Style for Life

For the past few years I have had the privilege of being a delegate at NZ Fashion week in Auckland.  This is a coming together of all people in fashion,  a chance to see what is coming up for the new season and a great chance to talk fashion non stop with people who are interested lol.    In this episode I discuss the shows I went to, a little bit about the designers and what we can expect in the season ahead.  I also discuss the history of NZ Fashion week and how it has evolved.   If you are interested in the Christchurch version of Fashion week which is 15 - 18th of October please click the link below to book tickets.     https://www.nzfashionweek.com/christchurch-spring-fashion-festival   If you are interested in some styling advice please click on the link below.  Thank you so much for listening.     https://www.brightred.co.nz/  

It was such a pleasure to interview fellow Stylist Abby Button this week.  I feel so privileged to have her in the studio and to chat with her about her journey to being a fashion stylist.   I have known Abby since she started as a stylist intern over 10years ago and its inspirational to see how far she has come and where she is at now.   Abby and I are also working a little more together at The Crossing https://thecrossing.co.nz/ this weekend (15 & 16 August 2026 ) to deliver a fashion event on how to choose a colourful capsule wardrobe from the fabulous retail at The Crossing.  Please click on the link above to get your last minute tickets!!   Check out Abby's website here: https://abbybutton.co.nz/ And of course for all things Bright Red Styling here:  https://www.brightred.co.nz/styling  

In response to come industry discussion I have recorded this podcast on how colour analysis fits into our 2026 'stylescape'.   The key discussion points are:  1. How to ensure the client voice and preferences are heard and acknowledged in the delivery of colour analysis  2. The pros and cons of colour analysis in 2026 3. How to apply colour analysis, look and feel great and still feel like you 4.  How colour analysis can help you feel more confident  5.  How a stylist delivers and works with colour analysis in 2026.    It was super interesting researching and putting this together.  Im really interested to hear your comments and thoughts.   Contact me if you want to learn more about colour analysis.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/colour-analysis-consultation  

I thought long and hard about this episode as its something close to my heart.   In this episode I discuss my own relationship with alcohol,  why I have made the changes I have and how that journey unfolded.  I also wanted to explore the reasons why women from the ages of 35 - 70 have normalised regular and sometimes unhealthy drinking habits.    This podcast unpacks the reasons why we drink,  what the health implications are and what we can do about it.   I honestly have no judgement - I just wanted to share the facts with you and I hope this helps you in some way in your life Thank you for listening.   If you want some help with helping improve your health goals feel free to reach out  https://www.brightred.co.nz/accountability-coaching  

Wearing more clothes can often feel bulky and heavy especially at work.  This weeks podcast looks at how to dress for work in winter and still look professional.    I discuss how to stay warm and reduce the bulk and what to choose that will make winter dressing and feeling good more possible!  Enjoy and keep the suggestions coming.   If you want styling services please feel free to reach out:  https://www.brightred.co.nz/styling  

In this episode Amanda from the  Christchurch preloved clothing store 'To Be Continued Preloved' traverses the best way to buy pre loved clothing and shares all of her industry insights.  She has been in business selling pre loved clothing for over 10 years and has an impeccable eye for pieces that she knows you will love.   She also shares some tips and tricks to get the best out of pre loved clothing and what you need to do as a seller as well as become a discerning buyer! Thank you so much Amanda for your most excellent insights.  Check out the store at any of the locations in Christchurch: 1.  1027 Ferry Road, Ferrymead, 2. 9B Normans Road, Strowan  3. 182 Papanui Road, Merivale  https://tobecontinuedpreloved.com/   Have a great week and enjoy this episode!  

