This is Beirut.com and today we’re gonna teach you how to dress like a Lebanese fashionista because we just happen to be the trendiest blog in town.
1. Always aim for bigger logos.
Make it a point to aim for bigger brand logos when shopping. [If you have a choice of branded belts for instance, then you should always opt for the one with the biggest buckle. And see those designer pieces that are entirely covered in patterned logos? These should be on top of your list.] The more visible the logo, the more it’ll stand out in the context of a packed event (and more importantly, the photos that are taken of you during the event). On an equally important note, Instagram’s grid is relatively tiny and you wouldn’t want the designer brands you’ve spent so much on (or want people to think you’ve spent so much on in case they’re fake) to go unnoticed in pictures at the end of the day.
2. Mix all these brands into one outfit for added effect.
Now that you’ve got your logos sorted out, incorporate as many as you can into every outfit for an accentuated impact on the community. Gucci vintage logo T-shirt, classic Chanel flap bag, Balenciaga sneakers, Cartier Love bracelets and a Burberry trench coat on top? You’ve totally got this honey! Such strategic planning also doubles as a valid excuse for you to tag more brands in your #ootd pics on Instagram.
3. Invest in one of these designer bags.
If you can have them all, then that’ll be great (if you already do, that’s even greater!). There are many other standout designer bags out there, but let’s just say these have been the most widely identifiable within the Lebanese community for the past few years, hence their top placement on our emergency list. I mean, it is always recommended to revamp your wardrobe with newfangled creations as they emerge (extravagant faux fur detailing and structured box-shaped purses, anyone?) but bear in mind that the more timeless the bag is, the longer it’ll last. We’re all about good investments here.
4. Squeeze into the tightest curve-hugging garments available.
When you’re buying tight-fitting clothing (such as a dress or skinny jeans), try your best to squeeze into at least one smaller size than what you would normally wear. It’ll probably require lots of breathing (you can always seek a friend’s help when needed), but once you nail the zipping/buttoning phase, all trouble will be dissipated as you see your curves emphasized to the point of explosion in the mirror. And if you ever find yourself on the edge of giving up midway through, think about the number of extra likes such a fashion endeavor could generate on Instagram to motivate yourself. Just make sure no organs are displaced in the process.
5. Buy T-shirts with sassy slogans on them.
This one goes without saying. You should own at least 20 of them, with a bare minimum of 12 white ones. You gain major bonus points for feminist slogans because, on the one hand, they are more likely to inspire emotional influencer-style Instagram captions, and on the other hand, you can use them as captions when you’re too lazy to recycle a 2009 Tumblr quote. Talk about win-win situations!
6. Have these shoes in every color.
A collection of Hermès Oran sandals is the epitome of effortless sophistication and one simply does not get enough of Louboutin stilettos. Having these staple shoes in different colors does not only give you endless options for every occasion but also helps validate your fashionista status in the Lebanese society. You can always dig out quality replicas if you’re not willing to shed a fortune [judging by the amount of times these shoes have been spotted on Lebanese women’s feet, it is safe to say many of them are faker than their lips anyway].
7. If it doesn’t glitter, then don’t.
You’re not a hardcore Lebanese fashionista at heart if you don’t have a major soft spot for all that glitters, notably when it comes to evening wear. Nothing tops the head-turning power of a smooth shiny finish. The more it hurts the eye, the better it is!
8. Flash skin strategically.
Focus on your strengths, yet do not be afraid to dabble in other areas from time to time to ensure your Instagram followers aren’t bored mainly.
9. Accessorize abundantly.
Accessorizing knows no economizing in the context of everyday Lebanese fashion, let alone on a night out. Do not shy away from piling up accessories on top of every look (as long as they’re not too heavy for you to walk in, you’re totally fine) and make it a point to throw in a quirky piece by an emerging local designer in between, as you can always initiate aesthetic discussions around it at social gatherings when you’re out of conversation topics (besides using it to showcase your support for local talent on Instagram, of course).
10. Always dress for the gram.
Lastly, always remember to pick your outfits based on what’s more ‘Instagrammable’ (comfort and weather conditions can totally wait) and never forget to tag all the brands you’re wearing in each of your pictures (we’re all dying to know where you got that ruffled black miniskirt in the left corner of your last ‘about last night’ post, I assure you). Cheers!