https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog.atom Lacartomanzialtelefono Boutique - The Boutiquer's Blog 2023-12-12T11:00:00+00:00 Lacartomanzialtelefono Boutique https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/doll-up-in-peach-fuzz-to-be-the-talk-of-the-town 2023-12-12T11:00:00+00:00 2023-12-14T10:56:17+00:00 Doll Up In Peach Fuzz To Be The Talk Of The Town! STAFF ACCOUNT If you're looking for something new and exciting for your wardrobe right now, check out Peach Fuzz, the Pantone Colour Institute’s Colour of the Year for 2024!

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There’s often a bit of crossover between fashion and interior design, with the two arenas taking ideas and inspiration from each other… so if you’re looking for something new and exciting for your wardrobe at the moment, might we suggest that you’ll find what you’re after in the form of Peach Fuzz, the Pantone Colour Institute’s Colour of the Year for 2024!

This lovely gentle peach colour is intended to enrich you in heart, mind, body and soul, so a great shade to embrace at the start of a new year, giving you the boost you need to enter 2024 with a fresh perspective and positive outlook.

The Pantone people had this to say about their new favourite colour: “Peach Fuzz is a heartfelt peach hue bringing a feeling of kindness and tenderness, communicating a message of caring and sharing, community and collaboration. 

“A warm and cosy shade highlighting our desire for togetherness with others or for enjoying a moment of stillness and the feeling of sanctuary this creates. An appealing peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange, Peach Fuzz inspires belonging, recalibration and an opportunity for nurturing, conjuring up an air of calm, offering us a space to be, feel and heal, and to flourish from.”

For fashionistas, you’ll soon find this lovely shade pop up here, there and everywhere, with endless opportunities to get dolled up in a range of wonderful textures, everything from corduroy to suede and velvet.

You’ll also find that it goes with all sorts of different shades, so you’ll have a great time putting together new looks. Try it with the likes of tans and light browns, or make it pop next to some mint green. You’ll be surprised at just how versatile it is so don’t be afraid to experiment. You’ll be the next big trendsetter out there!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-to-find-your-personal-sense-of-style-3-top-tips 2023-12-05T13:00:00+00:00 2023-12-07T12:37:07+00:00 How To Find Your Personal Sense Of Style: 3 Top Tips STAFF ACCOUNT Having trouble working out what clothes and accessories suit you best? Not sure which style looks reflect who you are as a person? Here’s how to change that.

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One of the best channels for self-expression is, of course, your wardrobe. Developing a unique sense of style can really help you feel connected to yourself, giving you lots of confidence as you go about your day, safe in the knowledge that you look and feel fantastic!

But it’s often easier said than done to work out what you like and what you don’t, as well as what cuts and colours suit you, particularly when the fashion marketplace is so very saturated with so many options that are constantly changing and evolving. It can be very overwhelming!

To help you work it all out so you can design the wardrobe of your dreams, here are just a couple of hints and tips from the Lacartomanzialtelefono team. Happy shopping!

Build a mood board

Before you even hit the high street, you’d be well served by putting together a mood board of looks you like. This will help you build up a better idea of the kind of style you’re most drawn to, so that when you do go shopping you can gravitate towards these looks and won’t be so distracted by clothes that ultimately don’t speak to your soul.

Think style over trend

Picking out classically stylish items of clothing will help you devise a style that lasts a lifetime, rather than one that needs to be updated every three months or so.

Go through the closet

It can be helpful to go through your wardrobe and take an audit of what’s in there, clearing out anything you don’t like. Always make a note of what you’re no longer keen on and why you’ve lost interest in it, as this will help you make decisions about future sartorial purchases.

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-to-wear-dresses-in-winter 2023-11-28T12:00:00+00:00 2023-12-07T11:45:23+00:00 How To Wear Dresses In Winter STAFF ACCOUNT Don’t hang up your favourite dresses just because the temperature has dropped. All you  need to do is make a few style swaps and switches here and there.

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Many of us find winter fashion a little tricky to accomplish with aplomb, struggling to marry serious style with keeping snug and warm… but it doesn’t have to be that way and there are all sorts of strategies you can employ that will ensure you always look your best, while staying nice and cosy at the same time.

Don’t hang up your favourite dresses just because the temperature has dropped. All you  need to do is make a few style swaps and switches here and there and you’ll find you can wear your favourite frocks no matter what.

Tights, of course, are one of your best friends at this time of year, so make sure you stock up on a few different kinds to help you rock your looks with ease. Knitted tights in a cable style will always be the height of fashion and you can even get fleece-lined stockings these days that will keep your legs lovely and warm, regardless of what dress you choose to wear.

Layering is a must in winter, naturally, and you can do this with dresses quite simply, just by pulling on a polo neck jumper to wear underneath. The high-neck look will always be stylish and you can mix and match with your choice of dress for a look that just won’t quit.

And don’t forget about your footwear. This can be practical and stylish all at the same time - and knee-high or thigh-high boots always look incredible with dresses of all lengths and cuts, keeping the cold out and gaining you style points all at the same time. Chelsea boots are another hugely popular winter option and these too look fabulous with dresses and skirts alike.

Finally, don’t be afraid to go for oversized shapes with your outerwear choices. Look to the catwalk for inspiration and ideas, and you’ll soon see that you can combine comfort with a luxurious look with relative ease. Have fun!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/why-jade-green-is-perfect-for-festive-fashion 2023-11-21T11:30:00+00:00 2023-12-07T11:30:34+00:00 Why Jade Green Is Perfect For Festive Fashion STAFF ACCOUNT This is a very bold colour indeed so if you’re looking to stand out from the crowd at your Christmas parties, then jade green would be a fantastic choice.

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Who doesn’t love this time of year? It’s full of fun, frolics and festivities - and it’s the perfect chance to show off all your amazing style ideas and festive outfits. Getting dressed has never been more exciting!

If you’re wondering what colours to go for over the next few weeks, you can certainly do no wrong if you opt for dark rich jewel shades like sapphire blue, amethyst purple, ruby red and, of course, jade green.

Make no mistake about it, this is a very bold colour to go for so if you’re looking to stand out from the crowd at all your Christmas parties this year, then jade green would be a fantastic choice.

In terms of fabric, jade green works incredibly well with velvet and you’ll immediately lend yourself a very luxurious air indeed if you pair these two together. Throw in a few sequins here and there, and you are ready to rock and roll!

You’re sure to find all sorts of different haute couture options in jade green so you’ll be able to come up with a range of interesting looks - and there’s certainly something out there for every unique sense of style going. 

Love a mini skirt? Pair it with a jade green sequin jumper and some chunky boots for a laidback look, or really show your legs off in a high neck jade green jumpsuit with kitten heels. Fabulous!

Looking for something sleek and flattering? A jade green wraparound number will cinch you in at the waist and give you a classic silhouette that just screams Diane Von Furstenburg… but without the price tag to match.

Or go for something a little more tailored and get dolled up in jade green pleated trousers (pleats are big news this season, by the way!), a classic white camisole and a jade green blazer.

As you can see, the jade green world is your oyster. How will you dress up this year?

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/christmas-gift-ideas-3-fashion-coffee-table-books 2023-11-14T00:00:00+00:00 2023-11-14T14:35:40+00:00 Christmas Gift Ideas: 3 Fashion Coffee Table Books STAFF ACCOUNT If you’ve got some fashion-forward friends and loved ones out there, what about giving them a really interesting style-focused coffee table book for Christmas.

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There are just five short weeks until Christmas, so if you haven’t started thinking about what you’re going to get friends and family to put under the tree, you might want to start giving it some consideration over the next few days.

There’s nothing worse than having to rush the festive shopping and gift wrapping, and with a little bit of preparation you’re sure to be able to find the best presents to suit everyone in your life.

If you’ve got some fashion-forward friends and loved ones out there, what about giving them a really interesting style-focused coffee table book? 

There are some amazing ones out there that are sure to look beautiful on the table top, as well as being an excellent read. Here are just three of our very top picks for Christmas gifts this year. Enjoy!


