Hey, hi, hello, good morning, you have to pick out an outfit now. Oh, the horror. I know what it’s like to stand in front of my closet for a solid hour touching dresses and skirts I still haven’t worn, wondering how I’m ever going to style them. My cat weaves back and forth at my feet, brushing up against my legs.
Look here. I’m bestowing you with 16 steadfast fashion mantras that will help you come up with looks on a daily basis. These aren’t just combinations I love, that I suggest you try to re-create tomorrow. These are notes to keep, words of advice you might as well scribble on your mirror. I promise you’ll benefit from reading them all, whether it leads you to that pair of earrings you still haven’t worn or helps you get ready quickly on a bad hair day when you’re too lazy to pick up the blow dryer. This whole “getting dressed” thing? You may actually become a pro.
You know those slip dresses that show a little too much skin for work? Try layering a long knit over one and completing with mules for a day on the job.
Keep It Simple
Just because your trousers are classic doesn’t mean you have to impress with a trendy shirt. Sometimes a basic cardigan is the most sophisticated option, and it can be sexy, too, depending on how you make use of the buttons.
Play With Your Lingerie
You know those slip dresses that show a little too much skin for work? Try layering a long knit over one and completing with mules for a day on the job.
An Oversize Blazer Can Also Be a Dress
You can wear your oversize blazers two different ways, especially if you’re petite. Try once with smart slacks and again on the weekend as a minidress over a t-shirt.
Pair Unexpected Colors
When you don’t know what to wear, try pairing up two of the brightest pieces in your wardrobe, making for an unexpected color combination. Accessorize accordingly, and it’ll be the best outfit you’ve ever worn — one you didn’t even know existed in your closet!
Sneakers Create a Whole Different Vibe
So, you’ve already teamed up your standout suit with power pumps? Go for something a little more relaxed when you add sporty trainers instead, and see where that takes you when it comes to outerwear.
Accent With Makeup
Let the cool accessory you’re trying to show off — like a great pair of cherry-red heels — inspire your makeup in the morning, and your whole look will come together naturally.
Layer Your Neutrals
Not to get all “Yeezy” on you, but if you browse through your closet and hand-pick each and every neutral piece you’ve got, you should be able to work out a pretty solid monochromatic look that flows.
Earrings Are Always an Option
If you just don’t feel like going all out with your makeup and hair, make the focal point of your outfit a seriously genius earring and let it inspire your top, just to draw attention to your jewels a little bit more.
The Hair Tuck Is Forever
Another glorious option for a day you just don’t have time to whip out the blow dryer? Let your hair air dry and wear a blazer with a high collar so you can tuck away your locks and still manage to look chic and polished.
A Headband Adds a Playful Touch
You could be wearing the slickest suit at the office, but add a headband, and your outfit instantly becomes a fashion statement. Coordinate one with your purse to show how you’ve really mastered the accessory game.
Borrow From the Boys
Literally just run into the other room and check out what your SO/brother/roommate is wearing. Sometimes you find inspiration in the most unlikely places, right? Even if you won’t see your loved one all day, just knowing you’re dressed in similar colors or silhouettes actually feels kind of cool.
Make It About the Shoes
Invest in seasonal shoes that are so trendy, you really can’t wait to show them off. Start there, then build your outfit around them. Knowing you’ll need a shorter hemline or a certain color dress eliminates so many of your options and will help you narrow down your choices.
Skirts and Dresses Can Be BFF
The standard question is, “Should I wear a skirt or a dress?” Or, you can try this brilliant hack and layer one over the other. Bonus tip: if your skirt’s longer than the hemline of your midi, switch up the order! The multi-dimensional look will be a serious game changer, and everyone you pass will think, “Hey, why didn’t I think of that?”