SIMPLE FASHION RULES

There are a few general style guidelines that some of the world’s smartest, sharpest, and most stylish women have shared with the world, and they’re so universally wise and helpful that we had to share them with you, our dear and avid reader.

CLOTHING IS A FORM OF COMMUNICATION

There is a theory that no matter what you do in life, you are always communicating something. Your outfit is not simply a thing with a certain aesthetic appeal; it’s a form of self-expression. Your clothing says something to those around you, whether you intend for it to or not, so it’s best to approach dressing with some form of intention.

OUTFITS ARE RESPONSES TO SOCIAL SITUATIONS

Similarly to how your clothing can communicate some of your ideas to those around you, clothes also serve as responses to social situations. There’s a reason you want to dress a certain way for the office, and a certain way when you’re going to a dinner party, and rarely are they the same— because clothing should be used as a method by which you show up to a social event or location and say, “I’m present, and ready for whatever is coming my way.”

FIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING

You could have on the trendiest, most expensive outfit in the world—but if it doesn’t fit you properly, you’re not going to look stylish, and all your effort and money would have been wasted. The biggest mistake women make is wearing clothes that don’t fit because they don’t accept the body they have right now. You have to do that in order to figure out what looks good on you. And besides, confidence is the best accessory. It can make or break an outfit.

YOUR DRESSING SHOULD BE HALF YOUR AUDIENCE, HALF YOUR PERSONAL STYLE.

Even though it’s true that dressing should be an expression of your self, it’s ill-advised to completely ignore the setting you’re going to be in. For example, just because you feel like wearing that brand new mini to the office doesn’t mean it’s ok for you to do so. It’s healthy and wise to consider both your own desires and your situation when you’re getting dressed.

SEMMINGLY TINY TRICKS CAN TOTALLY CHANGE YOUR LOOK

Something as simple as looping your belt a certain way or tucking your shirt in can have a huge impact on your style. Not everything is about making giant overhauls to your closet; the cuff of a shirt sleeve or the roll of a pant hem can totally transform you in an instant.

ONE MUST HAVE A SIGNATURE STYLE

Above all, no matter what else is true of your personal style, it’s very important to have a signature. Whether it’s a gold bangle you always wear or the fact that you always choose boyfriend jeans over skinnies, figure out what one thing defines your own personal style, and stick with it—until you want to change it, and then feel free to do so.