1. SHOW SKIN STRATEGICALLY
Looking truly sexy involves knowing what to bare-and what to keep under wraps. Otherwise, where's the mystery? "Choose one-only one-body part and show it off," advises Jen Rade, stylist to Jenna Fischer and Angelina Jolie. "If it's cleavage, don't show your legs. If it's your legs, stay covered on top."2. ROUND UP WHITE BUTTON-DOWNS
Take a classic cue from Marilyn Monroe! They elevate jeans and keep ball skirts from drifting into fantasy-land. But all that mileage comes at a cost: a short shelf life. So buy three, don't overbleach (which can cause yellowing), and refresh regularly.3. ACCESSORIZE IN BRIGHTS
If you've got a closet full of neutrals-be they navy, black, camel, or gray-add energy with boldly hued shoes and bags. Not only is a hunter green satchel more lively than ho-hum black, but it's also surprisingly versatile. Feeling really brave? Wear a neutral base with shoes and a bag in two different complementary colors.4. THINK IN MULTIPLES
Take a cue from Jackie O, who had a closet full of sheath dresses. If you find an especially flattering fit right off the rack, go ahead and buy doubles. When it works, why question it?5. THROW ON A SCARF
It's the ultimate accessory according to a host of the best-dressed women we interviewed. Stash one in your purse or carry-on to transform simple Ts in the time it takes to make a knot.
6. GO HANDS-FREE FOR EVENING
A dressy bag with a chain helps you hold crudités and a cocktail-plus, it lends a cool edge to evening wear, says stylist Cher Coulter. Wear the chain diagonally across your body for the best effect.
7. EMBRACE YOUR SHAPE
"Once you know which silhouettes flatter you, filter trends ruthlessly," says designer Shoshanna Gruss. For instance, if you're petite and shapely, it's best to avoid tall columns and billowy maxis even if you love them. Go for a dress with a defined waist and just-above-the-knee hem.8. HIT THE DRESSING ROOM PREPARED
If you're shopping for that ultra-important dress, get a true feel for the fit by bringing your hip or thigh slimmer with you. And while you're at it, bring heels, lipstick, and a hairbrush. These will help you get a better sense of the final result.9. SHOW SOME LOYALTY
A great-fitting dress or pair of pants from a line one season may mean similar success the next, as shown by Pippa Middleton. Designers, especially higher-end ones, tend to size their clothes based on a regular fit model.10. GO FOR THE KNOCKOUT ACCENT
If your evening dress is a stark stunner (or has a lot of embellishment), one single showstopping accessory, like Grace Kelly's earrings, is all you need.
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