and the brand Lipsy – all fantastic for affordable dresses. I’m also a huge fan of Forever 21, they’ve done some great voluminous high-waisted mini’s this season.
From Marie
Posted 30/06/2010
Will rompersuits still be on trend in 3 years’ time?
Probably not, but that shouldn’t stop you buying one! I’m obsessed with one-shouldered shorts and recently bought a fuschia long strapless one from Miguelina. Look for a cheap, bright one and enjoy wearing it this summer: not all trends are investment pieces, but this one’s a lot of fun.
From Asha
Posted 30/06/2010
What are some wardrobe classics that never go out of style?
Every woman should own a cashmere sweater, she’s worth the luxury! Gap and J Crew now make great, affordable ranges. A crisp, white shirt that doesn’t gape at the bust. A bright silk scarf (think Hermes classic prints). Patent ballet flats.
From Julia Hefner
Posted 30/06/2010
I’m desperate for fashion/journalism work experience in New York. What advice would you give?
Sadly you’ll have to wait until you’re 18 to get work experience over there, but start planning now. Get your CV up to scratch, do as much research into companies over there, and then when the time is right – try to cover the cost of your flight and find a friend to stay with – the less they see this as a ‘hassle’ for them to get you over to New York – the easier it’ll be.
From Olivia Osmond
Posted 30/06/2010
I’m traveling to Sydney to see my boyfriend. The flight is 20 hours, I want to look fresh. Any tips?
First-off check out my recent MSN column, all about the best way to fly and feel great! I always wear leggings on the plane because they’re comfy and help me sleep, why not take a cuter top and wedges in your bag to change into before you land? A spray-tan the day before and make-up touch-ups will help too, but to be really honest, men love women less ‘done-up’ so I’m sure he’ll love you looking low-key. Just remember the breath mints!
From Louise Skat
Posted 30/06/2010
LA, New York and London all have very distinct styles. What key pieces do you travel with?
Good question! Always 2 or 3 bright, short dresses: those are my staples and I’ll dresses them up with heels and a cocktail ring, or down with patent flats and a ponytail. I always tend to wear colour no matter where I am. And lots of bright printed scarves. Great to travel in and they pop a simple outfit like denim cut-offs and a white shirt. Always a hat: Fedora or Panama depending on the season.
From Victoria
Posted 30/06/2010
Where can I find plus-size clothing that works with curves, instead of trying to hide them?
www.shopittome.com is your new best friend. The service scans the web for sales and deals in your size only, so there’s no time wasted pining for pieces that won’t fit. It then sends you alerts so you can get shopping.
From Jennifer
Posted 30/06/2010
LA, New York and London all have very distinct styles. What are some
Good question! Always 2 or 3 bright, short dresses: those are my staples and I’ll dresses them up with heels and a cocktail ring, or down with patent flats and a ponytail. I always tend to wear colour no matter where I am. And lots of bright printed scarves. Great to travel in and they pop a simple outfit like denim cut-offs and a white shirt. Always a hat: Fedora or Panama depending on the season.
From Victoria
Posted 29/06/2010
Should I wear a flat or a heel with my maxi dress this summer?
I’d opt for a wedge – the best of both worlds because they’re so comfy.
From Jenny
Posted 29/06/2010
Which designers inspire you?
So hard to choose! Hannah Marshall, Erdem, Giles Deacon, Giambattista Valli, Marchesa, Charlotte Olympia.
From Annalea
Posted 29/06/2010
I am working on the launch of my own clothing line, what advice would you give?
Take time to research the market – sales figures and outlets, press, what competitors are up to – and really think about how to come up with something different. Who is your customer? Will you launch a website? Think outside the box and prepare before you approach any investors, they’ll need a thorough project presented with a great set of samples, before they’ll be won over.
Raghav
Posted 29/06/2010
My boyfriend does not know how to shop and he asked me to help him. What is in for men this season?
Thank you! Well, just steer clear of short-sleeved shirts and dirty sneakers, those are my pet hates! Tom’s espadrilles or Jack Purcell’s look hot on their feet, a smart pair of simple khaki, knee-length shorts and (if he’ll wear it) a navy button-down cardigan. Simple crew-neck Tees in white and grey look good too. This summer’s about keeping it simple for the lads!
Frannie Chang
Posted 29/06/2010
I’m starting a new job in fashion and I have 2 half-sleeve tattoos – I’m worried they’ll be judged.
It depends where you’re working, but I’d err on the side of caution and cover up for the first day, just to get the vibe and see what others are wearing. Some fashion establishments can be a little snobby, whereas others are the complete opposite end of the spectrum. Either way their reaction will I’m sure make for a good article for you to write one day!
From Nancy Morski
Posted 29/06/2010
What brand of handbag were you carrying in The City, when you first met Erin for an interview?
It was Anya Hindmarch – one of my fave accessory designers.
From Sophia
Posted 29/06/2010
I love my Louboutins but can’t stay vertical. How do I walk in high heels?!
Practice and platforms. Platforms reduce the gradient of your foot, and go for a chunky heel, it will keep you more stable. www.piperlime.com has a huge selection - check out my fave picks online there now!
From Mel
Posted 29/06/2010
What’s the best product to stop my hair frizzing but still keep it wavy?
Moroccan oil treatment is the best – Scarlett Johansson loves it! www.moroccanoil.com
Lauryn H
Posted 29/06/2010
How did you get into the fashion industry?
I started out as an intern at UK Elle. I wanted to write features – the fashion side came later – but I then moved on to In Style as an
assistant, then got a chance to style the BBC’s programme, ‘What Not To Wear’. My advice would be to start a blog – whether it’s writing or styling – get your words and images out there. Be prepared to work hard and for free for a while as an intern, it will pay off in the end.
Sent from Lucinda
Posted 10/06/2010
What can I wear to my internship (business casual dress code)?
City shorts are your best friend – make sure they’re long enough to graze the top of your knee and in a muted colour like tan. Keep shoes closed-toe, sandals are too informal, and switch a heavy blazer for a lightweight bolero jacket – Banana Republic has a fantastic work-wear department.
Sent from Katie
Posted 10/06/2010
The dresses you wear on TV are amazing. Where can I buy them?
Mostly H&M, Zara or Reiss – barely any designer because I like inexpensive dresses! My one weakness is shoes, that’s where I splash out. But websites like www.ruelala.com, www.piperlime.com and www.lipsy.co.uk are fantastic for cheap and cheerful frocks.
Sent from Cheryl
Posted 10/06/2010
What eye-shadow works best for dark brown eyes and ivory skin tone?
If you’re feeling daring, try this summer’s penchant for violet. This’ll create a dramatic effect if you apply it as a line across your top lid though, don’t smudge it. Otherwise, a light golden-brown shimmer will be a subtle accent: go for a cream-based texture by Dior, Benefit or Maybelline.
Sent from Kady
Posted 10/06/2010
