Top 10 (or so) Style Tricks of the Trade

These should be no-brainer tricks of the trade you should live by, male or female (PRINT and SAVE):

1. Undergarments are to be worn but not seen (as in low-slung pants or panty lines).
2. The sum off all the parts is greater than the individual pieces--that's why it's called an outfit!
3. Style does not have to equal the outfit off the runway or on a celebrity.
4. The golden rule is show "skin" or "shape" but never both.
5. Black shows wear fast especially when placed against another black item.
6. Make clothing investment pieces as monochromatic and simple as possible to disguise "dating" of the piece.
7. Make accessory investment pieces (purses, belts, totes) as standout as possible.
8. The devil is in the details (i.e., the best suit can be ruined by wearing the incorrect socks).
9. Lycra/spandex are your friends and should be in at least 70% of your items.  It helps to hold shape and is forgiving if you've indulged in one too many twinkies!
10. If it doesn't fit, get rid of it.  Stop worrying about the number.
11. Style is 50% attitude, 30% fit, and 20% clothes and accessories.  If you 'fake it until you make it' with a well-fitted button-down shirt, a dark-colored suit, and quality shoes...you're 80% there!
12. Style can be learned so, invest in a great teacher.
13. For a female, a white crew neck tee (with some stretch, of course) is indispensable.
14. A tailor or seamstress must be part of your style weaponry.
15. Quality before quantity.
16. If you take care of your clothes, they'll take care of you.

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