Style for Life

Feeling the empty next syndrome

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/

To print or not to print - all you ever wanted know about wearing prints.

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
 

How to choose and style an outfit for the races

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

Navigating Emotional Responses in Conflict

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/

2025’s Spring Summer Fashion Trends Unveiled

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/

What it takes to be an entrepreneur: Olivia’s journey to starting two businesses by the age of 23

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/

Navigating Menopause: Steph Opens Up About Her Personal Journey

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/

Empowering communities through fitness: Suli’s journey from fitness to health advocacy

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

Embracing Your Body Shape

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/

What it takes to be a stylist with Clare Maxfield

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/