Not of what you want to buy, but of the 10 fave items in your closet. This will help you zero in on pieces that mesh with what you own (or remind you that you never actually wear big floral prints).
“Once you know which silhouettes flatter you, filter trends ruthlessly,” says designer Shoshanna Gruss. For instance, if you’re petite and shapely, it’s best to avoid tall columns and billowy maxis even if you love them. Go for a dress with a defined waist and just-above-the-knee hem.
Before you buy, try to gauge how a piece might hold up after a few washings. And don’t shell out for clothes you can’t, or won’t, take to the dry cleaners. If you know you’ll never hand-wash that embellished sweater or fancy bra, walk away.
It’s the ultimate accessory according to a host of the best-dressed women we interviewed. Stash one in your purse or carry-on to transform simple Ts in the time it takes to make a knot.
The secret formula for a soft but formfitting T? 95% cotton, 5% Lycra spandex. For jeans to hold their shape, they need at least 2% Lycra.
A dressy bag with a chain helps you hold crudités and a cocktail-plus, it lends a cool edge to evening wear, says stylist Cher Coulter. Wear the chain diagonally across your body for the best effect.
“The biggest mistake women make is wearing pants that aren’t the right length for their shoes,” says stylist Kate Young. To fix this, hem to either flats or heels like Dakota Johnson—no going back. Generally, hems should just graze the tops of your shoes and be from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch off the floor.
If you’ve got a closet full of neutrals-be they navy, black, camel, or gray-add energy with boldly hued shoes and bags. Not only is a ruby red satchel more lively than ho-hum black, but it’s also surprisingly versatile. Feeling really brave? Wear a neutral base with shoes and a bag in two different complementary colors.
Take a classic cue from Marilyn Monroe! They elevate jeans and keep ball skirts from drifting into fantasy-land. But all that mileage comes at a cost: a short shelf life. So buy three, don’t overbleach (which can cause yellowing), and refresh regularly.
Looking truly sexy involves knowing what to bare-and what to keep under wraps. Otherwise, where’s the mystery? “Choose one-only one-body part and show it off,” advises Jen Rade, stylist to Angelina Jolie. “If it’s cleavage, don’t show your legs. If it’s your legs, stay covered on top.”