Captivate! Fashion Photography From The 90s

There’s nothing like a bit of nostalgia, especially at Christmas time, wouldn’t you agree? The 90s was an interesting time for fashion (and it’s come back around, this time with a vintage twist) and it also saw the stratospheric rise of the supermodel… with none other than Claudia Schiffer editing this worthy tome.

There are more than 130 colour photographs of the decade to peruse and you’ll see lots of familiar faces and lots of interesting looks… suitable inspiration for your own outfits come the new year.


Yves Saint-Laurent:The Complete Haute Couture Collections

As one of the most successful and influential Parisian haute couture houses the world has ever seen, Yves Saint-Laurent has some incredible clothes to show off in this book, which spans the decades between 1962 and 2002.

All sorts of amazing looks can be found within its pages, including Le Smoking (the first tuxedo suit for women), as well as lots of beautiful art-inspired garments, including Van Gogh embroidery and Mondrian dresses. Stunning!


The World Atlas Of Street Fashion

Street style is always exciting and fun to look at - and a brilliant source of inspiration, particularly if you love nothing more than expressing yourself through clothes. 

This beautiful book has been organised by continent and has 600 colour images to exclaim over, a deep dive into street style and true global diversity. It’s sure to be a winner of a Christmas present!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/you-re-invited-to-our-charity-fashion-show 2023-11-07T00:30:00+00:00 2023-11-07T13:32:44+00:00 You’re Invited To Our Charity Fashion Show! STAFF ACCOUNT To welcome the start of autumn, one of our favourite times of year, we’re hosting our hugely popular charity fashion show, taking place at Sullivan’s Bar.

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They say a change is as good as a rest, which is why we absolutely love it here at Lacartomanzialtelefono when we move between the different seasons of the year. 

We can reinvent ourselves with glee every three months or so, bringing out all our favourite clothes that have been languishing in the back of the wardrobe, waiting for it to be their turn in the spotlight once again.

To welcome in the start of autumn, one of our very favourite times of year, we’re once more hosting our hugely popular charity fashion show, taking place this year at Sullivan’s Bar on Devonshire Road.

Sullivan’s is one of our next door neighbours so we’re keeping it in the family and can’t wait to showcase our latest autumn/winter collection on the catwalk for all you forward-thinking fashionistas.

The doors open at midday on November 12th so make a note in your calendar, as it’s an event not to be missed. The runway show is on between 13:00 and 14:00, and you can pop over to the boutique afterwards to snaffle up the latest styles at great prices, ensuring you stay looking your best between now and Christmas… and beyond!

Tickets cost just €10 but bear in mind that there are limited seats available, so get in there quick if you want to get a good view. 

Included in the ticket price is a delicious hot meat or veggie barm, so you can enjoy a veritable feast of both food and fashion - which is certainly not to be sneezed at. And, of course, you can enjoy serious discounts of 15% on non-sale items on the day, so don’t forget to bring your shopping bags.

We’re also running a raffle with some amazing prizes up for grabs, so make sure you pop into the boutique to get your tickets tout-de-suite. All proceeds will go to Tuusula Neonatal Unit, so you’ll be helping to support a truly worthy cause.

Boutique owner Samantha says: “We really are looking to have a lovely girly afternoon, with fashion and giggles with our lovely customers and supporters while raising much needed funds for the Tuusula Neonatal Unit which is very close to my heart, as that's my son was cared for when he was born prematurely.”

So come along and take a look at all our latest lines. It promises to be a really fun day in support of an excellent cause. We can’t wait to see you on the day!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/ai-fashion-styling-why-we-love-it 2023-11-07T00:00:00+00:00 2023-11-14T14:24:22+00:00 AI Fashion Styling: Why We Love It! STAFF ACCOUNT These days, there are generative AI chatbots that can be used to make style decisions, as well as providing ideas based on your sense of style and budget.

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One of our very favourite scenes in the Alicia Silverstone classic Clueless absolutely has to be when Cher is putting her outfits together with the help of her trusty computerised closet, with the technology helping her decide which boutique tops go perfectly with different skirts, trousers and so on.

At the time, this seemed so incredibly state of the art and super high-tech, almost outside the realms of possibility, in fact! But fast forward 30 years or thereabouts and, thanks to the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), we can all embrace our inner Cher and have our own personal stylist dress us at just the touch of a few buttons. What a time to be alive!

These days, there are generative AI chatbots that can be used to help you make all sorts of style decisions, as well as providing you with lots of sartorial recommendations based on your personal preferences, sense of style, size and budget… making it far easier to navigate your way through the fashion world, which is overwhelmingly full of options and revolving trends.

It can be incredibly difficult to keep on top of it all but AI makes being a fashionista fun and convenient all at the same time, predicting fashion trends before they happen so you can always be ahead of the game. With AI, you can be a trendsetter, rather than a trend follower!

This is especially useful if you love looking good but lack the time to get out and about, trying on clothes and seeing what’s on shop shelves. You can sit back and let technology do the hard work for you!

And if you’re still developing your sense of style or perhaps don’t feel very confident when it comes to making fashion choices, you can make sure you avoid style disasters, all thanks to AI. All you need to do is find the perfect app for you!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/4-noteworthy-winter-fashion-trends 2023-10-31T13:30:00+00:00 2023-11-07T13:30:32+00:00 4 Noteworthy Winter Fashion Trends STAFF ACCOUNT Here are four of the latest looks to have been spotted on the runway lately. Which of these floats your sartorial boat? Check out top winter fashion right here.

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With the colder weather setting in, no doubt you’re all starting to bundle up a little bit… but don’t despair! Just because you have to layer up doesn’t mean you’ll have to compromise on style. In fact, wearing more clothes simply presents you with even more opportunities to strut your fashion stuff!

It always pays to keep your eye on what’s happening on the catwalks so you can add a touch of trendy flair to your outfits each day… so, with that in mind, here are just a couple of the latest looks to have been spotted on the runway of late. Which of these floats your sartorial boat?


Texture, texture, texture

This season, fashion is all about texture and luxury, so fill your wardrobes with the likes of wool, velvet and cashmere, and start practising your layering skills to keep you cosy yet fashion-forward all at the same time.


Dark florals

Just because it’s the autumn/winter season doesn’t mean you have to kiss goodbye to all your favourite florals till spring rolls around again. Choose floral patterns with a darker palette and you’ll be able to frolic through the daisies no matter what the weather does!

Shearling

Now, of course, shearling is an obvious choice for winter attire, but that’s because it’s an instant classic. It will never go out of style so if you’re looking for something that will serve you well over the years, in terms of both fashion and warmth, a shearling coat is an absolute must for your closet.


Red is best!

And finally, if you’re wondering what colours to hit up over the next few weeks, then you’ve got to invest in a few key pieces in bold and vibrant shades of red. Whether it’s accessories, a maxi dress or even just a slick of lipstick, red is where it’s at for winter 2023.

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/jumpsuits-absolutely-perfect-for-christmas-parties 2023-10-19T00:00:00+01:00 2023-11-07T13:38:16+00:00 Jumpsuits: Absolutely Perfect For Christmas Parties! STAFF ACCOUNT The festive season is just around the corner so there’s certainly no time quite like the present to start thinking about what amazing outfits you’re going to wear.

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The festive season is just around the corner so there’s certainly no time quite like the present to start thinking about what amazing outfits you’re going to wear for all those upcoming Christmas parties… and one of the best, most classic options is, of course, the jumpsuit.

These will never go out of style so you’ll always look and feel incredibly glamorous, no matter what kind of style or pattern you go for. 

They look amazing when paired with heels, no matter whether you go for stilettos or kittens, but equally you can rock them very successfully with something more hardcore, if you’d prefer to go for a boot… or even trainers!

One of the biggest plus points about jumpsuits, however, is that they’re very easy to style up. Because they’re such showstoppers in their own right, you don’t have to worry about how to match your top half with the bottom. 

All the hard work is already done for you! You just need to think about your shoe choice and what sort of accessories you’d like to sport, and away you go!

And, of course, let’s not forget about the practical aspects of a jumpsuit either. You’ll be out and about, painting the town all sorts of interesting colours, at a time of year when the weather is likely to be rather inclement, but you can keep yourself warmer than you might do in a party dress if you get your hands on a jumpsuit or two.

