Style for Life

Many aspects of fashion styling have seen a resurgence over the past few years  - colour analysis being the big one! Such a great service!  The other service that has risen in popularity is exploring your clothing style personality.   This is a service I have offered my clients for 20 years and I thought it may be useful to unpack it on the podcast this week so you understand the relevance and intention of discovering this fun fact about yourself.     I offer an online quiz that helps you work out where you sit.  This is super useful when you are shopping or even working out how you want to show up in the world.  The 7 clothing style personalities covered are:   Classic Creative Dramatic Elegant Feminine  Natural  Sexy    Have a listen and learn how it all works and maybe you can work out which one sounds like you?   IF you want to know for sure check out the link today to discover who you are…    https://brightred.myprivatestylist.com/your-style-expression/   If you want to know even more then check out my website for all styling options.     https://www.brightred.co.nz/   A massive thank you to our great premium who sponsor Image Innovators who offer all things style.     https://imageinnovators.com/   Until next week…

This week, Steph explores empty nest syndrome and shares her experiences.  She also discusses the challenges and positives of the children leaving home.     The challenges traversed are.     Identity crisis, as your purpose has changed  Anxiety and worry about your children away from home  Loss of control of your children’s day-to-day life  Regret and guilt about your parenting choices and behaviours.   Financial implications of supporting a child outside the home Role transformation to a supportive guide rather than a parent  Unrecognised grief from others who have not experienced this or who do not share it  Changed social interactions as your children’s friends and their parents are often no longer in your realm.     Positives of Empty Nest Syndrome  Rediscover and pursue personal interests Focus on career and preprofessional development  More time for self-care and mental well-being. A sense of accomplishment in seeing their children become successful, independent adults.  Deeper marital  / partner satisfaction New parent-child dynamic to a more mature, supportive friendship based on mutual respect and shared experiences. Stronger social connections with old and new friends  Time to spend with your aging parents    This week, we are really excited to have a premium sponsor, Image Innovators Australia, on board.  Please check out this link to see what they offer.  I am proud to be partnering with them to offer Fashion Stylist Training heading into 2026.     https://imageinnovators.com/

In this episode, Steph unpacks all there is to know about wearing prints.  She explains the difference between. Plain and printed fabric and discusses the different types of prints in 5 broad categories:   Floral  Geometric  Abstract  Animal print Ethnic print    She discusses the reasons why people may choose not to wear a print and gives some encouragement to think outside the box when it comes to print.      She also explains how print can stretch and grow your wardrobe and give you plenty of options to choose from  - it also takes the thinking out of dressing when you pair it with other solid colours.    So many tips and tricks in this podcast for everyone.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/colour-analysis-consultation

This week Steph takes a deep dive into her wardrobe to show you how to put together an outfit for Race day.  Whether you are attending for fun with a group of friends,  wanting to enter the best dressed or going with a bent for the horses there are certain things that make a race day outfit work well.   Start with one element and work the rest of your outfit around it.  In this episode Steph shares how she started with a Zambesi dress when she won Addington Cup Days Fashion in the Field in 2006.  She then styled the hat, shoes, jacket and all accessories to work with the dress.    Alternatively she explains how you can start with a hat or fascinator and then work your outfit to fit with the vibe..  Aligning colours and shapes makes your outfit look cohesive – so if your clothing has circles in the fabric emulating this in your accessories and footwear gives a ‘styled’ look.    If you want advice for racewear or any style advice links are below.    Brightred.co.nz

In this episode, Stephanie explores the concept of amygdala hijack, a term used to describe the emotional responses that occur during conflict or escalation.   She identifies three primary responses: fight, flight, and freeze, and emphasises the importance of recognising which response one is experiencing in order to manage emotions effectively during challenging conversations.   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

In this episode, Stephanie walks us through the latest spring-summer fashion trends, providing insights into various styles, colours, and combinations.   She emphasises the importance of personal style over trends and showcases items from her own wardrobe to illustrate key points.   The conversation covers a range of topics, including nightie dresses, tank tops, athleisure, plaid, utility styles, and masculine suits, concluding with a recap of the trends discussed.   Watch it on YouTube to see the examples as Steph walks us through them.   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Stephanie talks with Olivia Hay-Smith, a young entrepreneur who has successfully launched two businesses in vintage fashion and marketing.   They discuss Olivia's journey into vintage fashion, the challenges of thrifting, the ethics surrounding fast fashion, and the importance of sustainability.   Olivia shares her insights on content creation and marketing strategies, emphasising the need for patience and creativity in the vintage reselling business.   They also reflect on the benefits of self-employment and the importance of collaboration across generations in the business world.   Follow Liv’s journey: https://www.lovedbyliv.co.nz/ https://www.marketingwithliv.co.nz/   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

