Try a jacket over a vest over a shirt–got it?  Keep all layers relatively light-shirt and vest should be fitted, jacket a little unstructured or roomy.  You don’t want to feel too constricted.  Create a waist by belting the vest, or wearing one that hits at your waist–we don’t want to look bulky, just interesting! Your bottom half should be slim fitting pants or a skirt.

Another option is to wear a long vest over a short jacket–or vice versa!  All of these looks are great for expanding your options!

The key to long life? Go shopping!  Women who shop at least 5 days a week outlive equally healthy non-shoppers. Whether you buy anything or not is unimportant…credit the exercise, stimulation and companionship.  I’ll meet you at the Closet Exchange!

If you know what works on you, don’t mess with success.  There is a reason that certain things look good on a specific body type.  Trust your instincts.  You know your body better than anyone else.

Buy in multiples.  Ifone is good, extras in other colors make sense. Also, if it’s white, buy an extra…. something always happens.

If you are shopping for specific items, go with a list. If you are looking for things to finish an outfit-make notes on what you have– it will help keep you focused. Only buy things that fit right–that you love. Don’t settle, because you won’t wear it.  It will just hang in your closet. Don’t go by tag sizes–they are often wrong. Try everything on.  Give yourself enough time.

The whole point is to have fun and build your perfect wardrobe.

Try moving the things that just aren’t working for now– to the other side of your closet, or to the end of the rack.  This gets them out of the way, and allows you to see the things that do work.  It’s frustrating and time consuming to try things on while you’re getting ready in the morning–and realizing that they are not going to work today.

Go through the problem pieces when you have time and decide which ones will be fine (if you lose the 5 pounds), and which ones you don’t love.  Get rid of the ones you hate , and make a decision on the ones you don’t love.  Do not put anything back in the active group until it fits, or you love it.

You want a wardrobe that you can wear NOW–you’ll be surprised at how much easier it is to get dressed!

If you have great legs, play them up. This doesn’t mean minis-it just means wear skirts and dresses. Wear a length that flatters you. Beautiful collarbones? Portrait collars or wide scoop necks show them off nicely. If you are lucky enough to have a good waist–wear belts and fitted dresses.

You want to draw attention to your best assets–because at the same time , it distracts from the the flaws.

From Oprah magazine: “Every time I meet a woman who’s stuck in a fashion rut, I hear the same thing: I know, this isn’t a great outfit, but I just want to be comfortable.”  You can be comfortable without looking like you don’t care. You can look pulled together even if you are crazy busy and on a budget.

You just need to find what works for you. Experiment with clothes, jewelry and shoes to see what makes you feel amazing–what people compliment you on. Make that your “uniform”.  Wear some version of it every day.

When you find your “look”, you’ll be comfortable and look beautiful.  The purpose of fashion is to enhance who you already are.

Start with an oblong lightweight scarf (or a square scarf folded to be narrow).  Center scarf at the front of your neck. Wrap it around the back and pull ends forward. Loop the ends to make a knot. It can be tied high up against your neck or tied loosely to fall lower.

This works best with a silk scarf, or any other more delicate fabric. A beautiful scarf can add a pop of color to a simple outfit–and make the look more finished.

Try short sleeve over long sleeve!  We’ve seen it with t-shirts for a long time–but consider pairing long sleeves under your  short sleeved dresses, blouses and sweaters.  Try a short sleeved sweater over your long sleeved knit dress–a whole new look!  Your long sleeved top should be light weight and slim fitting–so you’re not adding bulk– just interest!  Play in your closet–mix it up!  You’ll be surprised at how many new looks you can find.