51 fashion secrets personal stylists won’t tell you for free

“You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to look fantastic, however, we do tend to feel and act a little different when we wear things that are expensive. We treat those things differently too; with more care. We tell ourselves that they are special and that we are special when we wear them. But really it’s the mental story we assign to those items that make them special. Expensive things might trigger those feelings more easily but you can shine just as bright every day with ordinary things, just by acting as you would if they were expensive.” —Jennifer Lowe, stylist and designer for Water Vixen Swim

“Online shops like eBay and Poshmark allow you to get high-end brands at pennies on the dollar. There are so many people selling brand new or almost new items, that you can literally buy designer items at less than you would spend at a discount or big-box store for generic items.” — Lowe

“Natural fabrics last longer, and feel better, and look more expensive. I can see the difference in, say, a silk chiffon blouse versus a polyester chiffon blouse in an instant. Silk moves nicer, feels nicer, and looks more expensive even if the item wasn’t more expensive.” —Lowe

“If you want a designer look, you don’t have to wear all designer items. For instance, I have a great set of huge Chanel earrings. I wear them with a $18 black dress and still look like a million bucks.” —Lowe

“Love sexy shoes but not interested in getting blisters and the pain? Use moleskin on your feet. I cut six strips before I go out and keep them in my purse. Then, the minute I start to feel any pressure in an area, I apply it and I avoid any issues. I haven’t suffered from blisters since college. Being unprepared in heels is a rookie manoeuvre!” —Lowe

“I wish people knew how important accessories are in style. Jeans and a tee-shirt are just that until you add all the fun stuff that punctuates personal style.” —Carlton Jones, a designer and celebrity stylist

“Sure everyone’s style should be dress to be true to themselves and not look like someone else but fashion insiders know that style is a journey not a destination. One way to fast-track that is to identify style icons that speak to you. Look for what aspects of their style specifically you relate to. Pinterest boards can be a great help. From there put your style into words, to help guide you through the exploration to develop your style.” —Jones

“Don’t be afraid to consult friends or even better a professional when you need fashion help. You wouldn’t hesitate to ask for help with algebra or geometry and your closet really is no different than a math problem. Professionals can identify variables, constants and exponents that can help clarify and define your style.” —Jones

“Don’t go out and purchase all the latest trends if they are not flattering or don’t go with your personal style. Your style is about taking what is out there and combining it in unique ways that express who you are. It is not about being a clone and looking like everyone else. So don’t take the rules too seriously.” —Diane Pollack, a personal style curator and wardrobe consultant

“Always wear well-fitted clothes. Bad fit kills even the best outfits.” —Sarmistha Goswami, designer and author of Style Over Coffee