Tips for Feeling 'Put Together'

Being fashion forward is so much more than being aware of the latest trends, it's being aware of how you style and wear the pieces that you purchase. I am a firm believer that you can find great styles anywhere and you don't need to shop at designer or high end stores to look put together. I can't tell you how many great statement jewelry pieces I have picked up on the Macy's clearance rack or gorgeous skirts that I "borrowed" from my mothers closet that were older than me. Speaking of my mom, the past few years I have finally given into all the advice she had been telling me for years. Looking back on some of my high school photos I cringe because I didn't listen to her advice and instead wore something that looks ridiculous (but hey, we all gotta grow from our mistakes, right?). She gave such simple classic advice that can really apply to any of us and I thought I should share her wisdom with all of you!

1. Iron/Steam Your Clothes- Guys, I hate to iron. For the longest time I would just refuse to do it all together convincing myself that "it doesn't look that bad" or "it will just get wrinkled when I wear it anyways." But you have no idea what a difference a wrinkled piece can do to an outfit, it just looks sloppy and really takes away from the whole look. Nowadays I pick out what I'm going to wear to work the night before and make sure all my clothes are ironed and hanging up so when I arrive to the office I feel confident in what I'm wearing. 
2. Buy the Right Size- Awhile back I would stick to one size when it came to purchasing clothes or shoes. However, telling myself "I am a size 6 in all jeans" doesn't make much sense because each store/designer makes their jeans differently. This theory applies to tops, shoes and belts as well. Don't be afraid to try on a variety of different sizes to see which size fits you best. I'm not going to lie, I have tops that are a size small and I have tops that are larges, it all depends on the fit, material and brand. Now I'm no longer self-conscious buying a size up because I want the clothes I own to fit me well. Speaking of clothes fitting right....
3. Get a Tailor!- My tailor is one talented lady, and I swear by her (for those of you in the 518, check out Elegant Fashion). I can't tell you how many things she has altered for me and when I go and pick them up they fit like a glove! I once saw this skirt in Banana Republic on the clearance rack for $12 that I LOVED but it was only available in a size 12... I decided to buy it anyways (again... it was only $12) and I brought it to my tailor to get it fitted to my body. When I picked it up, it was perfect! If there are pieces in your wardrobe that just don't fit right but you don't want to throw them out, bring them to your local tailor and let them work their magic.
4. Hide Your Bra Straps- Oh man, I used to be so guilty of this (and still am sometimes). I'm not going to lie, when I'm running errands or headed to the pool in summer I may not be quick to hide my bra straps but it is one of my biggest pet peeves when peoples straps are showing in the workplace or somewhere nice like a restaurant or event. I suggest that everyone should invest in these, they clip in the back and you can adjust them. Like I said, I don't care if you're at the grocery store and your straps are showing, just promise me I won't see them in the workplace, okay?
5. Be Confident! - Alright, I know this one isn't really a fashion tip, it's more of a life tip. Fashion is all about taking risks, so don't be afraid to step out of the box and wear something you love that expresses your personality. Diane Von Furstenberg once said, "Life is very short. Insecurity is a waste of time" and it's so true! Be proud of who you are and walk out the door remembering how fabulous you are!

What are the style tips your mom gave you growing up?

xoxo