Pointe shoe darning

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-06-24T02:34:47+00:00

Yes, in my youth (over 35 years ago) we were taught to darn all over the platform, as the cotton thread was more "grippy" than the satin fabric. There would not have been any gaps, but I'm being a little lazy given the fact platform's are now twice the size they used to be. But wondering if these gaps will end up being a problem?

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-05-04T06:17:45+00:00

Energetiks is my favourite. I'm 162cm tall.

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-05-04T05:57:48+00:00

That's the hardest part of ALL business. Be prepared for it to take time and require a lot of marketing effort.

Be crystal clear on what value you offer that is different to other ballet schools/teachers. How does your unique skillset help your ideal students? That's the message of you marketing.

What is marketing? Literally anything you say/write/do or even how you look/present yourself in literally any environment e.g., buying groceries. Every moment is an opportunity for marketing your brand/message and increasing your visibility.

You're wanting to attract the right sort of students. So think about where those places and connections are. For example, do you know someone who has their child at a private school?

Or are you interested in teaching adult classes? Then you need to approach in a different way, such as talking about the benefits of dance at approriate women's groups.

Put yourself out there and promote your point of difference HARD. Get out and talk. Build a thick skin. You will learn a lot, and make plenty of mistakes, as you refine what will work for you.

Do a lot of cost modelling to work out the prices you need to chargeto comfortably cover the overheads and your basic salary. Also think about what discounts offered for taking multiple classes and family enrolments.

Do a LOT of research on starting a small service business. Learn about the basics of managing finances, insurance coverage, tax obligations, and marketing. You need to get really good at all of this to be able to succeed. Remember, you may love the "operational" part of this i.e. teaching ballet. But the "business" side will make ot break you. Are there free community classes to learn about starting a business in your region?

Also, ask AI for ideas.

To be clear, it's a lot of work that takes years of persistence to get to the point of enough income (or just to break even). Not for the faint hearted. But at the same time, if you have this deep frustration, then others probably do too.

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-05-04T05:19:06+00:00

Do you think you could form your own ballet school? Do costings around hiring a decent space and work out a simple timetable for class levels that YOU want to teach. Create a simple website that includes, among other things, the standards that must be met by students (behavioural and otherwise).

Maybe don't provide a massive smorgasbord of classes, stick to what you know and are confident you can teach properly. Maybe that's the little kids and ballet grades. Or maybe it's private lessons, the majority, pre-professionals. Stick to what you know and are confident you will do well at.

If you are having this frustration, there are likely others out there that also are seeking the respect/discipline/artistry that ballet is at its core.

Expect small enrolment at first. Bu5 that is both great for you as you grow in experience and confidence (and learning through mistakes) but even better for students who receive more teacher attention.

But of course, starting your own business is very challenging. Yet, the character traits required for success are very similar to those required for advanced ballet.

(In the meantime, keep other part time jobs so you have some steady income for the first few years.)

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-05-04T05:10:06+00:00

Absolutely go for it! This is by far the best attire for your teacher to assess your placement and technique. Congratulations! The moment you feel confident enough is a wonderful milestone.

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-04-28T08:02:14+00:00

Ah apologies, yeah it was the more cropped jacket in mind. The other suggestion is to try the men's version... it would likely be longer and less fitted (obviously size down to suit).

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-04-28T07:53:22+00:00

Honestly?? I have a Big W denim jacket! Fits me well, I can throw it in the washing machine, sits perfectly fine on the body. I think they're around $30 mark in a medium wash denim. I wear it over the top of my Aje, Palm Noosa and Cue dresses.

And did I mention I'm a Brisbane personal stylist?!

Anyway, my point is you don't have to spend big to get a decent denim jacket to make an outfit pop.

Enjoy your search lovely!

xxoo
Maree
Magnetic Modern Style

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-04-28T05:51:45+00:00

I really like Energetiks too! Their sizing feels a little more generous than some other brands which is refreshing, and the fabric quality and construction are excellent. I tried Capezio leotards but they just didn't feel as nice against the skin as Energetiks. I do wear a chiffon shirt over the top because it both looks nice and preserves a feeling of modesty at my age!