There is a common myth that looking great is directly correlated to spending heaps of money.  This is a fallacy.   This weeks podcast explores all the ways you can look and feel great without spending heaps of money on clothes. My 10 top tips on how to do this include:   Know what suits you – colour,  style and personality Shop for items on sale Shop outside the current season - swimwear in winter,  jerseys in summer Go to car boot sales / preloved vintage fairs  Pre loved shops  Air-points, hot points and other promotions Quality over quantity – see the last episode on fibres. Multi season and multi way pieces - wear your clothes everywhere.  Capsule wardrobes Mend and repurpose fabric and clothing Be mindful of grooming and make up Thank you for listening.  I really appreciate all of you.   Thank you to Image Innovators for their ongoing support and sponsorship.   https://imageinnovators.com/ If you want some help to get the most out of your budget reach out to:   https://www.brightred.co.nz/styling        

One of the things I am very passionate about is the fabric or more specifically the fibre that garments are made from.  The fibre content of the garments you wear has a big impact on so many aspects of the fit,  cost,  performance,  look, drape and handle (how the fabric feels next to your skin) of a garment.   In this podcast I explore the difference between man made and natural fibres and cover off the pros and cons of each.   Natural fibres are: Cotton  Wool Silk Linen  Manmade are: Nylon Polyester Elastane Natural fibres that require a lot of chemical processing: Rayon Viscose  Bamboo Listen to this episode to learn much more.   Enjoy this episode.  

I often hear people commenting that they are really busy or do not have time or capacity to do something or interact.   In this podcast I explore the causes or perceived causes of busyness and what to do about it.  I explore the psychological roots or busyness and what are some practical time management tools for managing a busy life.   Thank you for listening to this podcast and for being a supporter of the show.   Thank you also to our sponsor Image Innovators for helping make this happen.   https://imageinnovators.com/ For all things style and wellness you can find me at:  https://www.brightred.co.nz/  

Almost everyone I work with wants me to help them curate a capsule wardrobe.   This podcast covers off the key pieces that make up a winter capsule wardrobe and how to put them all together.   A winter capsule wardrobe is made up of around 12 pieces consisting of:   1 -2 Jackets / blazers / cardigan 5 -6  tops  1 - 2 skirt or dress 2 trousers  Restricting the wardrobe to 3 -4 colours with 1 -2 hero pieces is also really useful.  Most capsules work with one pair of shoes that work with everything.     If you want some help curating your own capsule wardrobe feel free to reach out.  https://www.brightred.co.nz/        

Super commonly I get asked 'how much should I spend on my wardrobe' every year?    In this podcast I discuss how much is enough and how to plan your finances around your wardrobe. There are so many reasons why people don't shop,  plan or look after their wardrobes.  Style takes effort, budgeting and commitment.      In this episode I  cover off why people don't buy clothes,  how to overcome some of the barriers that lead to style inertia and realistically what we suggest you spend on your personal appearance.     Thank you so much for listening and for all your support and feedback.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/

This week I decided to source some garments from four local retailers at different price points to showcase what is trending for Winter 2026 here on the ground in Christchurch. Overall some trends emerged that seem to be here to stay: 1. Barrel leg trousers and jeans 2. Chocolate brown (still staying strong from summer and autumn). 3. Patterned, coloured and monogrammed knitwear 4. Skirts 5. The peasant style blouse with billowing sleeves and a lot of fullness. 6. Suiting in all colours but especially in navy and chocolate brown. 7. The trendy puffer 8. Long coats To purchase these items check out: https://fashionsociety.co.nz/ https://floandfrankie.com/ https://www.stormonline.com/ https://www.max.co.nz/   Labels featured from Fashion society are as follows: https://fashionsociety.co.nz/collections/ag-denim https://fashionsociety.co.nz/collections/citizens-of-humanity https://fashionsociety.co.nz/collections/ba-sh https://fashionsociety.co.nz/collections/lagence https://fashionsociety.co.nz/collections/zadig-and-voltaire   Labels featured from Flo and Frankie https://floandfrankie.com/collections/auguste-the-label https://floandfrankie.com/collections/among-the-brave   Any feedback about the podcast is greatly welcomed. Enjoy and many thanks to our sponsor Image Innovators https://imageinnovators.com/ If you want some help to select some winter clothes you feel great in https://www.brightred.co.nz/styling  

