HJC Styling: Exclusive pre-launch interview

With the hottest new personal styling agent, Hayley Jane Charles, looking to take Aberdeen by storm this month launching her business, HJC Styling, I managed to catch up with her for five minutes to chat all things HJC Styling and to find out what's hot in fashion this summer...

You've been styling some of Aberdeen's hottest fashion shoots and shows for years, why did you decide to start your own company now?

When working as a personal stylist I became increasingly frustrated that I was limited to styling using a small handful of brands. As we all know, stores sizes and styles vary, and I felt at times that I wasn’t giving some clients the best choices for them.
With no limits we can help develop your new fashion styles using any stores from high street retailers, to bespoke online boutiques!

What is it that inspires you?

Strong, beautiful and incredible women! Through styling I have met some amazing ladies who have been through everything from chronic illness, to family breakdowns. Using my services I help give them a confidence boost and a new look. I have found their enthusiasm and determination truly infectious, this definitely has to be the best part of my job! 

What's so different about HJC Styling?HJC Styling is taking styling to the masses. Styling used to be for celebrities, or women who could afford to pay for this advice, however, it shouldn’t be! Some people get in a rut or are scared by fashion, its our job to encourage ladies and men to enjoy fashion and have fun with it, alongside helping them to discover styles and looks that will suit their shape and personality. 

What services will you be providing to clients?

We have a variety of services for all different requirements. If you are looking for a quick fix our online styling service is great; all you have to do is fill out a small client information form and we will get back to you with a small video, document, and online examples of items that suits your figure and personality - fashion is literally at the push of a button.

Got a special event coming up? Our shop and style is perfect! Go shopping with one of our stylists; we will go the extra mile pulling pieces for the outfit, accessories and even shape wear underneath to ensure our clients get the best styling experience possible. We will even stop for a coffee and lunch to refuel, encouraging you all the way.

If you're not looking to spend money but are stuck in a fashion rut maybe the wardrobe revival service is for you. This is when one of our stylists will come to your home and help you go through your wardrobe. It’s great to have another opinion on what suits and fits you best. We will also help highlight some staples you are maybe missing and develop new outfits you hadn't even thought of.

What are your price points for consultation and projects?

Our prices start from as little as £25 and go up to £170 for group styling parties. We charge for the experience, not for the hours involved, meaning our clients won’t be confined by time - great when looking for that perfect outfit! We also do corporate events, however prices are based on individual needs.

We've all got that one person we look up to for fashion inspiration, who is your style icon?

I'm a huge fan of Victoria Beckham’s style and her designs. Her style is so sleek and tailored, yet she manages to look effortless and understated at the same time. 

If a celebrity could define your style, who would it be and why?

I can't pin point one - it's too difficult to say. On Monday I might be feeling a bit rock chick and take some inspiration from Taylor Momsen, and later on in the week I might look for some feminine inspiration from Millie Mackintosh. I love playing with styles but wouldn’t say I have a particular one.

What's your favourite season for new trends?

Summer has to be my favourite. I love the beginning of the season as you get so many unique and funky festival styles hitting the high street. Later on in the season this turns into a more bohemian 'grown up look', which I love styling, mixing patterns and textures.

Who would your dream client be and why?

After her appearance at Cannes this year I have developed a huge girl crush on Blake Lively! Her style is incredible and she knows what colours and shapes suit her. I would also love to style Suzy Menkes (international Vogue editor). Considering her access to fashion Suzy always stays safe with regards to clothing choices, and in my opinion doesn’t embrace her feminine shape. I would love to help her in exchange for some behind the scenes fashion gossip too!

What's the most important thing about finding the right clothing/accessories?

I think many people over complicate things, especially when trying to bring an outfit together. Look at the colour palette of the item; you can either clash or compliment, it’s as easy as that!

When working with ladies I always find that they want to initially hide their shape, which makes me so incredibly sad! I promise you if you know the tricks and embrace what you have, not only will you feel more confident you will also look it.

Hayley's top five summer styling tips:

1. Play with prints
   Summer is always the time of year that fashion brands start to introduce all kinds of prints, they are great fun and really add some colour to your wardrobe.
2. Accessories are a must
   
   Add an on trend item to any outfit. This year there are a lot of Aztec influences and I particularly love the pom pom sandals and embellished bags we are seeing everywhere! (Check out Zara for my favourites)
3. Layer it up
   
   Layer bangles and necklaces to really make a statement. There are also many gorgeous cover-ups on the high street ranging from kimonos to waterfall cardigans, so don’t be afraid to layer up outfits with these either.
4. Buy a light jacket
   
   Purchasing a key summer jacket is essential for those sudden summer showers. This year it’s all about the bomber and you can pick up light silk ones, or even some beautifully embroidered options from the high street. Personally however, I am a huge fan of the classic trench so I'd be picking up a light waterfall trench for a more tailored and sophisticated option.
5. Have fun! 
   
   Summer is a great time to try new looks as there is simply so much on offer. Why not pick up something you would normally shy away from and see how you get on! You don’t have anything to loose.

What do the Autumn/Winter trends hold for us? What are your predictions?

This year we will see some of the old faithful’s which we see every year, like the heavier checked and borqued materials. We will also see some new faces - The 80's are back in a big way so be prepared for ruffles, padding, velvet and unusual silhouettes. To compliment this we will also see some gorgeous bright colour palettes ranging from purples to reds. 

One of the other trends which I’m pretty excited about it the futuristic space age trend. This will see lots of metallic, black and embellished products, as well as some stunning jewellery. If you are looking for some inspiration check out the recent Cannes ensembles as some celebs rocked this trend including Zayn Malik, who even sported some silver arm armour!

HJC styling launches on 30th June at an exclusive launch party invite only event in Malmaison in Aberdeen. If you would like the chance to win an online styling session head to the HJC Styling Facebook page - the winner will be announced at the event and notified by Hayley herself.

For Now...

Just Julia