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gailpainter August 20, 2025

Supporting your child’s transition from school to college

The transition from school to college is an exciting time for young people; however, it can lead to anxiety around what to wear. No longer required to dress in school uniform, many find the freedom of choice both exciting and overwhelming.

It’s the first major leap into adult life, and as a result, I’m frequently approached by parents seeking guidance on how to support their children through this shift – from adolescence to young adulthood. They’re often looking to strike a balance between choosing appropriate study options and encouraging their children to discover and express their own individual style.

While clothes are one of life’s necessities, they also say much about us before we speak a word, and dressing at this life stage can be as much about fitting in as revealing who you are as a person. Therefore, I suggest starting with good, useful basics, which can get the ball rolling on a capsule wardrobe. A canny student will then adopt her or his own way to wearing items in their own good time.

Suggested staples for a female student

Neutral colour blazer – adds sophistication to everything else in the wardrobe.
Denim or quilted jacket – casual options for autumn and spring transitional seasons.
Mid blue jeans – an everyday classic. The latest styles that won’t date, include wide leg and straight options.
Black or navy tailored trousers – dress down with trainers and wear with flats or heels for a smarter look.
White, grey or black T-shirt – a must-have layering piece.
Striped long sleeve Breton style T-shirt – perfect for creating chic outfits.
Casual skirt – knee length pencil or A line skirts are cute, as are tiered maxi lengths for very wearable options
Graphic T shirt – quirky, personal and conversation starters
Sweatshirt – choose plain designs to get maximum wear
Cotton or denim shirt – to wear on its own or as a layering piece as the weather get cooler
Chunky trainers – in neutral colours are stylish and comfy
Black ankle boots – Chelsea or lace up styles to wear with trousers and skirts
Knee length dress – to wear with smart shoes (ballet pumps or loafers) or worn over leggings/trousers

Supporting your child's transition from school to college

Matalan AW25

Most of the above pieces can be worn by guys too. Simply take out the skirts and dresses and add in more trousers. Perhaps chinos and cargo-style trousers.

I hope you find this blog post of help. I specialise in student shopping and you can read more about my 1-2-1 personal shopping service here.

For more shopping tips, follow my Instagram page.

gailpainter November 7, 2023

It’s Sweater Weather. Here’s How to Wear Yours.

With temperatures dipping into single digits, it’s safe to say we’ve officially reached sweater weather.

On chilly days it’s easy to grab heavy, cosy knits to wrap ourselves in, but are we forsaking substance for style? Or, if we want to, can we wear a knit in a smart, formal way?

Here’s a couple of thoughts on how to dress your favourite jumpers in balance with the rest of your winter outfit.

Heavy jumpers

Taking refuge from the cold, swathed in a heavy, oversized jumper has its appeal. But you can look top heavy, especially if you’re wearing something tight on the lower half. Balance oversized knits and skinny jeans, for example, with chunkier boots.

If you choose to wear oversized knits with the loose or wide-legged trousers that are currently very popular, try partially tucking in your jumper slightly off centre at the front. Otherwise, it will drown the top half your body and you’ll lose all shape. Avoid dainty shoes with this outfit, or your silhouette will be top heavy.

Examples of half tucks below. See how they offer better proportion and elongated leg shapes.

Lightweight jumpers

Roll neck jumpers are in many people’s wardrobes as they offer warmth and versatility. Keeping the top half neat, wear these with straight, loose, and wide legged trousers. These would also look nice with this season’s denim maxi skirts, for an elevated casual look.

Crew vs V neck knits

Crew neck knits are often a weekend wardrobe staple and are very useful in neutral colours. They look good with a white T.shirt poking out of the top. Or wear with a white shirt underneath for a smarter look.

V-neck jumpers are the perfect formal jumper. They look great with a white shirt underneath for work. They also sit comfortably underneath a suit jacket or with blazer and jeans. However, they’re also easy to dress up. Wear with a necklace or statement earrings heading out for drinks and dinner.

Nipped-in Knits

Lastly, if you want more shape around the mid-section consider adding belt. A wide belt will add real definition to your waistline and structure to the overall effect. A thin belt adds a hint of shape and keeps the body elongated.

I hope you like these sweater weather ideas and don’t hesitate to contact me if you have a question. You can drop me a line at info@notgivinin.com any time.

If you would like a more bespoke service know that I am personal stylist based in Bristol and covering the Bath area. Take a look at my personal shopper services here.

Thanks for reading.

Gail

gailpainter June 7, 2023

Nine Ways to Pack Lighter

Packing for a holiday must be the least favourite part of the trip. What to pack causes so much angst for many and now there’s a bunch of decisions over luggage weight.

Since lockdown the options of which type of luggage to take seems ten-fold. Do you choose to book space for large suitcases in the hold, or take a small and/or large cabin bag to stuff under your feel or lift to an overhead locker?

The latter also comes with the issue of finding tiny bottles of toiletries that get you through security.

With differing sizes and weights dependent on your choice of air carrier and budget it makes sense to pack as light and efficient as you can.

Overpacking Isn’t Fun

I’ll admit it, I’ve been known to take too much. Cue lugging 22kgs around a Greek island in a giant suitcase, only to bring much of it home, unworn.

Generally, it’s because I’ve left it to the last minute. Some people plan and start to pack up to a week ahead of departure. Not me, I like to do it as near as possible to my flight time.

So, what I’ve done in recent years is draw up a list of what to pack. I have an excel sheet for long haul, a separate one for a Mediterranean week away, and even one for city breaks. These lists have saved me time and time again, from the “what if” moments that have previously had me stuffing a bunch of clothes and shoes that I may need, but really don’t.

