FASH-ON WITH XXL JJDP – 10 THINGS I KNOW
It is the height of summer and time to “take stock of things” to make sure that you look great every day while remaining cool and calm. For the most part, looking good is being comfortable in your own skin and doing things that work for you, your body and your style.
Below are 10 things I discovered or learned from others that allow me to look and feel my best while remaining true to myself.
1. When in doubt, wear black
It is easy, simple and effective and when many are clamoring to stand out, sometimes toning it down might just be the right thing to do. Top to toe black is classy, unassuming but has gravitas. A simple black v-neck says much more than an outlandish shirt or blouse. Pair your look with simple or bold accessories in any situation.
2. Invest in shoes, socks and underwear
These basics directly correlate with your comfort level. Start with the underwear. Pay more and you will reap the benefits in comfort. As for socks, always have a few white pairs for athletic events, black pairs for formal occasions, multicolored pairs for a fresh look, and half- or secret socks for the summer (they go well with a pair of TOMS).
3. Dress for yourself, not for others
As long as you are comfortable and are appropriate for the occasion, do not care about what others think. Confidence outshines the most dazzling outfit.
4. Mix and match designer and high street
Not everyone has the budget to always buy from designer racks. Outside of a designer handbag, you might never want to invest in expensive labels because trends are fickle and constantly change. Instead, invest in a classic designer piece and then mix and match items from department stores or high street in order to obtain your look for the season and current trends.
5. Longevity
For more formal items such as trousers and dresses, always go for a classic cut and color. You can reuse these forever. For example, it is easy and less expensive to just change accessories for the same little black dress rather than spend 500,000 won on a trendy leopard-print dress.
6. Accessorize
Are you a fan of keeping up with trends without spending all that money? If so, look for great bargains on scarves, belts, and other accessories to give your look a bolder statement. Just remember not to over-accessorize; finding a balance can be hard. Remember that accessories are seasonal. You can also save money by purchasing accessories that are similar to the top name designs.
7. Take care of your skin
Wash, tone, moisturize and apply sunscreen. Your skin is more important than anything in your closet. Choose great products and invest in quality – you will thank yourself later. My personal favorite for moisturizer is Kiehl’s collection. Remember to drink lots of water and get plenty of sleep, too.
8. Shop online
Save yourself the stress of busy stores and shop online. Gmarket is my favorite online store. It offers service in English, is easy to navigate and compares prices, so you can easily make decisions. Same or next day delivery is available, too.
9. Match your fragrance with your outfit
Indulge and smell pretty. Invest in some great fragrances that will last. Calvin Klein offers great day and night fragrances, as does Issey Miyake, Chloe and Bulgari. If you are feeling dramatic, wear a heavier scent. Wear a lighter scent to go with a happier mood.
10:
Finally, play around a little, get to know your style and then treat yourself.