Food styling tips
30+ food styling tips to elevate your food photography
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There are many things that come together to create good food photography: your photography skills, good use of light, some cooking knowledge…the list goes on. But one of the most important skills is one that is often overlooked: your food styling skills.
Food styling can make or break an image. If you want to get started with food photography without have to read a whole book about it (416 pages packed full of super useful tips… just saying, in case you need something to read next) here are over 30 tips to help you style and shoot food for drool-worthy images:
1. Choose small plates and bowls.
Food just looks better when there’s a small amount of carefully-chosen pieces, as opposed to a mound of food. They will, however, look quite lost if you use regular-sized dinner plates, so make sure to use salad plates and small bowls. When styling food, smaller props in general work best. For ideas about this, check out my post about 25 food photography props that you probably already own.
2. Style with fresh ingredients.
Fresh ingredients can actually be used as props and placed directly on the backdrop. They will bring an element of freshness to your images and create the feeling that the food was just prepared. They will also give taste and flavor hints to the viewer and help him imagine what the dish tastes like.
3. Use layers in your food styling.
To create depth and add interest to your images you can, for example, lay a napkin and then a plate, then a small bowl with your smoothie and fruits on top. That’s 5 layers! Look at your favorite food photographers and notice how they constantly use layers in their work.
4. Garnish is the perfect layer.
If you want to add interest and draw attention to your food, use a garnish. You can add fruits on top of a smoothie, and even coconut flakes on top of the fruits for yet another layer. Sprinkle parsley on top of your stew, pepper on top of your egg, confectioner’s sugar or sprinkles on your cupcakes. You get the idea.
5. Style with napkins.
They are probably my favorite food styling prop. Napkins made of linen usually find their way into my work because I just love the way they fold. There’s a {large} selection of napkins in different colors that I use regularly. I like to place them close to the light source where I find they create the most contrast and texture. They can be quite difficult to tame and I have had shoots where I spent more time trying the fold the napkin in a nice way than styling the food itself!
6. Go DIY with your backdrops.
If you are just starting out and on a tight budget, there are a lot of things you can find around your house to use as backdrops.
Tablecloths, linens, baking sheets, trays, parchment paper, paper bags, wallpaper, ceramic tiles, stick on tiles, the list goes on. You can also purchase really beautiful vinyl backdrops for a range of prices or even make them yourself!
7. Get creative with cutlery.
Cutlery is a crucial tool in your food styling arsenal as it really helps to define the feel of your image. Think about it: if you choose to use your grandma’s vintage silverware, your image will tell a very different story than if you decided to use a modern minimalist set. The placement of the silverware is just as important and can give the viewer an insight into who is eating this meal and possibly where they are: an image with classic silverware placed neatly on a white folded napkin tells the story of an upscale dinner or even a fancy restaurant, while a stack of simple forks crisscrossed on the table will evoke a more relaxed, at-home setting.
8. Add Texture.
This is a very important part of your image. You can use different textures to create an interesting image, like mixing the smoothness of a napkin with the spikiness (it’s a word, right?) of a meringue. You can add even more texture by sprinkling rose petals on your set. Or you can focus on the texture of one item with a macro shot.
9. Go a little crazy with crumbs and spills.
I love to add crumbs, spills, sprinkles and a general mess to my images. I find it gives them a “lived in” feeling that tells the viewer that there is actually someone in the picture who just finished making the dish or is about to eat it.
10. Use fake ice cubes.
Get them online right now and keep them in your food styling kit. They are a lifesaver! How many times did you make the perfect soup only to find out that there isn’t quite enough to fill the bowl you chose to use? Or made a beautiful smoothie bowl only to find that the bananas just won’t stop sinking? Place the fake ice cubes at the bottom of your bowl to make it look fuller or to hold the toppings on your smoothie bowls, amongst many other uses!
11.
Use makeup sponges.