Next week we are heading to Croatia to celebrate our 15^th wedding anniversary. We’re going island hopping and I really don’t fancy pulling a large suitcase around. So, I’ve ordered a new medium size suitcase. I’m looking forward to travelling lighter.

Nine Ways to Pack Light

I’ll have my trusty list that I’ll use for packing and here’s a bunch of other ways that can help me, and you, pack a whole lot lighter.

Based on the activities you’ll be doing rather than how many days you are going away make a list. It helps you identify exactly what you need.
Reduce the number of items you need by choosing a simple colour scheme, e.g., neutrals to mix and match.
Most people use more tops than bottoms. Try packing seven tops and a single pair of trousers/skirt/shorts in neutral colours to go with them.
Pack more in tight spaces by rolling clothes. It saves on space and lessens creasing. If you have pieces like cotton shirts that wrinkle easily, fold and lie them on top.
Multiple use clothes are the best. Take shirts and dresses for evenings, which can also be worn as beach cover ups or for sight-seeing.
Swimming costumes can be worn as the light layer underneath a shirt or worn as a body prior to swimming pool or beach days.
Layer up on the plane. Don’t put a knitted cardigan in the suitcase, wear or tie it over your shoulders for the journey.
Taking a hat? Pack upside down and fill with small soft items, like underwear to make better use of space. Do the same with handbags, or use them to tuck away chargers, etc.
Shoes are heavy. Consider packing just three pairs – flip flops/slides, neutral flats, and a pair of heels. Wear trainers for comfort on your journey and walking while on holiday.

I hope these ideas help, but if you would like a more bespoke styling session please check out my services here and drop me a line at info@notgivinin.com.

Happy holidays.

Gail x

gailpainter March 10, 2023

Three Straight Leg Jean Outfits for Spring 23

This week in my Style With Gail Facebook group I talked to my members about the latest jean styles and how to wear them. In a group poll, straight leg jeans came out as the most worn style. So I thought I would share three straight leg jean outfits for spring 23 that everyone might like.

I can totally see why, after a lot of us have worn skinny jeans for so long, that this looser fitting classic jean is so popular. It suits all body types, with a few adjustments to suit proportions, but hourglass, apple and strawberry (inverted triangle) wear it very well.

Ideally, you’re looking for a fit that ends on your ankle, or about one inch above, for a contemporary look. Great with boots and trainers for every day wear, I’m really looking forward to getting rid of socks and choosing loafers and heels this spring.

Of course, the weather isn’t playing ball at the moment and its sleeting while I write this, so my first outfit choice below includes a leather look long coat and boots. Right now, you’ll need it. There are lovely layers here and items that you’ll either have already, or if bought, will make great staples in your year-round wardrobe. I’ve added in a silk scarf and my intention is for it to be tied around the handbag strap for some added colour and a polished look.

Three Looks for Spring 23

Straight leg Jeans, Zara

Ecru Turtleneck Long Sleeve Top, Mango

Oversize Leather Effect Trench Coat, Mango

Black Curved Leather Bag, H&M

Angular Cat Eye Sunglasses, H&M

Printed Silk Scarf, H&M

Cotton Shirt, Boden

Black Cowboy Boots, Mango

For the next outfit look I’ve picked up on the French trend that is everywhere this spring. Adding a pop of much needed spring time colour with a simple T. Shirt, I’ve paired with a boucle Chanel-style jacket. A pair of kitten heels and metallic shoulder bag give a polished finish and silver jewellery are the icing on the cake.

Black Leather Kitten Heel, Zara

Shoulder Bag, Zara

Braided Necklace, Mango

Double Hoop Earrings, Mango

Straight leg Jeans, Zara

Maxi Floral Tweed Jacket, Mango

White Oval Sunglasses, Mango

Pink T Shirt, COS

My last look offers a touch more glitz and I’d love to have this for when I go out for drinks with the girls, or my husband takes me out! It’s all about the texture here and the cream, tonal look gives a sense of luxury. I love the mix of wool, sequin and gold, which feels elevated, yet easy to wear. Ballet pumps are very much in vogue this spring and I love the armband which will show off otherwise naked arms.

Leather Ballerinas, Zara

Straight leg Jeans, Zara

Sequin Bomber, Zara

Turtleneck Knitted Gillet, Mango

Hoop Knot Earrings, Mango

Textured Wide Armband, Zara

Mini City Bag, Zara

Hope you like these three straight leg jean outfits for spring 23. Keep your eyes peeled for more jean style outfits to come.

There is a link above if you would like to join my Facebook group, and if you’re interested in a more bespoke personal shop do check out my 1-2-1 shopping service here.

Gail x

gailpainter February 1, 2022

24 Stylish Shirts and Blouses For Spring

It’s the wardrobe go-to; a nice top and pair of jeans. But what if your wardrobe is lacking in top half options. Here’s a bunch of stylish shirts and blouses for spring offering a solution. Some add a bolt of colour to liven your outfit (and mood), others offer a touch of femininity with softer lines. Sometimes only an oversized boyfriend shirt will do, so there are a couple of options here too.

If you want to choose styles and cuts that can flatter your figure here are my top tips. Pear-shaped ladies can go bold up top with colour and frills, while strawberry shaped aren’t looking for anything as dramatic, for these ladies the attention is better drawn to the bottom half. If you’re hourglass don’t forget to tuck in or use a belt to define your waist and apple shapes will look good is figure skimming and longer length options. When it comes to rectangles, you’re looking to add shape and texture, so interesting designs and patterns are a great choice.

Hope you like the ideas.

Gail x