Having just turned 30, I’ve been reflecting on my fashion choices both past and present. I’ve definitely made my fair share of cringe-worthy sartorial decisions. (Haven’t we all??) But I’ve learned a lot of great lessons along the way. All the magazines I’ve worked at in the past taught me something valuable about fashion and personal style. Glamour taught me about the high-low mix, and how chic it was to get a good deal. (While also highlighting the pieces that are definitely splurge-worthy!) Women’s Health taught me about real women and what they are and aren’t willing to splurge on. Teen Vogue taught me about expressing your personality through your wardrobe, and always taking fashion risks. (Plus, that’s where I learned how to print mix like a pro!) I’ve distilled the 30 most important fashion lessons I’ve learned in the past 30 years. I think they’re lessons every woman should learn by the time she’s 30. Check them out:
- Fit is everything.
- A good tailor is your best friend.
- You don’t have to try all the trends.
- Timeless doesn’t have to mean boring.
- A nude pump is the ultimate must-have.
- Splurge on staples, save on trends.
- Invest in the perfect LBD. (You’ll wear it forever)
- Know your body; what works, and what doesn’t.
- Own at least one thing that makes you feel like a supermodel.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment.
- Beware of cheap lace, sequins or embellishments.
- Splurge on good shoes. If your shoes are nice enough, you can get away with almost anything.
- Replace your white button down every 6 months. (They get dingy)
- If you haven’t worn it in a year, get rid of it.
- Red lipstick can elevate the most basic of looks.
- If you own only one pair of earrings… make sure they’re diamond studs.
- Nothing is worse than buyer’s remorse. BUY THE SHOES.
- Leopard is a neutral.
- Not everyone will like your outfit. Your opinion is the only one that matters.
- Denim best practices dictate that you should NEVER wash your jeans. (If that makes you feel icky, try to do it every couple of months. DEFINITELY not more than once a month.)
- Don’t buy uncomfortable shoes. No matter how cute they are, you won’t wear them.
- Confidence is the key to “pulling it off”. If you feel confident in something, it’ll show.
- Leggings. Are. Not. Pants. If you are wearing leggings, PLEASE make sure your top is long enough to cover your butt.
- Spanx are a gift from heaven.
- The perfect black blazer is a must-have.
- A leather jacket can be worn with anything.
- The proper undergarments are the foundation to your look.
- Clear nailpolish will keep cheap costume jewelry from tarnishing/making your skin green.
- BUY A STEAMER.
- Fashion tape will save you from a variety of wardrobe malfunctions.
What do you think??
Such a great list, Stephanie! I’m almost 30 and I need to embrace a few more of your thoughts.
Thanks Katie! Glad you enjoyed. I felt so introspective when I turned 30… still feels a little surreal. xx S
I think this post is perfect! Your list is spot on. Ironically, I just bought some nude heels this week! Great post Stephanie.
Love,
Ann of Kremb de la Kremb
Thanks Ann!! So glad you bought a nude heel… they’re SO good. Elongate your legs, look great with everything… the perfect shoe! xx S
It’s great when age comes with wisdom isn’t it! As you get older, the great thing is you know your body more, what works, what doesnt. You buy less into fads and at the same time you are more keen to experiment! Well this applies to me anyway and I’m now in my mid 30s!
It’s so true! I think, for the most part, the older you get the more comfortable you are with yourself and the better you know yourself. So you’re a bit more willing to take chances. At the end of the day, I think that’s the most important part… being willing to take a chance. xx S
This may be the best list of fashion advice I’ve read!… and I’m definitely going to have to try that clear nail polish trick!
Kisses from IFB Links a la Mode!
Sarah
http://everydaystarlet.com/
Thanks so much, Sarah! I’m glad you liked it. The clear nailpolish trick is awesome! I’ve also heard that you can spray the jewelry with clear acrylic spray, but I haven’t tried it. I’d be scared that it would change the color of the metal!! But it’s worth a shot maybe?? xx S
Number 14 might just be my own worst enemy. Or my closet’s worst enemy, I should say.
I’m TOTALLY on board with number 17! I still reminisce about the things I left behind in stores…
I HEAR YOU!! Trust me, it’s tough for ME too. I love to hoard stuff, I’m constantly scared I’m going to get rid of something and regret it terribly. But the truth is, the stuff sitting in my closet, I’m just NOT going to wear it! I think we feel comfort knowing it’s there if we want it. But really, just get rid of it and make space for new stuff! 🙂
As for #17, sometimes I leave something behind and if I can’t stop thinking about it for 24 hours, I’ll go back. Have to be careful with that strategy though, it may not be there when you go back!! Buyer’s remorse is THE WORST!!! xx S
Yes I think this list is a pretty good checklist- I’d have to add an extension to No.8 though and that is that you HAVE to be honest with YOURSELF about your body (not negative, just honest), which can be the hardest part, I turned 30 last year, and my figure is no longer what it was at 18- its not bad, but I do have to work on it and small things have changed which make a big difference where clothing is concerned. but as you get older it only becomes more important, your body changes- you have to adapt to that, and plus a true understanding of what works for you shape/size will only help nail no.1: a good fit!
Sah xx
http://thedspencery.blogspot.com
Totally agree Sah! There are a lot of people who aren’t honest with themselves about their bodies, and other people NOTICE. Age is important too! There are some trends or styles that just aren’t appropriate at a certain age. I’m always hesitant to make any hard and fast rules that apply to everyone- we’re all different. But that’s where knowing YOURSELF is important! xx S