1. "Fashion fades, style is eternal"
Yup, Yves Saint Laurent said it best. Fashion will come and go, but style truly has staying power.
When you're in your early 20s you'll probably feel a very unnatural obligation to follow trends. You might even become filled with anxiety when you think you're wearing something that's "sooo last season." The truth is, it's best to stick to your personal style. Not only does it feel more organic, you'll be way more comfortable and confident.
Nothing trumps that.
2. Go easy on the eyeshadow
You are past the teenage stage, and you're ready to take on the world as an adult woman. This means you'll sometimes have to splatter makeup on your face. Terrifying, huh? You'll also quickly notice how impossible it is to nail the whole application process. It's a nightmare.
Life hack: Go easy on that eyeshadow.
3. Designer goods aren't a MUST
Remember how badly you wanted that £800 designer dress you saw Rihanna wearing a few years ago? So not necessary anymore, especially when Zara makes quality pieces that are (sometimes criminal) replicas of high-end items.
Innovation in clothing production has improved over the years.
4. Accessories make ALL the difference
A plain tee and blue jeans go from "I'm just picking up some goods at Whole Foods" to "I'm a budding street style star" with the punch of a few key accessories. When you're shopping, be sure to stock up on some statement earrings, necklaces, and of course, sunglasses.
5. Heels don't make the woman
LOLOLOL! Remember when you were a little girl and you tried on your mom's heels and couldn't wait to slip your feet into your own pair? Then when you finally became of age, you realised they actually hurt like hell and wondered, "Why TF would anyone willingly submit to this torture?"
The good news is they're not necessary all the time. Sure they're great for special occasions and business meetings, but beyond that, don't feel guilty about throwing on a pair of ballerina flats. They're cute and functional. Win-win.
6. A tailor should be your BFF
I'm a petite woman, so it has always been a hassle finding quality pieces that fit me just right. I used to leave stores defeated; feeling as though I'd have to skip out on the best items. That was until I discovered the beauty of a tailor. Oh, and let me tell you, it makes a whole world of difference.
Give it a shot. You'll be hooked.
7. LBDs always save the day
As you get *ahem* more mature, you'll find yourself bogged down with work responsibilities, with barely any free time to blink, much less shop. That means when you get a last minute invite out, you have to think of something fast.
A little black dress is the answer to all your style woes. It works every single time. I swear. It's magic in one tiny little frock.
8. Blonde hair doesn't work on everyone
Boy, don't I know it. A few years ago I tried my hand at being a strawberry blonde, and needless to say, I wound up looking like Carrot Top. Once the sun got hold of my poor, helpless tresses, it was over for me.
It's okay to experiment with your hair, but please know the limits.
9. Dresses aren't the only acceptable GNO attire
As much as I love a good old freakum dress, it doesn't always have to be the go-to look on a night out with the girls. Believe it or not, you can look just as sexy in a pair of pants and cute top. Who would've thought? Not my 20-year-old self, that's for sure.
10. Clothing care labels mean something
You know that tag that's always making your back itch? The same one with really tiny writing? As it turns out those words are trying to tell you something other than the garment size. It's trying to tell you how you should properly clean the item. This becomes especially important when you find yourself buying more expensive clothing. Get all the bang for your buck by washing them the correct way.
11. Don't wear all your animal print at the same time
A zebra print bag paired with a cheetah top? That's not cutting edge, it's cot damn crazy.
Don't do it, girl.
12. Invest in classic pieces
IF, by any chance, you have the funds to splurge, don't go any where near trendy items. Instead, throw down major cash on classic handbags, shoes, and clothing that will stand the test of time.
You're welcome.
13. Leaving a little to the imagination goes a long way
Listen up! There will always be something super seductive about a woman who knows how to garner attention without putting all her goodies on display all the time.
14. Evolution is key
As you roll through your 20s, be mindful of how times are changing. Don't be that girl who looks like you're stuck in an early 2000s music video. Please don't be that girl.
What are some fashion lessons you've learned in your 20s? Tweet us @sofeminineUK!
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