Nanetee Lepore Runway
When I used to consult clients on their fashion choices, I’d always attach this little list as reminders. These would be my top 25 things to always keep in the back of my mind when shopping. Also, one final additional thought before we begin. When shopping, buy the size that fits you, not the size you think you should be. If you’re in the dressing room, and the size 8 isn’t working and you need a 10 because of the cut, buy the 10. No one but you knows the size. Luckily, we don’t walk around with size tags on our backsides. Buy what fits. Rule #1 before we even begin.
Here’s the rest of the list.
- Your handbag and your shoes DO NOT have to match.
- You can wear white jeans year round.
- In order to make your wardrobe last longer, wear tights with summer dresses, wear open-toed shoes with tights, throw boots on. Fashion is meant to be fun.
- You can combine a print with a plaid (just make sure one of the two is smaller than the other).
- Everyone should not wear black. Sometimes black can be aging. Make sure your skin tone is right for wearing black near the face. Otherwise, keep it on the bottom.
- Do not wear something just because you see a celebrity or friend wear it. All of our bodies are different. Wear what cuts look right on your body.
- On a limited budget, make sure your basics are functional. Trendy items can be added on later. (See last week’s checklist for the basics for fall).
- Have a functional closet. Make it fun to “shop” in there when you get dressed. You can even put an inspiration message on the wall of your closet.
- Hair and makeup should complement your body type, skin type, and fashion personality. If you haven’t had your hair updated in a couple of years, it’s time to try a new style.
- Don’t fear change. Embrace it. As we age, we change naturally. Our styles may change and evolve. Trying something new is part of our personal evolution.
- Get yourself a full-length mirror and always check yourself from the back. Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean others can’t.
Coach bag
- Fold sweaters and knits. Don’t hang them, or they will lose their shape.
- Underwear matters. Get properly fitted for a bra. Nude works best and doesn’t show through. Spanx are a girl’s best friend.
- Shoes say a lot about you. Don’t wear worn out, tired footwear.
- Know what your wardrobe options are…know how to mix and match to extend your wardrobe. Play with textures and fabric. If something comes to mind that you don’t own, add it to your “to be purchased” list.
- Put yourself in something luxurious once in a while and remind yourself that you are beautiful and worth the splurge.
- Don’t look at an item one way—take a staple piece and turn it into several looks.
- Know what your best assets are and show them off. Camouflage your trouble spots by picking styles that work best for YOUR body.
- Dress the body you have now, not the one you hope to have. If you are trying to lose weight, new clothing can be your treat at the end of the process.
- Don’t let magazines and stores sway you from your goal of looking your best. Dress your body the right way. I’ll be posting dressing tips for body types soon.
- Don’t think of colors as having to match exactly, like children’s GARANIMALS used to…when everything was color-matched. Look at the magazines today for inspiration…they mix colors and fabrics.
- Accessorize! Buy yourself some funky pieces of jewelry or some tasteful pearls. Accessories can change and outfit in a snap! Scarves, necklaces, hats, and belts do wonders for outfits.
- Fitted clothes always work best, no matter what size you are. Wearing bigger clothes just make you look bigger.
- Wear colors around the face that suit you. Have you ever had your colors done? Are you a cool color person (warm tones, such as yellows, greens, oranges, and browns are best for you?) or are you a cool color person (jewel tones like reds, purples, blues, pinks, and black?) Wearing the right colors can make a big difference in how you appear.
- Finally, have fun with fashion. It shouldn’t be complicated or intimidating. Find your own style and enjoy.
