Awhile back, I wrote an article to help out those who felt they needed some tips in the fashion department… namely men. While out and about at some recent tech events, I met a few of you that wanted to know when the article for women would be posted. I admit, I was shocked. Since moving to Los Angeles, I haven’t seen such a city of well-dressed women in my life. Call it a by-product of living next to movie stars whose job is to look good, but the trickle down effect of style seems to have done well for everyone. I was assured, however, that there are some women who could benefit from the knowledge of someone as well put together as myself. *ahem*
After reading Casey McKinnon’s article on helping women buy the best clothes, I wasn’t really sure what I could add to the topic. I have been known to have mild panic attacks preceding events over what to wear and my daily wardrobe can sometimes consist of a rotation of jeans and hoodies. I do have some aces up my sleeve on how to get myself presentable for every occasion even if my budget doesn’t always allow me that “perfect” Marc Jacobs dress I’ve been drooling over.
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to always have a backup. What do I mean? Let me explain: generally, women tend to go shopping before a big event that’s looming, usually complaining that they’re not finding anything they like. It’s the big cosmic rule of shopping — you can never find anything when you need it. What I mean by the word “backup” is that you should always keep an eye out for something you can keep hidden in your closet for sudden events and (hopefully) dates. While out window shopping or even on lunch break, if you see something you like but don’t have anything to wear it to.. just try it on. Maybe that event will magically appear out of nowhere.
It also doesn’t hurt to have your go-to dress that always fits just right and is friend-approved — in case your fashion foresight has a blind spot. I have an awesome black dress from American Apparel that I have gotten plenty of mileage out of and looks great year-round.
Here in Los Angeles, I’ve been bombarded with so many different dress requirements I want to faint. A recent tizzy I was thrown in for was “upscale casual” which (despite asking several people) everyone was at a loss to clearly define. While it seems obvious, a good rule I’ve always stuck with is it’s better to overdress than under-dress. ‘Tis far far better to have everyone staring at you in awe of your gorgeous outfit than to have looks of scorn at your sneaker-covered feet. Sure, your feet will be happy, but you’ll most likely feel uncomfortable in other ways.
I’m still a doofus when it comes to hair — mine is really only good at being long — but if you’re really frustrated with your hair, play with it. I have exactly two fail-safe plans to styling my hair and I think most women can get away with the same. Same goes for makeup, in case you feel clueless about it. If you’re ever bored and feel like getting a makeover, put those makeup girls at Nordy’s to work and describe what kind of look you’re going for. Pay attention to what they’re doing and figure out how you can streamline it to work for your morning routine or event. My personal favorites for makeup are Laura Mercier and Shu Uemura, but go find a brand that speaks to your skin tone and aesthetics.
If all else fails, scour through fashion magazines for inspiration and ways to help you pull off that look you’ve always wanted. Or, in my case, reach for your laptop and just google “upscale casual”…
Photo from organizingla.com
