As the end of the year quickly approaches, I would like to takea moment to look back on all we have learned thus far. Therefore, Ihave compiled a "Top 10" list of important guidelines for thestylish dresser. So, whether you are already fashion savvy or justgetting your feet wet, here are some essential components of theput-together wardrobe:
10. With unpredictable weather, layering is the way togo. The key to layering is showing a little bit of every layer.Each one should reveal the other to create a visually appealing"multi-tiered" effect. With a multitude of layered options, youwill never run the risk of being too hot or too cold. When theweather goes to extremes, avoid clothing that is too cool or toowarm. Instead, opt for several garments that can be removed orreplaced according to climate changes.
9. How much you spend is not necessarily related to howwonderful you look. If you've got a hankering for luxury goods,it's OK to indulge once and a while. Just remember to keep thingsin perspective. Don't let your quest for the perfect outfit turninto a grueling attack on your pocket book. It is possible to besuave, stylish, and not sacrifice your life-savings. Even famousdesigners can get it wrong, so don't be swayed by prestigiouslabels promising unwavering good taste.
8. You don't have to be trendy to be stylish. Don't getsucked into looks that won't stand the test of time or show offmore than anyone wants to see. When you are shopping for newclothes, never let yourself be pressured into a look that you arenot comfortable with just because it is the "latest thing."Compromising your standards just because there doesn't seem to beanything better is never a good idea.
7. Being a tad overdressed is far better than beingunderdressed. This doesn't mean one should wear an Oscar-worthyevening gown or a tuxedo to a cocktail party, but beautifulclothing certainly adds to a lovely event. Looking nice also sendsthe message to your host or hostess that you care about beingthere. Remember that dressing up doesn't have to be a chore. Theright combination of luxurious materials and flattering cuts willallow you to look stunning while maintaining casual comfort.
6. The only style you can really depend on is your own.Don't be afraid to break the rules once and a while. Incorporate alittle theatricality into your everyday wardrobe with uniquearticles that break the fashion mold. Try spicing up your look withan unusual accessory, or screen print your own t-shirt with a saucymessage. Vintage clothing is another way to go beyond the usualchain-store monotony.
5. Keep it Simple. How many times have good outfits beenruined by unnecessary pockets, pleats, cuffs, zippers, and thelike? Generally speaking, the fewer distracting doodads you havedangling from your clothing, the better. If worn with recklessabandon, superfluous embellishments destroy acool-calm-and-collected look. This does not mean that one shouldrestrict themselves to plain fabrics and clothing lacking anyvisual interest; luxurious materials and fine detailing are quitedesirable.
4. Pay Attention to Fit. Making even jeans and a t-shirtlook like a million bucks depends on the fit. Remember that onedoesn't look like a bad-ass wearing pants that are too big, and onedoesn't look like hot stuff wearing pants that are too small.Measure yourself around the waist and buy pants accordingly. Don'tbe afraid of your body type. Clothing that appears to becompensating for something (by being either too tight or too loose)tends to just magnify flaws. Wearing proper fitting clothing is thebest way to hide flaws and showcase assets.
3. Color is Key. Bright colors can liven up a dreary dayand darker hues can add to a sultry evening look. With all thecolor choices out there, matching can become quite a complicatedtask. Matching too well is almost as bad as not matching at all. Ifyou are unsure of your hue-blending abilities, try pairing alight-toned neutral with a dominant color. The contrasting valueshave a graphic effect that is very clean and modern. Also, solidcolors are much safer than patterns. Mixing patterns is like mixingvolatile chemicals: it is best left up to those with experience,and the results can be disastrous if done incorrectly!
2. Confidence is your sexiest accessory. Don't shy awayfrom wearing a style that you've never worn before. Instead,experiment with wearing traditional clothing in non-traditionalways and have fun! If you are body conscious, remember that "sexy"doesn't necessarily translate into tight, revealing clothing. It'sall about what you leave to the imagination. In fact, someonedoesn't have to be really "hot" to look sexy in a great outfit. Howclothing is worn is incredibly important. Overtly sexual outfitsare far more raunchy than sexy. Maintaining a little mystery isquite alluring, so embrace discreet sexiness and a more elegant,refined aesthetic.
1. Use fashion as a tool for self-expression. What aperson is wearing is a visual guide map to his or her personality;the clothing you choose to wear speaks volumes -- intentionally orotherwise. Make sure that the messages you are sending are themessages you want to send. There needn't be any limits on yourpersonal wardrobe, so let your fashion choices be an important partof who you are. Whether you are making a bold statement or justhaving fun, there is no denying the empowering effects of a greatoutfit!
