Buying Guide

HOW TO BUY

What suits your body shape?

Establishing what suits your body shape can be tricky. However, everyone's different - so it's important to make sure you choose clothes that suit your particular body shape rather than just bowing down to the latest fashion trends.

Different body shapes and what suits them

First, figure out which body shape your body best fits. For instance, big hips might be the defining feature of your body, or you might possess a pear-shaped physique where your hips are wider than your shoulders.

Alternatively, your body shape might be a typical hour-glass figure or you could have a straight body with no defined waist. In order to define what body shape you possess, be honest with yourself and take a look at exactly which features of your body stand out the most.

Moreover, try on different styles of clothing in order to ascertain what suits you best. The more you experiment with different types of clothing, the easier you'll find it to recognise what suits your body shape best.

Find out what suits your body shape with Aftershock whatever your body shape, it's easy to find out what suits you with Aftershock's useful style guide. Here, you'll be able to figure out exactly what suits your body shape so you'll be able to buy clothes that make you look and feel fabulous.

Types of body shapes

Everyone's body is made differently so instead of trying to look like someone else start to feel confident with yourself and find a style that will complement your shape. To help you we have put together a useful guide to buying clothes for your body shape so you can figure out what suits you.

Athletic - An athletic build is an ideal shape and you can just about wear anything. Be careful though, this does not mean that you go overboard and try and mix too many trends all at once.

Hourglass - This is where the bust and hips are in proportion, and there is a defined waistline. However, if your waist is small and your hips curvy then it is important not to draw too much attention to the waist area as it will make your hips look even larger. Cropped jackets look great or slightly looser tops that don't cling tightly to the waist.

Big hips - If you have big hips then flatter the figure with wide leg trousers in dark colours this will make you look taller and will take the attention away from the hips. Tailored pieces with a great cut are ideal for minimising the appearance of big hips.

Top heavy - Minimise you assets by wearing scooped or V-necks. Avoid high necklines and polo necks this will simply accentuate your 'top half'.

Pear-shaped - A Pear shaped body is where your hips are wider than your shoulders. In order to achieve a proportionate balance you should invest in a pair of straight legged trousers or A-line skirts teamed with loose fitting tops. Dresses with an empire line are great for the pear shaped body. Accentuate your bust area with low necklines or accessorise with a scarf and beads as this will draw the attention away from the hip area.

Apple-shaped - Apple-shaped bodies are larger on top and smaller below. People with this shape often have a short neck and it is important to make the neck look longer by wearing tops with a v-neckline. Avoid anything figure hugging as this will only draw attention to your waist. Wide legged trousers or flared skirts look great on Apple Shaped bodies.

Straight body - This body shape has no defined waist so avoid high waisted clothes and belts. Instead, clothes with a dropped waist are ideal or a wrap dress. Accentuate other areas of your body such as the bust and legs as this will draw the attention away from the waistline.

Arms and legs - Arm and legs can be troublesome areas when buying clothes. Take a long hard look at your upper arms. If your upper arms are flabby then wear three-quarter or half-length sleeve shirts and tops this will stop you feeling self-conscious. Long lean legs will suit any style of skirt but if you are unsure what skirt will suit just remember that a skirt should end just above the slimmest part of your leg.

Must-have's for your body shape

Flatter your figure with our guide to the ultimate must-have's for your body shape.

Curves - Curves need to be shown off so don't hide underneath baggy clothes, you need to flaunt it: Invest in a pair of tailored trousers that will elongate you legs teamed with a fitted jacket which will polish off the look perfectly. Corsets and pencil skirts are a great way to accentuate the waist area.

Tall and slim - Most trends will look great on this type of figure but there are a few fashion faux pas that you have to stay away from. For instance, if you are flat chested then stay away from low cut tops. Skinny jeans are ideal for this shape teamed with a pair of heels for the night or ballet shoes for the day. Most tops will look great on this shape and you can even wear horizontal stripes as this will help to minimise your torso area.

