5 Style Lessons Courtesy of Coco Chanel

20 Aug 5 Style Lessons Courtesy of Coco Chanel

128 years ago yesterday, Coco Chanel was born and changed the world of fashion forever. After freeing women from corsets, she introduced using elements of menswear, the little black dress and creating frenzies over fragrances.

1. Don’t Be A Slave To Trends

“Fashion fades, only style remains the same.”

Trends come and go but what matters is how you incorporate them into your look so that you still look like you. Besides, every trend is not for everybody, literally. You will always look best in what works for you despite what the trends dictate.

2. Inspiration Is Everywhere

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

Though it’s wonderful to be inspired by designer fashion shows and magazines, there is inspiration all around you. Perhaps you will see an unexpected color combination you like in a garden or a story that you
read in the newspaper will inspire you to present yourself differently.

3. It’s All About Balance

“Fashion is architecture: it is a matter of proportions.”

Dress in proportions that flatter your figure. Figure out what skirt lengths look best on you. If there is an area of your body you are self-conscious about dress it in muted, tailored silhouettes. Play you your best features.

4. Your Scent Is An Extension Of Your Look 

“A women who doesn’t wear perfume has no future.”

Perfume “is the unseen, unforgettable, ultimate accessory of fashion. . . . that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departure,” Chanel was quoted as saying and I completely agree. I seriously wear perfume everywhere.

5. Don’t Walk Out The House A Hot Mess

“I don’t understand how a woman can leave the house without fixing herself up a little – if only out of politeness. And then, you never know, maybe that’s the day she has a date with destiny. And it’s best to be as pretty as possible for destiny.”

I’m not sure when it became cool to go out of the house in your jammies and head scarves but it isn’t ok. I just think that the day I run out of the house looking a fright that will be the day I run into someone and want to kick myself for at least not applying mascara and wearing a clean shirt.What lessons of Coco’s have you adopted as your own? Did you do anything special to celebrate her birthday?