There are those who dress to blend in with the scenery and those who dress to be seen. But if life’s a theatre, why linger in the wings? Take centre stage and dress for the spotlight.

Go monochrome for maximum impact
Dressing head to toe in a singular hue—whether it’s cool greys or hot red—makes for a striking note. The wearer exudes a sense of clarity and purpose. But while it might be more palpable—and easy—to go with all grey or black, there is the powerful gratification of blood-thumping red, which is sure to send waves of shock and awe when you enter a room. And any woman dressed in scarlet is likely the one having the most fun. For lips, try Nars Satin Lipstick in Dressed to Kill.

Put polar opposite prints together
Great couturiers like Christian Lacroix and Emanuel Ungaro were once known to use this visually arresting trick to create looks that were unexpected and impactful. Go ahead and pair those seemingly disparate patterns together; polka dots with nautical stripes or camo with florals or plaid with leopard. The key is to make sure they are similar in size and keep the pattern play to only two prints.

 

If you have it, flaunt it
The legs are the last to go—so says the classic adage. And if you’re in possession of a great pair of gams, why keep them hidden under dowager-length dresses? Just leave the short-and-tight to the young and less chic and choose loose and fluid—which can still have a dramatic effect—and kick up your show girl legs. Style tip: fish net hose will help even out skin tone, hide imperfections and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Jazz up the classic pant suit
A black pantsuit might be the workhorse of your office wardrobe, but don’t forget its versatility. Take the business out of it and get it ready for play with some fun accessories like glittering sneakers, a jaunty fedora
or charming waistcoat. Suitably attired doesn’t have to mean you’re straitlaced. To care for silver tresses, try L’Oréal Professionnel Silver shampoo for grey and white hair at salons only.

A version of this article appeared in the October 2016 issue with the headline, “Be (B)old”, p. 46-49.