In this episode, Stephanie shares her personal journey through menopause, discussing the various symptoms she experienced, the impact of COVID-19 on her health, and her exploration of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). She emphasises the importance of knowledge and support during this transition and offers insights into managing anxiety and lifestyle changes. Steph also touches on Frocktober, a fundraising initiative for ovarian cancer, and expresses her commitment to helping others navigate their menopause journey. For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Stephanie talks with Suli, a seasoned group fitness instructor and community health advocate.   Suli shares his journey from teaching fitness classes to becoming a registered nurse, emphasising the importance of community health, particularly for Māori and Pacific populations.   The conversation explores the significance of building relationships in fitness, the challenges faced by the rainbow community, and the holistic approach to health and wellness.   Suli also discusses his initiatives, including Moana Vibes, which promotes inclusivity in fitness. The episode concludes with reflections on personal influences and aspirations for the future. For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/   Check out Moana Va:  Instagram @moana_va Facebook @moana vā TikTok @moanava.pacificpride YouTube @MoanaVa LinkedIn @Moana Vā Podcast @Two Fat ‘Fine Email info@moanava.org Website www.moanava.org

This week, Stephanie discusses the different body shapes and how to dress for them.   She talks about why understanding your body shape and proportions is important, and how this knowledge can lead to better styling choices.   She explains the significance of vertical proportions and the role of visual harmony in dressing, and highlights the limitations of AI in accurately assessing body shapes and encourages listeners to embrace their unique bodies while exploring fashion.   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Stephanie talks with Clare Maxfield, the owner and director of Image Innovators, a leading company in image consulting and stylist training about what it takes to be a stylist in 2025.   Steph and Clare discuss the importance of training for stylists, the evolving role of technology and AI in colour analysis, and the comprehensive services offered by Image Innovators.   Clare emphasises the need for empathy and understanding in personal styling, and shares her insights on motivation and inspiration in the field of image consulting.   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

In this episode, Stephanie discusses why colour analysis could completely change the way you think about your wardrobe. Steph delves into the world of colour analysis, explaining its significance in fashion styling and personal branding. She discusses the benefits of understanding your colour palette, the process of colour consultation, and the evolution of tools used in colour analysis. She also talks about the importance of technology in modern colour analysis and how it enhances the client experience.   If you want to book your own colour analysis and start the journey towards a better understanding of what works best for you, check out https://www.brightred.co.nz/   Listen to related episodes on Apple Podcasts: Should the colour black really be a staple in your wardrobe? https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/should-the-colour-black-really-be-a-staple-in-your-wardrobe/id1750397394?i=1000721134830 Does understanding your colours really matter? https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/episode-2-does-understanding-your-colours-really-matter/id1750397394?i=1000657870814 For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

In this episode, Stephanie recalls her time at New Zealand Fashion Week and brings interviews with some amazing industry insiders about the event.   Hear the stories of volunteers, designers, and fashion enthusiasts who make this week unforgettable.   Interviews include:   Becky from Hyde Boutique in Oamaru https://hydeboutique.co.nz/ Stacey Beatson Stylist - https://staceybeatson.com/about/ Noku – VIP Concierge Host at NZFW – Volunteer Mel Brown – Owner Portfolio Models - https://portfoliomodels.co.nz/ ChiChi – Mode Magazine = https://www.facebook.com/modethemagazine Myken Stewart  - Previous owner of NZFW Rachale Davies  - Boxed media - https://www.boxedmedia.tv/ Liam Taylor – director of the board NZFW - https://www.linkedin.com/in/liam-taylor-ab7a4010/?originalSubdomain=nz Feroz Ali – Current owner of NZFW - https://www.whitecliffe.ac.nz/staff/feroz-ali/   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

