How To Dress Well: Simple Style Tips For Women 2023
Dressing nicely is important for many occasions, whether it’s for a job interview, a first date, or just a night out with friends.
However, knowing how to put together outfits that are appropriate and fashionable yet comfortable can be challenging.
In this article, I’ll be sharing some simple ways to dress nicely, no matter the occasion.
How To Dress Nicely
No matter what your signature style is, there are plenty of simple ways to dress nicely without putting in a great deal of effort.
Even a small change can have a large impact on the way you present yourself.
Whether you have a more eclectic or classic style, we’re confident these tips will help you look and feel like a million bucks!
Understand Your Body Type
It’s no secret that we all come in different shapes and sizes.
Understanding your body type is key to dressing nicely and feeling confident in your clothes.
First, let’s talk about body type.
There are generally three different body types: ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph.
Ectomorphs tend to be lean and long-limbed, mesomorphs are muscular and athletic, and endomorphs carry more body fat and have a softer appearance.
Additionally, there are all different body shapes such as pear, apple, hourglass, etc.
Depending on which body shape you are you will find that certain types of clothing help flatter your figure more than others.
Next, think about your best features.
What do you love about your body? Maybe you have toned arms, a small waist, or great legs.
Whatever it is, focus on highlighting those areas and wear clothes that help you draw attention to those assets.
Experiment with different styles and silhouettes to find what works best for you and your body type.
With a little bit of effort and attention to detail, you can look and feel your best every day.
Choose Clothes for Your Skin Tone
When it comes to dressing nicely, choosing the right colors can make all the difference.
One important factor to consider is your skin tone.
As someone with a warm skin tone, I’ve learned that certain colors complement my complexion better than others.
Here are some tips for choosing clothes based on your skin tone:
- Cool skin tone: If you have cool undertones, look for colors that have a blue or pink base. Avoid yellow or orange hues, as they can wash you out. Some flattering colors for cool skin tones include jewel tones, pastels, and icy shades.
- Warm skin tone: If you have warm undertones, look for colors that have a yellow or orange base. Avoid cool colors like blue or purple, as they can clash with your skin tone. Some flattering colors for warm skin tones include earthy tones, warm reds, and golden yellows.
- Neutral skin tone: If you have a neutral skin tone, you’re lucky! You can pull generally choose from a wide range of colors. While you can likely pull off a lighter or darker shade, sticking to neutrals like beige, gray, and navy is best if you’re going for a classic look. You can also experiment with bold colors and patterns.
When it comes to choosing colors, it’s also important to consider the occasion.
Neutral colors like black, white, and gray are always a safe bet for formal events, while bright colors can be fun for casual outings.
Remember, these are just guidelines.
The most important thing is to wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and styles until you find what works for you.
Remember, style rules are meant to be broken!
Special Occasion Dressing Etiquette
When it comes to dressing for special occasions, it’s important to pay attention to the dress code.
Different events will have different dress codes, and it’s important to dress appropriately for the occasion.
For example, a black-tie event will require formal attire, while a casual backyard BBQ may only require casual attire.
One staple piece that every woman should have in her wardrobe for special occasions is a little black dress whereas for men dress shirts are special occasion staples.
This versatile piece can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
For a formal event, pair it with heels and statement jewelry, while for a more casual event, pair it with sandals and a denim jacket.
When dressing for a special occasion, it’s also important to consider the venue and weather.
Keeping Up with Current Trends
As someone who loves to dress nicely, I always try to keep up with the latest fashion trends.
If you love to stay on top of the latest trends here are a few ways you can easily do so:
- Follow fashion influencers on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. They often share their outfits and provide insights into the latest fashion trends.
- Read fashion magazines and blogs to stay up-to-date on the latest fashion trends. Some of my favorites include Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Refinery29.
- Shop at stores that carry the latest fashion trends. Some of my favorite stores include Zara, H&M, and Forever 21.
- Attend fashion shows and events in your area. This is a great way to see the latest fashion trends in action and get inspiration for your own outfits.
- Experiment with different styles and trends to see what works for you. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
Remember, fashion trends come and go, so it’s important to stay true to your own personal style and only incorporate trends that you truly love and feel comfortable wearing.
The Importance of Tailoring
When it comes to dressing nicely, one of the most important things to keep in mind is the fit of your clothes.
That’s where tailoring comes in. Finding a good tailor can make all the difference.
First and foremost, a good tailor can help you achieve the perfect fit.
Whether it’s a dress shirt, a suit jacket, or a pair of pants, a tailor can make sure that your clothes fit you like a glove.
This not only looks better, but it’s also more comfortable to wear. No more feeling constricted or suffocated in your clothes!
It’s also important to keep in mind that tailoring isn’t just for fancy occasions.
Even if you’re just wearing a dress shirt to work or a pair of jeans on the weekend, having clothes that fit well can make all the difference.
