Anatomy of an Outfit

Personal image and style is not a show to put on for others, but rather an authentic presentation of oneself that sets the stage for your interactions with the world.

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So you woke up late, ran out of coffee, and you have 5 minutes to grab a look and begin your day.  Like most of us, you haven’t had time to launder, press, and put together outfits for the week ahead.  Normally you would grab the freshest smelling tee out of the hamper, throw on your 2012 skinny jeans, cardigan, and neutral flats before running out the door, but today you will layer like the chic, modern woman that you are.  How is that you ask?  By remembering the anatomy of an outfit.

1. Start with a basic top.  A neutral button down top is a great piece to start with as it instantly elevates your look and transitions well between casual and formal settings. It works well for different body and style types making it a great foundation piece to start with. 
    
   Style tip: keep fabric tape handy to secure any gaps between the buttons.

2. Bootcut jeans.  Bootcut jeans in both light and dark washes are on trend this fall and are a relief from the skinny jeans of time past.  While mid-rise is the best bet for most body types, a high-waisted look is another option.
   
   Style tip:  Ensure the inseam length of your bootcut denim is long enough to account for the heel height of your shoes so as not to look too short or to drag on the ground as you walk.

3.  Pullover sweater, cardigan, or vest.  A cardigan or sweater will keep you cozy and effortlessly fabulous when layered over a button-down top.  For an on-trend look, choose a chunky knit and a monochromatic colorway in either neutral or bold colors. 
   
   Style tip:  Push up the sleeves of your layering piece to expose the cuffs of your button-down top and leave them unbuttoned.

4. Accessories.  Diamond studs and a dainty necklace are go-to pieces that add the right bit of sparkle without the fuss.  For cooler days, keep your scarves handy and don’t forget a go to bag that already has your wallet and personal necessities.
   
   Style tip:  Layer up with necklaces of varying lengths to add some flair to your ensemble.  Feeling adventurous?  Grab a bold bracelet, scarf, or bag which will act as a great conversation piece as you go on with your day.

5. Outerwear.  Quilted, oversized, long, denim, moto, shacket, trench?  The options this season are endless and dependent only on your mood and the weather.  
   
   Style tip:  Opt for outerwear that reflects your style type.  For preppy looks, try a trench coat with striped lining.  Casual chic more your thing?  A shacket is your best bet.  Play around with belt wrapping styles to enhance your overall look.

6. Shoes.  Your go to ankle booties with the square toe box and block heel will be a lifesaver this fall as we continue to embrace trends that are comfortable and easy to wear.  A nice pair of booties can be worn with multiple ensembles and will be in constant use rain or shine.
   

   Style tip:  Wear fun socks that peek through from time to time to bring interest and personality to your overall look.  Keep fabric protectant and stain resistant sprays handy to ensure your shoes last you from season to season.

As you practice layering throughout the season using the pieces in your existing wardrobe, getting ready will become easier and a fun morning routine.  You will consistently walk out the door looking effortlessly fabulous and still be on time for what the day has in store for you. 

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Batul Sadiq is the founder and owner of BHS Image Consulting where she works with women to identify their personal style and guides them in curating a fun and functional wardrobe to enhance their lives, empower their spirits, and achieve their goals.

Her time spent at the Fashion Institute of Technology and San Francisco State University, combined with her Asian American, Muslim upbringing, has shaped her perspective on the way we dress and its global impact on business, environments, and people.

When she’s not pouring through trend publications, working on wardrobe revivals, and personal shopping, Batul loves to immerse herself in historical fiction novels, kickboxing, crossword puzzles, and discovering new museum exhibits.

She resides in Maryland with her husband and three children.

Please contact her on:

Website: www.bhsimageconsulting.com

Instagram: instagram.com/bhs_image_consulting

Facebook: facebook.com/BHSImageConsulting

Pinterest: pinterest.com/BHSImageConsulting

Photography: Akbar Sayed Photography