This month Chrissi Rix of Studio Style in Drayton came along to persuade women of Reepham WI to look beyond “black and beige” when shopping for new outfits.
Chrissi explained the genetics of colour and how to determine the most suitable shades for individual complexions, taking into account skin tone, eyes and hair.
She demonstrated the difference between “warm" and "cool” profiles with boards of celebrities of varying features, onto which Chrissi then draped mini capes of a spectrum of colours. From there she is able to determine a wider choice of shades to flatter one’s natural attributes.
The importance of colour is not to be understated, with the correct palette making shopping easier, giving one empowerment, the confidence of poise and sense of well-being.
Keeping to a specific palette can also avoid wasted purchases, often bought in haste and hanging unloved in the wardrobe.
Shape of our torsos also came into play: how to emphasise good points and camouflage negative areas such as broad/small shoulders, bust and hips.
In tandem with Chrissi’s vast knowledge of styling with colour, she also offers complementary well-being sessions, which consists of counselling and hypnotherapy to address any underlying issues such as anxiety, weight problems, etc.
The final part of the evening was huge fun, with members attempting to follow the various ways Chrissi demonstrated the use of scarves in many guises.
Again, when choosing a scarf, it is important to match it to your colour palette, not the outfit: scarves can add glamour and, if worn correctly, detract the eye from problem areas.
A selection of scarves from the Bircham Centre were sold in aid of its Raise the Roof appeal – there are still a few available from the charity shop for readers to have a go at home
For individual advice, contact: Chrissi Rix, Style Studio, tel: 07487 796853 or email: chrissirix@studiostylenorwich.co.uk
Reepham WI meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7.30 pm at St Michael’s, Reepham.
Dee Taylor
A selection of scarves from the Bircham Centre. Photo: Dee Taylor