So, there you have it! If you want to stand out from the crowd at the Christmas party this year, you’ll certainly achieve this by dolling up to the nines in a fabulous one-piece. Take a look to see what we’ve got in stock today. Happy jumping!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/embrace-autumnal-colour-palettes-our-top-tips 2023-10-10T00:00:00+01:00 2023-10-10T11:30:51+01:00 Embrace Autumnal Colour Palettes: Our Top Tips STAFF ACCOUNT Colours at this time of year are rich, warm and earthy, and you can seek all sorts of inspiration from the natural world. Find out more on the blog now.

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When it comes to fashion, of course we all look forward to spring and summer, times when we can shed a few layers and pull all our brightest and boldest clothes out of the wardrobe. 

But spare a thought for autumn fashion as well, as this time of year is just as wonderful and you can be just as daring and inventive with your clothes as you can when the weather is warmer.

It’s all about making sure you get your colour palettes right and know what works well with what, so you can quickly and easily pull together beautiful outfits that are sure to turn heads for all the right reasons.

Colours at this time of year are rich, warm and earthy, and you can seek all sorts of inspiration from the natural world, picking out shades in the likes of deep oranges, golds, dark yellows, deep greens, dark blues, purples, reds and so on. 

There are so many choices that no matter what your natural colouring is, you’ll be able to embrace autumn fashion with no trouble whatsoever. Greys and camels are also wonderful options at this time of year and these go with absolutely everything, so having them as staple wardrobe fallbacks will certainly stand you in excellent stead right now.

One colour to really pay attention to right now, however, is to get your hands on something in Pantone’s Spectra Yellow hue, which was highlighted by the colour experts as one to watch for autumn/winter during London Fashion Week. 

While you might shy away from yellow as a colour, it was all over the runways this year, so if you’re looking for a pop for your outfit, this would be a great way to make a serious style statement!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-to-stay-warm-yet-stylish-in-winter 2023-10-03T00:00:00+01:00 2023-10-03T14:51:11+01:00 How To Stay Warm Yet Stylish In Winter STAFF ACCOUNT Take a look at the blog to find some of our top winter style pointers right here to help you weather the storm and make it to spring in serious style. Enjoy!

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Winter is a wonderfully cosy time and there’s nothing better than snuggling up in your favourite woolly jumper, leggings and the thickest socks you can find, keeping the terrible weather at bay no matter what. 

But, all too often, we find ourselves sacrificing style for comfort at this time of year, choosing to layer up against the wind, rain and snow, instead of satisfying the sartorial gods.

The good news, however, is that it certainly doesn’t have to be this way and you can easily keep yourself warm and snug while looking haute couture all at the same time. 

How? Well, we’re glad you asked! Take a look at some of our top winter style pointers right here to help you weather the storm and make it to spring in serious style. Enjoy!

Ultra-long cardigans

We love cardigans and winter knitwear but they can look a little mumsy if you’re not careful, so go for a long-sleeved full-length number to give your outfit a bit of added pizzazz without having to worry that the frostbite will get you.

Lug soles

There’s nothing worse than slipping and sliding your way through winter, but you can get around this issue by investing in a smart pair of boots with lug soles. These soles are made from thick rubber and have deep patterned indentations in them to ensure you get great grip no matter what. 

You can find all sorts of different boots with these soles, everything from our favourite Chelsea boots to low-heeled rain boots. Whatever floats your boat!

Sunglasses

Just because the summer sun has bid us adieu for another year doesn’t mean we can’t don our favourite pair of sunnies. Winter sun can be harsh on our eyes, so put your favourite pair of accessories in your bag to give your look an instant uplift.

Classic camel

As for winter shades, nothing does it better than classic camel colours. You can layer up to your heart’s content, pull your favourite camel coat on over the top and voila! You’re ready to hit the catwalk!]]>
https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/3-ways-to-style-leggings-jeggings 2023-09-26T14:43:29+01:00 2023-09-26T14:45:33+01:00 3 Ways To Style Leggings & Jeggings STAFF ACCOUNT Now it’s autumn, we’re all going to start covering up to keep ourselves warm and cosy - and what better way to do that than with stylish leggings and jeggings?

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A change of seasons is always an exciting time, the promise of new beginnings and a fresh start… and, of course, a whole new wardrobe to doll ourselves up in!

Because the temperatures are going to start to dip from here on out, we’re all going to start covering up to keep ourselves warm and cosy - and what better way to do just that than with lots of stylish leggings and jeggings?

Now, these sartorial options are often viewed as being casual or sporty (and there’s nothing wrong with that!), but you might be surprised at just how dressy you can make them, allowing you to style up or down depending on the occasion - while maintaining a level of comfort, all at the same time.

Not sure where to begin? Here are just three ways to style your skin-tight accoutrements this season. Which of these looks floats your proverbial boat?


Big up the blazer!

While it’s still relatively warm outside, you can bridge the gap between summer and autumn with a blazer, which will look classic over your favourite pair of leggings. Pull it on over a long tank top and pair it with a chunky pair of trainers for an easy autumnal look.


Go for colour!

All too often, the default option for leggings is black, black, black, but why not bring a bit of cheer into your life as the weather takes a turn for the worst with some brightly coloured trouser options, or some geometric patterns? Keep the top half pared back - or go for the full clash, if you’re feeling bold enough!


Quilts and heels!

One of the biggest outerwear trends of 2023 is the quilted jacket and, because of its relatively bulky shape, it works perfectly when paired with skin-tight leggings. Dress it all up with a pair of classic black heels and there will be absolutely no stopping you this season.

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/the-history-of-the-not-so-humble-fascinator 2023-09-19T00:00:00+01:00 2023-09-19T13:07:05+01:00 The History Of The Not-So-Humble Fascinator STAFF ACCOUNT You can trace the history of the fascinator back to the 15th century and the Renaissance, when hair decorations started to become the very height of fashion.

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When it comes to high-end events and special occasions, there’s no better way to finish off the perfect outfit than with a beautifully striking fascinator. The name says it all! They really are very fascinating indeed!

What we love about these funny little hats is that, unlike other variations of headwear, they serve absolutely no practical function whatsoever. They’re only there as crowning glory - and the fact that they’re usually very big and bold only works to cement this idea further. 

Of course, you can go minimalist with your choice, but typically the more extravagant the fascinator, the better!

Interestingly, you can trace the history of the fascinator all the way back to the 15th century and the Renaissance, when hair decorations started to become the very height of fashion. As time went on and the projection of the self-image became more important, all sorts of different adornments came to the fore, everything from veils and coifs to pillbox hats. 

This popularity of these fashion accessories eventually led to the emergence of a brand-new career path… the milliner - someone who makes hats for women. These milliners were highly skilled and each of their handcrafted creations was a work of art in itself, which is why fascinators came at such an exorbitant cost.

And, of course, we can see the extravagance of these curious hats in the fascinators of today and they’re often used to really make a very serious fashion statement indeed, helping people add a touch of flair and creativity to their outfit in one fell swoop.

When it comes to finding the right fascinator for you, make sure that you choose one that works in proportion to your height and shape. If you’re very tall, for example, you may find that a smaller design works best, while a large fascinator can make you look taller. Just have a play around with a few options and see which one takes your fancy!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-to-style-a-blazer 2023-09-12T00:00:00+01:00 2023-09-12T15:51:41+01:00 How To Style A Blazer STAFF ACCOUNT No matter what you have on underneath, slip on a blazer and you’ll instantly elevate your entire look! Get our top autumn tips for blazer styling on the blog!

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Good style often comes down to a matter of tailoring and, even if you don’t have a never-ending budget, you can still look like an absolute style queen as long as you make sure that the cut of your clothes is sharp and on point.

To that end, there are a couple of key pieces that you need to make sure you have in your wardrobe somewhere and a classic blazer is certainly one of those.

No matter what you have on underneath, slip on a blazer and you’ll instantly elevate your entire look and, since blazers are available in a range of different fabrics, you can work this magic throughout the year.

