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bad hair days, with their styles varying from sporty to chic and coming in a variety of colors. Cocktail rings are also accenting both casual and formal garbs, with the trendiest new pieces being chunky and bright.

With the wide array of both high-end and simplistic fashions that are showing up in stores, learning what to wear and, more importantly, how to wear it, is imperative to being in style. Such factors as skin tone, body type, and personality all come into play when figuring out one's personal style. There are basic rules-and some more complex ones-that everyone should know before their next shopping excursion.

Colors, prints, and cuts are different for a reason; each variety accentuates different things. For example, fuller-figured women should avoid extremely bold prints all over; it will only make them look bigger. Instead, a dark denim boot cut jean worn with a top that has a fun print or wrap front detail hides problem areas like hips and thighs while accentuating the upper body.

For smaller builds or boy-shaped bodies, prints add shape and depth and give the illusion of curves. A ruffled neckline makes a small bust look bigger, while a bright sun dress accented with a funky belt will give the appearance of a waistline.

Skin tone is also an important aspect of choosing clothing. Depending one one's skin tones, as well as the shades of their hair and eyes, the colors you wear can either make your skin appear glowing and vibrant, or washed out and ghostly. A general rule of thumb is to never wear any shade that is too close to your skin tone- it makes you appear naked and bland.

Cool-toned skin (either dark skin with blueish-pink undertones or very pale skin with little undertone) are flattered by jewel-colored clothing, like mauve, plum, blues, pinks, and greens. For warm tones (tan complexions with gold undertones), earth tones and muted colors like orange, yellow, and brown are most compatible. Both cool and warm toned skin can wear white, but darker complexions should stay away from black.

Another important dynamic of determining clothing are the various cuts that are available. The fit and shape of clothing is a key factor in how it makes a body look, and the wrong cut can change the appearance of even the nicest figure.

The key to finding the right cut for your body is to make sure that you appear proportionate from head to toe. For bigger areas, wearing clothes that brush over curves but do not hug them are ideal. Loose flowing tops and A-line, knee-length skirts allow the middle area to be covered and the waste to be appear smaller, evening out the overall silhouette.

For broad shoulders, wearing a sleek V-neck top with a unique bottom piece will draw attention away from the upper body. Jackets should always fall just below the hips, and wide leg and flat front pants will flatter wide hips.

Conversely, straight, boy-shaped figures look better under a halter, racer-back, or cap-sleeved top, as well as jackets with cinched waists. For bottom pieces, straight-legged and tapered pants and pleated or ribbed skirts enhance the look of a curvy behind.

Personal style is entirely unique, but the most important thing to remember is to keep it comfortable. Buying clothes just for the trendy factor almost always ends up being a waste of money, and the simplest pieces in a wardrobe are always the most commonly worn. When shopping, buy not only what is cute, but also what is practical and fits your personality. Fashion is relative; what we wear is a direct reflection of who we are and what we feel, so make sure what you put on your body matches how you feel inside!

Learn more about this author, Jamie LB.
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