Wearing well-fitting clothes shows that you care about your appearance and take pride in presenting yourself to the world.
Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
Stepping out of your comfort zone can be a great way to discover new looks and different styles that you never knew you could pull off.
One way to start is by experimenting with colors.
If you usually wear neutral colors like black, white, and gray, try adding a pop of color to your outfit.
You can start small by wearing a colorful accessory like a scarf or a statement piece like a chainlink necklace, and if you feel more daring, try wearing a bright top or pants.
Another way to try something new is by playing with different textures.
If you usually wear cotton or denim, try incorporating leather or silk into your outfit.
Mixing textures can add depth and interest to your look.
Don’t be afraid to try new styles either. If you usually wear skinny jeans, try a pair of wide-leg pants or culottes.
If you usually wear dresses, try a jumpsuit or a pantsuit. You might be surprised at how much you like the new silhouette.
Remember, stepping out of your comfort zone doesn’t mean you have to completely change your style.
It’s all about trying new things and finding what works for you.
Start small and work your way up to more daring looks. Who knows, you might discover a new favorite outfit or style that you never would have considered before.
Building a Capsule Wardrobe
As someone who loves fashion, I believe that building a capsule wardrobe is the best way to dress nicely.
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.
It’s a great way to simplify your wardrobe and ensure that you always have something to wear.
When building a capsule wardrobe, it’s important to start with key pieces.
These are the items that you will wear the most, so you want to make sure that they are good quality and versatile.
Some examples of key pieces include:
- A classic white t-shirt
- A well-fitting pair of jeans
- A tailored blazer
- A little black dress
- Comfortable flats or sneakers
- A leather jacket
Once you have your key pieces, you can start adding in essential pieces.
These are items that will help you create a variety of outfits and add some personality to your wardrobe.
Some examples of essential pieces include:
- A statement coat
- Printed tops or blouses
- Bold accessories
- Trendy shoes or boots
- A versatile skirt or dress
When choosing essential pieces, it’s important to think about your personal style and what you feel comfortable wearing.
Don’t be afraid to try something new, but also don’t feel like you have to follow every trend.
Wear Clothes That Flatter Your Figure
When it comes to dressing nicely, one of the most important things to keep in mind is wearing clothes that flatter your body type.
This means choosing pieces that highlight your best features and fit well, rather than just following the latest trends.
The first thing you want to do is invest in a few key pieces that are universally flattering, such as well-fitting jeans or a classic blazer, as mentioned above.
These items can be dressed up or down, and will always make you feel put-together.
When it comes to choosing the right clothes, it’s important to pay attention to fit.
Clothes that are too tight or too loose can be unflattering, so make sure to try things on and take note of how they fit in different areas.
For example, if you have a smaller waist, look for pieces that cinch in at the waist or have a defined silhouette.
Another important factor to consider is color.
Certain colors can complement your skin tone and make you look more vibrant, while others can wash you out.
Experiment with different shades to find what works best for you.
Finally, don’t be afraid to try new styles and trends, but always make sure they work for your body type.
Just because something looks great on someone else doesn’t mean it will work for you.
Trust your instincts and choose pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable.
Invest in Timeless Pieces
You can never go wrong by investing in timeless pieces.
Classic items like a simple white t-shirt will never go out of style and can be worn for years to come because it’s so versatile.
When shopping for timeless pieces, it’s important to look for quality over quantity.
Investing in well-made items may cost more upfront, but they will last a long time and save you money in the long run.
Another great thing about investing in timeless pieces is that they can be mixed and matched with other items in your wardrobe to create many different outfits.
For example, a white shirt can be paired with blue jeans for a casual look or with a skirt for a more formal occasion.
This versatility makes these items even more valuable.
Styling for the Long Run
Sure, it’s easy to throw on a trendy outfit for a night out, but will that same outfit still be stylish in a year or two? Probably not.
To ensure that your wardrobe stands the test of time, it’s a good idea to invest in classic pieces that will never go out of style.
A classic trench coat, linen shorts, and/or button-down shirts in classic colors are items that never have, and likely never will, go out of style.
In addition to investing in classic pieces, it’s important to take proper care of your clothes.
Properly washing and storing your clothes can make a huge difference in how long they last.
Choosing Everyday Wear
I always prioritize comfort and versatility over anything else.
I want to feel good in what I’m wearing, but I also want to be able to wear it in a variety of settings.
For me, items like fitted bodysuits are a go-to for everyday wear.
They’re one of those pieces of clothing that are not only comfortable but can also be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
For a day of running errands I’ll throw on a bodysuit with a pair of denim shorts and then to make it a bit dressier for going out to dinner I’ll swap out the shorts for linen pants.
When choosing new pieces, think about how much use you would get out of them on a daily basis.
If you can’t envision yourself wearing I regularly, or do you have a specific event in mind that you plan to wear it for, chances are you don’t need it.
