You won’t usually find me doling out unsolicited advice here, but I spoke at the Southern New England Women’s Expo over the weekend for a seminar titled, Five Fast Tips to Your Best Dressed Self. I wasn’t asked any questions about the talk, but was asked about a dozen times what I was wearing, which is pictured here. It’s the appropriately named ‘Newport Rope’ Gilchrist shirtdress by J. McLaughlin.
The timing for the topic was actually perfect because spring is the best excuse to take a long look at the closet and edit, edit, edit. Call a worthy organization, like Big Sisters of Rhode Island, and schedule pick up for added motivation. Looking for a little extra cash? Consign pieces in near-perfect condition and be sure to donate or give away pieces not taken by the shop—nothing comes back home. Closet cleaning can be daunting—invite a friend over for some added help.*
*works best with wine.
(oh, I included the Five Tips after the jump. Hit more to check them out)
B. CHIC
B. Be Yourself. Embrace your own style; be careful not to be seduced by trends you don’t love. Choose pieces that make you feel both comfortable and confident.
C Carefully Pick and Choose. Sales prices and better brands can be a lethal combination. Only buy pieces that fit and flatter, because even if it’s Prada, if it doesn’t fit well, t won’t look good.
H Heavily Edit. There’s only so much room in that closet—think of every inch as valuable real estate. If you haven’t worn it in a year or two, it’s time for it to move along.
I Invest. Well-made pieces may cost more but think long term. If it’s a piece you plan to get a ton of wear out of, make quality a priority. Also, invest in good tailoring. A perfect fit off the rack is an anomaly.
C Classic Always Wins. Build your wardrobe around classic key pieces: pencil skirts, a tailored blazer, perfectly fitting jeans, a shift dress and a crisp white cotton blouse (Brooks Brothers’ version is near perfection).
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