Happy 2012, everyone!
Here we are, at the beginning of a new year. There are still quite a few months before the end of the world, so instead of talking about that, let's talk about something more fun!
Many of us are making resolutions since that's we do in January. Some of us have started dieting again (me) and vowing to work out at the gym every day (me) while some of us are resolving to learn something new, say no more often without feeling guilty, and make changes in life that will be hard, but necessary, whatever that may be.
I'd like to think that some people are also making resolutions to live a year fashion-faux-pas-free! That means that you're going to dress for YOU—in what you love and feel comfortable in—but at the same time, dress in a way that ensures you'll never end up on the pages of Glamour as a DON'T.
It's really simple. Really. If you remember a few golden rules, well, you'll be golden, too.
1. Keep it classy
This means that you shouldn't leave your house looking like Lady Gaga or Katy Perry unless it's Halloween and you're going to a costume party. Wear jeans that cover your behind, and leave the crop tops in your 1998 time capsule, okay? For inspiration look at Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly. Even Marilyn Monroe. Or the entire cast of Mad Men. Timeless, classic beautiful women. (And men!) Invest in a crisp white shirt, find a pair of jeans that fit you, and always wear a nice pair of shoes. (You can use this as an excuse to shop!)
2. LEGGINGS ARE NOT PANTS
Leggings, as you should know by now if your Ali's blog, are not pants. Please, please remember to COVER UP your behind or don't leave the house. Okay? This is why long sweaters and tops exist. So you can wear them with your leggings! And cute knee boots! Make it work...or don't even try.
3. Less is not always more
Bikinis on the beach or by the pool? Of course, and my favourite place to shop for bikinis is Old Navy, because they have the cutest designs at unbelievable prices, so you can wear a new bikini every day of the week if you wanted to, but make sure your parts are properly covered up, okay? Skanky looking is not classy. Keep it classy, San Diego.
4. Be original (to a point)
I'm all for expressing yourself and staying true to who you are, but within reason. I am not a fan of people who look like cartoon characters, wear ripped tights and nylons (seriously, TAKE THEM OFF) and are covered in over two dozen tattoos. Just, don't. You're not Gaga, or Madonna. You're also not going to get a real job dressing and looking that way. (If you're looking for the type of job that has some sort of rules about what you can and cannot wear.) Be yourself, but do it in a way so that you still look respectable. You're allowed to make a few mistakes when you're a teenager (we all did!) but once you're in your twenties, dress your age.
5. Don't stick to black
I love black, and I wear black a lot. I also love clothes in bright colours like pink, bright blue, and yellow. This year, go outside your comfort zone and wear a colour that is going to be hot this spring—orange! Just try a little colour—I promise you will not regret it. Even if it's only a pair of shoes, or a bright shade of lipstick, if you're not ready to wear an orange dress this summer. Baby steps!
Here's to a year of being a DO when it comes to fashion. Stick to stores that make it easy to stay off the DON'T list—Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Anthropologie... all my favourite stores. I generally play it safe with fashion, and these stores have never failed me.
Next up: the looks that are going to be hot in 2012—you better make some room in your closet!
Happy shopping—and happy 2012!
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