10. Pop it with color
Many of us have a closet full of the basics in neutral colors, whether they are navy, black, tan, or gray. Add some flair to those classic items with a bit of color. Women can add a handbag, versatile scarf, or shoes that are trendy and colorful. Men can wear a colorful tie, a unique belt or a great pair of shoes. Some colors to consider deep red, royal blue, or hunter green.
9. Tailor it
Clothes that fit you well make you look well dressed. Hem pants to the correct length, which generally should be ½ to ¾ of an inch from the floor. Ladies, keep in mind the pants you wear with heels will be too long for flats and the reverse is true, too. Shorter hems that are perfect for flats are awkward for heels. If you can’t afford to tailor, pick up a needle and thread and give it a try yourself. Just wait to trim off excess fabric until you are sure you like the look.
8. Dress or your body type
Find the silhouette that flatters your curves in the best way possible. Certain cuts emphasize body shapes while others can help hide areas you don’t want people to notice. For instance, if you’re petite and curvaceous, go for dresses with a defined waist and hems that hit just above the knee. Maxi dresses are great for taller people who won’t get swallowed by the excess fabric.
7. Start with a strong foundation
Foundation garments exist for a reason – they make people look great in clothes. Gone are the jiggles, pooching and visible panty lines. When you’re out for that special occasion, you definitely want to look your best and a foundation makes it happen! These pieces are now more comfortable than the girdle your granny used to wear. Spandex and Lycra allow fabrics to move while keeping things in place and keeping you comfortable.
6. Add a heel
A great pair of heels can take an ordinary outfit and turn it into something extraordinary. Not fond of stilettos? No problem. A wedge shoe gives you height, comfort, and more stability than a traditional pump. They can also be funky and fun, adding another fashion point. If you prefer flats, go for ones that are a mix of comfort and style, perhaps a pattern or some glitzy rhinestones.
5. Add jewelry
Jewelry is the easiest – and often least expensive – way to add style to an outfit. Keep it to one element though, so it doesn’t look overdone. For instance, go for classic cufflinks with a stylish, French-cuffed business shirt. This is a look that works for men and women, just select cufflinks that are the correct style and weight for your look. Alternatively, you could add either a chunky bracelet (men) or multiple bangles (women) for a fun effect. Low on cash? Hit the vintage and resale shops for the best deals on one-of-a-kind items.
4. Wear sunglasses
From basic to prescription, sunglasses pull double duty. On one hand, they protect your eyes from harsh sunlight. On the other hand, they are fashion statement pieces. Go for a Jackie-O look with large, round dark lenses in tortoiseshell frames. Then there’s Marilyn with rhinestone-studded cat’s eye frames. Have a variety on hand and let them reflect your mood for the day.
3. Get buttoned up
A button up shirt may be one of the most versatile pieces in anyone’s wardrobe. It can be worn in so many ways. Go for a fun look by pairing a high-waist skirt and a button-up shirt with the collar popped, sleeves rolled or pushed up, and the tails knotted in front. Going to work? A perfectly starched and ironed shirt is always a classic look. It even works at the beach over your bathing suit and a pair of shorts.
2. Get a trench coat
This jacket will be one of the most used pieces in your outerwear closet. It works over a cocktail dress or belted snugly over a pencil skirt. Go mysterious by adding a scarf and dark sunglasses, a la Katherine Hepburn. Conversely, the jacket also works well with a pair of jeans and basic shirt, as seen so often in Paris. For more variety, Replace the original belt with a patterned one for a completely different look.
1. Follow the magic formula
Yes, there is a magic fashion formula that works for everyone. Start with one basic piece, such as dark jeans, a pencil skirt or khakis. Then add one interesting piece, something that has color, pattern, texture or shine. Finish the look off with a completer piece, a jacket, vest or sweater and put on accessories. In no time at all you go from beginner to pro in the fashion world – simple and stylish.