Style for Life

Episódios

• 
  What is the best exercise for weight loss? 18.09.2026 30min

  There is a lot of noise out there about what the best exercise is for shifting your body composition whether this is weight loss or just a change in your muscle to fat ratio.     In this podcast I have unpacked the myths surrounding exercise and weight loss and started some practical tips on how to start on this journey if you have been confused and unsure what to do next.     If you want some help to get started on this journey or have someone look at your unique circumstances please feel free to reach out to Steph for some accountability coaching advice.     https://www.brightred.co.nz/accountability-coaching
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  How to pack for a three week holiday in all weathers 11.09.2026 38min

  Packing to go on holiday can be a fraught experience where sometimes you just throw everything into the suitcases and hope for the best, and you wear half of what you have taken and spend the whole time lugging a heavy bag around feeling frustrated with yourself for not taking more time.     This time we are travelling to:    Turkey- hot temps between 28 - 35oC so VERY hot by NZ standards Sweden  - temps between 10 - 18oC - cold compared to Turkey  London  - temps  between 12 - 22oC - coolish but not as cold as  Sweden  New York - temps between 18 - 30oC - so hot again!! This has meant that I will need to take more warm clothing than I usually would on a hot holiday.  I am also running a half marathon, so I need sports clothing that performs well.    I have limited the packing to three pairs of shoes;    1 pair of trainers that also double as casual shoes - after much searching, I have opted for Skechers, which I haven't run in before so a risk but these are designed for running, and I'm finding them great! 1 pair of Ecco sandals that I can walk in  - super comfortable and a great option  1 pair of Birkenstocks - I could have left them at home and managed with one pair....   https://nz.ecco.com/product/ecco-gruuv-sol/213103/02710 https://www.skechers.co.nz/shop/women/footwear/athletic-sneakers https://www.birkenstock.co.nz/collections/womens-sandals   Clothing is as follows:     1 pair of jeans  2 pairs of lightweight trousers  2 long sleeved shirts (one light weight and one medium weight) 2 short sleeved shirts  2 singlets  2 tops 2 very fine long sleeved thermals  2 pairs of shorts  3  sets of sports / workout gear:  3x shorts, 3x sports bras,  3x sports tops  - running visor and sunglasses  3 dresses  1 puffer jacket  1 rain jacket  2 cardigans  1 jersey   This feels like a great amount of clothing for the travels I am doing.  I may have been able to trim, but I suffer in the cold!     Luggage I prefer is:    https://www.lojel.com/category/travel/ https://www.cotopaxi.co.nz/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21369784761&gbraid=0AAAAAoaFc6ATnwzGc-X3zrK4hzZLlIIT8&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIiNH7tNrZlgMVuKhoCR3Hki91EAAYASAAEgKkevD_BwE     If you want some help with packing please feel free to reach out and I can help!
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  NZ Fashion Week 2026 21.08.2026 26min

  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/  
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  Interview with Stylist Abby Button 13.08.2026 33min

  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  
• 
  Is colours analysis outdated? 07.08.2026 30min

  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  
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  The midlife alcohol habit that everyone normalises 31.07.2026 32min

  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  
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  How to choose winter clothes for work and still look fantastic 24.07.2026 31min

  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  
• 
  How to get the best out of preloved clothing with Amanda from 'To be Continued Preloved" 03.07.2026 32min

  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!  
• 
  How to look great without spending a fortune 26.06.2026 31min

  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        
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  Do you really know what your clothes are made from and does it fit with your values? 19.06.2026 32min

  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.  
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  What is busyness and is it really a thing? 12.06.2026 30min

  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/  
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  How to create your best winter capsule wardrobe for work or casual 04.06.2026 31min

  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/        
• 
  How much money should you spend on your clothes each year? 02.06.2026 31min

  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/
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  What is trending for early winter that you can buy in the shops right now 22.05.2026 32min

  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  
• 
  Why women struggle to put themselves first and how to change that 15.05.2026 31min

  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/    
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  The All-or-Nothing Trap: Staying Active Through Injury & Illness 08.05.2026 31min

  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/  
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  How to Layer Clothes for Autumn and Winter (Using Your Summer Wardrobe Too) 01.05.2026 31min

  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/    
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  AI and Your Wardrobe: Friend or Fashion Risk - with Clare Maxfield 24.04.2026 45min

  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.     
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  Facing the Unimaginable: Sheena Hemen on Loss, Strength and Carrying On 17.04.2026 44min

  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/    
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  How to pack for a 1 week island holiday and not take your whole wardrobe 03.04.2026 29min

  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).