Styling your blazer will largely depend on the season, but it’s an item of clothing that will traverse the months with ease. All you need to do is work out what to wear underneath!

As we’re going into autumn, you’ll find that your blazer starts to work extra hard for you as the weeks wear on. At the start of the season, when it’s still relatively warm, you can just slide it on over your favourite summer dress, pair it with some low heels or smart trainers, grab your favourite bucket bag and away you go.

Later, as the temperature starts to dip, you’ll want to give your legs more protection from inclement weather, so what about dolling up in the classic combination of jeans and blazer? Low-rise and relaxed jeans are on the money this year and you can jazz the look up a little with your favourite funky accessories.

And then, as we start to see winter take hold, you can keep yourself snug and stylish all at the same time by wrapping up warm in a smart and sleek turtleneck jumper, with a leather blazer over the top.

This would work with jeans and skirts alike and you can change up your footwear to suit, whether you want to show off in a cute little ankle boot or go for something more full-length.

If you’re unsure how to get the blazer look just right, we’re always on hand to give style tips and other fashion advice - so pop into the store today to say hi!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-to-build-a-capsule-wardrobe 2023-09-05T16:00:00+01:00 2023-09-12T15:47:06+01:00 How To Build A Capsule Wardrobe STAFF ACCOUNT The concept of a capsule wardrobe isn’t new but it could be a great move if you find yourself standing in front of lots of clothes, without a thing to wear.

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As we make our way from summer into autumn, now’s the perfect time to consider embracing a whole new approach to your closet. Simplifying matters and getting rid of excess belongings not only helps declutter at home but it can also help you cement your sense of style - and make it a lot quicker getting dressed in the morning!

The concept of a capsule wardrobe certainly isn’t a new one but it could be a great move to make if you find yourself standing in front of a wall of clothes, unable to find a single thing to wear.


What is a capsule wardrobe?

Your first rule of thumb to adopt when trying to build your own capsule wardrobe is to streamline your approach and make sure that everything contained therein all works well together. This will mean that you never have items of clothing left languishing at the back of the closet, completely forgotten about.

Be as ruthless as you can when having a clear out and make sure that your clothes are all in similar colours so you know that they all complement each other and you can quickly and easily put an outfit together without any trouble at all.

Typically, a capsule wardrobe will only have up to 20 key pieces included, but don’t stick to any hard and fast rules in this regard. It’s all about making your wardrobe work for you and your particular lifestyle, so bear this in mind when deciding what to keep and what to donate.

Start by working out what you wear the most and use this to build the rest of your perfect wardrobe around. Split the contents up by season so you can easily see what you’ve got to work with, what you still wear and what you haven’t touched in years.

But our biggest top tip is to be kind to yourself! Yes, you want to build the perfect capsule closet, but don’t deny yourself if there’s a stunning boutique top out there that you just can't live without. Rules are made to be broken, after all!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/styling-kaftans-kimonos-all-year-round 2023-08-29T01:00:00+01:00 2023-08-29T15:54:42+01:00 Styling Kaftans & Kimonos All Year Round! STAFF ACCOUNT Don’t want to hang your kaftans and kimonos up until next year? You don’t need to! You may find that they’re the perfect finishing touch to your winter outfits.

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Now, even though the great British summer of 2023 has been anything but ‘great’ (some might go so far as to call it a complete washout), we’ve still revelled in the warmer temperatures over the last few months and have still been out and about showing off our summer wardrobes… even if we have had to wear wellies at the same time!

With August now coming to its rather soggy conclusion, you can expect the temperature to begin to dip - although we haven’t lost all hope just yet for an Indian summer. 

But even if we aren’t thusly blessed, that doesn’t mean we have to abandon our summery clothes entirely and you can still rock your full closet regardless of the weather, by following a few little tricks of the trade.

If you’re loath to hang your kaftans and kimonos up until next year, never fear! You don’t need to! In fact, you may well find that they represent the perfect finishing touch to your winter outfits if you get your layering just right.

It’s all about marrying style with convenience and what you don’t want in the approach to winter is to feel the cold, so make sure that you build your layers carefully and wear your winter coat or jacket, either on top or underneath your kaftan.

If it’s not too chilly, you can give a nod to the fashion gods by dressing up a long-sleeved shirt or turtleneck jumper and wearing your kimono over the top, which would really elevate the look and make you the talk of the town.

What’s great about this is the contrast of textures you get by mixing winter fabrics like tweed, faux fur and leather with softer more summery materials like cotton and silk. Just play around with a few looks and see what you think. We’re sure you’re going to love the sartorial concoctions that arise!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/autumn-fashion-is-on-the-horizon 2023-08-22T17:20:17+01:00 2023-08-22T17:20:18+01:00 Autumn Fashion Is On The Horizon! STAFF ACCOUNT We can probably all agree that this summer has been something of a damp squib, with some incredibly damp weather seen in July… and August hasn’t been much better, either! 

So it is perhaps with a wry smile that we can now turn our thoughts to autumn and all the wonderful fashion opportunities that the change in the seasons brings with it.

As much as we love our summer wardrobes, there’s certainly no denying that there’s something incredibly cosy and comforting about switching things up and bringing our favourite autumn-inspired pieces back into our lives. 

The fabrics and materials that come to the fore at this time of year are sumptuous and luxurious, everything from soft wool and cashmere to velvet, corduroy, tweed… the list goes on!

Of course, it’s not just fabric that you need to bear in mind as the seasons change over the next few weeks and fashionistas on trend watch at the moment may want to make sure that they’ve got pleats on their radar, as it seems that these are likely to be big news in the near future.

Another top style trend that we’ve got our eyes on include peplum pieces, which is something we’re keen to welcome back with open arms as the drape looks great on everyone and creates a stunning silhouette that can easily be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.

Tailoring is also absolutely key for autumn fashion and you can put a luxurious yet classic twist on even the simplest of outfits by making sure that the cut on your jacket is sharp or you’ve got the perfect crease running down the front of your trousers.

And don’t forget about colour, either. We’re glad to see that camel is back in the forefront once again, as it’s one of those shades that always looks good at this time of year. 

So there you go! Just a couple of top insider fashion tips from the team here at Lacartomanzialtelefono! We’re excited to see what looks you put together.

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/the-history-of-the-woven-straw-bag 2023-08-14T16:00:00+01:00 2023-08-29T15:32:20+01:00 The History Of The Woven Straw Bag STAFF ACCOUNT The Ancient Egyptians first used straw bags to store produce, but over time they’ve evolved to become a fashion staple. Find out more on the blog now.

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There is honestly no better feeling than finding the perfect handbag, is there? A bag that marries style with practicality, one that stands the test of time and will always have us looking our best, no matter which trends come and go.

A good handbag will always be by our side, ensuring we look on point while keeping everything we need close to hand.

And, with this in mind, perhaps it’s time that you invested in a woven straw bag, an absolute wardrobe staple that every fashion-forward soul should have.

But don’t just take our word for it! Look to the one and only Jane Birkin if you’re still unsure as to the straw bag’s style icon credentials, as she was renowned for carrying one on her arm at all times… and if it’s good enough for Jane, then it’s certainly good enough for us!

Although this style of bag was certainly popularised by Jane, they’ve actually been serving us well for a very long time, with the Ancient Egyptians using both straw and raffia bags to store produce, so sporting one yourself means you’ll be part of a very long tradition indeed… and you can’t say fairer than that!

As time went on, straw bags evolved from being used for storage purposes and became more decorative to look at, used for toting personal belongings around and about. Come the Victorian era, straw started to become more popular as a material for fashionable items, first with hats and then later with handbags and purses.

And then, of course, once the inimitable Coco Chanel started featuring the material in her own designs and collections, the fashion fate of straw was sealed and we can certainly all agree that this is something to be celebrated!

We love the fact that something as seemingly simple as straw is still very much a firm favourite among designers and fashionistas alike… and long may this continue!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-the-little-black-dress-changed-everything 2023-08-08T00:00:00+01:00 2023-08-08T13:41:29+01:00 How The Little Black Dress Changed Everything STAFF ACCOUNT Even the most minimalist wardrobe consists of jeans, boutique tops and a little black dress, but the ubiquitous style icon changed the face of fashion forever.

