Did you make a resolution to update your style, but you're not sure where to start? Does it all seem a little overwhelming? Then here are some baby steps - simple and straightforward ways you can move toward the upgrade you're craving.
You can approach your journey in two ways - look at things to add to your regular routine, or just change up what you're already doing. Both do require a little work - adding means another step in the mornings (but a simple one), and change means breaking one habit to start another. Either way - a few baby steps will start you down the path, and once you get a taste of it, the ball will be rolling...
ADD JEWELS
Adding jewelry to your existing look is one of the easiest style upgrades. A necklace, bracelet or eye-catching earrings will elevate even the simplest look - and it also gives you an opportunity to express some personality.
Our favorite quick add is a necklace under or over the collar of a button-down shirt. It brings attention to your face and won't get in the way if you use your hands a lot during the day. You can go with a statement piece, or opt for something subtle that still has presence. After all, if you're going to the trouble of wearing it, isn't it nice if someone notices?
photos: top left - turningpoint2.tumblr.com; bottom left - keltiecolleen.buzznet.com; right - brooklynblonde.com
ADD A THIRD PIECE
A third piece is an outfit completer. You start with pants or a skirt, add a top - but then you need something else to pull it together. Luckily, third pieces come in many many forms. Grab a lightweight cardigan if the weather's warm, a chunky sweater to beat the chill, or a military jacket if you're just running around. Your outfit will look more purposeful - and those pockets may come in handy, too.
photos: left to right - pinterest.com/urbsuburbstyle, wendyslookbook.com, kimair.blogspot.com
CHANGE COLOR
If you're apprehensive about change, a good way to approach it is to start with something you already wear, and just update one aspect. So stick with your standby look of a t-shirt, cardigan and skinnies, but add some color. Be bold - trade out your denim for cobalt skinny jeans, or your grey cardigan sweater for a kelly green one - or both! You'll still feel comfortable, but now your outfit says a little more about you.
photos: left to right - fabsugar.com, brooklynblonde.com, dresstoimpressfashion.blogspot.com
CHANGE TO PRINT
You can play with print in the same way you play with color - wear silhouettes you're comfortable with, but enhance your overall look by trading out a solid item for a patterned one. When your solid top (or skirt) transforms to a printed one, your look suddenly comes alive. And if you're daring, try a patterned coat!
photos: left - brooklynblonde.com; top center - melbournegirl.com.au; bottom center - brittandwhit.com; right - theclassycubicle.com
CHANGE TO A BLAZER
If you're already good with the idea of a third piece, but find yourself always grabbing that denim jacket - step it up with a blazer. Blazers are more structured and innately dressier than casual jackets, but just as easy to wear - they instantly elevate even a t-shirt and jeans. And one of the best things? A slightly fitted one shows off your figure (even unbuttoned), so you're adding a dose of shape to your look.
photos: left - whowhatwear.com; top center - theglitterguide.tumblr.com; bottom center - jcrew.tumblr.com; right - harpersbazaar.com
CHANGE TO WIDE LEG
Are skinnies your best friend? Then let us introduce you to a wider leg! Wide leg pants are a little more comfortable, and do a lot more for your figure. They balance out a larger top half, minimize hips, and make you look longer and leaner than your (former) best friend ever could.
photos: left to right - ww38.apparel-accessories.ocdinvestments.com, dropdeadgorgeousdaily.com, thisisposter.com, fabsugar.com
CHANGE TO A DRESS
If you're an everyday pants and sweater gal, you can get dressed in one less step by opting for an easy dress. A dress is almost a whole look by itself, so it couldn't get any less complicated. Throw on a pair of tights, some boots, and you are good to go. C'mon, just try it - please?
photos: left to right - refinery29.com, grilledshrimpskewers.blogspot.com, kimair.blogspot.com
CHANGE TO POINTY TOE FLATS
You love your ballet flats. You live in your ballet flats. But it's time to make a point (literally). Change it up with some pointy toe flats - you get all the comfort of a flat, but the extended toe makes your legs look a mile longer. And don't we all secretly wish for longer legs?
photos: left - beyondtherow.hollywood.com; top right - pinterest.com/LizDawson10; bottom right - apreppystateofmind.com
