10 EASY DRESSING TIPS TO TRANSFORM YOUR STYLE

Follow our simple dressing guide for looks that feel like new without breaking the bank.

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Trends come and go, but style is forever. When it comes to putting your best foot forward, follow these 10 commandments and you’ll look picture perfect every time.



1. DRESS FOR YOUR BODY, NOT YOUR AGE
“Fit is very important in garments,” says La’Key Ndaba, celebrity stylist and image consultant, “Going for clothes that complement your silhouette and hug you in the right places can boost anyone’s confidence and appearance,” he adds. Look for clothes that flatter your figure and height.



2. CHOOSE WELL-FITTING, GOOD QUALITY UNDERWEAR THAT ACCENTUATES YOUR BODY
The wrong sized or shaped underwear can cut you off in the wrong places and become unflattering. A well-fitting bra gives great support and shape. For example, wearing a small bra causes your breasts to spill out making them appear bigger than they are. With shapewear, check what flatters your body better between thongs, boyleg or French cuts.

Related article: How to find the right bra size



3. BE TACTICAL ABOUT HOW YOU SHOW SKIN
When it comes to showing skin, don’t reveal too much, and don’t be too covered up. If you’re going to show some cleavage, cover up the legs, and if you’re going to show the legs off then cover up the cleavage. An off-shoulder top or dress will look good if the length goes just below the knees.



4. LAYER YOUR ACCESSORIES BUT KEEP IT MINIMALISTIC
Layer two or three dainty necklaces but keep your earrings to just simple studs. You can do the same with bracelets, keeping rings to a minimum. If you’re going big on the earrings, you don’t have to wear a necklace. And if you’re not into jewellery, then accessorise with pops of bright colours, for example a bright belt, fanny pack or shoes.



5. CHOOSE COLOURS THAT COMPLEMENT YOUR SKIN TONE AND WORK WELL TOGETHER
The wrong colour can make you look washed out, no matter how great the garment. “Going for colours that make your skin tone pop, brings out the best look in everyone,” Ndaba says. If you’re not into monotones, go for something with patterns or florals. For monochromatic looks, choose different hues of the same colour family, like mustard and brown or pink and red.



6. WHEN IN DOUBT OPT FOR A WHITE T-SHIRT OR SHIRT
You can hardly go wrong with a white T-shirt or shirt. These come in different shapes, designs and sizes, and can be dressed up or down. Make sure you choose one that works for your body shape and style, for example, a V or round neck t-shirt. Also invest in good t-shirt bras that will give you a smooth silhouette.



7. PAIR LOOSE WITH TIGHT
This gives a semi casual or semi smart look depending on which items you pair. If you have legs to die for then go for snug fitting leggings or jeggings and an oversized top. You can also wear a snug fitting top with high waisted bottoms that flare for elongated legs.

Related article: How street style has evolved in a decade



8. NUDE PUMPS GO WITH EVERYTHING AND ELONGATE LEGS
Neutral colours go with every colour because they’re mute. They also blend with your skin tone and make your legs appear longer. Whether it’s with jeans, a dress or skirt – nude pumps are a must-have item.



9. OWN A FEW CLASSICS
Classics can take any look a notch up and can be worn for almost any occasion. These items include a blazer, a biker jacket, a denim jacket, a trench coat, a white shirt or blouse, a pair of black denims, black or nude pumps and a little black dress. Mix and match these pieces with other clothing for a high fashion look.



10. TAKE YOUR TIME TO FIND THE BEST FITTING DENIM, IT’LL SAVE YOUR DAY WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO WEAR
The perfect pair of jeans fit like a glove, feel like second skin, and can be dressed up or down. It’s not always easy to find the right pair, but when you do it’ll be worth the search. Consider the rise and cut for your body shape, and whether it stretches or not. Stretchy jeans accentuate the body better because they fit snuggly where they need to and stretch to accommodate curves.

Related article: Style secrets of the stars

Sources: instyle.com, stylecraze.com


BY NTHABISENG MAKHOKHA