Anonymous wrote:
Anonymous wrote:In my opinion, the bare minimum of a "put together" look is clean, well-groomed, neat looking, and conveys the message that a person takes pride in their appearance. Hair should be styled (yes, ponytails count as styled). If the wearer likes make up, it should be minimal, enough to enhance the wearer's features for daytime. Not the drag queen look with contouring/highlighting that has become so popular. Clothing should be clean, neat, free of wrinkles, in excellent condition and should fit properly. The colors worn should be harmonious together and compliment the skin tone of the wearer. Also, the cut and shape of the clothing should be appropriate for the body type of the wearer.
Proper fit is something that many in my area (Midwestern USA) seem to struggle with. Unfortunately, when people gain weight, their pants get shorter and tend to hug the rolls in the midsection. This is really unattractive.
*Athletic wear is only appropriate for athletic activities or sporting events, and should not be considered casual wear. Sweats, yoga pants, school/team shirts should not be daily attire for adults. Many people seem to believe that jeans/t-shirts/sneakers or sweats/yoga pants are the only comfortable outfit combinations, but this is simply not true. Slacks, skirts, and cute tops are just as comfortable, and look significantly better.
Lessons from Madame Chic by Jennifer L. Scott is a good book that discusses the subject of being "put together" every day.
I also wanted to add, it seems that many people don't own full length mirrors, which is part of the problem. People have no idea what they look like when they walk out the door. Full-length mirrors can be purchased inexpensively from most big box stores and can be hung over a bedroom or closet door. It is important to know what you look like from the front, back and from head to toe. Using a mirror to make sure you are presenting an acceptable image will not make anyone turn into Dorian Gray.