Getting style-savvy with Sue-Mee Maudsley at Love is Boutique

"Aaagh, I have got NOTHING to wear!" is a common phrase much-heard in my house. I can, more precisely, narrow it down in terms of location to my wardrobe (my husband and kids never seem to have the same issue), and I'm often to be found scrabbling around through the racks of same-old stuff, triumphantly pulling out a long-forgotten top, only to discover it has been shrunk in the wash or has a child-induced mucky handprint on the back.

So, I was obviously delighted to get hold of a ticket (a beautifully sparkly, hand-made one no less) to the latest 'Style-Savvy' event run by local stylist Sue-Mee Maudsley, held at the equally fabulous Love is Boutique vintage clothes emporium. The event promised to give us some insights into current trends for 2011, and more importantly, how to wear them.

A group of about 15 ladies duly assembled, glass of fizz in hand, and with photographer Kerry McNair snapping away, Sue-Mee took us through several style boards, showing key looks, colours and shapes for the season. I was slightly dismayed to learn that the 70's looks set to be huge again this summer, complete with the swinging flares and hippy-chick styling that it entails, but thankfully there are the far less scary looks to consider built around white, colour blocking and neutrals.

Hayley and Caroline from Powder & Glow were on hand to provide make-up tips (and apply the best false lashes), and we were encouraged to rummage through the rails of vintage clothes in the shop.

The great thing about Love is Boutique (unlike the type of shop portrayed in Lily Allen's documentary about the creation of her top-end London store) is that the prices are realistic, falling typically in the £15.00-£75.00 region - appealing to everyone from teens upwards - and are so clean and immaculately hung that you might forget completely that they have been pre-loved at all. Designer labels jostle for space with high street brands, and so there really is something for everyone.

A favourite part of the evening for me? Having a few minutes one-to-one with Sue-Mee to accessorise a tailored but bland shirt-dress I'd brought along. A wide, dark tan belt immediately brought it bang up-to-date, and I snapped it up for a bargain twenty-odd quid to take home.

Sue-Mee has been a fashion designer in London for many years working for Burberry, Monsoon and Warehouse, and is now a fashion advisor to us lucky locals. So for those of you who have a hectic lifestyle, your wardrobe needs re-organising or maybe you are returning to work, Sue-Mee can help you choose the most flattering items to suit your budget and lifestyle.

Talking of work, I'd best get ready. What to wear? I think I've got just the thing...