In this episode, Peri Drysdale, founder of Untouched World, shares her journey from starting a small cottage industry to establishing a successful, sustainable fashion brand.   The discussion covers the origins of Untouched World, the challenges faced during its growth, the transition to production, and the brand's commitment to sustainability.   Stephanie and Peri also touch on innovation in fibres and future plans, including leadership programs for young people.   Untouched World: www.untouchedworld.com Merino Mink: www.merinomink.com Find out more about The Untouched World Foundation: https://www.untouchedworld.com/pages/foundation?srsltid=AfmBOop8AKee7_xymhTfxnmFWpftxkKFBnRQBFouG9TTLCwFho9oFm64   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

In this episode, Stephanie discusses the upcoming New Zealand Fashion Week, sharing insights into its history, evolution, and significance in the fashion industry.   She highlights the event's focus on sustainability and diversity, the operational aspects of Fashion Week, and the importance of sponsors.   Stephanie also expresses her excitement for the upcoming shows and the connections she looks forward to making within the fashion community.   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

It is never too late to start exercising. The best time to start is now. In this episode, Stephanie discusses how to get into exercise for those who dislike it or feel unfit. She emphasises that it's never too late to start exercising and shares scientific insights about sedentary lifestyles. Steph provides practical tips for finding enjoyable forms of exercise, the importance of accountability, and how to track progress. She encourages listeners to identify their motivations for exercising and to commit financially to their fitness goals.  What is enough exercise? You can increase your life and healthspan with exercise by 7years with 150minutes of moderate exercise per week. Here are 10 top tips to get you moving if you hate exercising: 1. Find something that moves you that you enjoy or can tolerate to start with. Suggestions might be – walking, dancing, a team sport like badminton or even a video game with a physical element 2. Give it times – commit to at least a month before you give up. Commit to the same time each day so you can start forming a habit. 3. Find a buddy who will do this with you and commit 4. Be accountable to someone. 5. Break it up - 150 minutes per week is manageable in 20 min blocks each day. 6. Get yourself some kit so you feel good doing the exercise. Purchase it and have it exclusively for your exercise 7. Banish comparison – you are doing this for you. Everyone started somewhere and the fact you are doing it is a great start 8. Identify your why 9. Track your workouts so you can see what you are doing 10. Make a financial commitment to your helath

After travelling to many countries over the past few weeks, Stephanie has seen so much colour and style, and it has got her reflecting on why we wear so much black. She explores 8 key points that commonly arise with her clients about wearing black. Is black slimming? Why are there so many black clothes and not much of anything else? Is black really safe, and does it prevent me from making a dressing mistake Black feels like an emotional shield… Does black really go with everything? Is black really safe and sophisticated? Black is so easy. I don’t have to worry about matching colours… Is black really expected in my profession/friend group/ family? Listen to the podcast to hear Steph discuss and debunk some of these myths and beliefs about wearing black. For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Food can impact all aspects of our lives, gut, mood, energy, hormones… the list goes on. In this episode, Stephanie talks to Dr Rachel Scrivin about how food works in the body and how to make it work for your goals.   Rachel shares her extensive journey in dietetics, discussing her career evolution, the challenges of pursuing a PhD while balancing family life, and her research on FODMAPs and their impact on endurance athletes.   She provides insights into nutritional strategies for athletes, particularly in relation to gastrointestinal symptoms, and offers advice for women navigating menopause.   Rachel emphasises the importance of balanced nutrition, protein intake, and the need for consistency in achieving health goals.   To work with Rachel: https://www.megabiteconsulting.co.nz/   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Gina, who shares her incredible journey of self-discovery and transformation.   From overcoming physical challenges to embracing a healthier lifestyle, Gina's story is a testament to the power of choosing yourself and the impact of accountability.   As a busy mum with young kids, prioritising your own health and fitness can be a massive challenge.   “Investing in your wellbeing is profound”, Gina says. She explains to Stephanie that when she looks after herself, she’s better equipped to care for those around her.     Gina’s attitude and transformation are inspiring, and if you’d like to experience this for yourself, let’s chat.   For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/

Coming to you from Ibiza, Spain, Stephanie discusses the pros and cons of travelling, sharing personal experiences and insights from this trip and others she’s had in the past. She highlights the financial burdens, safety concerns, and physical fatigue associated with travel, while also emphasising the stress reduction, personal growth, and cultural experiences that travel can provide. The conversation is framed around her current travels in Europe, offering a unique perspective on the joys and challenges of being on the road. For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/