15 Style Tips!

My dear friend Makay left me a comment on my last post asking for "fashion advice." Even though she DOES NOT need fashion advice, it sparked an idea for a post! She could really start her own fashion blog if she wanted to.

Anyways, I decided that I would give a few simple tips on how to be more "fashionable," whatever that term really means.

1. Personal style is NOT all about trends. Although trends exist, it's very important to find the trends that you like and that suit your body. If you're still into a trend that was so 5 years ago, rock it anyways! You could bring it back! Never ever be a trend slave.
2. Challenge yourself to not wear blue jeans for a week or two. The world is seriously just a sea of jeans these days, especially high schools. You can easily stand out if you pick a skirt, leggings, or even just jean shorts instead of long jeans.
3. GO THRIFT SHOPPING. I promise it's not that gross, and you can wash the clothes before wearing them anyways. There are so many awesome treasures out there, and it's fun to brag about getting something for $1 when you can get the exact same thing at Urban Outfitters for $50. It's easier to mix things up with more pieces anyways, and you can often find high quality stuff in thrift stores.
4. Try to go as long as possible without wearing the exact same outfit. For example, instead of wearing your favorite dress with tights, wear it with a jacket instead. Or maybe different shoes, or jewelry. The possibilities are endless!
5. Play dress-up. Seriously, go into your closet and put together an outfit like you're dressing up for a magazine editorial. Then, take away pieces until it works for everyday. I always do this when I'm in a creative rut.
6. Shop your brother's/mom's/dad's/sister's closet. If you're sick of everything you own, try mixing in something of theirs! I often wear my dad's sweaters and belts, and sometimes my brother's jeans. I ALWAYS wear my mom's jewelry. I only have one or two pieces of my own jewelry!
7. Take inspiration from places like lookbook.nu or other fashion blogs. If you see something you like, think of similar items that you have and try to recreate the look with your own twist. Never think that you can't pull something off.
8. If you buy something new that you don't feel completely comfortable in, wear it around your house for awhile, or maybe out with your best friend. That way, you can "test" it without going to a crowded place like school and feeling uncomfortable about yourself all day.
9. When shopping, make sure you either A. REALLY NEED IT or B. REALLY REALLY WANT IT. It has to "hit" you in order for you to buy it. Think about how many time's you would actually wear it. You don't want to end up with a closet full of clothes but nothing to wear.
10. Reach out of your comfort zone just a little when shopping for new clothes. Try on anything that catches your eye, even if it might be a little "weird." Weird is what makes your look unique!
11. Never try to be anything you're not. You can be inspired by other people's style without being jealous of it. If you like someone's boho style, try adding some floral prints to your wardrobe, but don't go all out trying to change your style to match theirs. You'll never be comfortable if you aren't being yourself. Wear what YOU like, not what you think others will like.
12. DO take your mother's fashion advice. You don't have to follow her opinion on everything, but do listen to her! She knows more than you think! Often, my mom will pick out stuff that I like way more than the things I picked out for myself. I generally always try on anything my mom picks out for me, because she knows what will look good on me.
13. When you're in a creative rut, try rearranging all the clothes in your closet. Sometimes just seeing different colors and textures together can spark a great outfit idea.
14. Don't take yourself too seriously. Avoid being "matchy-matchy," it looks cheesy 99% of the time.
15. HAVE CONFIDENCE. You can pull off ANYTHING as long as you totally own your look. Don't fold your arms, it makes it look like you're trying to cover something. Avoid pulling up your shirt or pulling your dress down. Adjusting yourself makes you seem uncomfortable. Make sure your clothes fit properly and you won't have to do that!

I hope these were somewhat helpful!