Fashion isn’t just about following trends – it’s about finding confidence in your personal style journey. After years in the industry, I’ve developed my own set of guidelines that keep me looking polished and feeling fabulous every day. These are the tried-and-true fashion commandments that have never steered me wrong, whether I’m dressing for a photoshoot or just running errands.
1. Quality Over Quantity Always Wins
Splurging on one perfect cashmere sweater beats owning five mediocre ones. High-quality fabrics not only look better but actually save money over time since they won’t need replacing after a few washes.
My grandmother taught me this wisdom, and my closet has thanked me ever since.
2. Know Your Body’s Best Friends
Forget trends that fight your natural shape. When I discovered which silhouettes actually flatter my figure, getting dressed became joyful rather than stressful.
Those A-line skirts that make my waist look tiny? Pure magic every single time.
3. The Power of Strategic Tailoring
Though it seems extravagant, befriending a tailor transformed my style game entirely. Even inexpensive pieces look designer-worthy when they fit perfectly.
My secret weapon? Taking everything from mall finds to vintage treasures for that crucial nip and tuck.
4. Three Outfit Formulas Beat Decision Fatigue
Instead of reinventing the wheel daily, I rely on foolproof combinations that never fail. My go-to trio: statement jacket + simple tee + great jeans; monochrome layers; and the dress-that-needs-nothing-else.
Fashion math simplifies mornings dramatically!
5. Accessories Speak Louder Than Clothes
Whenever my outfit feels flat, I reach for statement earrings or an unexpected belt. Accessories transform basics into brilliance without requiring a complete wardrobe overhaul.
My collection of vintage scarves has saved countless mundane outfits from mediocrity.
6. Invest in Outerwear Obsessively
Since coats are often the only thing people see in colder months, they deserve special attention. A magnificent coat elevates everything underneath, even if it’s just pajamas (don’t tell anyone I’ve done this).
My collection borders on ridiculous, but I regret nothing.
7. Embrace Uniform Dressing
Contrary to expectations, fashion editors often repeat silhouettes religiously. My white-shirt-black-trouser combo appears weekly because it works effortlessly.
Having a signature look isn’t boring—it’s confident. Just ask Carolina Herrera or Karl Lagerfeld.
8. Master the High-Low Mix
Pairing luxury items with affordable finds keeps outfits interesting and budgets manageable. My designer bags look even better against vintage jeans and market-find t-shirts.
Nobody needs to know which pieces came from where—that’s the beauty of thoughtful styling.
9. Find Your Signature Color Palette
After years of experimenting, I’ve narrowed my wardrobe to navy, camel, white and occasional burgundy. Everything mixes effortlessly, and shopping becomes simpler when you ignore 80% of what’s available.
The freedom of limitation sounds paradoxical but feels revolutionary.
10. The Rule of Three Proportions
Balance is everything in styling. If I’m wearing voluminous trousers, I’ll pair them with a fitted top. Loose-all-over works for beachwear, not boardrooms.
My foolproof formula requires contrast between at least two of three zones: top, bottom, and outerwear.
11. Break One Fashion Rule Daily
Though I preach guidelines, I religiously break at least one daily. Navy with black? Absolutely divine. White after Labor Day? My winter whites collection would shock traditionalists.
Intentionally breaking rules shows you understand them well enough to subvert them stylishly.
12. Comfort Is Non-Negotiable
If I can’t sit, eat, and dash for taxis comfortably, it doesn’t deserve closet space. Secretly, my most complimented outfits contain elastic waistbands or stretchy fabrics.
Fashion should enhance life, not restrict movement or cause misery. This isn’t the Victorian era!
13. Vintage Shopping Requires Patience
My most treasured pieces came from hours of patient vintage hunting. Unlike regular shopping, secondhand requires persistence and vision—seeing potential beyond dated styling or minor flaws.
That 1970s Halston jacket needed terrible buttons replaced but now outshines modern alternatives.
14. Shoes Make or Break Everything
Footwear transforms outfits instantly. My simple black dress shape-shifts completely depending on whether I pair it with sleek loafers, strappy heels, or chunky boots.
Whenever an outfit feels uninspired, changing shoes provides the quickest fix without requiring a complete rethink.
15. Maintain a Fashion Emergency Kit
My desk drawer contains fashion band-aids: double-sided tape, safety pins, a tiny sewing kit, and heel protectors. These humble tools have saved countless photoshoots and important meetings from wardrobe disasters.
Preparation prevents those panic-inducing moments when things inevitably go sideways.
16. Ignore Size Tags Completely
Sizing varies wildly between brands, countries, and decades. My closet contains everything from size 2 to 12, all fitting perfectly because I shop for how garments actually fit, not what the label claims.
Vanity sizing is marketing, not measurement.
17. Seasonal Closet Resets Are Sacred
Twice yearly, I ruthlessly evaluate everything I own. Items that haven’t earned their keep get donated, while favorites receive necessary maintenance.
This ritual prevents closet chaos and ensures I actually wear what I have. Plus, rediscovering forgotten treasures feels like free shopping!
18. The Power of Strategic Repeating
Despite industry pressure for constant newness, I deliberately rewear standout pieces. Seeing how some celebrities repeat their favorite dresses gave me permission to embrace my own greatest hits.
True style isn’t about endless consumption but thoughtful curation and confident repetition.
19. Dress for Mood, Not Just Occasion
Beyond dress codes, I consider how clothing affects my mindset. When feeling uncertain, my sharpest blazer becomes psychological armor. For creative days, fluid silhouettes help ideas flow.
Your wardrobe should contain emotional support garments for every possible state of mind.
20. Perfect Your Getting-Ready Ritual
My pre-event routine is choreographed precision: outfit laid out the night before, accessories organized, backup options identified. This eliminates last-minute panic and ensures thoughtful choices rather than rushed compromises.
Preparation is the unsung hero of great style.