One of the most common things I see when I deal with women is the mindset that everyone else's needs are more important than theirs.  This podcast explores the reasons why women often put themselves last and the impact of this choice.   I also look at how to change this mentality and the benefits of doing so.   Thank you to Image Innovators for their sponsorship of the podcast  https://imageinnovators.com/ If you want to step into who you are and find your style or rediscover yourself through health changes or style then reach out:  https://www.brightred.co.nz/    

So often when we get ill or injured our first response is to stop all activity especially exercise and hope that doing vey little will allow us to heal or recover.  There is definite merit in this approach in some cases and it is important that you work with your medical professional on what works for you.  However there is much evidence that movement is one of the greatest elixers.      In this weeks podcast I explore some of the reasons why people stop exercising,  give some options and discuss how we can stay active when our bodies are not performing optimally.   Have listen and let me know your thoughts.  Many thanks to Image Innovators for sponsoring this podcast  https://imageinnovators.com/ Connect with me if you need some support to stay active wheb you body isnt playing ball or you want some style advice.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/  

Having clothes that transcend both colder and warmer seasons can be challenging.   In this episode I discuss how to wear your summer clothes in the cooler months and still look stylish. I talk about how to add layers underneath your  tops, dresses or shirts so you can still stay warm and how to remove layers when you get hot without pulling apart your outfit.   This episode has good visuals so jump over to YouTube to see how it all works!  Thanks to Image Innovators for their sponsorship of this podcast.   https://imageinnovators.com/ For advice and help in all things styling:  https://www.brightred.co.nz/    

Such a great chat this week about styling and AI.  In this podcast Clare Maxfield (Image Innovators) and I unpack the pros and cons of using AI in the styling space.     

It was my absolute privilege to have the lovely Sheena Hemens on the show this week.   She shared her story of extraordinary resilience after many hard life setbacks then the unimaginable grief she experienced after losing her daughter Lauren.     Listen this week to hear how she came back from ultimate grief  and many other of life's challenges and still manages to show up today.     Thank you Sheena for sharing your story.     Find Sheena on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheenahemensspeaker/ Thank you as always to Image Innovators for your sponsorship of the show.  https://imageinnovators.com/    

Travelling to Niue – small pacific island 3.5hours travel from Auckland. Very warm and humid and small population of 1260 permanent residents.   Staying in self catering. Only one food delivery per month from NZ. Humid 88% humidity Can rain   Niue Casual Clothing · 4 Singlets/T-Shirts · 2 Light blouses/shirts to cover the shoulders for church and sun protection · 2 Shorts/skirts which are not too short so you can enjoy wearing them at both your resort and when out exploring · 1 Light evening dress to impress at dinner · 1 Dress/skirt below the knee for church, spending time in villages, etc. We recommend light fabrics such as · 1 or 2 Light sleepwear if you’re against sleeping in your undies · 1 Light Cardigan/pashmina/poncho for cooler evenings · 1 Sports shorts/leggings for active activities · 1 Sports T-shirt/singlet for active activities · 1 Outfit to travel between Niue and home · 3 Bras including strapless, sports and comfort · 6 Underwear · 4 Socks. Niue Swimwear · 2- 3 Bikini · 1 One-piece for watersports · Mask and snorkel · Beach/travel towel · Rash vest · Beach bag/Day pack · Dive gloves Niue Protective Clothing · Sunhat · Sunglasses · Light shirt to cover arms and back · Light rain jacket/small umbrella Niue Footwear · Flip-flops/sandals (optional, some people find that they stick to the next two options due to the varying nature of Niue’s terrain) · Walking shoes/sneakers · Reef shoes/water shoes · Snorkelling fins (available to hire from Niue Blue if you don’t have your own).

