How to Dress With Class

Dressing with class lets people know that you are a confident, sophisticated individual and one to be reckoned with. While some people mindfully dress tacky-chic as an alternative statement, others of us prefer to keep our appearance simple and classic. Read on to learn how to elevate the taste-factor in your wardrobe.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Be appropriate to the occasion. Your apparel should resonate with the type of event you are attending. Clothes do not have to resonate perfectly (that would make you a wall flower) but, you don’t want to stand out in a gaudy manner.
2. Choose pieces that are neither ultra-trendy nor completely outdated. The great styles seem to last forever--think Jackie O. You probably have quite a few choices in your closet that you wear again and again since they are ever-appropriate.
3. Pick out accessories that match with each other. However, items that are too matchy-matchy tend to create an outfit that’s on the cheesy or cutesy side. Try not to over-accessorize either. Large earrings may preclude the use of a necklace. A large, showy belt sometimes doesn’t work with big bracelets. Use your best judgment. If you feel frumpy or as if you’re clanging around, remove a few items.
4. Consult a trusted friend or roommate before heading off to big events. An objective opinion is a nice way to stay classy.
5. Flip through some magazines if you feel lost. High fashion magazines will give you a sense of dressier, European style clothes, while pop magazines will clue you in to day-to-day trends. Mix and match from both. You don’t have to try to find the exact design--use the designs to guide you in putting together a general look and then make it your own.

Tips & Warnings

• Invest in decent shoes and purses. Sleek tan or black pumps and a nice leather tote can quickly class up an outfit.
• Stick to basic colors if you’re not sure about matching. Beige, black and white pieces are timeless and often exude more confidence and grace than flashy pieces.
• Have frumpy pants or jackets tailored. The perfect dark jean looks all the more perfect with a hemline that accentuates your legs and height. If your tailor is shortening your jeans, ask him or her to save the original hem and return it to the bottom. The hem of jeans is frequently one of the classiest details.