Petite - It is important to find the right fit. Don't be afraid to mix and match from the petite and standard range to get your ideal look. Dark colours are great for the petite frame as this helps to make you look taller. Fitted tops are great to create a slim silhouette teamed with a pair of tailored trousers and kitten heel boots the look is simply great. Above-the-knee skirts and dresses suit the petite frame and are a great way to show off those legs.

Pear shaped - A great shape for showing off your bust area. Try corset style tops, tailored jackets, a halterneck dress and A-line skirts. The wrap dress is also key for this shape as it is a great solution for different sized tops and bottoms.

Useful tips

Look in the mirror and get to know your body. Everyone is different so feel confident with your body shape and the right clothes will enhance your confidence!

Handbag Buying Guide

Whether you want to make a fashion statement, or need a bag that is functional Aftershock offers great styles that will carry you through the day and into the night. To help you get a handle on what style of bag is right for you we have put together a useful guide that explains the different styles and shapes available.

Across body bag - A style of bag that has longer straps for it to be placed over your head and shoulder so it sits across your body. It enables you to carry a bag whilst keeping both hands free.

Grab bags - These are great styles for when you are on the move. They are large enough to contain all your essentials and small enough to carry around all day everyday. Simply grab and go!

Occasion/Evening bags - Small and compact they are ideal for any special occasion. Made in luxurious fabrics such as velvet and silk they can be plain, beaded or exquisitely detailed. Clutch bags are the most common occasion/evening bags. Clutches have no straps or handles and can be carried in your hand or tucked under your arm.

Purses & wallets - Available in different sizes purses and wallets are designed to keep together all your money and coins and can feature special compartments for creditcards.

Shopper bags - Shopper bags are large but stylish. They are a great shopping accessory and have a top-handle with a zip or button closure to keep your shopping safe.

Shoulder bags - These styles are great for everyday use. Available with a single strap or double strap just carry it comfortably over your shoulder.

Tote bags - The popular tote bag has short to medium straps so that you can carry it easily in your hands. The top is open so that you can shove in your gym kit or those important documents right at the last minute.

Useful tips

Give your old bags a new lease of life - accessorise with a bag charm or keychain.

Accessories buying guide

Buying jewellery for yourself or a special loved one is an exciting experience. It can add the perfect finishing touches to any outfit or it can be the perfect way to show a special someone how much you care. To help you, we have put together a buying guide so that you can make a sparkling choice.

Types of jewellery

Bangles / Bracelets - Worn on the wrist, bangles and bracelets are an ideal accessory for any outfit. Available in different styles you can find one to suit your individual look. For the laid-back Bohemian style opt for chunky wooden styles or beaded bracelets. Lots of skinny bangles worn at once give an ethnic twist and can glam up an outfit in an instant. A bangle is usually worn on it's own and varies from thin and elegant to wider, chunkier cuffs.

Chokers - These are more glamorous neckpieces and are worn more often in the evening. They fit snugly around the neck and are the perfect finishing touches to a long, low neck dresses. Chokers can be elaborate with a variety of gems or simple and elegant so you can find one that perfectly complements your individual style.

Earrings - Available in different styles and lengths, earrings can instantly update any outfit and draw attention to your face. From subtle studs to longer, dangling styles, earrings can carry you through the day and night.

Necklaces - Worn around the neck, necklaces are a great gift idea and make any girl feel special. Available in different styles you can choose from chunky and more elaborate styles to single piece chains with a precious stone.

Pearls - Pearls are classic accessories to have! You can pile on the pearls for a trendy, funkier look that can be worn in the day, or in the evening a single strand necklace is classic and elegant and associated with Hollywood glamour of the 50's.

Tiara's - Ideal for the evening or special occasions, tiara's are a glamorous headpiece. Remember, if your dress is elaborate then choose a tiara that is subtle and elegant and vice versa.

Watches - Available in different styles and shapes, watches are now considered more of a fashionable accessory rather than just a timepiece. Look out for watches that are combined as a bangle or bracelet.

Useful tips

When wearing dangling earrings in the evening try putting your hair up. This will accentuate your face and the earrings will stand out giving an instant wow factor to your style.