Its getting stormy and cool.  The leaves are turning orange and red.  At this time of the year we say goodbye to summer and welcome in the cooler weather.  With that often brings a rethink of our wardrobes.     Fashion is cyclical and styles very often repeat with slight nuances and changes.  It our job as stylists to help guide you into the new season with some suggestions as to how to stay up to date as well as wear things you already have in your wardrobe.     Check out this podcast for the most up to date trends as they are in the shops now or may even be lurking in your own wardrobe!    Many thanks to Image Innovators our premium sponsor.  https://imageinnovators.com/ For info or guidance on all things style check out my website:   https://www.brightred.co.nz/    

One of the things I have noticed as I age is how I have less capacity to take new things on.   I have spoken to numerous others who also find that they experience the same.   It can be frustrating and feel limiting.  This podcast examines what human capacity is,  what controls it and how we can look after ourselves better.     Don't forget to also check out my blog which deep dives a little further into this topic.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/blog   Big shout out this week also to Clare from Image Innovators our major sponsor of the podcast.   https://imageinnovators.com/      

Almost every client I work with struggles in way or another to find jeans that work for them that they feel good in. This podcast unpacks body shapes and jeans styles and how to marry them together. if you have always found buying jeans a struggle for whatever reason then have a listen and head out this weekend to source your best jeans. Check out my blog for all of the images and details about what is best for who. As always a big thank you to Clare from Image Innovators for her sponsorship: https://imageinnovators.com/ For styling services check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/styling  

Diabetes is rife in New Zealand and with so many people presenting with it I thought it was time to chat to an expert on this and fill in the gaps.    Clara Fergus is a dietitian who has embarked on a PhD looking at the efficacy of continuous glucose monitors and other diabetes-management strategies such as insulin pumps. She shared some very enlightening insights on diabetes and also some great tips and tricks to give yourself the best possible chance to prevent it happening to you.    If you want to contact her for a consultation or for more advice she can be reached by email on:  [email protected]    Massive thank you to our sponsor Clare Maxfield from Image Innovators  https://imageinnovators.com/ You will find me on the following:   https://www.brightred.co.nz/  

In this episode I interview my husband David Rumble about his experience of marriage and being married for 30years and I share my thoughts.   We lament on the challenges and highs of being together so long and we both offer some insights that have worked for us.   This episode is dedicated to him and the life we have created.     Many thanks to our premium sponsor Clare from Image Innovators https://imageinnovators.com/   https://www.brightred.co.nz/  

This week I interviewed Maxene London.  She is an expert in all things podcasting and I wanted to share  how the journey and business of podcasting  has evolved over time.  Maxene is only 29 and has worked in some really interesting places and has so many insights that open up the discussion about podcasting and also help dispel  any myths.  She is a podcast consultant and has also been a judge at the New Zealand podcast awards.    I interviewed her because many of you have been curious about why I do this podcast and what is in it for me.  Maxene and I explain the altruistic nature of podcasting and how we both see it as a very progressive and fast moving industry with so much potential to grow and expand.      As a thank you for listening, you can get 10% off any of Maxene’s podcasting resources using the code STEPH10 at checkout: https://www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nz/shop-resources.   As always thank you to our major sponsor Image Innovators https://imageinnovators.com/   Thank you for listening every week.  It really means so much.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/  

Sometimes I find that clients are not sure which fashion brands will suit their life,  body and even personal preferences.   In this episode I unpack what to look for in a fashion brand,  how to choose a fashion designer (brand) that you you resonate with and give you some industry insights into our New Zealand fashion industry.    Please note that I have done my best to mention all the brands I have come across and worked with in some capacity.  I acknowledge that I may have left someone out.  I also want to say how much respect and love I have for our New Zealand designers.   We are a tough market and they all strive to provide excellent and beautiful choices for everyone.  Please do support them.   I also want to correct my error as Trelise Cooper has four brands and I said she had three.   The four brands are:   1.  Trelise Cooper  2. Cooper  3.  COOP and  4..  Curate  I mixed this up in the podcast and want to apologise.   Designers are discussed are: Karen Walker Zambesi World Nom*D Sylvester Huffer Juliette Hogan Taylor  Trelise Cooper and associated brands KowTow Saben YuMei Twenty Seven Names Standard Issue Penny Sage Untouched World Maggie Marilyn Tuesday the Label Workshop Denim Campbell Luke Swanndri Sills and Co Max Ruby Caitlin Crisp Knewe Briarwood Check out the podcast to hear all you need to know about our fantastic designers and how they can be a part of your wardrobe.     I also mention style personalities so please feel free to click this link for more info: https://brightred.myprivatestylist.com/your-style-expression/   Thank you to Clare from Image Innovators for her ongoing sponsorship. https://imageinnovators.com/ Check out my webpage for all services: https://www.brightred.co.nz/   Thank you for listening.    