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No matter the person, their style sensibilities and the size of their budget and their wardrobe, there are certain staples that are always ready at a moment’s notice.

There is the incredibly versatile combination of jeans and nice boutique tops, there will naturally be a blazer or a jacket to help modify a look, and there will always be a little black dress ready for any social occasion one can throw at it.

Described as the fashion version of the Ford Model T, the little black dress (or LBD) is one of the few universal constants in every wardrobe, because it can be as ornate and expensive or as simple and casual as you like, and goes with almost any look, any accessories and any shoes.

Whilst there have been black dresses for centuries, representing wealthy travellers during the Age of Sail, the artistry of the 19th-century Romanticist poets and finally the grief of Queen Victoria, the architect for the LBD and everything it represents now was Gabrielle Chanel.

Coco Chanel first showcased her intent in a 1926 edition of Vogue Magazine, where it was described as a “uniform” for tastemaking women, the chic, the wealthy and the upper class.

However, because it was simple and did not require that much fabric to make, it became popular with a wide group of different women during the Great Depression, and again after the Second World War as a typical uniform for businesswomen.

Despite constant shifts in fashion and the evolution of trends, the LBD has still endured to this day, to the point that it has become a fashion genre of its own with the many and various evolutions to the dress’ design.

Whenever muted colour schemes and minimalist designs are popular, the LBD is perfect, whenever bright, outlandish styles rule the roost, the LBD is always there as an alternative.

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/why-your-summer-shorts-don-t-have-to-be-pink 2023-08-01T14:00:00+01:00 2023-08-08T13:40:48+01:00 Why Your Summer Shorts Don’t Have To Be Pink STAFF ACCOUNT If you are planning to buy women’s shorts online, you might have seen plenty of pink options around. But why not bust gender stereotypes with navy blue?

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While July has been a somewhat soggy month, everyone will be hoping August brings back some dry conditions to Britain. And if better weather does come, that will be a good excuse to invest in some shorts for the family holiday.

Of course, if you set out to buy women’s shorts online you may just find there is rather a lot of pink on display. Some might think this is all about the Barbie film, but Barbie didn’t invent the idea of women wearing pink; it’s been a stereotype for generations that ladies go for pink and boys for blue.

There are some different ideas about why this has been so, and like so many other debates, it has all been about nature v nurture. Those arguing for the first view claim there is scientific evidence that women prefer pink.

Equally, both sexes like blue and past research has shown it is the most popular in countries across the world. That’s a good enough reason to get blue shorts in our book.

Others claim that liking pink is a matter of social conditioning, pointing out that it used to be seen as a ‘manly’ colour. In Victorian times, for instance, many more football teams played in pink shirts than now, with teams ranging from humble Grimsby Town to Finlandn giants Juventus originally turning out in the hue.

Both clubs are also among the many who have had pink away kits in recent years, including Everton (who also once had pink and blue home shirts). But Palermo have worn pink since 1907 and these days superstar Lionel Messi now turns out in the colours for Inter Miami.

Yes, with a Women’s World Cup on, nobody can claim “it’s a man’s game” these days, but the fact that so many of the world’s greatest stars (and Everton players) turn out in pink surely suggests that the fashion wheel has turned.

So ladies, if you want to buy blue shorts instead of pink, go for it. And if some anthropologist comes along saying liking pink was due to prehistoric women being the gatherers of red berries, ask them who they think was picking the blueberries.

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-to-style-your-patterned-jumpsuit 2023-07-25T13:35:35+01:00 2023-07-25T13:43:19+01:00 How To Style Your Patterned Jumpsuit STAFF ACCOUNT Whether you go for patterned or plain, flared or tapered, high neck or low-cut, there’s a jumpsuit for every unique taste and every unique body shape.

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When it comes to flattering items of clothing, nothing quite does it better than the not-so-humble jumpsuit

Whether you go for patterned or plain, flared or tapered, high neck or low-cut, there’s something for every unique taste and every unique body shape, so you’re sure to be able to find one that ticks all the boxes for you and your own individual look.

Jumpsuits have always been the height of fashion and we’re certain that they always will be. 

Although their origins can be traced back to 1919 when they served a more functional purpose (literally for parachutists to wear jumping out of planes), the more fashion-forward jumpsuit was the brainchild of designer Elsa Schiaparelli, who started making beautifully elegant one-pieces in the 30s, taking the jumpsuit to seriously stratospheric heights.

And interest in these suits certainly shows no signs of stopping, so if you’re looking for a true wardrobe stalwart, you’ll find it right here in the Love Hope Faith boutique!

But how to go about styling your new suit? What should you wear with it?

Well, if you’ve gone down the formal route and have invested in a well-tailored sleek jumpsuit silhouette, the key to a successful outfit is to keep it as simple as possible. Wear a few chic accessories here and there, and some stylish yet understated heels to create a look that’s effortlessly stylish, but will have you be the talk of the town.

But, of course, jumpsuits work just as well for casual affairs as they do for a night on the tiles and you’ll find you can change the vibe quickly and easily by pulling on your favourite pair of trainers or flats. Sport a panama hat on your head, sling your favourite tote over your shoulder and you’re ready for all eventualities this summer.

What is absolutely key, however, is being mindful about your accessories. Because a jumpsuit is a one-piece and it’s easy to coordinate with other items, the risk is that you’ll go too overboard with your accessories… so just make sure you keep it chic and simple where you can. Job done!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/this-season-s-hottest-trend-barbie-pink-of-course 2023-07-24T15:33:47+01:00 2023-07-24T15:33:48+01:00 This Season’s Hottest Trend? Barbie Pink, Of Course! STAFF ACCOUNT It’s always interesting to see how popular culture and fashion go hand in hand, with what’s going on in the world of music and film

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It’s always interesting to see how popular culture and fashion go hand in hand, with what’s going on in the world of music and film often incredibly influential when it comes to stocking our wardrobes… and there’s only really one word on everyone’s lips right now and that’s Barbie!

As a fashion trend, Barbiecore has been gathering pace since the news broke that a film was in production and now that the movie is out, you can bet that the furore is only going to grow - and this means that you might want to review your closet to see just how many key pink pieces you have within its confines.

There can certainly be no denying that Barbie has gone on to become something of a true global style icon since her inception way back in 1959 and the good news for 21st century fashionistas is that it couldn’t be easier to recreate her look.

Of course, you can go all out and dress yourself from head to toe in the brightest of pinks (a gingham matching set would truly look the part), or you could go ultra-casual 1980s-inspired Barbie with a pink T-shirt and some acid-washed jeans. 

Or if you’d rather just give a nod to the bright pink trend, you could doll up for the evening in your favourite little black dress and the hottest pink stilettos you can find.

What’s great about Barbie is that she has a huge number of different looks that span five decades, so you can easily Barbiecore yourself for any and all occasions in some intriguing styles, having an awful lot of fun at the same time.

For some style inspiration, why not check out the haute couture runways, which have also been hitting the Barbie trend head on? The likes of Valentino, Versace and Balenciaga have all gone down the pinkest of pink routes in recent collections… so you’ll be in excellent company indeed!


We have a range of boutique tops available in lots of different colours, from Barbie pink to everything else. Check out what we’ve got in stock today!