When choosing the right accessories consider your outfit carefully. If your outfit is elaborate then complement the look with understated, subtle accessories. If your outfit is minimalistic then accessorise with more dramatic pieces.

Re-use your accessories! Bracelets look great as a charm on a handbag. If necklaces are broken then use the gems or stones as a brooch.

Sunglasses buying guide

Stylish sunglasses are the ultimate accessories to be seen in. From over-sized and glamorous to aviator and understated-chic, everyone needs a pair of funky shades. To help you find the ideal pair we have put together a useful guide so that you can find a style to suit.

Different sunglasses for different shaped faces

Round face - If you have a round face then opt for wide, square or rectangular frames as this will help to elongate your face. If you have a large face then you can wear oversized sunglasses.

Heart shaped face - Avoid wide oversized sunglasses, as these styles will make your chin look pointy. However if the styles are not too wide you can get away with it. Aviator sunglasses suit this shape of face.

Oval face - If you have a small shaped face then anything goes. From smaller to wider frames, oversized to more slender your shape of face can carry off just about any style. However, avoid thick frames.

Small face - Avoid oversized, big glasses that could take over your face. You need accentuate your features so opt for rimless styles that look great on smaller shaped faces.

Long face - Add width to this shape of face and opt for a wide rectangular frame. This will make your face look rounder.

Square face - Square shaped faces best suit rounded sunglasses. Avoid sharp angled frames as this accentuates the jaw.

Triangular face - Triangular shaped face will have a wide forehead, but small chin and rimless sunglasses can really work well and look good. You may wish to select frames that are winder at the bottom.

Sunglasses buying guide

Stylish sunglasses are the ultimate accessories to be seen in. From over-sized and glamorous to aviator and understated-chic, everyone needs a pair of funky shades. To help you find the ideal pair we have put together a useful guide so that you can find a style to suit.

Different sunglasses for different shaped faces

Round face - If you have a round face then opt for wide, square or rectangular frames as this will help to elongate your face. If you have a large face then you can wear oversized sunglasses.

Heart shaped face - Avoid wide oversized sunglasses, as these styles will make your chin look pointy. However if the styles are not too wide you can get away with it. Aviator sunglasses suit this shape of face.

Oval face - If you have a small shaped face then anything goes. From smaller to wider frames, oversized to more slender your shape of face can carry off just about any style. However, avoid thick frames.

Small face - Avoid oversized, big glasses that could take over your face. You need accentuate your features so opt for rimless styles that look great on smaller shaped faces.

Long face - Add width to this shape of face and opt for a wide rectangular frame. This will make your face look rounder.

Square face - Square shaped faces best suit rounded sunglasses. Avoid sharp angled frames as this accentuates the jaw.

Triangular face - Triangular shaped face will have a wide forehead, but small chin and rimless sunglasses can really work well and look good. You may wish to select frames that are winder at the bottom.

Useful tips

Find a colour to suit your face is just as important as finding the right size and shape. Rimless sunglasses and aviators suit most face shapes and are a safe bet if you are not too sure which style suits.

A perfect pair of sunglasses is when the frame follows the line of your eyebrow and you should never be able to see your eyebrow above the frame.

The edge of the frame should be slightly wider than the widest part of your face but make sure it is not too wide.

GIFT GUIDE FOR MEN

Having trouble finding a gift for a special lady?

Every woman loves to be pampered, but we understand that buying gifts for her can sometimes be a daunting task. Don't panic! We've put together our definitive guide to the best Aftershock gift ideas for that special woman in your life - whether it's your girlfriend, wife, sister, mother or friend.

Your present will be wrapped in layers of Aftershock branded tissue paper, and finished off with a black ribbon. We can also include a hand-written message and deliver your gift directly to your loved one.

In the unlikely event that she isn't happy with an item you've chosen for her, we're happy to exchange anything that's returned to us in an unused condition within 14 days.

Don't forget: Birthdays, Valentine's Day, Christmas and Anniversaries are perfect occasions to buy gifts, but every day is a good time to make the woman in your life feel special by giving her a surprise gift!

