5 Fashion Do’s and Don’ts

Written By Madison Bai

Hello my beautiful pageant starlets! I hope your holidays were both wonderful and relaxing. Also, sending Happy New Years wishes your way! :) To get back into the swing of things here are 5 Fashion Do’s and Don’ts that any girl, pageant or otherwise should abide by:

1.     Do invest in classic pieces 

What defines a classic piece? It’s versatility and ability to last through the decades without falling prey to changes in trends. A few examples are a camel trench coat (navy and black work as well), a black blazer, and an LBD (little black dress). Throw a trench over any (and I mean any) outfit and you instantly add a little glamour and elegance. A well-fitted black blazer will stand the test of time and can work in-and-outside the office. Foremost, a LBD will never fail you for any pageant or non-pageant occasion and the right one can easily be dressed up or down. The most important thing to remember when purchasing these pieces is quality and how flattering they are. Because the styles are classic it is important that the pieces themselves are able to stand the test of time. Thus, spending just the right amount will guarantee a wardrobe filled with versatile, classic pieces that can be used both during and outside of your pageants.

 2.     Don’t be too trendy

We all fall prey to this especially with an abundance of affordable stores that turn out trendy pieces on after another. Now, there is nothing wrong with being on trend; however, buying pieces that will quickly fall out of style and will later date you is a bad idea, especially for pageants! Trying to find middle ground is far better, as certain styles usually do swing back into popularity. Thus, instead of buying a tight, bright or patterned crop top (a piece that was popular in the 90’s) purchase a neutral (black, dark grey, etc.) crop top with a more mature style, such as a high neckline with short or long sleeves. Pair it with a high-waisted, to-the-knee black pencil skirt and you look pulled together and chic without being too trendy. Keep this rule in mind when picking outfits for your pageant contest, choosing “fashion neutral” pieces will be better in the long run.

3.     Do experiment with color (and patterns!) 

When I was younger my favorite color was navy blue. My wardrobe was essentially a sea of navy blue pieces without a shimmer of color. I eventually outgrew this stage, and I am proud to say that now my wardrobe looks more like a rainbow than it did before. When trying on clothes my motto is “you won’t know if it looks good until you try it on.” I was surprised how flattering some colors could be, which I had previously shied away from. Embracing different colors and patterns will not only brighten up your wardrobe, but also bring you plenty of welcome attention should you choose flattering, fun pieces. Who knows, you may discover a new beautiful and unexpected color to add to your pageant wardrobe as well! :)

4.     Don’t go to tanning booths

Don’t get me wrong. Almost every girl (pageant or otherwise) wants to glow like a goddess. However, tanning booths/salons are NOT the way to do it. Even sun baking outside is bad. The best way to get that golden glow for pageants is through affordable drugstore products (Jergens Natural Glow is a personal favorite), high-end products (St. Tropez anyone?), or a spray tan. All three of which will keep your skin looking younger longer (than if you should tan) and cancer free. Just to convince you a little more of the negative effects of tanning check out “Tanning Myths: What’s Truth and What’s Hype?” and “Ten Tips to a Healthy Tan.” Why enhance the effects of aging through tanning, when we can achieve something similar without harming our bodies?

 5.     Do revamp your wardrobe

This rule illustrates another common phenomena: we get comfortable with certain pieces in our closet and continually wear them until we should wear them no longer (although we still do!). Occasionally, everyone should revamp their wardrobe throwing out the old and bringing in the new. By experimenting with color or investing in some more classic pieces, every pageant girl can revamp their wardrobe to look fresh, new, and inspiring. A little “spring cleaning” for your closet will bring more harm than good. So step away from those seven-year-old worn-in boots, and start revamping! :)