Non-Basic Styling Tricks For That Next-Level Look

We don't fish for compliments, but when someone with a clear sense of style tells us they really like the way we belted our jacket/layered our shirts/brought back overalls, we can't help but glow a little brighter. Not to mention, snaps from a fellow fashion fanatic can wipe out a week's worth of "Oh, well that's different" we fielded from the coworkers and acquaintances that can't tell Marni from Maytag. Yes, we know our shirt's not tucked in all the way, and — yes — it is indeed interesting.

They say that variety is the spice of life, and in that spirit, it's time to crack open the proverbial Sriracha for your outfits, and start wearing your trusty basics in entirely new ways. Employed in the pages of fashion editorials, by your favorite Instagram #ootd masters, and yours truly, these are the styling tricks that separate those who like to have fun with their outfits from those who simply wear them. We've got eight ways to elicit appreciative oohs and ahhs. And, before we move on, here's one to start: You look #flawless today.