Weddings in any culture are fun and a great celebration for everyone involved.   Much of my work as a stylist leading into wedding season is helping guests and parents of the bridal party select clothes that are appropriate and feel right for the wearer.   This podcast unpacks how to navigate the journey of dressing for a wedding.  Dress codes are covered and key points include:   Wearing white? What does the invite state How to be comfortable and stylish What is to much  What is being overdressed and does it matter?  Should I wear a hat?  Mother of bride or groom   - what to wear?  Bridal party colours  Seasonal considerations - beach, summer,  winter etc, What is inappropriate for a wedding How to choose shoes strategically Mostly - enjoy the occasion.     Thank you so much to Image Innovators for their great support of this podcast  - check them out below:  https://imageinnovators.com/ If you want some styling advice or help with your wedding outfit then click on the link below:   https://www.brightred.co.nz/      

For the past two years my husband David has been attending a mens walking group on a Sunday morning.  As well as being a good physical challenge it has also been a very positive experience for connecting with other men from all different walks of life.   This group was started 10years ago by Rev Paul Morrow who has invited men who in turn have invited other men.  On the last count when he looked at the total number of people he has had attend the walk over the 10year period there were close to 250.  On a weekly basis the numbers fluctuate but there is always a good group.  On occasion one of the wives, partners or friends will walk too but it is typically for the men to connect.   This week I interviewed Paul Morrow about his views, lived experience and concerns about men having meaningful and fulfilling friendships with other men.  Paul is an interesting man with a kind and balanced view of the way we connect.   Enjoy this podcast and thank you for listening.     Thank you to Image Innovators our premium sponsor for your support.   https://imageinnovators.com/ Feel free to check out our blog for a written view of this podcast  https://www.brightred.co.nz/post/need-and-benefits-of-human-connection And if you want any Bright Red Services  https://www.brightred.co.nz/    

In this episode Stephanie explores the basis and need for human connection.  She covers off what it is and how we can improve our relationships by being better connected to each other.  In a world where much of our connection has moved online the way we connect has changed and there is an impact.    This episode also discusses loneliness which can be the end result of no connection.  Sometimes loneliness can lead to poor mental health.  If you feel at risk please see some of the links below that point you to areas of support.   https://www.lifeline.org.nz/ As always a big thank you to Clare and the team from Image Innovators for their sponsorship of this podcast.  https://imageinnovators.com/ If you want to read more about this topic feel free to check out Stephanie's blog. https://www.brightred.co.nz/blog      

In this episode as the summer here in New Zealand is (mostly lol) in full swing Stephanie unpacks what she is seeing the the shops that you can buy now.   Stephanie explains how to wear these trends and also how things can be recycled from years gone by...   The trends explored in this issue are:  1. Chocolate brown  2. Long full skirts  3. Co-ords - this is matching tops and bottoms  4. The Pantone colour of the year - 'Cloud dancer’ which is just white  5. Low rise wider legged jeans 6. Low rise longer shorts 7. Some shorter shorts low rise  8. 90's slip dresses and camisole tops 9. One shouldered and asymmetric tops  10. Chunky necklaces and jewellery 11. Birkenstocks and lattice footwear A big thank you to our sponsor Image Innovators.  https://imageinnovators.com/ Feel free to contact me if you some help with your style.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/ Have a great week...     

