9 Expert Fashion Tips That Will Change Your Life
Hey, we know it’s not easy being the all-knowing fashionista everyone turns to for style advice. After all, it’s not enough to just be up to date on the latest fads, trends and faux pas of the season. You also have to know the little tricks of the trade that make life easier for a style-savvy girl boss like yourself. Take a few minutes to brush up on your life-changing fashion tips here before your friends start asking about what they should be wearing to that next epic ladies’ night. Or don’t. But then, you’ll have to admit that you really don’t know everything after all (as if).
- White Tees Are Wonderful
If there’s any piece of casual clothing that can go the mile, it’s a white tee. Not every color tee can get you from an easy day look to an edgy night outfit quite like this classic beauty. Simply add a hip leather or a chunky necklace and heels and you’ll go from girl-next-door to girl-to-know in seconds flat. Want to keep your favorite white tee around for a while? Wash whites separately in the hottest water it can stand–per manufacturer’s instructions, of course.
- Pre-Treat Stains to Make Clothing Last Longer
Be honest. How many shirts have you lost over the years to mystery stains or unsightly under-arm yellowing? Getting in the habit of pre-treating your clothing before you wash them can help get those nasty stains out before they set forever. But not all stains are created equal, so take the time to read up on the proper solution to ensure you don’t cause further damage.
- Love to Layer
Layering is one of the best tricks we have in the fashion business. Not only does it help keep you warm (functional!), but it can also do wonders for elevating almost any look. Layering with a jacket is a fast and easy way to add a pop of color to an otherwise basic look. Or try styling a fitted blazer over that casual maxi dress you’ve grown bored with for a new take on an old piece.
- Own a Stylish Handbag
When it comes to adding finishing touches to a great outfit, one wardrobe completer seems to get forgotten time and time again: the handbag. Why? After all, you’ve spent so much time and energy in the morning picking out the perfect thing to wear, how to accessorize it, how your hair and makeup should be, only to completely phone it in on the way out the door and grab the closest this-sometimes-grocery-tote-bag as a purse? Um, no. Impressions are made all day long and if you want to make a lasting one, then you need a stylish handbag at your side. After all, you never know who you’ll be riding the elevator with in the morning. And–just like your clothing–you need to know how to properly care for your precious overworked accessory. Pro tip: Liquid dish detergent can do wonders for removing makeup stains from your favorite handbag. But when in doubt, leave it to the professionals and take it to a dry cleaners.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Add a Little Bling
A little shimmer goes a long way when it comes to wearing real jewelry. A pair of stylish diamond studs or a classy pendant necklace is sometimes all the jewelry you need for a night out. Opting for simple but elegant jewelry can be a great way to accentuate your features and make you shine. After all, accessories are meant to add to your overall look, not steal the show.
- Learn How to Properly Care for Your Clothes
Believe it or not, this goes beyond the care instructions tag you only glance at on laundry day. It also means taking the time to get your clothes tailored to fit your body before you wear them–not after you’ve destroyed the hem of your slightly-too-long jeans by letting them drag on the ground all day. When getting your pants tailored, remember to bring the shoes you intend to wear them with, as it will affect the height of the hem. Paying attention to how you store your clothes is another important care step. For example, you should always discard the plastic dry cleaning lining and store your favorite handbags and purses standing flat on a shelf, as opposed to hanging on a hook, in order to help them keep their shape.
- Invest in Wardrobe Staples
There are trendy wardrobe pieces you’ll wear (and love) for a season or two and then there are the classics that will stand the test of time. Owning a few of these wardrobe essentials, like a sexy and stylish LBD, will no doubt save you over and over during those occasional “what to wear” moments. Other must-have wardrobe pieces no woman should live without? A stylish long trench, a cute denim jacket, a classic white button-down and a sophisticated black turtleneck–just to name a few.
- Know Your Measurements
We know it’s a little Mrs. Maisel, but by taking your measurements (or having someone else take them), you’re more likely to buy clothes that truly fit you well. Plus, knowing your measurements will make online shopping easier, thanks to those trusty little sizing guides included on most sites. And, while you’re at it, stop guessing at your bra size and get fitted for one instead. Nothing ruins a lovely silhouette faster than an ill-fitting bra.
- Wear What You Love
If you don’t feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, then it’s going to show. Ease in to new styles, trends or colors you’re not quite sure about yet by incorporating one small item into your outfit to see if you like it. Not sure about wearing animal print? Start with some leopard print booties instead of a printed blouse. Want to wear more color? Add a bold color jacket or sweater to an otherwise subdued outfit. Wanting to try something new is always a good thing, but trying to be someone you’re not just isn’t. Embrace your own personal style and tastes and wear what you love at all costs. Because, in the end, the most powerful thing you can own is confidence. And when you wear that, then everyone notices.