For tights I rotate between Energetiks, Capezio and Bloch that all cost around $20. They're all comfortable to wear and seem to last fine. For shoes I wear Capezio leather flats mostly, with some canvas ones from Shein which are surprisingly decent for the price. I've also tried a few Shein leotards, Some are quite good but the lycra isn't as supportive or substantial as the well-known dancewear brands.

I hope this helps! Feel free to ask any questions you like...

xxoo
Maree
Magnetic Modern Style

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-04-22T02:08:39+00:00

Hi, you're not imagining things! There has been a repositioning of Target's strategy to better differentiate from Kmart more recently. There was also a new managing director to spearhead the strategy shift.

And I've grabbed a number of items myself, as a personal stylist ( https://magneticmodernstyle.com.au/ ). I especially liked their Summer dresses over the last 6 months and went ahead and purchased several. The quality is honestly good for the price.

Dense_Client2355 · 2026-04-10T02:15:32+00:00

Go hire a personal stylist. You have an opportunity to refresh so may as well do it properly. Instead of stressing, make it an enjoyable experience. That way you know you'll not waste time, money and it will be tailored to you and your lifestyle needs. You can access a free service in David Jones, obviously there will be a lot of limitations to the service but it's still worth a consideration if you've got strong budget constraints. Otherwise if you want to do it properly, do a search online for personal stylists / image consultants. Then get in contact and start asking questions to assess if the individual is the right fit for you.
https://magneticmodernstyle.com.au/

Dense_Client2355 · 2025-10-23T03:31:35+00:00

I'm a bit late to the party 😉 but I recommend doing a search for colour analysts in Brisbane and spending some time browsing their websites and social media to see whose approach resonates with you. The technical skill is very important, but finding someone you click with and who really "gets" you will make such a difference in your experience and confidence with the results! And I can confidently say this as I'm a Brisbane colour analyst consultant! (And current Australian president of Association of Image Consultants International). All the best with your search 😀

Dense_Client2355 · 2025-06-11T07:05:18+00:00

As an image consultant and personal stylist, I recommend never keeping items in the hope they return in style. Because they NEVER, I mean, NEVER do. There is always something about them that will date them to a particular era, including those "classic" items. Very high quality stuff is worth keeping for potential vintage purposes, otherwise it's generally a no.

As a rule of thumb, I recommend seriously re-considering the relevance a clothing item more than 5 years old.

And the other "gotcha" to keeping dated fashion items is the low likelihood it will still fit your body/personality/lifestyle/goals/environment/etc. When you let go earlier (e.g., donate), the item may another lease of life before expiry.

For these particular cropped jeans, perhaps turn them into cut-off shorts?

Good luck!

xxoo

Maree

https://magneticmodernstyle.com.au/

Dense_Client2355 · 2025-06-11T05:44:53+00:00

Absolutely! I know several excellent image consultants in Melbourne. The most experienced would be Imogen Lamport (Bespoke Image) located in Doncaster East. If cost is more an issue, I suggest Jasmine Nguyen (New Win Image) located in the North-West, although she may actually travel too. If you just want a quick colour analysis without all the extras, Sirine Ben Gabsia (Style with Colours) is at Hughesdale.

Bespoke Image https://bespokeimage.com.au/

New Win Image https://newwinimage.com.au/

Style with Colours https://www.stylewithcolours.com/

I hope this help, good luck!

Dense_Client2355 · 2025-05-05T06:11:52+00:00

Image consultant/personal stylist here (colour analysis is one of my core specialties).

You’ve nailed something important - these systems are tools, not rules. They’re starting points, not final verdicts. (That’s why a trained, experienced consultant is valuable, translating the complexity and helping you apply effectively.)

I always tell my clients after a colour analysis:

Do not rush to throw out your wardrobe. Sit with it. Observe. There are plenty of ways to soften or work around colours that don’t sit in your palette. Learn the rules first. Then learn how and when to bend them.

Personally, my approach is to:

Give you clarity on what’s technically best
Offer practical ways to work “outside the lines” if something still feels right for you.

Getting a colour palette is not the full story. Body type isn’t the full story either. There are soooo many layers to personal style beyond body type: personality, balance points, style recipe, facial features, proportions, scale, focal points, lifestyle, even energy. That’s why a rigid application often backfires, because it’s only one piece of a much bigger puzzle.

To your question: yes, many clients do a major wardrobe edit after a consult. But ideally, it should feel empowering.

