A Few Pointers

I read a column in last week's Los Angeles Times in which "a handful of Hollywood's top stylists" gave tips on how to look "as pulled together as the stars" without their resources and minions. Here are the tips intended to be for a special event, but applicable to everyday life:

1. Know your body shape: once you figure out if you are curvy, straight up and down, top heavy. . ., you know what clothing styles suit you best. When you shop, you save time by choosing garments made for you shape. Learn how to "maximize the sum of [your] parts."

2. Details, details, details: Pay attention to your hair, makeup, nail color, accessories, and undergarments.

3. Professional help: Use experts to help you achieve the hair and makeup look you want. The stylists also recommend using the Internet, since "almost any question you could think of regarding how to dress one's body shape, how to complement one's complexion, how to create a look using specific pieces, etc. can all be found on the Web."

4. Build on a solid foundation: Undergarments make a HUGE difference in how clothing looks on a person, so find ones that elongate and streamline "to create a smooth silhouette."

5. Tailor: Every stylist quoted in this article emphasized the value of hiring a tailor for a custom fit. I emphatically agree.

6. Take photographs and practice: Had I known that my arms would look ENORMOUS when I posed in a certain way, I would not have done so during the photo session we had with friends for my husband's recent birthday. A test run--even if it's just in front of your mirror--is a splendid idea.

7. Don't deflect, accentuate: "Always work with what you have." If you have great legs, show them off; if you like your shoulders, wear clothes that reveal them; if your smile is an asset, wear bright lipstick, etc.

8. Balance and harmony are key: "Too many beautiful things (jewelry, hair accessories, makeup) just compete and then nothing takes center stage. Knowing how to balance and harmonize and edit is really important, If you;re not sure, always ask.