Friday, February 18, 2011

Closet Essentials: Making Your Wardrobe Versatile.

Just thought I'd share some of my reads and personal philosophy and experiences with those of you who are interested in making your wardrobe one that will last you for as long as possible.

Tip #1:
Invest in Timeless, Classic Pieces

You've heard it once, twice, and many, many times. But this is probably one of the best fashion advices I've ever heard. Clothing that can last you, preferably, a lifetime is probably the best place you can spend your hard-earned cash and get your money's worth. These pieces never become outdated, because in the first place they are never dated, you can just throw them on and look effortlessly chic. Accessories are not compulsory, but they create different looks each time you match them with something different.
Paying more for these items also mean better quality (provided you find them at good stores)

Items include: a classic white shirt, a good pair of fitting jeans (straight-cuts, slightly flared or skinny jeans are probably the most timeless cuts) in a medium-wash, nude heels, black pumps, cashmere sweater, black dress

Tip #2:
Buy Separates

I love dresses, but when it comes to parting with my money, I usually end up spending on separates. It actually has something to do with the re-wear value of the clothing. Dresses, besides the LBD and in particular patterned ones, limit how different you look each time you wear it, despite pulling cardigans of varying colours over or throwing on different accessories or toting a different bag.
Tops, on the other hand, can have multiple bottoms to be worn with and each time you do, it can be a whole new look. Certain ones can also take you from formal to casual.

Tip #3:
Make Your Clothes Fit and Flatter

More often than not, I see people in ill-fitting clothes. It's time to move on and embrace your new body when you can no longer squeeze into your size-S clothing without being able to move comfortably. Looking good is not about how slim you are, but how you can pick the right clothing that flatters your shape.

If you are plus-sized, don't add volume to your frame with a flowy silhouette from head-to-toe. Go for fitted outfits, think an empire-waist cut dress or belt up your frock. They work to accentuate the waist-line, giving your body more shape. Forever21+ have amazing dresses!


If you are pear-shaped i.e. heavy at the bottom, opt for dresses that are fitting on top and loose at the bottom and do so for separates as well. Longer hemlines, from an inch or so above the knee to below the knee, can help conceal thick thighs. Swing dresses and skirts (and they're so now!) are your best bet, and spaghetti or single-shoulder straps help to broaden your upper body, creating balance. When buying pants, loose fits are good.
*credits: UrbanOutfitters.com
Petite-sized girls should go for short hemlines to elongate the legs. Higher waist cuts are also helpful in creating a longer mid-section illusion. For dresses, avoid flowy or oversized pieces that overwhelm your size. A-line skirts also help to define the waistline and elongate your petite frame.
*credits: asos.com
Tall ladies can opt for bold or horizontal prints to balance your body's proportions. Avoid maxi dresses unless you really want to accentuate your towering frame.
*credits: UrbanOutfitter.com
For those of you who are busty, look for clothing with a cinched waist. Defining the waist draws attention away from your heavy top. Sleeveless shift dresses also brings eyes to your arms and legs. Graphic prints help a great deal too.
*credits: UrbanOutfitter.com

[These marvelous tips have been gathered from Glamour and InStyle magazines! Grab a copy today!]

Finally make sure your tops are not unintentionally revealing your bra or in any other way ill-fitted. Get your clothes altered to fit or risk looking poorly dressed.

Tip #4:
Keep Trendy Pieces to a Minimum

Trends come and go, one season you're in, and the next you're out (sounds like Project Runway?). So avoid overspending on these pieces that you will throw out after wearing less than ten times. Of course, unless you want to hold them for a couple of years till they're in vogue again (in the case of oversized Jackie O shades).
Mix your trend pieces with versatile staples. Doing so also allows you to unveil your inner stylish self as you put pieces together while creating your own outfits.

Tip #5:
Care for Your Clothes

Many people overlook washing or ironing instructions, which can be essential to making your beloved clothing last. Know what are the ways to handle different fabrics. Google on ways to get rid of stains (or just throw them out if they're beyond hope). A tip to keep your denim from fading is to flip them inside out before washing. Colours stay on longer that way.

Hope this has been helpful! :)

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