New Year, new look, new you…

We’re pretty realistic here at Empire Stores; we don’t make resolutions that we know we won’t keep (e.g. Give Up Chocolate – not a chance!) rather, we prefer to make promises to ourselves that we know we will keep. So we say, why not make this the year when you promise yourself you’re going to get your wardrobe in shape, your personal look sorted and start the new year in a fashion style to which you will want to become accustomed? Here’s a few ideas and quick tips, with a look ahead to the trends for 2008 from Empire Stores:

CONFIDENCE WITH COLOUR: Colour is the big thing for 2008 and certainly a short cut to a New You. If you’ve been stuck in a fashion rut for the last few years, now is the time to climb out with some bold new colours to give you a hand - colours that give you confidence such as reds, pinks, bright blues and sunny yellows. So to face the New Year with self-assurance and poise, try a purple mac or eye catching red puffa jacket or flattering relaxed tunic dress for day wear – great with jeans!

SUITED AND BOOTED: A suit is a great answer for those days when you just don’t know what to wear; a suit makes anyone feel smart and you don’t have to be a corporate high-flyer to wear one. The right suit instantly updates your image and in 2008 suits are in for a re-vamp. So why not treat yourself to a couple of suits that you can mix and match to create any number of looks and boost your confidence every time you wear it? Such as our high-waisted trousers, co-ordinating waistcoat and classic white shirt. From our Portafina range, invest in this classic skirt suit with jacket and skirt and co-ordinating trousers.

HATS OFF: Hats are making a big comeback this year, from practical stylish hats to keep out the winter cold - which let’s face it can last till April! - knitted beret and scarf, right through to these ‘70s-style floppy beach hats which look great and protect you from the sun.

SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL: Small finishing touches can be just as effective - a pair of new shoes or the right bag is like therapy, so it doesn’t always have to be something big (Van Dal mock snakeskin leather clutch! A belted coat for example, instantly keeps you on-trend and while diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, she can make some pretty good acquaintances with our latest selection of glamorous costume jewellery. So if you want to start small with your "New You", update your image with a selection of accessories from Empire Stores: patent ballerinas with ankle strap, white daisy pumps.