Many women struggle to find a pair of jeans that fit well and that don’t cost the earth. As styles change they may get stuck in a rut and still wear jeans that they used to wear years ago but that do not now suit their changing body shape. So, what are the top tips for bagging that all important denim?

Always shop in person when buying a new pair of jeans so that you can try them on and choose a different size if necessary. The only exception is if you are buying a pair you already know fits you well. Take three sizes into the changing room so that you can find the perfect fit for your body shape. Remember that a different brand will probably be sized differently so you may have to try on a lot of jeans to find your perfect pair.

Often buying more affordable jeans will give you the flexibility to try a different style of jeans without worrying that they have cost a lot of money, so try supermarket brands you may be pleasantly surprised on their quality and comfort.

It is a good idea to play with proportions when it comes to jeans, as tapered tends to be more flattering than bootcut jeans or straight-leg jeans. If you’re looking for a basic, everyday jean that compliments your body shape, try a slimmer leg with a bit of stretch and whether you prefer high-rise, mid-rise or low-rise jeans, the best jeans tend to be slimmer styles.

As we all know the British weather can be unpredictable and whether it be spring, summer, autumn or winter when packing for a holiday in the UK you need to be prepared for all types of weather. So, how can you pack for a holiday without having to take bags and bags of clothing with you?

The answer to this question is to pack clothes that are multi-purpose and that can be layered up if the weather becomes chilly as it often does in the evenings. Walking trousers that can be zipped off to make them into shorts and jackets that have a fleecy layer that can be removed when the weather gets warmer are ideal for a holiday and reduces the need for additional items of clothing.

It is important to think about the type of holiday you are taking and only take clothes that are suitable, for example, if you and your family rarely go to restaurants for meals you make not need to take more dressy items of clothing and if you enjoy spending days on the beach most of the day you may be in swimwear.

When it comes to footwear a pair of good quality sandals for walking and a comfortable pair of trainers may be all you will need but a pair of cheap flip flops or crocs for the beach may be a good idea.

Television programmes that show groups of dressmakers pitted against each other has given rise to an increase in people wanting to make their own clothes and home furnishings. The reasons why people want to make their own clothes are varied but generally are due to wanting unique items to wear for a lower cost than buying them from a boutique.

If you want to make your own clothes but do not know where to start it is a good idea to look out for sewing courses held at local colleges. Here you will be able to learn the basics such as different types of stitches and their applications, how to sew a variety of fabrics and how to use a pattern. It is useful if you own a sewing machine so that you can practise the techniques you learn at home. Once you are proficient at the basics you will then be able to confidently design your own simple garments from scratch.

As well as sewing, knitting and crochet have also become popular pastimes. Lots of lovely pieces can be made in this way and either patterns can be bought or downloaded from online sites. Sometimes wool can be bought at a discount price so that making your own knitted garments is cheaper still.

One of the many causes of damage and dryness to your hair is over exposure to heat treatments. Now this doesn’t mean the sauna or steam room, but your hair dryer, curlers and straighteners. These items work at high levels of heat to style your hair for quick long lasting effects but they cause the hair to dehydrate making it more brittle and prone to breakage. The best way to limit this type of damage is to use a good heat protection spray and ensure that you don’t style your hair with hot tools too much.

Another hair no-no is scrapping it up into tight ponytails or buns. This puts extra stress on the hair and can result in breakage and split ends. It’s much better to opt for looser styles and avoid hair snagging on tight elastic bands. 

Over processing the hair either with hair dye or bleach can also be disastrous for our locks and can cause irreversible damage making your break off and be extremely dry.

It’s always advisable to have any colours done by a professional who can ensure that your hair keeps its healthy appearance even through processing. If in doubt book in a consultation and have a chat with a reputable hairdresser for professional advice.

The fashion industry is massive in the UK and abroad with new designs being released every season. It is tempting to think that in order to look good and be on trend people should buy the latest fashion items whether they need any new clothes or not. The money that is spent on new clothes by some people amounts to hundreds of pounds and the quantity of clothing that is donated to charity shops or sold online continues to grow.

It is important to look objectively at any new fashion that appears and to think rationally about whether the fashion suits you and whether you actually need the items. Some fashions look good on younger people but do not suit older individuals for example ripped jeans and leather skirts and trousers. Nicely fitted jeans could in fact be more flattering even though not particularly in fashion.

Shopping in charity shops has become very popular as the cost of brand new clothes continues to rise. Lots of bargains can be picked up if you have the time to browse the clothes racks and you may be fortunate enough to spot a designer label. If you can use a sewing machine, some items can be altered to fit, shortened or combined with another item to make an individual piece.