Now summer's here, another batch of students grab their degrees and dash for the world of work.
However, saying goodbye to jeans and trainers is not always as easy.
Chronicle reader Alison Waldram, 21, of Gosforth, has graduated from Newcastle University with a Masters in Chemistry and is now looking for a full-time job, or a place on a PhD course to achieve a doctorate. She has to attend interviews and casual student dress is not an option.
Firstly, I took Alison to Roots, a salon based on Saville Row. After a consultation with senior stylist Andrew, Alison decided on a cut and blow. Alison's hair was washed with Schwarzkopf products before it was blow dried by stylist Stephanie and treated with products from the new nu:u range of products. Andrew then used wide-plated GHD straighteners to tame Alison's volume and create a sleek and shiny look. He shaped, trimmed and thinned to create a flattering shape and bouncy style. A cut and blow like Alison's costs £30.95. For appointments call (0191) 230 2135.
I then took Alison to see beautician Laura at the YSL counter in Fenwick for make-up. Firstly, Laura prepared Alison's skin with cleansing and toning water (£16) and ideal defence cream (£31). She then applied radiance smoothing foundation (£27.50) with bronzing powder (£24.50) for a natural glow. For her eyes, Laura applied eye shadow in No 11 (£16) a beautiful emerald green No 33 (£22) a natural bronze colour and `false lash' mascara in black (£18). Laura applied Rouge Touche Brilliance No 4 (£16.50) for a sparkly, glossy finish to her lips.
I then took Alison to Dorothy Perkins in Eldon Square for a selection of outfits. Firstly (pictured right), we wanted a smart, professional outfit so we went for the classic tailored black pin-stripe suit for an ultimate executive look. I paired this with a crisp cotton white fitted shirt and black leather wedges and a chunky silver-look necklace for a feminine twist.
For Alison's second outfit (pictured left) we were looking for an alternative smart outfit that would be appropriate for a second interview. We went for a beige linen look pair of cropped trousers and paired them with a teal V-neck jersey and white shirt combination top. To dress up the outfit we chose brown leather heeled sandals and a brown leather belt. To finish we found a pretty necklace and bracelet.
For a third outfit (pictured centre) I wanted something Alison could wear for job fairs and open days. We decided on a red, black and white printed design skirt in a wrap style paired with a plain black vest top. We also found a funky pair of red jewelled toe-post sandals and red beaded necklace and bracelet to finish. Three great outfits, perfect for every level of Alison's career search.
Special thanks to: Andrew, Stephanie and team, Roots Newcastle, Laura at YSL, Fenwick and Joe, Lucy, Amy and the team at Dorothy Perkins, Newcastle.
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