‘While clothes may not make the woman, they certainly have a strong effect on her self-confidence — which, I believe, does make the woman.’ – Mary Kay Ashe

Being a WAHM does give me a lot of excuse not to bother about my appearance, since more than 50% of my time on weekdays are spent at home. Nonetheless, what about those times when I have to leave the house to meet people? Regardless, if it is a social appointment or a business-related appointment, appearance do matters. At least for me it does, as this is coming from a reformed clothes-horse.

A well-tailored dress and killer-heels really does wonders for my confidence, as I step out of the house feeling that I can take on the world 😉

Despite the comfort of working from home, there are times when stepping out requires a bit of extra effort to ensure that one’s appearance makes the right impression. For me, a well-tailored dress and killer heels are not just about fashion—they’re about confidence. When I put on an outfit that makes me feel good, it transforms my mindset, making me feel capable of taking on any challenge that comes my way.

Drawing inspiration from women in the bible, whose strength and grace have influenced countless others, I find that even simple dresses can carry a significant impact. Their stories remind us that elegance and confidence come from within and are reflected in how we present ourselves. Whether in a striking outfit or a more understated look, embodying this sense of inner strength and poise can elevate any appearance, turning every outing into an opportunity to shine.

1. Know your body shape

Styling rules are not generic! What we see in fashion magazines are mostly for reed-thin and lanky models. What may look great on the model in the magazine, may not look as good when it is on us.

No one has a perfect body, however we can learn what to wear and what to avoid to best flatter our body shape. So as to create an illusion of a well-balance figure.

Style is not about your size, it is all about proportions. So what is your body shape? Check out this site to determine your shape.

I am of a petite frame, have a boyish figure with little curves. My sister on the other hand, has a more curvy body with broad shoulders.

2. Choose classics, all time looks

The classic little black dress is a must-have. Choose one with a neckline that complements your shoulders or an empire waist that draws attention away from your waistline.

Use simple jewelry to jazz up the look. As I am petite, I try to stay away from the big, over-powering prints and patterns that will overwhelm my frame. Instead, will go for fitted shapes and soft fabrics. Also keeping my style streamlined, so as not to cut the body in half.

Don’t mix styles, less is more. Try not to have romantic, sporty, bold colors, metallic styles all in one outfit. Stay with clean lines, and make only subtle changes with one or two accessories, like a belt or necklace.

3. Dress to suit your personality

Ask yourself these questions; Why do you dress the way you usually do? Do you dress to suit your lifestyle or/and your job? Most of the time we wear a certain style because we feel comfortable in it, and it fits into our lifestyles and job roles.

Looking great and giving you an extra dose of confidence togged out in your unique style is a bonus. You don’t need to be a slave to fashion, as your wardrobe needs to reflect your best self. It is pointless to look fashionable, when you are tugging at the short hems constantly, or wincing in pain wearing shoes with too high heels that you do not feel comfortable in.

A playful yet chic weekend romper, yet it maintains a classic look. My sister is in her 20s, with no kids and work in advertising, so her style tends to be more chic casual.

4. Dress for the season

We may not experience the four seasons in our tropical isle of Singapore. But it is refreshing to take wearable fashion trends to update your wardrobe every 3-4 months.

This spring 2012 season of peplum skirts and dresses are defined by a short flared ruffle that sits at the natural waist. Useful for hiding little bulges and defines the waist for boyish figures. It creates a feminine touch to an outfit but can also accentuate the hip area. But if you are pear-shaped, do try with smaller peplums and in darker colors.

Pleats, from knife to box and everything in between, are a style staple for spring 2012. It is easy to update your wardrobe with a couple of key trendy and wearable pieces every season.

5. Keep everything in proportions

The most common issue that most women face with proportion is being long or short waisted. Here’s how you can measure your proportions and help you look for the right clothing that can correct your proportions.

Use a tape measure, measure the area between the bottom of your rib cage and top of your hip bone.

The general rule of thumb is when your body part is short, look for a long blouse, if body part is long, look for short.

For petite women, blouses that go just past your waist are most flattering. If the top hits right at the hip, it lengthens the mid-drift. Do wear a longer blouse with a short skirt.

For curvy petite women, shift dresses, sheaths and sun dresses are great basics to have. These dresses help to elongate the figure and smooth the curves.

For pear shaped women, avoid full or clingy skirts, empire waist and a-line skirts above knee length look the best for pear shapes. For more tips on proportions and dress styles to wear for tall and slim women, and full curvy figured women, refer to this link.

Do you follow fashion trends or do you prefer to go with classic styles? Do share here.

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