Being chic doesn’t mean busting your budget to buy trendy items but rather knowing how to pull together clothes to give them a remarkable look. It all starts with the staples – classic pieces with which you can never go wrong. For example, 3 pieces to layer, wear as a duo or solo (2/3):

A) A well-cut black jacket (this one has micro polka dots that soften a potentially severe look)

B) A cardigan in either a solid colour or a classic pattern (stripes, polka dots, gingham checks)

C) A white buttoned shirt

The shirt and the cardigan can both be worn on their own, on bare skin. Remembering to undo a button or two will add to the look.

Being chic also means counting as part of your staples a pair of pants with a more masculine cut. Look for a straight cut that falls impeccably. Being aware of one’s figure is key, which means avoiding wearing pants that are… visibly restricting your blood flow.

Being chic means knowing the value of the perfect little black dress, the one that is always appropriate. Whether sleeveless, with long or short sleeves, a few accessories are all you need to take it from office (with a jacket and a pair of pumps) to happy hour (with or without a jacket, topped with heels and jewellery).

Being chic means being ready to face the changing weather.

Another staple piece: the trench. It’s must for every woman. The ideal length for you will depend on whether you favour wearing pants or dresses. A pencil skirt works for every length.

Being chic means wearing a leather jacket with understated elegance over rocker-like exuberance.

For example: wearing it with a slightly unbuttoned white blouse and slim-cut pants, completing the look with a pretty clutch and high heels.

Being chic isn’t solely based on what you wear but also on how you wear it. This doesn’t exclude looking sexy. A simple buttoned shirt, a pencil skirt and high heel can do the trick. The chic factor will be influenced by the length of the skirt. It’s important to adapt your style to suit your figure, knowing you can wear with elegance and what you can conceal through lengths, layers and fits. For example, wearing a skirt that falls below the knee can help flatter legs for the knock-kneed.

Being chic, means always looking polished – polished hair, makeup and manicure.

Being chic means picking out the right accessories. It can be a gorgeous pair of heels, a sensational leather bag, a beautiful scarf. Keep in mind that a look can be altered by the height of your heels. Always count amongst your staples a sleek pair of high heels and some classic pumps. Then confirm what best completes your look in a full-length mirror.

Being chic means exuding confidence… but in a fresh, natural way devoid of any arrogance. In with a good posture and elegant gait, out with rounded shoulders and dragging feet.

Being chic means knowing how to look at yourself in the mirror and accepting little flaws – whether real or perceived – while enhancing your best assets. You can pick a skirt as a way to show off lean legs or pick a V-neck sweater, if you have a short neck...

Being chic means wearing colours that flatter you rather than blindly following what trends dictate. If this year’s “orchid” colour makes your skin tone look bland, pick a colour from the same palette that looks better on you. You can even ignore it all together and wait for next year’s colour – it’s a marketing trend, not an obligation. Keep in mind that black is always slimming and can make legs look leaner.

Some people are lucky enough to exude undeniable chic without even trying… others do need to put a little bit more effort into it. With Spring on the way, wake up your Chic Attitude and move forth with a smile.