Cost does not equal style. That's right - you read that last line correctly. Who ever decided that only expensive things look good? Style is a matter of knowing what fits your body, how to put pieces together and how to present yourself. Truth be told, I am a believer that some of us were born with that talent. But for the rest of us, it can be learned. Once learned, you are going to realize you have more self-esteem and confidence. I see so many television shows in which people say they don't care about how they dress or what people think. Often this is the answer because people just give up. They have decided that it's easier not to try to better themselves. Part of being confident is feeling good in your skin and clothes. Here is my guide to help you achieve that feeling.
Steps
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Look in the mirror and say to yourself every day "I love you". Please don't let yourself become cocky. It's good to be reminded of our strengths and weaknesses on a daily basis. It's proactive to remind ourselves what needs work in our lives.
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Surround yourself with a great group of friends. That is right! Get rid of the people in your life who aren't good for you. We all grow up and realize that some people are there for no reason whatsoever. It might be hard to rid yourself of them, but in the long run, it's worth it.
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Edit your closet each season. It is always good to donate the clothing that can be reused and rid yourself of items that are falling apart. It helps refresh your wardrobe and makes you aware of the key pieces you need to purchase for that season.
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Say please and thank you, hold the door for the person behind you and don't forget to hand write a thank you note when it's appropriate. Why do all of these things? Because having good manners never goes out of style.
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Find a good tailor in your area and utilize them. I don't care what you pay for an article of clothing. It isn't going to look great if it isn't tailored for your body. Usually alterations run from $5.00 to $20.00. It is money well spent when you realize how different you look.
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When shopping, purchase classic pieces first. This way you have a good basis for your wardrobe. These pieces should fit you well and become staples to base outfits off of. Trendy pieces should be kept to a minimum each season. Buy only a few that you really love. Not only will this keep your closet from getting crowded it will help save money.
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Remember that even on a budget you can look good. These days you can buy clothes everywhere from Target to Dolce and Gabbana. Shop in your price range and know what looks good on your body. Take the time to really learn what is going to look best on you.
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Dress your age. I have said this before and will say it many times again. 50-year-old women do not need to be wearing a halter-top and mini skirt. Likewise, 20-year-old women do not need to be showing their mid-drift and ass cleavage. Part of dressing your age and being sexy is showing just a hint of skin. Trust me when I say it's much more appealing then seeing all of your supposed assets.
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It is always better to be overdressed; it is much better than showing up at an event and being the only person in jeans. If you walk into a room in a great dress and terrific shoes and everyone else is wearing jeans and a t-shirt don't even think twice about it. People are going to look at you and think wow she looks great. Just be comfortable in what you are wearing and enjoy it.
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when receiving a compliment say, "Thank you". It is not stylish or attractive to say, "This old thing" or "Hardly." Enjoy the compliment and even if you don't believe it saying thank you will make you feel better. After a time you will start to believe that you do look good. It's a great confidence building exercise.
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Try out different styles inspired from the media, magazines etc. Work on finding your own style and who YOU are. Don't copy anyone but be inspired by what you see and use it to create your own unique look! Try out dressing indie-rock one day, or maybe super-sophisticated. Why not be a preppy cutie or a scene kid? Experimenting will lead you to your own style. When you feel comfortable in what you're in, you've found your style!
