DO get inspired by other cultures and times
I’m predicting big things for faraway fashion this upcoming season. Trends that I particularly like include twenties flapper dresses (these ever-elegant wardrobe wonders hide a multitude of sins!) and a Russian-inspired outfits (see Temperley’s A/W 12 show at LFW). It takes a certain amount of fashion know-how to carry off these looks, but if you do you’ll be headed straight for style superstardom.
DO clash prints but DON’T be slapdash about it
The most exciting and fashion-forward trends always carry with them an element of risk (get underwear as outerwear right and you’re rocking a look that’s both flirty and fashionable; get it wrong and you can end up receiving all kinds of unwanted attention!). Print-clashing is no exception to this rule. The smallest detail can turn a style statement into a dress disaster, so if you’re brave enough to give this look a try, be careful how you go and take a critical look in the mirror before you head out the front door. A few tips for beginners: clash two prints only and keep the rest of your outfit subtle. The prints should be in colours that complement each other to create some kind of unity. Head-to-toe print is something only the most confident should attempt – the meeker fashionistas amongst us can nod to the trend by clashing accessories.
DON’T let XXL shoulders get out of control
Don’t get me wrong, I do understand the appeal of shoulder pads. They give any outfit a bit of edge, and done correctly they can really help pear shapes to balance out their bottom halves. They’ve been around for a long time and although their popularity waxes and wanes, you can be sure that ultimately they’re here to stay. But seriously. Unless you want to look like an American footballer, don’t go over the top! Leave that to the professionals.
DO create a gorgeous silhouette
This one’s obvious, really, but I see so many girls who, blinded by what’s on-trend, have clearly given no thought to what suits their body shape. In most cases, if the silhouette is right the rest of the outfit will follow, no matter how out-there it is. Dressing well is all about creating the illusion of balanced proportions, so cinch your waist and get that elusive hourglass figure you’ve always dreamed of!
And one final bonus tip:
DON’T wear leggings as trousers (why do some girls continue to do this?!)
