What The Hell Is Effortless Style? Looking Stylish Requires Effort!

If you have looked at any magazine lately, inevitably somewhere in its pages, the author makes reference to effortless style. And invariably it is defined as something the "French girl" has implying that if you are not French, you don't have it.

The definition of effortless style is vague. Do a Pinterest search and you will see outfits that span all genres and trends. So what the hell is it? I propose this. Effortless style is more about your swagger than a list of outfit rules. In other words being confident in your skin and your clothes. Because let's face facts. Putting yourself together each day does require some level of effort. But, when you feel great you get some swagger in your step. You stand a little taller and you look people in the eye. So what is the key to confidence when it comes to getting dressed?

Tips for effortless style or rather tips for feeling great in your clothes.

Good basics are key:
The foundation of your closet should be your basics. These are the items that have no expiration date in regards to trends. Basics should be replaced regularly. They serve as an important factor in building any outfit and often begin as a base layer. Read this article on 8 Basic Tees You Should Have In Rotation.
Excellent fit makes anything look better:
I don't care if the item came from a teeny bopper fast fashion store or from Barney's. When an article of clothing fits you like a glove it looks like it was made for you. Ill-fitting clothing shows every bump and bulge and leaves you adjusting and fidgeting with your outfit all day. A quality tailor is your best friend. This article on 8 Tips For Finding A Tailor will help you locate one.
Remember the FP:
The FP is the finishing piece. I dedicated a whole article to it here. The finishing piece is that final thing or 3rd piece that elevates your outfit to the next level.
When in a rut, use the Rule Of 3's:
We can all fall into a styling rut. It even happens to me. Sometimes I just need a little inspiration to get me moving. One of the tips I use when I am in a rut is to create an outfit using the "Rule Of 3's." This means I put an outfit together using only 3 colors. Black and white don't count since they aren't actual colors. Whew!
When in doubt add a Breton stripe:
A Breton stripe tee is one of your closet basics. If you don't have one, get one. It will change your life. Don't believe me? Check this out. Last week I was working with one of my clients. We were doing a closet purge of past spring items. She was also looking for new ways to wear her existing outfits. On a previous shopping trip, we had picked up a Breton stripe top. Not only had she been wearing the top on repeat already, but during the appointment, I showed her several other outfits where she could include the striped tee. By the end of our session, I was literally putting the tee with everything. Full of new inspiration my client was officially dressed in effortless style.