It's no secret that our look (thankfully) evolves as we get older.
They say your twenties are divided into two distinct phases; early and late, and this most certainly applies to style as much as anything else.
The wardrobe of your teens is undoubtedly a distant memory now, but we also go through our fair share of wardrobe revolutions and evolutions during our twenties as well.
And yet there are some golden rules which apply to all ages, and should be memorised and internalised before you reach your 30th birthday.
1. Only buy clothes that fit
It sounds obvious, but we're all guilty of buying something a size too small in the hopes we'll soon fit into it, and invariably we end up feeling frustrated, disappointed, and out of pocket.
Avoid getting fixated on clothes size, and instead assess your potential purchase purely by how it looks and feels on your body. At the end of the day, how often are you asked what size you're actually wearing?
Use the changing room as a measure of how you'll feel on the outside world. If you're unable to sit down in your new jeans, or only like the ensemble if you stand a certain way and suck in, it's not for you.
2. Do a clear-out twice a year
In order to make room for new purchases, it's advised you do a bi-annual clear-out which will ensure you go into your next shopping trip with a clearer idea of what you need.
Ask yourself if you would buy each garment if you were presented with it that day, and let that be your guide as to whether it gets tucked away or tossed.
Don't be too hasty though; some discarded items may only need a little mending or a quick spruce in order to seem appealing again.
3. Store your clothes properly
OK, so while we would all love a walk-in wardrobe and endless storage, that's not possible for most of us, but it doesn't mean we can't care for our clothes in the same manner as those with oodles of personal space.
Establish a system within your wardrobe (no matter how small it might be) invest in the right hangers, and make use of storage boxes if needs be.
Not only will proper storage ensure the longevity of your clothes, it will making styling on a day to day basis so much easier.
4. Invest in staple pieces
There's a reason this piece of advice has been doing the rounds for generations, and it's because its importance cannot be overestimated.
No matter what your personal style, there are some pieces which will always be needed, and it's always worth investing in them once you come across a style you like.
A winter coat, a blazer, a well-fitting pair of jeans, an LBD and a good quality pair of ballet pumps will be used time and time again, and are five items which can be built on in order to showcase your own personal style.
5. Pay attention to care labels
If you're the type of person to bung everything you own into the machine machine along with teatowels and beach towels, you're doing your wardrobe a major disservice.
The care labels are there for a reason, and it's important you pay heed and follow the instructions if you want each garment to retain the shape and size it was when you left the store with it.
And if the symbols mean next to nothing to you, a quick search on Google will have you sorted.
6. Get measured on the regular
The benefit of well-fitting underwear cannot be overestimated. Not only does a proper fitting bra give you the support you need, but it instantly transforms your look depending on your outfit.
While technically speaking your bra isn't generally seen, its shape, fit and texture often determine how well your top sits against your body.
It's what's on the inside that counts after all…
7. If a garment makes you uncomfortable, ditch it
Whether it's a low-ride pair of jeans, a skirt that constantly rides up or shoes that have been giving you blisters long after the 'break-in' period, you need to know when it's time to heave-ho.
Put simply, you need to be able to move in your clothes without wincing, hobbling or constantly checking yourself, and convincing yourself otherwise is a fool's game.
Chances are if you feel uncomfortable, you likely look uncomfortable, and the key to seamless style is confidence, ease and self-possession.
8. Understand the importance of accessories
There's no doubt that accessories can make or break an outfit, but there's a lot to be said for working them properly.
If your budget is limited and you rarely splash out on new clothes, style up old ensembles with a new accessory.
From belts and bangles to scarves and shades, the power of a perfectly-placed accessory is a force to be reckoned with.
