Long Hot Summer Downunder

It is hard to believe but January 2008 is here! My apologies for not updating sooner but I was snowed under (with work rather than the weather!) especially during the latter part of 2007. It was a fantastic time and I got to work with so many great people. It was fantastic to see them so excited about showing off their new haircut, wardrobe or totally new look to friends and family over the festive season. What a great way to start the New Year! Oh, and then there was the adulation they got after giving all the right gifts to the important people in their lives (simple with a little help).

I did manage a little holiday time of my own. The Australian Gold Coast (pre cyclonic weather) was warm and wonderful and the shopping ... a treat. I found several new "star" shops where I picked up great special pieces of jewellery and inexpensive but excellent items of clothing. I also found some fantastic boutiques throughout New Zealand on a whistle stop tour. Hastings and Napier were a revelation (having not visited the area in more than 10 years I was excited to see how much has developed!) The scenery, cafes, delis, and all of the food was exceptional. Mt Manganui was gorgeous and the shopping fabulous!

Things that have struck me on my travels over the past 12 months:

1. There is increasing interest in what I do and why. People do want to talk about appearance - their own and that of others.
2. More people accept that image enhancement delivers as much on the inside as on the out.
3. People are realising that spending more does not mean getting the best results - there is a move away from slavishly buying designer labels. Now there is a desire to be a sum of fabulous parts not just a designer clone.
4. We are looking more alike - whether we are living in London, Paris, Leuven, Florence, Broadbeach, Auckland or Mt Manganui. The things that distinguish us are the details. It is getting those details right for the individual that makes the biggest difference.
5. More than ever people are valuing looking and feeling great.
6. Wherever you live, with the right direction it is possible to dramatically change how you look and feel in a very short period of time.
7. It is surprising where and when you end up buying those "exceptional signature pieces". Often it is in the most unexpected little side street or unassuming location.
8. When travelling 'sat navs' are worth every cent. Not only are they relationship saviours but they can give you vehicular, cycling or walking routes. This means that you are often end up traversing treasure trove little side streets you would otherwise never have seen.
9. Summer is a great time to detox that wardrobe. For some reason, people find it easier to let go and to make change. It is every bit as important to revamp your wardrobe as your body - both are staring at you every day (warts and all) until you decide to change something.

Best wishes for everyone getting back to work after such a fantastic hot summer ... long may the great weather and summer feeling continue. The sun also gives us girls a chance to make the most of the delicious dresses out there! There is a gorgeous dress for every woman that will make her look hot (in a modern, sophisticated way of course)! Similarly, men have more access than ever to that perfect shirt and pant - all boosting confidence and attractiveness.

Have a fabulous and invigorating 2008!