FASHION
Choir confidence
Sally Stillingfleet has been helping to style some members of a local choir A Handful of Harmonies, along with their inspiring choir master, Andrew Clingo. Photos: Elli Dean
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hen it comes to group activities, I have always been against generic uniforms, While I can appreciate the cohesive ‘gluing together’ properties of clothing such as polo shirts for choirs and school groups, I believe far more in the powers that clothes have to help people express their individuality. Being able to try new styles and having confidence in clothes will give everyone new stage presence - and a rest from the inevitable polo shirt!
Group left to right (Debbie Howard, Debbie Harbour, Hilary Pearce, Andrew Clingo, Suzi Parfrement, Sue Casson)
Coneys, Stamford, dressed choir master Andrew Clingo Since starting A Handful of Harmonies (AHOH) in Langtoft two years ago, Andrew has grown the groups to seven across the region (with a new group recently forming in Oundle). With choirs meeting up for 90 minutes each session, this once small vocal group has ballooned and aims to give women of all ages some ‘me time’. All the ladies adore Andrew - his immense talent and infectious enthusiasm for singing and performing is truly astonishing. One thing they are also unanimous about though is that his “baggy jeans and T shirt image have to go!” Coneys fitted Andrew out with Tommy Hilfiger chinos £85, Thirty Ten jacket £200 and pink shirt (AHOH signature colour) £70. Shoes £109, from Marcia May Shoes. Neil styled Andrew’s hair with a bit more of a quiff.
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Energy, Stamford, dressed Debbie Howard Debbie’s petite frame has not always been so. Debbie has recently lost a staggering amount of weight and was determined to get into some jeans after spending many years in “jogging bottoms and baggy tops!” Debbie, who was a founder member of the Langtoft choir two years ago this month, is a proud grandma (who would believe it?) She was amazed at the selection of jeans at Energy and very pleased with her new ‘Rock Chick’ look with Levis Demi Curve skinnies £85 and a striped sleeveless blouse £60, teamed with a fitted black cotton Esprit Blazer from Attic. Black Gabor sling-backs £85 from Marcia May Shoes. Her clutch is by Coach, £120 from Arch Label Agency. Debbie’s hair is fine, cut into a bob, so Sophie added volume with soft curls around her face, complementing her new youthful outfit.
NENE VALLEY Living AUGUST 2013
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19/7/13 13:16:49