Simple Keys to a Fabulous Look

By Jayde Johannsen

Fashion isn't just about the clothes you purchase. You can't just throw down a credit car and expect to look like a million bucks. The average woman doesn't have a stylist or personal shopper to make them look glamorous. But remember this fact: most of the best fashion comes from young women poor on resources but rich on creativity. Let's face it; if a broke young girl in New York City can change the face of fashion, you can discover a new look all by yourself.

Whether or not you're rolling in dough, it's very simple to learn how to dress in a way that's both timeless and flattering. Fashion isn't just about couture designers and ladies on the upper west side walking around with their designer handbags and their blow-dried dogs. Fashion has always been about the downtown, and style has always been something available to everyone. You don't need a ton of money to be stylish, you just need taste, and here are a few steps that make maximizing your taste just a little bit easier.

Get minimal. If there's less going on, there's less chances for you to make a fashion don't, after all. From artists to the women in charge of fashion houses, many of the world's best-dressed people who aren't looking for the spotlight opt for all-black when walking red carpets and dining at galas. The reason is that it's subdued, it's classy, and it's timeless. Wearing a simple black dress also means that it's easier to make it look as though you're in a completely different outfit by throwing on a different set of accessories and carrying a different bag.

As far as accessories go, less is definitely more. Also in the words of the always-brilliant Coco Chanel, if you're getting ready to go out, the last step to your outfit should be to look in the mirror and remove one accessory. You're a stylish woman, not a Christmas tree, and there's no reason to overdo it with hats, bracelets, necklaces, and loud handbags. Learn that less is more with accessorizing and your look will last that much longer.

Find clothes in your size. Everyone's made the mistake of getting something in the wrong size, and it's never a story that ends well. The way to be stylish is to know what fits you, and what looks good on you. Dressing in clothes that are your size not only makes you look more youthful than trying to dress "young" or "old," it allows people to see your real body in the best way possible. Instead of focusing on trends and thinking that your body type is made for whatever high-waisted dress or capris are in this season but only look good on a specific body type, take the time to dress in a way that makes you look the best.

Even if you're wearing last season's dress and washed your hair in a cold shower, there is no reason to let that affect the impression that you give to the world at large. Take pride in yourself and your wardrobe. So you don't have time right now to splurge on an outfit, don't worry about it.

After all, so much of style is just having the right attitude. That more than anything is what someone notices when you walk in a room. They can't see the tag on your dress or sweater, they can only see how you're carrying yourself and whether or not you look confident. So many people (including famous icons) who are now setting the bar for fashion started out with limited means, and managed to wow their way to the top. Keep their life stories in mind as you dress yourself with what you've got.

Now that you know the difference between simply following fashion or creating your own style, take these hints and run with them. Give your entire closet a head to toe inspection and be shocked at how much you have to run with. Head down to the local store and look at the racks in a whole new light. Just don't lose track of the fact that no matter what the fashion is, your take on it is what makes your outfit different from every other woman out there. Don't be afraid to make your own fashion statements now that you have something to say. - 30544

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