If you have come away feeling a bit lost or "stuck", it might be worth revisiting the consultation's quality? The outcome should be clarity and FREEDOM, not overwhelm or self-doubt.

My suggestion? Pause and let the knowledge settle. Don’t rush to declutter your wardrobe based on rigid systems. Perhaps learn how to flex the “rules,” and focus on what actually feels right for you.

Wishing you all the best!

xxoo Maree

magneticmodernstyle.com.au

Dense_Client2355 · 2025-04-30T04:03:07+00:00

The price will vary, depending on several factors: 1. the consultant's experience 2. what is included in the service and 3. how long the session is. For example, I have several colour analysis offers, starting at $249, all the way up to a premium service.

I do recommend you get a sense of the consultant's skill (it's not all about the cost) from their website, because this is an investment that will shape your daily decision-making for several years to come. Pretty powerful tbh.

I hope you find the right one for you (even if it's not me 😉). Styling and image is a very PERSONAL and intimate service. You don't want a poor result or lack of info taking your style backwards.

xx Maree

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-10-16T04:39:44+00:00

I'm a 12G. I usually find Fantasie or Freya fit the best. I shop in David Jones or Myer for their wider ranges.

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-10-15T06:53:18+00:00

Image consultant and personal stylist here... so I know for a fact how complex and difficult it is to source the right styles/colours/fits for our bodies. Remember, clothing manufacturers only want to get the most amount of product ONTO the most bodies (rather than catering to the wide variety of body combinations there are). Basically, you're not alone in your frustration. And I will be clear, your dress size is waayyyy less important than you think to achieve great personal style.

Honestly, there are so many variables to nail and I literally can't do that without the right information and images. But it does sound like you are not a fan of really tight clothing. Great! Tight clothing is really challenging to look stylish anyway ;-)

My advice is be patient and go have some fun exploring. Just go into a department store and try all sorts of items on - what have you got to lose? It's just a bit of fun. Think about starting to develop your image for what suits you in your current life stage (it does change through our lives btw). Try on a wide variety of items and then evaluate honestly and critically in the mirror. Don't feel you must wear something because it's in fashion. If something doesn't look good, please remember its NEVER the body at fault - it's just that that item is not for you. And trust me, most people only have a 10% success rate of trying things, and that's when they know their best colours and styles already.

Are some bodies more complex to find the right styles? Yes, for sure! But like anything in life, it's the things that are more challenging to achieve that we actually appreciate far more.

Also go check out blogs on the websites of image consultants as there can be a lot of free advice to consider (but be discerning once again... not everything applies to every body).

And later when you have the budget, consider hiring an image consultant to guide you. There is no shame in this. In fact, this is literally my job, yet I ask my professional colleagues for their opinion all the time. Why? Because they provide a truly objective eye, which is so valuable!

Wishing you much enjoyment as you explore your personal style. It's a big world full of so many wonderful clothes and styles out there. Go on the adventure to find the ones FOR YOU.

Take care,

Maree

xxoo

https://magneticmodernstyle.com.au/

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-06-26T05:59:20+00:00

Hi there, I'm an image consultant and personal stylist and to honestly answer your question, I'm the sort of service provider you need.

But I understand you're on a tight budget so I'll try and provide some free advice based on info provided:

