We all get mountains of advice on a daily basis. While I tend to overlook the ones that seem irrelevant (i.e. too many sour keys will rot your teeth), it seems to be the good style and beauty advice that sticks. From my mother’s nonstop mantra of “Less makeup will keep you looking young,” to the salesgirl at Topshop who said “A nipped waist is never a bad thing,” I’ve heard just about everything. Or so I thought. I asked a few fashion industry insiders about the best style advice they’ve recieved and learned a thing or two myself:
Justine Iaboni – Founder of Whatever Eurotrash, Writer
“I have no idea who told me this – maybe the lady at the Chanel counter years ago when I used to douse myself in Coco Mademoiselle– but ever since, I readily proffer these true words of wisdom when it comes to perfume. If you can still smell your perfume on you at the end of the day, it’s not the scent for you. On the other hand, If you can’t smell it you’ve found your match.”
Leesa Butler – President of Divine Lab, Blogger for The F-List, Regional Director for FGI Toronto
“My grandmother used to joke that 99% of beauty was good lighting (as I get older, I’m inclined to agree). But I always gravitated to the example she set when it came to style and beauty– never be afraid of change.”
Gail McInnes – Owner of Magnet Creative, Fashion Host for TDotTV
“I wouldn’t say I’ve been given any advice from anyone, but I have observed a lot over my career from so many fashion and beauty experts and taken a lot from their example. Here are some tips I’ve collected over the years: A groomed brow makes a huge difference to a face. If you only have time to put on one makeup item, make it red lipstick. Dress for your body type, not for trends. Be professionally fitted for a bra– foundation garments are more important than what you put on top of them. A statement necklace can make a simple outfit to a great outfit. Dress for yourself, not for others.”
Adrian Wu – Designer
“Every woman needs a little black dress, every man needs a skinny tie, and fat people need to eat less.”
Lisa Ng – Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Hip Urban Girl
“The best style advice I’ve ever been given was to get rid of any clothing that doesn’t make you feel amazing. Whether it’s too tight in the tummy, has an awkward cut or fit– get rid of it or get it tailored. It’s a waste of a day to walk around feeling self-conscious about a piece of clothing you’re wearing.”
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Bianca Teixeira writes about style for Toronto Standard. Follow her on Twitter at @BeeLauraTee.
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