Tim Gunn Discusses Fashion Building Blocks
Everyone's favorite Project Runway mentor solves all of your style conundrums. This month Tim covers some basic rules for building an outfit.GET MORE STYLE ADVICE FROM TIM GUNN: Check out his rules for evening fashion, plus his jewelry tips!
![Coat and skirt](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TSfPzCzTLvdkvTQSpTob3U-415-80.jpg)
Got a question for Tim Gunn? E-mail him here!
True Colors
"Can I wear brown and black together, like a brown skirt with a black top? Are there still rules against that?"
I find that few looks are quite as chic as brown and black together. However, it's very important that it be the correct brown, because not any brown will do. I find that a deep-chocolate brown is the most successful choice to wear with black. This is especially true with accessories: deep-chocolate only! Otherwise your look will become entirely too casual to support the chic. A word to the wise: The only time that I have seen brown footwear work with black was in the case of a knee-high, chocolate suede boot and black tights. Stunning!
Dressing 101
"I'm an MBA student on a tight budget. At my last job, I rotated between three pairs of slacks and button-downs. Now, as a marketing major, I want to show more personality. Any recommendations?"
I believe women in business should dress like women. Show off your curves and celebrate your gender. Keep your slacks, and wear them with printed wrap tops that correspond to your taste. I suggest wrap tops because, like a wrap dress (God bless Diane von Furstenberg!), they let you customize the fit and give you shape. If my words about fit, fit, fit concern you, consider our secretary of state: I have the greatest admiration and respect for her, but she often looks like she's wearing menswear. Why can't more businesswomen and politicos emulate the divine Nancy Pelosi?
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Metal Down Now
"I love the stud trend, but I don't think I'm edgy enough for it. Any advice for working it into my wardrobe without looking like I'm trying too hard?"
Since you love the stud trend, embrace it! I respect the fact that you don't want to look like one of London's Pearly Kings or Queens. I was just with a colleague who was wearing a neutral-color top with a stud treatment in the same hue. It wasn't even remotely over the top. But if that's too much for you, then consider studded accessories: handbags, shoes, belts. There are myriad options available, so find one that suits your taste and your lifestyle.
-
Zendaya Delivers a Podium-Worthy Pre-Olympics Gown
She's shining brighter than the City of Lights.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
'Love Island USA' Star Kenny Rodriguez Is Not "Playing Around" with His and JaNa Craig's Romance Outside of the Villa
The prince and princess of season 6 have remained the cutest couple since filming wrapped.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
So Many Celebrity Beauty Favorites Are in Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale
Shop Jennifer Lopez, Meghan Markle, and Kaia Gerber's beloved picks.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
30 Linen Pieces From Nordstrom’s Sale for a Seamless Summer to Fall Transition
Shop breezy dresses and airy pants for versatile summer and autumn outfits.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
7 Make-My-Life-Easier Items I'm Buying From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
Grab these must-haves before it's too late.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
The Best Summer Work Shoes Don’t Have To Scream ‘Corporate'
Footwear that means business in the best way possible.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
34 Chic Vacation Essentials Hiding in Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale
Don't board the plane without packing these items first.
By Lauren Tappan Last updated
-
The Boxer Shorts Trend Offers a Realistic Take on Lingerie Dressing
How the borrowed-from-the-boys bottom became a hero summer piece with endless style potential.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Fashion Girls Are Destined to Wear the J.Crew x Maryam Nassir Zadeh Collaboration on Vacation
Beloved indie designer Maryam Nassir Zadeh translated her essentials into the ultimate packing list.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
I'm a Style Editor—50 Last-Minute Prime Day Fashion Deals to Grab Before Tomorrow
Grab these on-sale items before it’s too late.
By Lauren Tappan Last updated
-
Fashion Editors Share the Best Work Dresses From Their Summer Uniform
From classic wrap silhouettes to breezy linens, these are the expert-approved styles we're wearing on repeat.
By Lauren Tappan Published