If you’re looking to revamp your wardrobe in time for spring, personal stylist and Bluewater fashion panelist Clare Watson can ensure you make the most of your purchases by sharing her top tips.

News Shopper: Bluewater stylist Clare Watson

Block colours and prints are a huge trend this season, and are a great way to overhaul a muted winter wardrobe, as well as enhance and update your favourite items. But when it comes to a successful shopping trip, the key is preparation, preparation, preparation!

1. Have a list

When rifling through wardrobes, the biggest mistake buys I always come across are sale purchases bought on a whim, it doesn’t matter if it was “SOOO cheap!” If it doesn’t go with anything then you’ll never wear it!

TOP TIP: Before you hit the shops, look through your wardrobe and work out exactly where the gaps are, for example going out tops or work dresses etc.

2. Stock up on staples

Think about the items you wear a lot, such as black trousers, jeans, blazer, white shirt and search for good fitting variants that will flatter your shape.

TOP TIP: Think about items that will complement your basics to create fabulous outfits. This season floral blouses will complement wide legged jeans (or bootcut for those wanting a more subtle alternative) and are bang on the 70’s trend.

News Shopper: Tips on revamping your wardrobe from personal stylist Clare Watson

3. Only buy your size

Another mistake I come across time and time again is items that are too small or too big but bought because; 1) they were on sale; 2) were bought as an incentive to loose weight; 3) the item wasn’t tried on in the store beforehand. If it doesn’t fit, don’t waste your money!

4.Speed up changing

Always wear separates with minimal fastenings to speed up changing. Ideally wear a light vest under your top so that if the changing rooms are packed, you can retain your modesty in front of the shop floor mirror.

5.Wear the right shoes

Wear comfy shoes to speed around the shops, but take a pair of heels in your bag to see how clothes will look.

News Shopper: Tips on revamping your wardrobe from personal stylist Clare Watson

6. Remember to refuel

Focused, structured shopping can be tiring, especially if your shopping during the weekend when its busy. Make sure you create time for a break to refuel during your shopping trip to help keep your energy levels up!

TOP TIP: Choose a meal or snack that will provide you with a slow release of energy such as beans, lentils, pasta, noodles, porridge and wholegrain bread.

For more information about my personal styling services please visit miss-dress.com or visit bluewater.co.uk.