Fashion Tips

InStyle magazine's Makeover 2011 issue had the usual plugs for certain beauty products and clothing must haves. It also included a feature titled "The 50 Best Fashion Tips of All Time." I was eager to cast my critical eye on this feature and was happy to see that the tips were quite practical and practicable.

Here are a few of the best:

1. White cotton button downs "elevate jeans and keep ball skirts from drifting into fantasyland. Buy three and refresh regularly."

2. Accessorize in brights when "you've got a closet full of neutrals."

3. "Hem your pants to a specific shoe height. Hem to either heels or flats--no going back." I have jeans hemmed to flip flop and ballet length and others hemmed to platform or pumps length.

4. "Always check out the rear view. And don't leave the house until you like what you see. Every angle matters."

5. "Consider the wear and care. Don't shell out for clothes you can't, or won't take care of. If you know you'll never hand wash that embellished sweater or fancy bra, walk away."

I would add that you should only hand wash your bras and delicates, using a gentle detergent, such as Forever New, which I purchase at Purrmission Lingerie in Santa Barbara.