A well-stocked closet will make dressing a breeze
Dressing well doesn't have to cost you a fortune. In fact, you may already have everything you need in your closet right now. If you pay attention to fit, detail and quality, your clothing should make you look effortlessly chic and will last for years. You don't have to have an ingrained fashion sense to dress well. Just pay special attention to what suits your body, personality and lifestyle.
Wardrobe
You should always have a fitted T-shirt and long-sleeve shirt in both black and white. Women should also have tank tops in each of these colors. Brown and gray are super-versatile staples that you can stock up on. Everyone needs one pair of quality jeans that fit and flatter them. Jeans are worth paying a few bucks more for since you're likely to wear them often. A white button-down shirt will instantly make you look polished as long as it's clean and ironed. Invest in a quality black suit; It's timeless and will make you look instantly professional. A pinstriped oxford shirt goes great with everything from suits to jeans, so keep one on hand. Make sure you have at least one blazer to layer over shirts. Always have one outfit appropriate for black-tie events; you never know when you might need it and it's almost impossible to shop for when you actually do. For big-ticket items, spend a day thinking about it. If you still want it after a day, go back and buy it.
Fit
Don't buy clothing you don't feel comfortable in, even if it's fashionable. You'll only wear it once and you'll regret passing up that item that made you look good and feel good. If shoes are slightly uncomfortable in the store, they'll be unbearable once you actually wear them. Don't ever buy clothes you hope to fit into someday. Buy what looks good on you now and get it altered or replace it if your size changes. Your jackets and coats should always be fitted; otherwise, it may cause you appear unkempt and heavier than you actually are.
Style
Keep an open mind when it comes to color. While its easy to spend every day in black, white and navy, you'll miss out on some truly flattering garments that way. Use prints, but use them sparingly if you're uncertain. A patterned tank top or tie is the perfect stand-out accent to an otherwise unassuming ensemble. Try to keep the number of colors in an outfit at a minimum. Any more than three, and you will look sloppy. It's better to be overdressed for an event than underdressed. If you're unsure about appropriate attire for an event, bring something along that can dress up a casual outfit. Blazers, ties, cardigans and jewelry can all take a casual look to next level in a matter of seconds.
Maintenance
Get to know your neighborhood tailor; he can make the difference between an adequate wardrobe and a stylish one. For both men and women, the work of a good tailor can make clothes that looked pretty good in the store look like they were made for you. Have jeans hemmed or taken in at the waist for a perfect fit; it will only cost a few dollars but the effect is priceless. Wash your clothing according to the directions to make them last longer. If you're unlikely to properly care for "hand wash only" items, don't buy them! For quality shoes that you love, resole them when they get worn down. It's cheaper than buying a new pair and it will make them last longer.
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