At this busy time of the year, it is really challenging to find time to prioritise self-care.  In this episode, Stephanie discusses the stats around exercise adherence and reiterates the recommended guidelines for exercise.  She also covers the common barriers to exercise and what the health impacts are of not exercising.    She then gives some top tips to get you moving at this time of the year:    Make it enjoyable.  Pair up with others/buddy system  Start small and build habits  Schedule exercise  Set goals  Track progress  Give yourself a non-food reward  Know your ‘why’ and let it motivate you Focus on how it makes you feel  Stay consistent    She troubleshoots all the issues that can get in the way and provides practical tips to help you navigate the challenges that inevitably come up.     For help with all things motivation and exercise, please contact Steph    https://www.brightred.co.nz/accountability-coaching   Thank you to Image Innovators for their amazing sponsorship of this podcast.     https://imageinnovators.com/

In May of 2025 it was my great pleasure to sign Melody up for a 6 month accountability coaching package.  She came to me feeling extremely body conscious,  exhausted and very frustrated with her health outcomes.  We had a long conversation and made a plan for her that worked with her busy family with two small children and a husband and got started.     This podcast tells Melody’s story and it really is a story of transformation,  finding herself again after babies and becoming the best version of herself.  Without giving too much away have a listen and hear for yourself how it all unfolded.  Warning you might need a tissue as things get a little emotional (in a great way)…..    Check out the link below if you want to find out more about accountability coaching or any of the services I offer.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/accountability-coaching   Many thanks to Clare Maxfield from Image Innovators for her amazing support of the podcast.  I am very grateful.     https://imageinnovators.com/

Today we’re bringing you one of our most popular episodes of 2025, a listener favourite we’re re-releasing for Boxing Day while we take a short break. I was so privileged to interview my beautiful friend Shannon-Leigh Litt who is in the middle of attempting to break the Guiness world record for the most number of consecutive ultra marathons run - this is over 51kms per day.  Today she completed ultra 382 - the current record is 200.   Listen for some super heated inspiration from this incredible athlete and human.   Thank you Shannon and best of luck with your amazing journey.  

Today we’re bringing you one of our most popular episodes of 2025, a listener favourite we’re re-releasing while we take a short break. In this episode, Stephanie shares her journey of packing light for an extended holiday. She discusses her strategies for choosing the right bags, selecting essential clothing, and organising her items using packing cells. Stephanie talks about the importance of comfort in footwear and shares her go-to travel snacks. She also covers toiletries and personal care items, and concludes with a checklist for her carry-on essentials, all while aiming to travel efficiently and avoid overpacking. For resources and information around accountability coaching and personal styling, check out: https://www.brightred.co.nz/ For info on the cotopaxi bag, check out: https://www.cotopaxi.co.nz/

Right on Christmas time, we spend weeks celebrating the end of our year.  This involves many celebrations, parties and get-togethers that almost always revolve around food and alcohol.  It’s a great thing to connect with others in this way, with food and often alcohol being a social lubricant and a common enjoyment.  Sometimes these celebrations and events do not provide options that support your health outcome, which can lead to feeling bloated,  unwell and sometimes regretful.     The top 10 tips that Stephanie discusses are below:      Ask yourself is this s 10/10 for me?  Have I pre planned how I am going to show up to this event?   How am I treating alcohol?  Am I bringing a plate or checking the menu first?  Can we make the function an ‘active’ on so the focus is on the event not drinking and eating  Are we practising mindful eating rather than mindless snacking while talking to someone.   If things get out of hand can we get back on track the next day and nourish our bodies?  Are we practising gratitude?  What’s happening with water?   Are we connecting with people not just food.    Feels free to reach out if you hold celebrations have got a little off track and you need some help to get back into focus.   https://www.brightred.co.nz/accountability-coaching   A huge thank you to Clare Maxfield at Image Innovators for her continued and generous support of the podcast.      https://imageinnovators.com/

In this episode, Stephanie explores the causes and management strategies for dealing with Christmas burnout.     Christmas burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by the stress of the holiday season, which can be triggered by financial pressures, family expectations, and packed schedules. Signs include fatigue, irritability, sleep problems, a loss of joy, and feeling overwhelmed. This often occurs in the lead-up to Christmas.     She identifies that Christmas burnout can be caused by any of the following:      Financial pressure Family expectations  A packed schedule  Comparison  Perfectionism   She also discusses some suggestions to manage it, including managing self-care, amongst others.  Tune in to learn more.     Thank you to Image Innovators for their sponsorship of Style for Life.     https://imageinnovators.com/   Thank you so much for listening.     https://www.brightred.co.nz/

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 [email protected] 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/