Celebrity Q&A |Nicky Hambleton-Jones and her views on Fashion, Shopping and style

Five-years as presenter of 10 Years Younger, the UK's leading makeover show, and the success of her own personal styling business have made Nicky Hambleton-Jones a household name, providing inspiration and motivation for millions of men and women UK-wide. Born and bred in South Africa, Nicky's has lived in the UK for 14 years where she runs her own personal style consultancy NHJ Style and a Style Academy which she launched in 2008.

Renown for her unbiased anti-ageing advice, Nicky has recently launched an anti-ageing portal (www.lookandfeelyounger.tv), which aims to simplify ageing and help men and women identify the best products, treatments and cosmetic professionals around today.

She is currently supporting Cancer Research UK's skin cancer awareness campaign, SunSmart.

1. How would define your own fashion style?

Classic Tailored Chic. I'm not a fussy dresser and although I love fashion, I tend to invest in simple pieces that can be dressed up with bold accessories. I'm passionate about colour, and try to incorporate something colourful into my look every day.

2. What was the first designer item you brought and how much did it cost?

Probably my Alexander McQueen red Novak bag which cost around £500. I felt very guilty spending that much money on a handbag, but have used it so much since its been worth every penny.

3. What one item of clothing could you not live without?

Probably a waisted belt. I'm addicted to belts, wear them with everything. Having styled many women over the years I find and a fabulous waisted belt can transform a relatively plain outfit into a stylish contemporary look.

4. What are your favourite current high street stores?

My favourites change each season depending on the collections in store. This season I'm favouring FCUK, Zara and Ted Baker. I do feel very privileged living in London and having access to the UK high street which is by far the best shopping scene in the world if you're after high fashion at affordable prices. There's nowhere else quite like it.

5. Who are your current favourite designers?

I love Marlene Berger, her clothes and accessories are gorgeous; beautifully made and affordable too. I'm also a huge Vivienne Westwood fan, the draping on her dresses is very flattering for post baby tums and I love the variety and point of difference from Paul & Joe.

6. Who are you past and present celebrity style icons?

I've always loved Dita Von Teese. She has a timeless elegance about her, love her 50s retro look and her complexion is flawless. I also think Diane Kruger always looks sensational on the red carpet. She has the perfect balance of glam without too much chav bling.

7. What budget busting advice would you give to shoppers with limited funds?

Always invest in good quality basics that will last you season to season and spend your money on bold accessories to style you up. A statement necklace or belt will give the cheapest top or jacket a designer edge.

8. What's the best fashion bargain you ever brought?

Probably a BCBG top I recently bought on sale for £50, originally priced at £300. r
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9. Shoes or handbags?

Difficult one as I love both, I have more shoes than handbags but I probably spend more money collectively on handbags. I tend to wear high street shoes particularly Kurt Geiger, but I'm never without a designer handbag on my arm.

10. Finally, do you have a fashion statement you live by?

Yes mine is definitely 'Less is more'. It's great to accessorise but don't overdo the bling! Never have more than 2 focal points to your outfit, whether it's the colour or accessories, you should have 1 statement and something else to compliment it but never try to make more than 1 statement in the same outfit. r
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