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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/dressing-for-the-festive-season 2022-11-10T17:16:43+00:00 2022-11-17T00:52:07+00:00 Dressing For The Festive Season STAFF ACCOUNT With Christmas around the corner, you may have nights out planned, family dinners, and of course the big day itself, but what do you wear?
Well comfort has to be key, mixed in with a little glamour obviously!
Think ahead for your nights out. 
Will there be a lot of standing around, walking or dancing? If so then make sure your shoes are comfortable, a mid heel is still dressy, or if you feel you need a higher heel, could you pop a pair of flats in your bag for later in the evening?
Don't forget the queues for taxis can be longer aswell at this time of year, so take a wrap or outer layer with you too! 
It doesn't have to be all glitz, glitter and sequins either. If you can't afford to buy a whole new outfit, invest in a little cami or dressier top to go underneath a smart blazer, or a smock style top with a pair of leather look leggings is always a winner. 
If you're visiting a festive event or Christmas market, wrapping up with a matching scarf and hat with gloves is perfect, and layers rather than a bigger coat would be an easier way to manage the change in heat from indoors to outside. A sleeveless gilet with a jumper or a thinner knit and cardigan would work well. 
For Christmas Day, what you wear will depend on what you are doing. 
If you're cooking then you won't want your best dress to get accidentally splashed with grease, but if you're hosting you'll still want to look your best. 
A nicely coloured lounge suit, or a thinner top and festive leggings would be comfortable and practical - especially if you're going to be spending a portion of the day on the floor with the younger ones playing games and putting batteries in new toys! 
When you think about festive colours, green tones, bright holly reds and winter whites are usually everywhere, so they should be easy enough to find, but if you're not a fan of the bold and bright, then soften that with navy, marshmallow pink, charcoal greys and neutrals. 
If you want to add a little festive sparkle without looking like you've fallen in a pool of sequins and glitter, you can add a touch of shimmer with jewellery or choose a top with a fine metallic thread running throughout. It'll be just enough to elevate your outfit .. and get you in the Christmas spirit.
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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/shopping-made-even-more-affordable 2022-09-13T10:57:39+01:00 2022-09-13T10:57:39+01:00 Shopping Made Even More Affordable! STAFF ACCOUNT BOUTIQUE STYLES AT LOWER PRICES

2022 has been yet another year filled with uncertainty. Pandemics, lock downs, Brexit and other issues thrown at businesses nationwide have forced many retailers to downsize or sadly close altogether, so we have made the decision to make some huge changes. 
Some industries were harder hit than others during the ups and downs of the last few years, but it's no secret that the retail industry has been one of the hardest hit. That being said, coming up to our 5th anniversary, Lacartomanzialtelefono Boutique are stepping up their game with the launch of a brand new initiative which gives back to our customers. 
Without the loyalty and support of our amazing customers, we wouldn't be where we are today, and we truly are so grateful. We have tried various ways to give back to our customers, with loyalty schemes, discounts, sale nights and events ... but somehow they never really hit the mark the way we want them to. We thought that there had to be a way of rewarding ALL of our customers no matter how often they shop, or what they spend. Every single person who shops with us, shares our social media posts and lives, spreads the words to their friends, are all an integral part of our business, and every single one deserves to be rewarded for being a part of our boutique community. 

After a lot of thought, many late nights with calculators and spreadsheets in hand and thinking outside the box, this week finally saw the launch of the changes and new look system which will help everyone to carry on enjoying true boutique fashion at better than high street prices.

We launched the Price Drop feature LIVE on social media on Monday (if you didn't watch live, watch on replay HERE), and you are all LOVING it! Our vision is to bring you the clothing and fashion you adore, at prices you can actually afford to pay. We know you have rising energy bills and the cost of living is sky rocketing, but we are lowering ALL of our prices and they are staying low, promising to keep prices low until Christmas initially, and then we will reassess. 

NEW ONLINE FEATURES

Just a quick browse on the website will show you the original selling price, and the new LOWER LFHB price on each item. We have lots of sized items back in store and online now too, rather than just the one size items. We have Curve range dresses, tops and trousers, new boots for Autumn/ Winter, and trainers we know you'll drool over. 
You can now pre-order items which may be out of stock directly on the website too, and of course we still have Klarna which enables you to pay in instalments, or defer payments for 30 days, interest free. 

The new improved Search facility uses auto suggest, so you only have to type in the first couple of letters now to find what you're looking for. 

There's a Wishlist feature there too, so you can add items to your wishlist instead of your basket, to review them all in one place while you're making your mind up.
For the got-to-have-it-right-now items, we've added express checkout, so you can go directly from adding to cart to checking out with less hassle and fewer clicks. 

Another new feature which we LOVE is the ability to review the products themselves directly on the website too! Have a look and review your latest purchases and tell us what you think - it will really help other customers too! 
The social media icons are always on display on the right hand side, so you can flip from social media to the website and back again easily now! 
We are very proud of our gorgeous new look website and we hope you love it too! Let us know your feedback!

WE NEED YOU TO HELP! 

But here's where we need your help. We are trialling this until Christmas initially, to help you all out and to say thankyou for your support over the years. However, we need to get the word out to as many people as possible. The more we can grow our audience, the longer we can offer you these crazily low prices. So please tell your friends about us, share our lives, our posts, make sure you follow us. Comment on any posts and lives from us you might see - the more interaction we get, the more Facebook will show our posts to other people too. We really do need you to get involved! 
We hope you enjoy the new pricing and website features, and we'd love to hear your feedback. Drop us a message or a post in our Facebook Community Group, or email us at fashion@lacartomanzialtelefono.co.uk
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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/fashion-over-40-do-you-choose-comfort-over-confidence 2022-08-22T13:00:00+01:00 2022-08-22T13:00:00+01:00 Fashion Over 40 - Do You Choose Comfort Over Confidence? STAFF ACCOUNT
We hear all the time that age is just a number, and you're as old as you feel. We have also seen some blogs out there which suggest that over 50 you shouldn't be wearing jeans, or showing cleavage.
As 40-somethings ourselves, we think of being over 40 as no big deal, we don't really think that we can't wear this or should wear that. But with the next big birthday looming ever closer, will that change? 
When a woman goes through menopause, or lives with other conditions or illnesses, confidence can reach rock bottom. We can get stuck in a style rut of comfiness. Being comfortable is absolutely essential BUT if you tweak your outfit ever so slightly it can elevate your mood aswell as your confidence. 
When we talk to ladies in the boutique who say they love something but are too old to wear it, we die a little inside. Why can they not wear something now, which they would quite happily have worn ten or even five years ago? Obviously we aren't all built like Madonna with rock solid abs and happy to flaunt hot pants at every given opportunity, but there's no reason why we can't wear prints, or maxi skirts, or trainers with turned up jeans. Think about it. Why do we allow ourselves to be dictated to, and more importantly why do we do it to ourselves??
Confidence is a spiral. If you aren't feeling your best, you'll retreat back into a comfort zone, which makes you feel even less confident, which makes you retreat further. 
When you're feeling great in your outfit, you will attract compliments, which make you feel even more confident. So why don't we just dress in great outfits all the time then?!
If you ask any woman over 40 that question, they will give answers like, I haven't got the time to make the effort, I can't be bothered, what's the point when I'm not going anywhere, I never go out, I'll look like mutton dressed as lamb. We know, because we've done it ourselves - and you can't kid a kidder!

But here's the cold hard truth. It takes the same time to dress in a great outfit as a 'comfortable' one. No more effort is required to put a pair of trousers on, than an old pair of leggings. A shirt can take the same amount of time to put on as a hoody or casual top. So time is not the issue.
The chances are you are actually going out at some point. You will leave the house and go on a school run, pick up the kids or grandkids, go shopping, have a day trip, have tea out, go to the pub, meet friends. You might not be going OUT out, but you are still going out into the world. 
We're not suggesting leather look pants, heels and red lippy for the weekly food shop but by not wearing the hoody hanging in the porch and choosing a smart cardigan instead, swapping out the rubber sliders for a pair of dressy flats, you'll feel better about yourself. So not going anywhere isn't the issue either. 
The truth - and the issue - is being bothered. You are amazing, whatever age you are. Your body has performed incredible tasks, and has got you to where you are now. You might not be as flexible, as supple, as toned but you're still the you that you were five, then, fifteen years ago.
'Being bothered' doesn't have to mean spending an hour in the bathroom perfecting your eye makeup just to nip to the corner shop. It simply means thinking about what you're feeling now, and how you want to feel when you walk out of the door. 
None of us actually choose to feel dowdy or old or tatty would we, but yet we get stuck in a rut where that's exactly how we feel when we go out anywhere. 
'Being bothered'. is about making a conscious decision to wear things that match or go together, items that feel lovely on, pieces which flatter you. That's it. That's all you have to do. Sounds so simple doesn't it - but we know that it feels impossible for some of you, and if that's the case for you when you read this, then get in touch and we'll help you. 
Remember that confidence breeds confidence, and we are here for you. We will always be honest with you when you try new things, and we want you to look AND feel incredible. 
If you're 55 and want to wear a smock dress, do it.
If you're 75 and want to rock a pair of jeans, why not!
You'll never be this young again, take advantage and stop questioning yourself!
As the saying goes, 'Life is short, so wear the damn dress'. 
Our motto when someone says, "You can't wear that!" .... I can, and I will - watch me.
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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/transitional-fashion-what-does-it-mean 2022-08-10T12:42:54+01:00 2022-08-10T12:42:55+01:00 Transitional Fashion - What Does It Mean? STAFF ACCOUNT What Exactly Is Transitional Fashion? 
It's quite simple, really! When someone talks about an item of clothing as a 'transitional piece' It just means pieces which can be worn year round, so it can take you from one season to another. 
The beauty of having transitional pieces in your wardrobe, is that you don't need a whole new wardrobe every time the weather changes.

