OK I'm late in the game (haven't had time to read 40 pages of last thread!) but I'm a former stylist and I moved to a wealthier area five years ago (we live in the poorer part!) so I thought I'd add some of my own thoughts and tips I've picked up and used with clients over the years. Apologies if they have have been repeated from the other thread.
OK, My 3 rules I start with:
- Your bra must fit perfectly. Get fitted professionally if you are unsure. I cannot describe how awful it is too see a too tight bra with flab poking out under a thin t shirt. Eek.
- Jeans must also fit you perfectly and compliment your body shape. Get the shop assistant to help if you are unsure. There are so many different cuts/shapes now.
It is worth it, believe me, even if you can only afford one bra and one pair of jeans - best to have one that flatters you and looks great than 5 that make you look so-so.
- Foundation must be exactly your skin colour. Ugh foundation tide marks are horrific. Again, ask for assistance. And, although I'd say foundation is the one thing you should spend money on, i have found a lot of reasonably priced ones which were perfect for clients (and myself) who have pale skin. I have used a mid priced Revlon one for years. And don't use too much foundation!
Colour: Avoid cheap prints wherever possible. Surprisingly, the wealthier women here wear a lot of colour. It is, of course as more expensive prints use better colour and are less mass produced. for the rest of us who can't afford expensive prints, I'd say if you love a cheap print but are worried about it looking 'cheap', if possible buy the garment in black and white print.
Colour combinations. I have discovered many colour combinations over the years - and some will definitely make you look 'richer.' Silk scarves (From the second hand shop!) are a great way to do this. eg I worked with someone who had an aubergine coloured top and we added a mint silk scarf and it really brightened up the outfit! little things like that. designers often use colour combinations, so maybe worth checking their websites to get some ideas. But, avoid too many primary colours - you'll look like you're wearing a football team top! but experiment. And find out which colours flatter you.
Things to spend money on Boots. Good, flattering leather boots that will last a lifetime. Buy at the end of winter - when they're on sale. Also, good leather sandals. Buy at the end of summer, again when on sale. If they're a classic shape they will still be in fashion the next year. Cheap boots tend to lose their shape early on and look awful.
Things not to spend money on Cheaper shops do great long layering singlets, and simple cardigans for summer. Op-shops are great for scarves, jewelery, dresses, cardigans (again!). Sunglasses - I never buy expensive brands as cheaper ones generally provide just as much UV protection and look just as good.
Things to avoid 'blinging' jewelrey and cheap shoes are just hideous. Looks cheap and nasty. Coloured beads, and anything from a craft stall is so much nicer. If you wear cheaper shoes, make them plain as possible.
Fake label bags are just tacky and generally shit quality. Buy a plain nice bag in a neutral color (try to avoid black). Sequins - Err on caution. Can look alright in small doses but too many look cheap and nasty. Particurlarly on black garments. Shudder. VPL - need I say more??
Obviously dyed hair - if you dye your hair, like me as you can't afford to get it done professionally, dye it to match your natural colour. (Although if having purple/blue hair is your thing, then go for it!). Cheap tatoos - are just ugly. If you made a mistake when you were younger, keep the damn thing covered!
Phew! just a few thougts turned into a novel, you may agree or disagree, but hope this helps a few of you. I may add more when i get the time.