Barbara Reid of Maison Monique maisonmonique.co.nz

Welcome to January and the New Year 2011. I trust Christmas was a happy one for you, your family and friends.

The good news for those needing retail therapy is that summer sales have already started and there are some really exciting bargains to be had. Those lazy, hazy days of summer are with us so don't forget the slip, slop and slap. Now is the time to pick up a pair of shorts ranging in several lengths, another T-shirt or a singlet. As well as being bargains, they usually need washing more often. There are a variety of colours and sizes about, or maybe you require a more stylish top and they too are available in lovely silk/cotton fabric which is delightful to wear with a selection of colours, styles and sizes to choose from.

Having a sundress or two included in your summer wardrobe is essential, designs range from the casual cotton or cotton knit, to the more sophisticated styles for the more glamorous moments in your life. For those who enjoy wearing longer tops and tunics, a colourful array of fabrics and styles can add a fashionable but practical addition for summer wearing with the added benefit of being able to be layered later in the season. Should you be contemplating travelling overseas to warmer climes during our winter, now is the last opportunity to purchase lighter weight garments prior to the autumn/winter 2011 stock which will start arriving in store.

A tip for when laundering, make sure you read the care label and in general ensure you hang them in the shade and turn them inside out, as the violet rays are so damaging, even more so with the lovely bright colours of this season.

Jan, Adele and I wish you all much happiness and good health for 2011 and look forward to seeing you in the not too distant future.