Fashion: Look good on the outside, feel good on the inside

WHEN it comes to buying that must-have Christmas dress or winter coat this season, make sure your thoughts are also focused on the future.

Buying a quality, versatile item now will not only save you money in the long run, but will guarantee you always look your best, regardless of the occasion.

"Try to buy something you are not going to wear just once," explains Melody Wishart, owner of Meloosha on Alva Street.

"Buy something you can wear for a Christmas party, for a dinner date or for another social event, even a mother-of-the-bride outfit.

"Focus on classic styles that can either be dressed up, or down, depending on the occasion. That's the trick."

That was the message at the Meloosha first anniversary fashion show on Thursday, held in the nearby St George's Church West, on Shandwick Place, in aid of the NSPCC.

Loyal customers who have embraced the clothing boutique since it opened in the West End last year volunteered to become models for the night, taking to the catwalk in some of Meloosha's most popular ranges.

These included offerings from the likes of London label Michaela Louisa, After Six and the Danish fashion brand Masai.

The labels epitomise quality and owing to their classic cuts, can be accessorised to suit every woman, regardless of her shape or age.

"We have a wide customer base," explains Melody, the sister-in-law of renowned Edinburgh chef Martin Wishart, "including a lot of younger shoppers. It's all about how you wear something.

"This season, people should be buying to invest."