Barbara Reid of Maison Monique maisonmonique.co.nz

Welcome to June, the official start to our winter months.

With the warm autumn weather gone, now is the time to consider the chilly days ahead. For many, it's not a priority to delve into their winter wardrobe, but now it is timely to get sorted. Those to keep and those that have passed being a good fit or looking a little weary, then there are those garments that need a new item to bring it into winter 2011.

Winter warmth

Available in store is a fashionable range of knitwear in rich winter shades and a variety of colours to brighten the dull days. Merino is used extensively in fashion– with many being designed by Paula Ryan who is well known for her quality merino label. These days, fashion designers and manufacturers are blending merino with other fabrics creating a luxurious knits that will last for a number of seasons. Merino and cashmere blends are regularly used for coats, jackets and vests. Merino is light to wear, warm and breathes so it is a popular choice for ladies. Many merino garments are both hand and machine washable, making them more user-friendly. For those that cannot wear wool, there is still a range of garments to select from.

Rainwear

Jackets, coats and rainwear has almost become an essential item during the rainy days of recent. This winter has a marvellous selection of different styles, lengths and fabrics ranging from the dressy to casual that will cover almost every occasion. To avoid disappointment don't leave this too long as many of the sizes sell extremely quickly.

Personalised look

It is most satisfying to create a personalised look that you have been trying to achieve, whether it is for a special occasion or a new casual look for winter. I am often approached with the query of wearing leggings with tunics. If you are not comfortable, try a slightly narrower leg pant and maybe a shorter top. There are no hard and fast rules in fashion as many factors come into play when choosing clothes: your lifestyle, body shape, colouring and above all, what makes you feel good about yourself. This is where the team at Maison Monique, Barbara, Jan and Adele, can be of assistance in obtaining the best fit, style and quality for you.

Until next month, take care and above all keep warm.