Photo: Claire Pepper

Rebecca Clouston is a 56-year-old personal stylist who lives near me. We see each other around, say hello and follow each other on Instagram. A sort of seven degrees of style separation, or the fashion version of the Mini driver wave – does that still happen? Rebecca always looks super-cool and so it was only a matter of time before I messaged to ask if she’d like to share some of her expert style advice with That’s Not My Age readers. ‘Things are quite heavy at the minute – we’ve been through a lot and it’s a big adjustment.

It takes a lot of energy transitioning from winter to spring,’ says Rebecca over the phone and she’s not kidding. After two years of the pandemic (and with Covid rates higher than ever in the UK) we are all feeling tired, bewildered and in need of some easy style pick-me-ups.

Here’s Rebecca’s expert advice on refreshing your wardrobe for spring:

The main thing I tell my clients is to shed the winter coat. Switch to a jacket or a lighter weight spring coat. It’s not warm enough yet to go without layers and this is where you can introduce brighter colours and move into a more uplifting space.

Layer your knitwear – wear a lightweight knitted top with a cardigan over – the cardigan is an incredibly versatile layering piece.

My biggest push is accessories. I make them more spring-like, so a chunky wool scarf is replaced by beautiful printed silk one. This is such an easy way of elevating your outfit, whatever your jam – bring some colour in. Add a great necklace and some wrist candy.

I also recommend switching your bag to a more summery style, Sezane has a really joyous collection of raffia shoppers (for when it’s not raining!) or wear a colourful crossbody.

Footwear tweaks can switch up an outfit – and you’ve probably been wearing ankle boots and trainers all winter! So, get your ankles out for spring. Wear trousers or a long skirt with elegant loafers or mules and a light jacket or trench coat. But don’t put your boots away, I tend to wear mine all year round (in summer with a dress) and I try to make my client’s wardrobes interchangeable so that each piece of clothing is a good investment and earns its keep.

Don’t pigeonhole your clothes, work them into the different seasons.

Style Notes: Rebecca wears orange mohair jumper from J&M Davidson. Tailored track pants from Me+ Em. Hoop earrings are an old pair from Oliver Bonas and beaded bracelet from Ghana.

Details of Rebecca Clouston’s styling service HERE.

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More spring shopping HERE.

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