GIFTS FOR YOUR GIRLFRIEND/WIFE

Our latest collection is packed full of gorgeous treats to make your girlfriend/wife feel special. Here's our pick of the best gifts for your wife/girlfriend.

If the woman in your life likes jewellery, then take a look at our best-selling Glass and Swarovski encrusted bracelet. This elegant, elasticated crystal bracelet will add a sparkling touch to any outfit.

Gorgeous handbags are top of many woman's wishlist for special pressies and clutch bags are an excellent choice. Our sophisticated, Foldover sequin clutch bag is the hit of the season - it has a real vintage feel, and it's just the right size for all her essentials for a night out.

Alternatively, try a sparkling sequin clutch bag, which can be used on its own or as a make-up bag to slip inside her shoulder tote.

Does your woman enjoy spending a quiet evening at home relaxing? Our ever-popular aromatherapy cupcake bath melts will help her relax, renew and rejuvenate.

After a day out in heels, our sparkling Moroccan slippers are perfect for nights in, snuggled-up with a glass of wine in front of a good film.

For the well-travelled woman, try our Pure Silk Kaftans. Loose and easy to wear (just take a look at her clothes size before ordering a small, which fits UK 8-10; medium, which fits UK 12; large, which fit UK 14; or extra large, which fits UK 16). This, scrunchy, suitcase-friendly kaftan can be worn as a dress, belted over jeans or as glamorous loungewear.

Sneaking her off for a weekend away? Then don't forget that she'll need something to keep her shoes and underwear tidy. Our crisp cotton drawstring bags, hand-embroidered with a whimsical Cinderella shoe design or 'Petit Linge' on a washing line are a fail-safe gift idea.

GIFTS FOR YOUR DAUGHTER/SISTER/FEMALE FRIEND

Looking for something a little different? There's no need to tackle the high street, when there are so many gorgeous gifts online at Aftershock. We choose some fun gifts for your sister, daughter or friend.

You can't go wrong with our best-selling hand-painted butterfly garland. They can be draped on a mirror, bedstead or party table...

If the she likes fun, colourful jewellery, then take a look at our Boheme tassel bracelet It's a runaway best seller this season, and the elasticated fastening means that there's no need to worry whether checking her wrist size.

Tealights and candles are always a safe gift idea for a friend. Perhaps she'd like our set of three beaded fan candles, featuring a beaded design - these decorative little lights will brighten up her dressing table, bathroom or mantelpiece. Alternatively, take a look at our set of three oriental tealight holders.

We all know that staying in is no excuse for scruffiness, so our floral print PJ set is perfect for the woman that likes to lounge in style!

If she's a girlie girl, then she'll appreciate our boudoir flower mirror, with its a generous cluster of soft pink and yellow flowers along the top. It has a stand and hook at the back, so it can be used on a bedside table or hung on the wall.

GIFTS FOR YOUR MOTHER/MOTHER IN LAW

Struggling to think of what to present to buy for your mother/mother-in-law? We share a few of our favourite treats with a classic twist.

Pearls are always a good choice of jewellery for a mother/mother-in-law. Why not try our steely purple freshwater pearl and heart bracelet, featuring more than 60 freshwater pearls hanging from a sterling silver chain, finished off with a delicate heart charm? This popular gift idea is also available in classic snow white and dusky pink.

For the woman that likes a little luxury, our fabulous blush velvet ruffle scarf will add a sophisticated finishing touch to her outfit.

For the woman who has everything, try our beautifully embellished raw silk rose mirror compact. It will look perfect on her dressing table, cabinet or tucked away in her evening bag.

Another sure bet is a pair of our Moroccan slippers Moroccan slippers. With extra soft padded interiors and double layered sole these will make her feel like she's walking on air at the end of the day. And, with a choice of six colours, ranging from classic white to vibrant fuchsia, there's the perfect colour for everyone.

AFTERSHOCK GIFT VOUCHERS

Still don't know what to buy her? Then treat her to an Aftershock gift voucher and let her choose for herself! She'll receive her gift certificate in a hand-made card, with a message of your choice. If you need any further assistance or advice, please don't hesitate to e-mail info@aftershockplc.com