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

“When in doubt wear your favourite color. You will always be confident in it and thus will look good.” —Goswami

“Wearing clothing that attempts to conceal who you are as a person shows that you are out of touch with your age, body type or the social situation. Not only does the outside world pick up on this, but your clothing has an effect on how you feel about yourself psychologically.” —Moyer

“One of the most important things that people need to realise is that just because they buy something in their ‘size,’ doesn’t mean that it’s going to fit them. People get very invested in being a certain size but this is a huge mistake as different designers cut for different body types and also, many companies ‘play with size’ in order to flatter customers. Buy what fits, regardless of the number on the tag.” —Michael O’Connor, personal stylist

“If you see this on a tag, run! Every body is different and nothing is truly one-size-fits-all. It’s the quickest route to fashion disaster and to making you look unkempt.” —O’Connor

“When you find a particular piece that looks good on you and fits well, chances are that designer cuts for a body type like yours. Explore other options and clothing pieces in their line. Chances are they will look best.” —O’Connor

“What you see on fashion runways are not looks everyday people generally like to wear. Instead, I look more to movies and music for my fashion inspiration rather than what’s on the runway. It’s still current and fun but a little more realistic and wearable.” —Vicky Sullivan, stylist and blogger at Aspiring Socialite

“I wish people understood that in fashion less is more. For example, if you are wearing an off-the-shoulder top, make that your focal point. You don’t need anything else. Huge earrings or a statement necklace will be overwhelming—the top is sexy chic as is!” —Jennifer Berger, stylist and president of Wear it Well

“My secret style weapon is a perfect classic durable white tee. It never goes out of style and you can dress it up with a blazer, black skinny jeans, and a pair of heels.” —Berger

“There’s a reason celebrities are never spotted without their shade. Sunglasses can be the best accessory, especially if you are having a bad day, feel extra sleepy, or have a hangover. Glasses cover everything.” —Berger

“The key to having great style is to buy things that fit you properly (or have them altered by a tailor). If you’re not sure, a good rule of thumb is if you have to adjust it more than once while you’re trying it on then it’s not for you. It should feel comfortable.” —Lindsay Narain, designer, founder and creative director of Vaughan clothing