Rules were made to be broken, but some traditional guidelines may be just what you need when it comes to figuring out how to style yourself for different occasions, seasons, and body types.

You should always wear what you want and what makes you happy. But occasionally we could all use a little guidance when it comes to how to find the right clothing.

We’ve gathered some tips for those who both love and hate shopping to make it easier for you to look stylish no matter what you put on.

Men:

1. Focus on fit

Just because it’s your size doesn’t mean it fits you well. We know, mind-blowing, right?

But everyone has a different type of body and it’s worth getting to know what looks good on you, especially when it comes to something like pants which now come in all sorts of cuts.

Are you a slim fit guy or a classic fit? Don’t focus on the name, try them all on and see how they make you feel.

2. Mind the length of your tie

There’s nothing nerdier than a tie that’s too short.

If you’re a tall guy or prefer a double knot, you really need to invest in an extra-long tie.

Just trust us on this one. Your tie needs to touch the very top of your belt to look right.

3. Match your leathers

This isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, but if you’re feeling clueless about how to put together an outfit, it’s usually a safe bet to wear the same color belt and shoes.

You certainly don’t want to mix black and brown on this one.

4. Don’t wear an identical pocket square and tie

Nothing says “the last time I wore formalwear was to prom” or “I got this as a cheap set” more than an identical pocket square and tie.

Of course, you can skip the pocket square altogether, but this is a chance to play with patterns a bit, so go for it.

5. Stick to two patterns unless you know what you’re doing

Some guys are great at mixing patterns. And by all means, you should try it if you want to – it can look really cool.

But don’t go overboard unless you can pull it off with zeal or else you’ll just look like you’re trying too hard without knowing what you’re doing.

6. Use color to your advantage

Sometimes you want to stay neutral and blend into the background. But other times you can use color to your advantage when you want to catch someone’s eye.

Just make sure it’s a color that works for you and the rest of your outfit remains simple.

7. Style is more than what you wear

It doesn’t matter how well you dress if your fingernails and facial hair are a mess.

There’s no need to obsess over appearance, but just making sure your nails are trimmed, your hair is styled, and your beard is groomed goes a long way.

8. Invest well and care for your investments

You don’t have to spend thousands to look good, but when it is time to invest in something nice – like a suit, a watch, or leather shoes, do your research.

Then make sure you know how to care for your things – find a good dry cleaner, learn how to shine your shoes, and get a box for any accessories so they don’t scratch and wear when you’re not wearing them.

9. Choose a watch you love

Speaking of watches, it’s the one accessory that people are bound to check out on a man, so choose carefully.

You don’t have to blow your budget on a $5k+ timepiece, but just know that certain types of watches say something about you and they’re often a conversation starter. So choose something you love.

10. Confidence is the best accessory

If you’re rocking an outfit and you feel great in it, then that’s all you need to worry about. To hell with any rules!

But if you’re trying something new for the first time, don’t pay too much attention to it or tug at it. Just wear your clothes with pride.

Women:

1. Dress for your shape

We might all want to wear that silk strappy dress, but those of us with hips sometimes can’t shimmy into the ones we want.

Wear what you like, but if you’re looking for guidance, look first to your own body shape.

Some things just look better on curvy or less curvy girls.

2. Stretch it right

Not all stretch material is created equal.

If you like your slim-fit jeans tight with a bit of stretch you’re probably looking for something that is 95% cotton and 5% lycra. If denim has less than 2% lycra, it’s likely going to stretch out and stay there and by the end of the day, you’ll have a baggy bum.

3. Buy clothes that fit you now

It’s touch to shop when you’ve gained or lost too much weight and you don’t feel like yourself. And it’s even worse when you have to buy something new in a size you don’t really want to wear.

But if you can’t put off the investment, it’s always best to purchase things that fit you at the moment.

Some garments can be altered while others can be swapped or sold second-hand later when you need a new size.

4. Invest in a tailor

We can’t stress enough that clothes take on a whole new life when you find someone to take them up an inch or two when needed or put some darting into a shapeless jacket.

Few of us can have our clothing custom made, but paying $20 to have a beloved dress hemmed is pretty close!

5. Figure out your bra situation

Bra straps aren’t cute. End of story. And they’re especially not cute when they’re accidentally showing in the workplace.

Before you invest in that dress or new sweater with the boatneck, be sure you have a bra that stays out of its way.

And invest in a good t-shirt bra if you wear tight clothing on top – bra lines are just distracting.

6. Check your angles

We don’t all love what we see in the mirror, but the body you have is the one you’re walking out the door with today.

That means you should probably give a twirl in the mirror before you head out. You might notice something showing that you’d like to tuck in.

7. Look close before you buy luxury

Marketers will do anything to get women to spend money and that includes marking up items just so they’re considered a luxury.

But before you buy that cashmere sweater, make sure the seams look good and it’s not already pilling. And take a close look at shoes and the interiors of handbags. Make sure everything is in good shape and there’s no glue showing, for example.

Sometimes junk costs a lot.

8. Invest in a capsule wardrobe

Tired of style tips altogether? Find a few things that work for you, buy a couple of staples, and leave the shopping for every now and then when you can add a complimentary piece.

Black pants, a crisp white shirt, a turtleneck, a particular cut of sweater – these are all important pieces and will depend on your own needs and style.

Just Google “capsule wardrobe” for some ideas.

9. Don’t be afraid to adopt a “uniform”

Even beyond the capsule wardrobe is the uniform.

Look great in jeans and a turtleneck? How about an A-line skirt and cardigan? Then just wear that!

Style is about how you wear what you wear – and there’s no reason you can’t be stylish while wearing just one type of outfit.

10. Find an iconic accessory

The most stylish women usually have an item that’s recognizable on a regular basis. This can be anything from a cool pair of glasses to a dainty cross necklace around your neck – whatever works for you.

Don’t think that anyone will care if they always see you in the same thing – style is your signature look (and, frankly, no one is paying as much attention as you are to your clothing anyway).

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What are some important style tips you’ve learned over the years?

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