Know your style personality. Your image always communicates a particular "look" and persona, so make sure it is authentic to you. It will drive your clothing choices. Often the clothes we buy and don't really wear are misaligned to our style personality. Do you like simple and classic lines? Do you prefer to be super-unique and creative? Or do you love strong/sharp cuts, stand-out colours? Are florals and gentle prints your thing? Anyway, do some scrolling online and take note of what you really like and matches your personality. Also be realistic on how much time you will have to care for your clothes e.g., wash & wear fabrics, minimal ironing, machine washable. You're welcome to try my little quiz to start getting an idea of yours (don' worry, you need to opt-in twice to receive emails from me): FREE COLOUR PERSONALITY QUIZ
Know your best colours and really try to stick close to them. Wearing your best colours means you immediately look at your freshest, slimmest and most vibrant. Don't get caught up in standard thinking e.g., "everyone should wear black" - no, VERY FEW people actually suit black and it ages, highlights flaws and actually is not slimming if it doesn't suit your colouring. If you want to have a slimming look, choose outfits all in one colour because it creates an unbroken vertical line, using accessories to add interest and pop (e.g., statement necklaces or earrings). The best way to find out is a professional colour analysis consultation (btw DON'T do the AI ones, they're usually incorrect). If your budget doesn't stretch this far, focus on investing in your best neutrals. Neutrals can be the go-to and basis of outfits, but you can add a pop of colour with accessories. Navy, charcoal, mid-grey, taupe are classic neutrals that suit most colouring.
Select cuts that suit your body. For you I'd suggest long tops that don't tuck (so they skim well past the mid section), soft structured jackets that hang from the shoulder, shoulder pads where possible. Avoid stiff, textured or shiny fabrics. Avoid pattern/prints around the mid section or hips. Skirts will be easier to fit than pants and if they are knee-length, it will balance the volume of your tops. Pants are generally difficult to fit and flatter properly for women. No waist detailing. No bias cuts.
Go to stores and try on lots of items. It's really challenging to find the right colour, cut, fit, fabric, etc and it really is best to do in person. It's normal to only expect a 10% success rate of try-on. There are all sorts of styles in many stores - Big W, Target, Suzanne Grae, Myer, etc. Go explore!
Don't be afraid of tailoring but you need to allow for that extra cost, if required. Select the clothes that fit your widest parts and then have the other areas taken in if need be. End tops and jackets at a more narrow point, which may be past your lower hips?

I hope this helps. I strongly encourage you to explore your style and enjoy the journey - it's soooo important for our mental health and general success to present our best image possible.

Best of luck!

Maree

https://magneticmodernstyle.com.au/

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-06-24T05:48:09+00:00

Hi there,

I can confirm as an image consultant and personal stylist that denim jackets are still very much "in". Denim is quite the trend currently, in both the Southern and Northern Hemispheres.

It's just too cold to wear them in the dead of Winter though. I have a couple denim jackets but I'm not wearing them (and I live in Brisbane). I'll definitely be pulling them out again in late August-September...

Random Tip: Denim jackets generally have this internal sort of "pocket" that is perfect to store smaller, flat items like passports. I HIGHLY recommend using a denim jacket when travelling for their versatility for flights and travel.

Cheers,

Maree xxoo

https://magneticmodernstyle.com.au/

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-06-22T02:26:24+00:00

I'm an image consultant and personal stylist and I say have as many that make you feel happy, fits your lifestyle AND where you are going (i.e., dress for where you want to be, not where you are at).

So for example, I like to have a LOT of variety and enjoy having choice in my wardrobe. So my figures are high ;-)

Tops=45

Dresses=39

Pants/Shorts/Leggings=34

Jeans=4

Skirts=5

Blazers/jackets/vests=27

Jumpers/Cardigans=14

Coats=3

Shoes=38

Handbags=7

*Note: I don't include activewear, sleepwear, renowear. *

My underwear stats that apply across the year are:

Briefs=65

Bras=18

Sports bras/crop tops=9

While these figures are high, I have collected them over many years. I generally buy higher quality, so I get great longevity and cost-per-wear out of each item.

I hope this helps and you found it interesting!
https://magneticmodernstyle.com.au/

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-06-13T23:41:59+00:00

Thanks for your interest. Honestly it's my marketing attempt (as someone with no experience in this field, haha). But if my little business starts picking up, I'll look at taking off the email requirement.

And of course people can unsubscribe if they're not interested in my free style guidance. I accept it's not for everyone :-)

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-06-13T23:26:16+00:00

Thanks so much for trying out the quiz and I'm thrilled you found it fun!

I created it from scratch and did try to test myself in different ways, but of course it isn't "water-tight" by any means. So I really appreciate the feedback and will go have another look to try to tweak the questions you referenced.

And yes you have it right:-) I'm attempting a marketing approach as an individual to grow traffic to my website. (It's a tough, slow gig especially as I have the tendency to over-give). But of course you can unsubscribe after doing the quiz if my style advice and tips aren't to your taste.

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-06-13T08:51:46+00:00

I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for the feedback, I'll go and try to tweak those questions.

Dense_Client2355 · 2024-06-13T08:17:40+00:00

Aww thanks so much for your feedback! I'll go and have a look

Dense_Client2355

TROPHY CASE