Organizing Your Closet
Is your closet organized? If not, get on it girl!
Waking up to a clean and organized closet is the perfect way to change the way you feel about getting dressed every day.
If your closet isn’t organized, start out by making a list of what tasks you are going to tackle first.
What is most important to you? Decluttering and getting rid of what you don’t want/wear/like? Keeping things organized by color? By style? By season?
Whatever will make it easier for you to keep your closet neat, start small, and then work your way through!
And don’t even consider buying any new clothes until you’ve gone through what you already have.
When you keep your closet organized it is MUCH easier to visualize what items would go well together and it will save you so much time in the future trying to create outfits.
Side note: Keeping a capsule wardrobe isn’t for everyone, but it’s also a good way to really hone in on the things you gravitate towards and what things you do/don’t need.
It can also make it much easier to get dressed because you aren’t overwhelmed by all the extra “stuff”.
Wear the right undergarments
This might seem like common sense to some but I’m still shocked at how many people don’t know the right color/style of undergarments to wear with their clothes.
If you are wearing clothing made of fabric that is very slinky/thin it is imperative to wear undergarments that won’t show through your clothing.
Nowadays there are so many seamless and no-show styles it should be a piece of cake to find something no matter what you need to pair it with.
This 3-pack is a great option for underwear.
One of the best fashion tips I was ever taught was to always wear nude underwear instead of white!
BTW – This is my favorite bra ever. It’s incredibly comfortable and you can’t see it under ANYTHING!
Choose the right accessories
Your choice of accessories can make or break your entire ensemble.
A statement bag, earrings, or even shoes can actually make your whole outfit.
But…don’t overdo it.
You don’t have to wear a bracelet, earrings, rings, and sunglasses all at the same time.
Sometimes, a statement belt or statement earrings will do the trick.
You don’t have to spend a fortune on these pieces either.
There are tons of places online that offer affordable accessories and shoes that you can wear year-round.
Balance is key!
There are almost always exceptions to every rule but generally speaking, you want to “balance out” your top and bottom pieces.
For example, if you’re wearing skintight leggings you should avoid wearing a skintight top.
Instead, opt for an oversized sweater or a boyfriend t-shirt.
If you go this route, you could always throw on a fitted moto jacket if you feel like you need some shape up top.
One of the best options to balance out a bodycon dress that hugs every curve is a faux fur jacket or once again, a moto jacket.
As I mentioned earlier, a good moto jacket can work with SO many outfits!
Wear what you’re comfortable in
If you don’t feel comfortable in what you’re wearing it doesn’t matter if you dress nicely. You have to FEEL good, too.
You just need to figure out how you can dress nicely while being comfortable at the same time.
Sure, it might take some effort and a few fails, but you never know until you try something new!
If you constantly find yourself searching for the same style of pants over and over, it’s probably because you feel like they are flattering for your shape, and/or you find them comfortable.
That’s ok! Just find some coordinating pieces in different styles/colors that you can pair them with to come up with some new outfit ideas.
Take Care of Your Shoes
You can have the best outfit ever but if your shoes are filthy or in poor condition, it can ruin the entire look.
Whether it’s dress shoes, sneakers, sandals, etc., taking good care of your shoes goes a long way.
Invest in a good shoe protectant and cleaner and keep your shoes in tip-top shape!
Show the right amount of skin
Knowing just how much skin to show is extremely important, especially when we’re talking about how to dress nicely.
One style tip to follow when you’re trying to figure out how much skin to show is to even it out.
If you are wearing a super revealing or low-cut top, keep your legs covered. I
f you are wearing a mini skirt or a dress with a super high leg slit, keep your upper body more concealed.
This is the simplest way to avoid overdoing it.
Ironing/steaming goes a long way
Ironed clothes can INSTANTLY take your outfit from loungewear to out-of-the-house appropriate.
I’ll be honest, ironing is not my favorite thing to do.
If you feel the same, check out this rapid wrinkle-release spray. It’s a lifesaver. Ok, maybe not a lifesaver, but a timesaver? 100%.
I only became aware of this spray when we were getting ready to go on a cruise and the cruise line didn’t provide (or allow) irons on board.
I surely didn’t want to spend our entire trip looking a hot mess so in my search for a fix I found this spray.
You can use this on everything from a nice suit to an evening gown and it’s safer to use on high-quality pieces than an iron.
Conclusion
When trying to dress nicely, there are many factors to consider.
However, all of the easy steps above will help you to dress nicely, whether it’s casual outfits you prefer or dressier looks.
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- What To Wear With Leggings + 10 Outfit Ideas
- 10 Tips To Coordinate Family Photos
- What Is A Midi Dress And How Do You Style It?
- How To Wear Knee High Boots {10 Outfit Ideas Included!}
- What To Wear With Leggings & 10+ Outfit Ideas
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