There are no set rules when it comes to dressing well, but there are a number of things that our editors practice that always make us feel more confident and polished. Whether you're a simple, minimal dresser, or always try the boldest new looks, it pays to follow these six styling tricks that will help you love what you're wearing every single day. Keep scrolling to see our six tips on how to dress well.
Invest In the Things You Always Wear
It might feel extravagant to spend a couple of hundred pounds on a dress or over £100 on a shirt, however, it pays to invest in those pieces you always wear and feel the most confident in. Instead of buying five or so new trend-led pieces from Zara that will clutter your wardrobe, think about those items that you wear most days, and make considered purchases. Whether it's a camel coat or a silk blouse, you want the foundations of your wardrobe to be as high quality as possible. That doesn't mean you need to spend a fortune, just ensure that you are pleased with the fabric, cut and feel of all of your staples.
Look After Your Wardrobe
If you are making considered purchases, you need to care for them so that they look polished and expensive and don't need replacing in a year. Re-heel your shoes as soon as they are looking tired, polish your ankle boots, keep your sneakers looking bright white, care for your cashmere—these small things all make an outfit look more expensive and thought out.
Discover What Suits You, and Stick to It
In this Instagram era, it can be all too easy to get caught up in the hysteria of "internety" trends, but wearing head-to-toe Vetements doesn't necessarily mean you're dressing well. There is a fine line between staying abreast of the trends and falling into the land of fashion victimhood, but the best way to navigate this is to develop a strong sense of your own personal style and what suits and doesn't suit you. If you have no idea where to begin, here are how some of the most stylish women we know have carved their own distinctive look.
Related: It's the Perfect Time to Invest in a Great Winter Coat—28 That Stand Out
Tailor Pieces to Fit You Perfectly
You don't need to spend £800 on a suit to have it tailored—many editors get their high-street pieces tailored so they fit perfectly and makes them look much more expensive. Pay this in mind when shopping in the sales also, as you can buy something in a larger size if you will be able to have it altered.
Clear Out the Things That Don't Quite Look Right
Dressing well has a lot to do with confidence, as although it's an overused cliché, if you feel good, you really will look good. So don't hang onto the pieces that never quite feel right when you try them on—there's no point trying to make something work and talk yourself into an item.
Make Your Own Signatures
Most of our ultimate style icons have signatures that you can spot a mile off. This can be an accessory, a colour or a print or even a beauty trick—Caroline Issa has her unmovable red lipstick, and Anna Wintour has her sunglasses. This can be the best way to add personality or a point of interest to your look and make it different to every other outfit on Instagram.
Next up, see our guide to finding your own personal style and sticking to it.