Effortless Style, takes work

"Anyone can get dresses up and glamorous but it is how people dress in their days off that are the most intriguing." - Alexander Wang
 
I chose Jessica Alba as my example because from the images I see, she has a core understanding of what suits her and makes her feel comfortable, so although she has access to the best stylists, hair and make-up for any event, I think she usually gets it right when diving into her own wardrobe as well, which lets be honest many people don't because she has the tools she needs with in her wardrobe, so that the 'look' she's known for is achievable.  Being just a simple girl from the West Country, I can't imagine the stress involved in being photographed everyday, luckily most of us will never have to deal with that.  However my point is to ensure your wardrobe allows you to achieve effortless style everyday, without extensive thought before 7am.  It's a chick flick staple but true enough the day you throw on clothes without thinking and run to the local shop looking like you've been attacked by your wardrobe, is the day you'll run into your ex, boss or in my case a new client (it was awful, I blame my coffee addiction and need for milk).

So apart from the fact we are all human and make mistakes, how can you ensure that you never find yourself trying to hide behind the fruit and veg?  The answer is easy basics that allow you to throw them on and look good, oh and relegate your gym wear so it is never the first thing you grab(Note to Self!).  A selection of great basics will have shape rather than just being cover ups, they should be comfortable but when put together, form a multi textural look, that enhances the simplicity of the single items.  I'm a big fan of layers for casual wear as when done right they instantly seem more put together and as if you've put some thought into an outfit.  The right scarf can add interest, colour and texture and detract from the fact you are essentially just wearing a top and some jeans.  The goal of style is to make it seem effortless and think about it until it becomes natural for you.  Think about your first day of work, were you instantly brilliant, feeling as if you could do everything asked of you?  Or did you have moments of wondering, "how the hell am I supposed to do that?"  I suspect that you put the tools in place and then through a series of trial and error adjustments you reached the stage where your job became second nature to you.  Your style will be the same, you'll make mistakes but if you keep trying you'll reach the point where it is effortless and you can't remember what life was like before.