HOW TO BE A FEARLESS (ebay)FASHIONISTA!

With background in fine art, design and fashion-I maintain that the most important thing in acquiring wardrobe pieces is that you LOVE them. When searching for wardrobe gems on  Ebay, my advice:

• Read the fine print.  Make sure the item you are interested is in the condition you desire.  If it is not absolutely clear, ASK the seller.  (It's better not to wait until the last hour or less of an auction to ask)

• If measurements are given, USE THEM!  Don't just trust that a S/M/L will fit, unless you are familiar w/the maker.  Sizes vary wildly in both clothing and shoes.

• Whenever possible, go and try on your size in the designer you are interested in finding on ebay.  If you know how a certain designer's sizes run, you are far ahead of the game.  This is especially important in shoes.

• You really DO get what you pay for; top designers do go the extra mile(with very few exceptions):  beautifully constructed articles, nicely finished and meant to last.  For the dedicated ebay shopper, these can often be found for a song.

• Having said that-don't be a snob.  There are many, many designers in the middle and low price point making gorgeous things.  These are nice to round out a classic expensive piece; or if you want a trendy look without a huge outlay.

• Don't be afraid of color-but DO be aware of what colors work for you.  Use vivid, saturated color as an accent rather than the main pieces.

• Have a good selection of neutral basics pieces.  Whatever colors work best for you: Black, Navy, Tan, Camel, etc. Try to get basic pieces that work together, and use color as an accent.  You get more bang for your buck that way.

• Stick to classic shapes that work for your body.  Perhaps you adore calf-length jackets and tops, but if you are 5' or under... maybe not the best choice. 

• Choose age-appropriate pieces.  Enough said. 

• Don't be afraid to mix and match designer pieces.  Or for that matter, vintage pieces w/current-if the desired look is attained, that is the important thing.  No one's feelings will be hurt, I promise.

• Accessorize !  Use restraint, but try several different things out to see which works best.  Having a mix of classic "good" pieces(Grandmother's pearls, Hermes scarf)and more casual pieces(which don't require a layaway plan) is always a good idea. 

• The above recommendations are also true of shoes and handbags.  I love LV, Kate Spade, Coach, Gucci, (I could go on and on!) BUT, I do not turn my nose up at beautifully made shoes and bags of "lesser" labels.  The truth is that good quality is good quality, regardless of the maker.  It may just be a temporary waning in popularity, which can change in a season.  Try a designer unfamiliar to you once in awhile.
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• HAVE FUN!  Ebay is a wonderful forum for finding an astounding variety of clothes and accessories-jump in!

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