Think layering, and think about having multiple uses for the items of clothing you buy. 
Here are are top five pieces for a transitional wardrobe:
1. A Maxi Skirt
Maxi skirts are fabulous in warmer weather with a vest or floaty top, but don't rule these out for Autumn too! With a roll neck and cute ankle boots or knee boots, or a T-shirt, blazer and flats or trainers, a maxi skirt can give you so many more looks and outfits than you originally imagined!
 
2. A T-Shirt
T-shirts are such an important part of the transitional wardrobe. Make sure you find one which flatters your figure - for example if you have a bigger bust, you'll want a V neck rather than a crew neck. These can be worn under almost anything, and can also bring an accent of colour through under a blazer or trench coat, cardigan or jacket. 
The beauty of the T-Shirt is that it is perfect for layering, and when you are a lady of a certain age, being able to cool down quickly is a life saver!
3. A Smock Dress
Smock dresses are our very favourite style of dress in every season. They aren't clingy but can be belted to accentuate a waistline easily. Generally the smock dress has a grandad neckline, which again flatters most ladies, and also lends itself well to layering up with a jersey top, turtle neck or roll neck for cooler months. 
Dresses can be worn with any type of boot, as well as with flats or wedges in the spring and summer. 
 
4. A Blazer
If you want to feel like you've made an effort without much thought, then a blazer is your best friend! Instantly levelling up jeans and trainers, a blazer can transform a casual outfit into an 'I feel fabulous' outfit in seconds, and they can also be worn over a thin knit top, or even a hooded top! Think outside the box with your blazers, you won't regret it! 
5. Vest tops and Camisoles
It may sound strange, but don't pack away your sleeveless tops just yet! Layered with a chunky cardigan or blazer in the cooler months, a cami can give you a classic timeless look. 
Which colours are transitional?
The easy answer is ... all of them! There are no rules in fashion, and no-one should think they can't wear a pop of colour in the darkest months, but you'll find that darker colours and more muted, neutral tones will be more prevalent at that time of year, so if you're thinking of dark denim, add a touch a fuschia pink. Black jeans and jacket? Add in some emerald green or cobalt blue.
Tan and navy are year round 'safe' colours, and mix well with other colours too. Navy looks fabulous with red, pale or dark pink, mustard and emerald or sage green, as well as baby blue.
Tan looks incredible with cream and ivory, khaki, pale pink and almost anything else! 
Have a think about the pieces in your wardrobe and really think about how you can take them through into next season to get the maximum benefit from your clothing. Let us know how you get on! 
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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/smock-dresses-whats-the-big-deal 2022-07-08T18:11:00+01:00 2022-07-08T18:11:01+01:00 SMOCK DRESSES - What's the big deal? STAFF ACCOUNT
If you haven't been converted to smock dresses as yet, then believe us when we say you're missing out! 
By definition, a smock dress is a loose fitting, flowing dress or top, so if you're not loving body conscious, form fitting dresses, then this style is for you. 
It isn't often that one clothing style can literally suit every shape and size, but the smock dress really can, and does! By choosing the right prints, length and fabric, anyone can rock a smock. Here are just a few of the questions and comments we've received ... 

"Can shorter ladies wear smock dresses?"
Absolutely! Maybe look at features such as three quarter length sleeves and a drop waist to give the illusion of elongating your limbs and torso. Don't be afraid of longer length dresses, or larger sizing as a belt can solve all of your problems! 
"I want a versatile dress for maternity wear and beyond .. "
For mums to be, the smock dress is the PERFECT go to dress for any occasion! With the extra fabric in the skirt, this style makes a fabulous maternity dress, which you can dress up or down, and also wear it once your little one has arrived too! Win-win! 
"I'm too big for a smock dress, they'll make me look bigger!"
Not true! For curvier ladies, bigger busts and fuller figures, the grandad style V neckline which features on most smock dresses is super flattering. The majority of our smock dresses are one size or dual size, meaning that there is extra room to cover or disguise any areas you don't want to emphasise, while making the most of your curves. A loose belt can give a gentle hint of waistline too!
"I'm too skinny to get away with a smock dress, it would drown me!"
If you are straight up and down, a belted smock dress will instantly give you more volume on the hips and create a cinched in waist.
"I'm too old to wear this style of dress!"
You most certainly are NOT! The style is timeless in the way that jeans and white T-Shirt is. If you feel conscious, then choose a plain style or more muted pattern. Maybe steer away from neon animal print in favour of a more subtle floral, and voila! 
This classic style is never out of fashion, yet isn't too on-trend to look dated in years to come. It doesn't matter your age or dress size, you will look amazing, we promise! 
So how do you style a smock dress?
 
This is why we adore our smock dresses!!! A dress for all seasons, you can add flats and a headband for sunny days, add a roll neck and trench coat for winter. 
Dress it up with heels and a wide belt for a night out, or wear with trainers and 
a denim jacket for shopping. 
You can feel dressy without feeling like you made too much effort, and you'll be surprised how many compliments you'll get when you're out and about. 
Try one and see how you feel! 
In our opinion every woman should own at least one smock dress. Do you agree? Let us know! 
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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-to-sort-out-your-wardrobe 2022-06-27T12:48:49+01:00 2022-06-27T12:48:49+01:00 How To Sort Out Your Wardrobe! STAFF ACCOUNT

I need to sort my wardrobe out! 

We haven't met a single lady who hasn't uttered those famous last words .. "I really need to sort my wardrobe out!", and we're betting you've probably said that too recently. But where do you start? With our guide and top tips you'll be decluttered and organised in no time!

To start with we would recommend getting everything out of your wardrobe, and we mean EVERYTHING! We need you to be completely honest with yourself, and a little brutal in your decisions. Remember, the goal of this exercise is to reduce the amount of clothing in your wardrobe, meaning you'll wear more of what you actually have! To reduce the clothes we're working with here we're going to put the clothing into the following piles:

1. Items that have not been worn for a year - ask yourself WHY you haven't worn these items. If they are sitting in your wardrobe not being worn, there's a reason why. Remember, be honest! If the top doesn't look right with anything, you'd wear the pants but only if you lost 10lbs, the shirt is too big and you feel frumpy, then the likelihood is that you won't EVER wear them, so these need to go to a charity shop or in a pile for selling on a second hand site such as Vinted or Ebay.

If you have a lot of clothing pieces in this pile, it may be worth offering these as a 'job lot' to get rid of these more quickly.

2. Things you’ve never worn, label intact - Sell these items to make some money back. Alternatively, if they still have the labels on, you coud gift these to a friend or loved one.

3. Things you hope to wear again some day - why do you want to keep the item? Does it still fit and feel great?

If it does and it's an occasional piece, such as a wedding guest dress or a dinner date outfit, then pop a cover over the hanger and put these in a different place if possible. Otherwise store these securely in a loft or cupboard so they're not taking up space in your day to day wardrobe.

