The Sunday News
Rutendo Chidawanyika
DO you ever come across ladies that seem put together; makeup is on point; nails well kempt; simple hairdo but still elegant, clean clothes that fit well? Well, that is CLASS! These particular ladies look like they just rolled out of a magazine cover and we all want to look like them.
The older you become, you stop trying to squeeze into high waist pants; switch your style from trashy to classy. A classy and sophisticated style can be worn to work, Sunday brunch, a city shopping trip, or even traveling the world.
Style is something personal to each of us has, but we just have to understand it and then live it. A personal style projects your mood, personality, as well as your personal interests, lifestyle, and inspirations. However, dressing classy doesn’t have to be difficult, but taking some time to mould it to your personal style is easier. When you find your personal style you know you look great and feel confident.
The trick to wearing sophisticated clothing is to keep everything neat, clean, and simple. Also, make sure that the clothes are flattering on you and colours and patterns are balanced. Apart from it, your clothes should be free of creases as it can even make expensive clothes cheap. You may stick with neutrals with pops of colour, but don’t over-accessorise. A classy pair of earrings and a watch will look more sophisticated over oversized costume jewellery.
Remember, you don’t need a lot of money to dress classy. Don’t automatically discount the clothing you already have in your closet. You may be able to integrate items in ways you didn’t think possible. You don’t have to completely give up your own style to be classy and chic, but it will require some effort and modifications.
1. Keep your makeup simple and natural. For a smooth complexion, look for a tinted moisturiser with sunscreen, that way you only pay for one product and get three. If you want to buy expensive brands such as MAC or Estee Lauder, wait until they have a sale so you can get some great free items too.
— Choose a soft blush for a healthy flush, and clump-free mascara. Natural eye makeup with minimal liner finishes off your eyes.
— For lips, use a soft, natural gloss. Lip gloss is the one item you reapply throughout the day, so if you can invest in a better brand, that would help.
2. Variety of clothing is KEY.
Classic styles are the best option because you can wear them for years and save lots of money. Avoid synthetics such as acrylic sweaters (which pull easily) and shiny polyester tops.
— If you wear jeans, avoid anything over-embellished or distressed. Make sure you have one longer pair for heels and a shorter pair for flats. A straight cut, or a boot-cut is the most classic.
— Plain, fitted, not too tight or too loose cotton tees are great on their own or layered. Black, white, and muted colours will go from season-to-season easily.
— Cardigans are a great staple; a cotton blend is best because it will be warm enough for winter but not too hot for summer.
For outerwear, find a classic trench coat in a nude colour and a wool coat for winter in black or navy. Make sure everything you buy fits correctly, or spend a little bit of money at a tailor to make it fit well. When showing skin, make sure to balance: if you show a little leg, cover up on top and vice versa.
— Make sure hemlines and necklines are modest enough to avoid wardrobe malfunctions. Look for good quality brands at good prices. Another great strategy is to be on alert for sales at big stores and boutiques, especially at the end of each season.
3. Take care of your nails.
Short, clean nails are a must. If you want to use nail polish, avoid weird-looking designs. Choose a solid colour in nude, soft pink, or a classic red.
4. Smell good, ALWAYS.
No outfit is complete without a luxe fragrance to match. Find a scent you love and apply it to your skin (never on your clothing or hair) at major pulse points. Heat rises, so it’s important to apply perfume to points on the lower half of your body in addition to places like your wrists, elbows, and the nape of the neck. To avoid mixing too many fragrances, treat your skin with an unscented moisturiser before applying perfume.
After reading this article, you can look like that girl who just rolled out the magazine cover. Keep it classy and moving.
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