If only I'd known...

My cousin has just turned 18, and is a budding fashionista. Over the holidays we have talked numerous times about clothes, style and items she's lusting after already for 2013. I tried to impart some advice, mainly lessons I've learnt the hard way, so that hopefully she can avoid needless embarrassment and tragic overspend.

1) Never buy something to slim into....

Honestly, we are alllll guilty of this. We buy an expensive pair of jeans, or something in the sale that just isn't the right size, with every intention on slimming into it, or squeezing into it weeks down the line.
DON'T. Just don't do it. It is highly unlikely that you will lose any weight, or suddenly morph body shape in the interim between buying said item and wearing it again. Either buy in the size you are now, or hold off all together. I've got at least three dresses hanging up, which I've never worn because of this exact reason.

2) White, is a nightmare

Yes it looks smart, sophisticated and glamourous, but white is an extremely tricky colour to pull off. You can always see your undergarments, your fake tan inevitably rubs off onto it and 9 times out of 10 if it's not you who spills, it's a friend. So unless you are a bride, have a good nude bra, a string thong and an aversion for human company, you may as well stick to navy or black.

3) Designer handbags

Now unless you're earning mega-dollars, a designer handbag really isn't a necessity. You always have to be cautious when you take it out, and chances are people will probably assume it's a fake anyway. Decent leather handbags are so easy to find. If you want something unique, look on ASOS Market Place. If you're desperate for a designer style - just shop highstreet and save yourself many pennies! They always do great imitation pieces. If you MUST have a designer bag, do your research and get a bag that isn't going to age more quickly than a banana skin and obey the tip above - ie avoid white.

4) Keeping items because you KNOW you'll recycle it

If you've not worn it in 2 years, it's unlikely that you'll wear it again. My mum is a classic example of this. There are very very few items she's passed onto me, but still insists on having four wardrobes full of throw backs to the 80's. It's really frustrating! DO your bit for charity and send your unwanted unused items. If you're thrifty, you may decide to sell them, and if you're particularly creative you may re-style, but having the time to do this is uncommon.


Hope some of these gems help!

Very Happy New Year