10. Edit your closet. You should be able to see all items in your closet and not be overwhelmed by them. Part with items you have not worn in the last two seasons.
9. Remember: Proportions are important. Pair a skinny jean or legging with a bulky sweater or swingy blouse. Try a wide or straight-legged pant with a sleeker top. One look we love: a cropped straight black pant with a bulky sweater!
8. Show skin strategically. Choose only one body part to show off. If it’s cleavage, emphasize that but don’t show too much leg and visa versa.
7. Invest in a few high quality pieces. We would like to see our clients buy less but a little higher quality. A good shoe, bag or blazer can really make a gap t-shirt look fabulous!
6. Add a pop of color. If your wardrobe consists primarily of neutrals, add energy with a boldly colored shoe, bag or scarf. To make a statement, wear a jewel-toned blouse or tank as your first layer and let it peek out at the neck, sleeve, or bottom.
5. Hem height is crucial. To elongate your legs, keep wide-bottom pants just grazing the floor; that means you must commit to heel height. (Suggestion: if you find a pair of jeans that you absolutely love, buy two pairs: one to wear with flats and one to wear with heels). Always bring the shoe you will wear with you when hemming pants. Cropped pants are hot this season and they should fit right above the ankle to show off the skinniest part of the leg.
4. Embrace your shape. Know what styles work for you and stick with them. That means you must filter trends very carefully. Skinny jeans are not for everyone. Please don’t fight your body.
3. Layer, layer, layer. Start with a silk blouse or camisole, add a thin sweater, throw on a blazer and don’t forget the scarf. A stack of bracelets or layering necklaces makes a statement a la Coco Chanel.
2. Don’t fall into the sale trap. A bargain is only a bargain if you absolutely love it. Inexpensive mistakes can add up not to mention take up space in your closet.
1. Play with texture. Texture makes it’s mark in the form of chunky knits, leather and fur, velvet, lace, and embroidery. Have fun with it, but don’t overdo it.
StyleCycle, a personalized styling service founded by Susan Goodman and Lisa Ballou, is dedicated to helping working women create an effortless wardrobe by editing and restyling what’s already in their closet. Personal shopping services are also available. For more styling tips or help putting these looks together, visit www.stylecycle.com.
