FA S H I O N A DV I C E
“D E V E LO P A S I G N AT U R E ST Y L E .” HOW TO ACTUALLY DO IT: “Figure out your go-to, foolproof looks,” says designer Nanette Lepore, then seek out variations on that theme. Stumped? Picture the outfits that you feel most comfortable in. Or ask people close to you what you look best in. Once you’ve zeroed in on what works, find different takes. “I gravitate toward jackets, so I’ll do a bomber style, then a silk version, or a denim jacket with leather sleeves,” says Minkoff. Maybe you’re at your best in sharp menswear trousers, or you favor floaty tunics and boho maxis. Regardless, this isn’t about concocting some alter ego; it’s about honoring your core aesthetic, sort of like the way a designer comes up with a collection every season. “Whenever you feel the need to talk yourself into things, that’s a red flag that you shouldn’t buy them,” says Minkoff. Homing in on your personal style should come naturally if you take the time to stop and look. If you have doubts in the dressing room, it may help to take a photo of yourself in the item, suggests Aerin Lauder, the founder and creative director of the lifestyle brand Aerin. “It’s much more accurate than looking in the mirror.”
Long earrings make your face look skinnier… …and other gems of wisdom from jewelry designer Lizzie Fortunato. • On the other hand, if you have an oblong face, short, chunky earrings, like oversize studs, will draw focus outward, and your face won’t read quite as narrow. • If you have a large bust, a necklace should hit an inch above the cleavage or higher. Longer strands or pendants will rest awkwardly on the body and call attention to every contour.
JULY 2015
Under $25, as a matter of fact.
• The worst thing you can do is store jewelry, particularly costume pieces, in the bathroom. The moisture will wear off plating quickly. Stash baubles in your bedroom in a dust bag or a zippered plastic bag along with a small piece of cloth. • Choose earrings in lighter colors, such as pearls or white stone, to make your face look radiant. • To make costume jewelry appear more expensive than it is, have the piece rest against clothing—say, fastened over the collar of a shirt—rather than on bare skin. This will create a more refined look.
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