4. Clothes that are uncomfortable or ill-fitting - here's the tricky one. If the clothing is uncomfortable - perhaps it's an itchy fabric, the neck's too high or the waistband digs in, then the reality is that you aren't going to wear them. Put these in your selling pile if they're in great condition, or in the charity pile if they are wearable but not sellable. If the items don't fit properly then ask yourself if they ever will .. REALISTICALLY! Could they be altered to make them fit so you'll wear them regularly? If they can, then make a separate pile to take to a local seamstress. If not, pop them in the sell or donate pile.

OK so now you should have a pile of clothing left that is comfortable, wearable, and that you use all regularly. This is what we're going to work from now.

To organise your day to day wardrobe, sort the clothing into categories:

  • Casual wear - the pieces you always go to for chilling out at home, or popping out with the dog. 
  • Going out wear - fancier or dressier pieces
  • Work wear - any uniform or staple work pieces should be together
  • Anything that can be folded away such as jeans, leggings, gym clothes etc should go in neatly in drawers

    The categories you don't use as much such as occasion wear or going out clothes, put to the far end of your wardrobe so you don't have to look through it every day when you're deciding what to wear. 


Now hang your clothing back in the wardrobe in types. Put all pants together, dresses together etc, put over-layers together such as blazers and cardigans, and hang these next to the tops you would normally put under them such as vests and camisoles.

You should now be able to see what you have and can wear much more easily. You will probably be able to tell now if there's anything you really need to fill in any gaps in your wardrobe. For example, you may have a brightly coloured blazer but no tops to go under it, so you don't wear it often. Put a top on your shopping list! Maybe you put all your old leggings in the donate pile, so you need to restock those too. Add them to your list.

A way to stay organised with your wardrobe once you have everything you need, is to have a one in one out system, so when you buy an item, you get rid of an older one. Doing this means you won't build up clothes you don't wear, and your wardrobe is always refreshed.

Try these tips and let us know how you get on! Send us some before and after pics to our Inbox too!



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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/be-positive-flaws-and-all 2022-06-02T21:02:08+01:00 2022-06-02T21:02:08+01:00 Be Positive - Flaws and All STAFF ACCOUNT
As the warmer weather draws ever nearer, we are seeing higher hems, shorter sleeves, less fabric and less places to hide. 

We've never met a single lady who hasn't got some sort of hang up or niggle about their appearance or body. Being in the boutique, we see and talk to so many ladies who want to hide this, or disguise that, make this look bigger, that look smaller, draw this in or push these up .. and we can tell you that we're guilty of this ourselves, too. 
We are so quick to tell everyone else they look fabulous, but we refuse to believe it ourselves don't we? If we talked to others with the language we use about ourselves we'd have no friends left! 
Why are we so critical of our own bodies and appearances? We're not just talking about the usual, 'does my bum look big in this?' either!
We've honestly heard everything, and the most random complaints imaginable! To you or me, it may seem insignificant or ridiculous, but to the person harbouring the dislike of that feature about themselves, it's huge. 

Here are just a few of the hang-ups we come across, can you relate to any of these? 
My feet are too big
My knees are scarred
My shoulders are too wide
I have fat toes
I have wide feet
I'm not in proportion
I'm too top heavy
My legs are too short
My legs are too long
I hate my figure
My bums too big
I have no bum
I'm not as slim as I used to be
I hate my tummy
The tops of my arms wobble
My boobs are too big
Now, just for a second, imagine saying those things to someone else. You're in a changing room with another lady, and she asks for your honest opinion on a dress. Can you even imagine looking at her and saying, "you can't wear that! Your shoulders are too wide and I hate your figure."
Of course you can't, we wouldn't dream of saying that to anyone, so why do we talk to ourselves in these negative ways?? 

People will always think, it's easy for you to say that, but you haven't got fat shoulders/ flat feet/ a big tummy, wonky knees .... but that person WILL have their OWN hang ups too. So how do we start to overcome this? How do we begin to get our confidence back?
Confidence is a tricky little minx, coming and going like a cat in the night, never staying for long enough. You can't expect to feel confident when you have negative conversations with yourself. They cancel each other out. 

Let's start being kinder to ourselves. Let's talk to ourselves in nicer, more positive ways. 
What are the things you LIKE and love about yourself? Think about your body and all the things it's done for you throughout your life? It's amazing! 
Seeing ourselves through other people's eyes is really enlightening.

What have you been complimented on? What do your friends, partner or kids love about your appearance? If you had to choose a part of your body to celebrate, what would it be? Do you make the most of that feature, or do you hide it away? 
Confidence boosts can come in many guises - from a compliment from a stranger to a feeling of success after wearing a great outfit. Which outfit in your wardrobe makes you feel most confident. Why haven't you got more of that style in there?? Are you stuck in a rut with lots of clothes that 'will do'. Stop making do, celebrate yourself! 
If you need a confidence boost, or want an honest opinion on which clothes suit you, make you look and feel amazing, talk to us, we're always here to help. 
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https://www.lacartomanzialtelefono.com/blogs/the-boutiquers-blog/how-to-pack-less-and-wear-more 2022-05-18T11:56:31+01:00 2022-05-18T13:45:08+01:00 How To Pack Less and Wear More! STAFF ACCOUNT

HOW TO PACK LIGHT FOR YOUR HOLIDAYS! 

If you - like most women! - want to know how you can cut down on the amount if clothes you take on holiday with you, we're here to help. 
Travelling light and packing light saves you money on luggage, and leaves you more space to bring back treasures from your travels! 
So how do you pack light?
1. Choose co-ordinating items. 
This might sound simple, but do you always do this? 
Our top tip is to choose a staple item such as shorts or a skirt in a multicolour print. 
Then you can choose a couple of tops in colours which you can pick out from the pattern in your shorts or skirt. 
Plain tops and bottoms can actually be much harder to match up! 
Alternatively, if your pants or shorts are plain, then make sure when you pick out tops, to go for a print which includes the colours in your printed items.

2. Think day to night 
There will be times on your holiday when you want to go from pool side to lunch and to an evening in the bar ... which can mean a lot of outfit changes!
The key here is to think ahead and plan properly. 
For the pool, you'll need a swimsuit obviously, and to cover up whilst you eat lunch you could add a sarong or long kaftan.
Once the sun's gone down, add a belt to your kaftan, or knot your sarong halter neck style and add a belt and heels or wedges for an effortless smart casual outfit. The bonus here is you'll be comfortable as well! 

3. Think multi purpose
If your pieces can double up for different uses then you're on to a winner! For example a maxi skirt with an elasticated waist can be pulled up to become a strapless dress.
A kimono can be a throw over at the pool, or a chic cover up at night time. A T-Shirt dress can be a day or night outfit depending on the shoes you pair it with. Have a think about the items you're taking and see if they can be more versatile than you originally thought! 
4. Limit the number of shoes you take! 
OK we know shoes are ALWAYS an issue. What if you need the pair of heels you left behind?
If you're honest, how many pairs of the shoes you took on your last holiday did you actually wear? 
Realistically you need: 
A pair of sliders or flip flops for the pool and beach
A pair of comfortable sandals for sight seeing, shopping and getting around - make sure you choose a neutral colour that will go with ALL your outfits! Metallics work well for this reason. 
A pair of wedges or heels or dressier shoes for your dresses and evenings out - think about the colours of your outfits. Will black go with everything? Will tan? Plan, plan ,plan!! 
Possible a pair of trainers or boots if you're planning on exercising or hiking etc whilst you're away.
That's it. Two or possibly three pairs of shoes and that's it. 
5. Don't pack extra 'just incase'
You won't wear them, and they'll just end up needing to be re-ironed when you get back home! 
 
6. Try the 2 x 5 rule
If you have two bottoms and five tops then you have enough for a 10 day break
If you add in another couple of pairs of bottoms you would have enough for 2 weeks. 
7. Choose a colour scheme and stick to it! 
If you have a specific colour theme to work with, then choosing and packing your clothes will be so much easier!
You might love that red top you wore in France three years ago, but does it go with anything you're taking this year? If not, leave it at home!
8. Take advantage of accessories 
A light scarf that can double up as a sarong is the perfect accessory. A chunky necklace, a matching bag, a bright headband can all give a touch of style to your chosen outfit. 
We hope this helps you with your summer holiday packing, let us know how you get on! 
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