How to brush up on your etiquette

August 29, 2012 by admin
Filed under Choosing Lingerie

By
Tanya Banon

PUBLISHED:

14:58 EST, 28 August 2012

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UPDATED:

14:58 EST, 28 August 2012

While it’s all well and good to break the rules of fashion every once in a while, it’s always best to keep in mind that there is such a thing as fashion etiquette and yes it applies to everyone.

There are no exceptions; one could be a superstar, a pop icon, a leading industrialist, a political honcho or a stylista, fashion protocol and social propriety should be adhered to.

It’s a tough life and admittedly the peer pressure to stand out is ginormous; but the norm to come out on top requires high stakes, not high hemlines.

Carrying a Birkin isn't enough to overlook your drunken drawls or propel you into high society

Carrying a Birkin isn’t enough to overlook your drunken drawls or propel you into high society

If you thought that driving a pair of hot wheels was enough to get your sneakers into a night club, think again.

Carrying a Birkin isn’t enough to overlook your drunken drawls or propel you into high society.

Lifestyle lists out a few time-tested rules that ensure one looks stylish and chic, everywhere and at all times.

TIMELY FASHION

There is nothing fashionable about being ‘fashionably late.’ These are two entirely separate things and being late is not in vogue anymore.

First impressions count, arriving two hours late for a sit down dinner or keeping people waiting is just not cool.

Plan your day in advance so that you can complete your daily activities, get dressed in leisure and arrive for your engagement, social or personal, in time.

Account for traffic in advance. Fifteen minutes up or down is a safe time frame to work with.

DRESS TO IMPRESS

Dressing for the occasion is the first rule of fashion. A crisp business suit is appropriate for business meetings and official events; while a figure hugging dress is perfect for a formal dinner and social gatherings.

Indian ensembles are best for weddings, engagements and other festive events as opposed to gowns and dresses. When choosing an outfit, keep in mind the location and the season.

For instance, short sexy dresses without leggings or backless ensembles in freezing temperatures not only leaves one feeling cold but also looking absolutely out of place, just as denims on a beach look plain silly.

Most importantly dress your age; if you have a sixteen- year-old daughter, be gracious and hand her those over-the-top sexy dresses and blinged out accessories. Both men and women should ideally keep in mind that simplicity is the best form of sophistication.

MEN’S MANUAL

They say ‘clothes maketh the man’ and that’s spot on. When in doubt opt for a suit, but remember that there is suit for every occasion-business suits for work, tuxedos for special events and linen suits for casual outings.

Shoes and belts must match and socks must never ever be worn with sandals. If you are attending a formal dinner, trying to impress your date or working on a Saturday, sandals are a big faux pas.

There is a fine line between long hair and a trendy hair style and no it’s not the same thing.

A regular shave and a haircut are a must. Baseball caps are not hats and white socks should be reserved for the gym.

Polo tees with the big horse logos and Burberry checks by no means qualify as chic, formal or trendy; they deserve to be packed into the confines of your wardrobe.

PUT ON A SHOW

But please not with your legs wide open! There is nothing more unsightly than flashing your underwear. To sit with your legs crossed is both feminine and sexy.

While most Bollywood stars have been caught on camera with this fashion taboo, it’s best to adhere to the rule if one wants to avoid an embarrassing situation, especially when flaunting a short dress.

For those who like to wear low waisted trousers and jeans, flashing a thong is a turn off rather than a turn on, so please get with the programme.

Lastly, if one has not invested in appropriate lingerie, try and avoid the sheer trend.

BEFRIENDING FASHION

If you don’t have it then please don’t flaunt it; there is nothing attractive about rolls of fat, muffin tops and beer bellies.

One should dress according to their figure-camouflage the flaws and highlight the assets.

Tight fitted outfits should be reserved for those that have skinny frames and well-toned figures.

If you can spot a roll of flab over your pants, either hit the gym or stow them back on the shelf.

Those with thin long legs should opt for flowing skirts and trousers rather than predictable miniskirts. Also, skinny jeans are not meant for boys with skinny legs or men with thunder thighs;

classic bootcut denims that are well-fitted are a safer option.

BAG-IT

Carrying an Hermès tote doesn’t automatically catapult anyone to the league of the classy, especially if one already has a reputation of being loud, brash and crude.

Men and women must keep in mind that a fancy set of wheels or oversized rocks can not compensate for their misdemeanours. Lastly, young girls should avoid being label bores and teenagers can do just as well without flashy designer bags.

There’s a no-holds-barred rule for those making a statement, but remember, the easiest way to do it is with style and panache. So go on and brush up that fashion etiquette.