Many times, when someone is trying to improve themselves they forget about fashion. They think of fashion as a frivolous enterprise, when nothing could be further than the truth. What you choose to wrap your body in says a lot about you. Here are some stylish fashion tips to make sure you’re saying the right thing!

Looking great does not have to cost a fortune. If you want to build your wardrobe but don’t have the funds to get the look you’re after, check out your local thrift and consignment stores. These stores offer a plethora of fashion options at a fraction of their retail price.

Black is a good basic color to wear with other colors, but do not concentrate on wearing black all the time. While wearing black on the bottom half of your body can be somewhat slimming, make sure you jazz your style up by adding something colorful on your upper body.

When you wear two items of the same color, make sure that the shades are a perfect or near-perfect match. For example, do not wear a navy blue shirt with a midnight blue pair of pants. Even though they are both blue, it does not look as well put together as it would have if both pieces were the same color.

The basic black dress is essential for any woman’s wardrobe. You can wear this dress for casual occasions by accessorizing it with a pair of comfortable pumps. You can wear the same dress for a more formal occasion if you put up your hair and accessorize with a pearl necklace and earrings.

Use your accessories to add color to your outfit. This is a great tip if you happen to have a large stock of earth tones or blacks and whites. Get a bright-colored tie, purse, or shoes depending on who you are and what fits you. It is a great way to stand out without having to be very brave.

Use many colors when creating an outfit. You do not want every piece to match perfectly, that is not the point of fashion. Instead find ways to create creative color schemes. For example, a purple dress can be matched with yellow, silver, black or green accessories. Just have fun with it.

If you are larger and you would like to look smaller, avoid wearing clothing that has big shapes and flowers. Large shapes can make you look even larger. Rather, select a floral pattern that has small flowers to de-emphasize your size.

Throw away that sweater with the hole in it or those jeans that are barely staying together at the crotch. They may feel like old friends, but if you’re spotted in them, you’re going to be viewed as the neighborhood bag lady. It’s easy to forget that your shirt is stained if you suddenly have to leave the house. Buy and wear clothing that you won’t mind being seen in.

Always keep a little (or not that little) black dress in your closet. A classic black dress is always in season and looks great at formal occasions. There are brand name styles as well inexpensive but elegant varieties. There is no reason to skip buying a black dress to add to your wardrobe.

Wear age appropriate clothing. It’s something some women don’t want to let go of, but there comes a time when a super-short skirt is no longer flattering. Pay attention to how your clothes set you off through all stages of your life, and it will serve you well. The good news is that there are some clothes that look great on older women that younger women can’t pull off, so there is always something fashionable to look forward to.

Add your personality to your style. You can aim to not match on purpose and wear shoes that don’t match your outfit. It is impossible to be perfect, so having a controlled sense of chaos makes you stand out and implies you have a unique fashion sense.

Try using a scarf to boost the look of your outfit. Scarves can be subtle or they can be bold. They can be the piece that ties everything together or the piece that ruins the entire ensemble. Try to find a color, pattern, print, or fabric that complements what you’re wearing.

For a fun and simple daytime look, wear your hair in a casual up-do. Use an accessory that coordinates with your outfit to hold most of your hair in place. Allow some gentle pieces to fall out and frame your face. You will feel cooler, and look casually appealing to everyone!

Probably the most important tip is to always be comfortable in whatever you are wearing. You may be wearing the most glamorous dress at a party, but if you aren’t comfortable in this dress, people are going to notice. This is why you should pick out an item that feels good on you. Do not forget to smile and let your personality shine through!

One great fashion tip is to pay attention to what specific designer or brand fit you best. This is a very good idea because many times, a designer will mold their outfits around a specific body type or individual so you will find success with much of their clothing options.

To avoid dry skin, be sure to eat properly. Dry skin can be caused by malnutrition and dehydration. It is very important to eat a balanced diet that contains healthful oils such as flaxseed, grapeseed and olive oil. Drink plenty of pure, filtered water to stay hydrated and avoid dry skin.

You can tell your friend about the latest that you learned about fashion so that they know you are really trying to help out their image. It’s a good thing to assist a friend with their fashion so that they are looking as good as possible when they go out with you.

What you wear says a great deal about who you are. Use the tips in this article to help you choose the looks that best describe you in the way you want to be seen by the world. When you look good, you make a statement about yourself. Make it a good one.