Trends come and go, but certain items will always be fashionable. Stock up on the basics and, from there, mix and match with accessories and other clothing items. For instance, a nice, clean, white tee is essential for both men and women. Pair it with jeans or trousers for a classic, minimalist look.

• If you’re a female, a little black dress will always be in style. Look for a basic black dress that is flattering on your body type. A knee-length black skirt is also a consistently fashionable option for women.
• A black blazer, black trousers or dress pants, dark denim jeans, and a white button-down shirt are items that are always fashionable on both men and women. You can mix and match these with a variety of different clothing items to create many outfits.
• A beige trench coat is a great look for winter and fall for both men and women. Cardigans are also nice for the colder months. Try to have both a white and black cardigan so you can match it with a variety of outfits.
• For accessories, a pair of black pumps and a black leather bag are great options for women. They are consistently considered fashionable and will go with a variety of outfits.
• Pearls and diamond studs are good, traditional jewelry options and tend to go with a lot of different outfits.

4. Pick a style that’s right for you.

Fashion is highly versatile. At any given moments, a variety of different types of style are in season. Choose styles that you feel comfortable in and that match your personal taste.

• It’s important to be fashionable in a way that speaks to you. If you prefer a more minimalist style, choose items that go with that theme. If you prefer more vibrant, patterned clothing items, choose fashionable items in that theme.
• You’ll also notice your clothing items will start to blend together if you let your tastes dictate your style. Your clothing and accessory choices will be linked by your personal taste. If you choose a shirt that doesn’t seem to go with anything, chances are you’ll eventually buy a set of pants in the same style.

5. Review your current wardrobe.

Before making any new purchases, review what you have. You may be able to create new outfits using a combination of new and old items. You should also throw away or donate items that don’t fit or that you’re unlikely to wear again as they’re needlessly taking up closet space. Items that you’ve never worn can also be donated.

• What do you have and what do you lack? What fits your vision of your new, fashionable style? If you have a variety of cardigans, but no cute blouses or shirts to go under them, then focus on buying tops when you go shopping. Do you have a lot of casual pants but no dress pants or form-fitting pants? Place focus on buying trendier jeans and dress pants when you go out shopping.
• Pay attention to the condition of current clothing choices. Clothing with holes or that is stretched out is not fashionable. Considering tossing anything that’s damaged beyond repair.
• Try on clothing you haven’t worn for awhile. As bodies change over time, you may find some of your clothes are too big or too small. Donate anything that no longer fits.
• You should also consider getting rid of clothing items that no longer fit. If you have clothing you used to wear to clubs, for example, and are no longer much of a partier than maybe it’s time to get rid of these items.
• Consider new ways you can use old clothing before getting rid of them. For instance, find ways you can dress up a shirt that you haven’t worn in a while.

6. Shop online.

While it makes sense to shop in stores as you can try outfits on, you may be able to get away with buying some items online. If you know your size fairly well, you may find great deals online. However, if you’re unsure of your size you may want to go into a store. Returning an item you bought online can get expensive. You can also buy accessories, like purses and sunglasses, online for cheaper prices.

• If you are looking for cheaper prices online, consider buying clothes secondhand. Websites such as Poshmark and ThredUp offer stylish secondhand clothing options.

7. Follow trends with care.

Trends do tend to fade out quickly. However, it can be fun to follow some trends that you have genuine interest in. Choose trends that you feel work with your personal style. As trends fade quickly, don’t overspend on trendy items as they do not need to withstand long-term use.

• It can be fun to follow some trends, but keep in mind they tend to fade out quickly. If you feel personally drawn to a particular trend, follow it if you want. For example, if leggings look great on you feel free to buy a pair. However, don’t spend a ton of money on a pair of leggings as they’re likely to become less fashionable with time. Instead, go for a cheaper pair. While they’ll likely wear down quicker, chances are this particular fashion item won’t be a timeless addition to a fashionable wardrobe.
• Instead, spend more money on items, like the ones listed above, that have been consistently fashionable for years. You can incorporate these items into your existing wardrobe as trends change for years to come.
• Follow trends you can easily incorporate into your current wardrobe. If pale pink is one of the colours of the season and you have mostly red accessories, you might want to sit this one out. If another, more neutral shade, is also in style invest in a pair of pants or a vest in that colour over pink.

8. Accessorize.

Classic accessories can help your wardrobe stand out. Invest in nice accessories to compliment our clothing choices. This is a good place to splurge as a nice handbag or pair of shoes can instantly elevate an outfit.

• Nice scarves, jewelry, watches, sunglasses, and other accessories can help your wardrobe shine. Look for clearance sales on accessories in your favourite stores.

9. Develop a signature scent.

Having a nice scent associated with your presence can make you appear more fashionable. Try to develop a classy scent using perfume or scented lotion. Ask for samples of scents you like from a department store and try them all out before buying the one you like the most.

• If you’re masculine, choose a cologne that you use consistently. Look for a fragrance that blends with your natural odor. You can also combine or layer products to create a unique scent.  Make sure you don’t use too much cologne, however, as this can be off-putting.
• If you’re feminine, try using scented lotion, perfume, shampoo, and conditioner all carry distinct scents. Choose a brand that is pleasant but not overpowering. Too much perfume or scent can be irritating to others.

10. Adopt fashionable grooming habits.

Your grooming habits can also help you become more fashionable. Focus on your hair, shaving habits, and makeup.

• If you’re masculine, shave on a regular basis. Keep your hair trimmed and brushed.
• If you’re feminine, neutral makeup is sometimes more flattering that dramatic colours. Stick to tones that match your skin. If you paint your nails, do so carefully. Make sure you avoid smearing the polish and redo the nails as needed when you notice the colour fading or chipping. Otherwise, keep your nails clean and clear.

11. Create a fashionable home.

Being fashionable goes beyond clothing and make-up. You should also strive to create a fun and fashionable home environment. You can search sites like Pinterest for inspiration. Then, pick out similar items from a discount home-goods store.

• Line drawers in your home with scented, patterned paper. This can be a fun way to make your home cute and fashionable.
• If you work in an office, consider bringing in personal business cards and pens. This can be a fun way to add flare to your personal style.

12. Go to fashion exhibits.

A fun way to live a fashionable lifestyle is attending fashion exhibits. Watch for fashion related exhibits at local art galleries. Make a day trip to a big city if a big fashion exhibit is coming into town. This can help you stay up-to-date on trends while having a sense of the history behind fashion.

13. Use personalized stationery.

Instead of using store bought cards or e-cards, invest in a personal stationery. Send people handwritten notes for birthdays and holidays. This can be a fun way to be fashionable and help the people around you feel valued.

• Watch fashion documentaries about designers to gain knowledge and inspiration.