Putting Together an Outfit

If you need help putting together an outfit, there are various ways you can achieve this, whether you're going for a professional, casual or individual look.

One of the main things you should try to remember when putting together an outfit is to be true to your own sense of style. Regardless of what current women's fashion trends dictate, you need to be confident in your abilities to select what works well for you, while avoiding looks that are less than flattering. Once you can identify your best pieces, you're nearly there to building a wardrobe that works in any season.

Before you can successfully create a noteworthy ensemble, you need to make sure you have necessary items on hand. This requires having basic pieces in your wardrobe to begin with. Smart dressers know they need a mix of colors, including neutrals that work with almost anything, as well as splashes of color that really create a unique outfit. Knowing what colors look good on you is important when choosing various items.

Another component you need to address is what to wear for your particular body shape. When you have these basics down, it's much easier to put together an ensemble that not only coordinates well, but makes you look fabulous.

Every woman needs some neutral pieces in her closet, such as:

• A blazer in black, tan, chocolate or charcoal
• Black slacks and skirt
• Little black dress
• White blouse
• Charcoal slacks and skirt
• Beige, tan and cream pieces
• Jeans

These create a good foundation that you can easily build around. When you don't want to think too much about your work wardrobe, you can slip on a black skirt, white blouse and blazer. However, you can also add a vibrant touch of color with a red cardigan instead of a jacket.

Fashion would be pretty boring if we only had neutral pieces to get us through the seasons. Different colors are considered "in" depending on the latest trends, but don't feel you have to adhere to lavender if that's not a good color for you. In general, lighter colors and clothes are suitable for warm weather, while heavier, darker shades work for cold seasons.

Wear bright colors in a flattering way – probably not head-to-toe. Instead, add vibrant touches in pieces like:

• Scarves
• Hats
• Handbags
• Shoes
• Belts
• Cardigans
• Skirts
• Tights
• Shirts

A black and white outfit can be brightened up considerably with the addition of a red accent piece. Likewise, a neutral suit can benefit from a colorful shirt, such as hot pink worn beneath charcoal grey.

Casual occasions allow you greater flexibility in creating an outfit than workplace dress codes, but selecting the most flattering pieces is still important. Do you look better in cap sleeves or no sleeves? Should your skirt stop at the knee or is calf-length a good look for you? When you identify the best ways to wear your clothes, you can shop accordingly, regardless of trends. Some items are so classic, they never really go out of style.

Following some guidelines can make sure you look great no matter the occasion:

• Adhere to dress codes, whether for work or for party events where a dress code is stipulated
• Make sure you have key pieces in your wardrobe for easy-to-assemble outfits for hurried mornings
• Don't be afraid to add color; just do it wisely with splashes here and there
• Research how to dress for your body shape, complexion and style personality
• Pay attention to all of your accessories – including handbags, jewelry and shoes – for a harmonious look

Above all, fashion should be an enjoyable part of your life, not seen as a chore. If your style is more subdued, then by all means stick with it. However, if zany choices define you, don't let anyone convince you to dress like a nun. You're putting together outfits that look great on you, not someone else, so make selections that are flattering, fit well and really let your style profile shine through.

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