I know this one sounds weird, but I actually use makeup sponges all the time (the little wedge ones). You can use them to prop a bowl that is not quite straight or even wedge them in the back of your burger to keep it from sagging. They are inexpensive, washable, and you can cut them to any size you need!
12. Take a bite!
In the same spirit as the crumbs and spills, taking a bite of a cookie will add a human element to your images. Plus, hey, you get to eat the cookie!
13. Create fake water droplets using water and glycerin.
There is nothing that says fresh more than droplets on a glass of iced tea or on fresh fruit. To create perfect droplets, mix half water and half vegetable glycerin in a spray bottle and keep it in your food styling kit!
14. Stay away from busy patterns.
When you choose your backdrops and props, stay away from busy patterns. They will distract the viewer from the real subject: the food!
15.
Cut food in different shapes.
For example, if you are using lemons in your image, make sure to get several lemons and cut one in slices, one in wedges, and one in halves. Then use all those shapes in your shot for added interest.
16. Be aware of the color temperature of your images.
Light has a color temperature and can appear more blue or more yellow depending on the time of the day. Be mindful of it when you shoot and edit. In general terms, blue temperature creates a feeling of freshness, while yellow temperature creates a feeling of comfort, coziness.
17. Garnishes…again?
Yes, again. Figure out a few garnishes that keep for a long time and work with your cooking style, and always have them on hand. It could be things like sprinkles or powdered sugar if you are a baker or lemon and cheese if you cook mostly Mediterranean food. Mine are garlic and thyme (fresh or dried) as they keep for a very long time and work well for styling most French dishes.
18. Grow your own garnishes. (See a pattern here?)
Grow your own herbs so you always have garnishes on hand. I have planters at home with parsley, thyme, rosemary, basil, and mint so I always have extra garnishes if I need them.
19. Undercook your dishes.
Food will look better if it is slightly undercooked: it will keep more moisture and avoid looking dry or mushy. Make sure to get it out of the heat a few minutes before it’s due. You can always cook it more later when it’s time to eat – I do actually eat and feed my family with most of the food I cook for a shoot. 🙂
20. Choose fruits and veggies that are under-ripe.
Don’t look for the perfectly ripe avocado for your shoot! Select one that is a little under-ripe, so that it will keep a better shape and be easier to manipulate without turning to guacamole in seconds.
21. Start putting together your very own food styling kit.
Keep a container with all those useful styling tools we talked about (fake ice cubes, makeup sponges, spray bottle) and also scissors, knife, q-tips, etc.
That way everything is always together and ready to go.
22. Use color theory when choosing props.
This will make sure they compliment the food well. If you are not familiar with it, you can find some quick classes on Skillshare or use a simple tool like Adobe Kuler.
23. Plan your food styling ahead of time.
It is important that you go into your shoot knowing what the image you want to create will look like, what props and garnishes (again! It’s an obsession…) you will be using. If you need some tips on how to plan a shoot, check out my previous blog post.
24. Get inspired (but don’t steal).
When I am brainstorming food styling for a shoot, I usually spend a good amount of time on Pinterest and Instagram to gather ideas and inspiration. I will create a {secret} board or Instagram collection for that particular shoot and will start saving images. That doesn’t mean that I am looking for an image to copy; for example, I will save an image because I like the way the stylist folded the napkin, or the color combinations, or the type of plate they used.
Then I will pull elements from the different images to create a new image altogether.
25. Use a tripod and shoot tethered.
This one is critical. You need to be able to see the image on a larger screen and make adjustments to your food styling as you shoot while keeping the same angle. I use a manfrotto tripod that I love but there are some solid tripods for a reasonable price if you are just starting. Tethering only requires a cable and an editing software, which I am hoping you have 🙂
26. Choose your angle.
You will not shoot a pizza and a burger using the same angle. A burger shot from the top is less than interesting and unless there is a lot (and I mean a lot) of toppings on your pizza, a straight-on shot isn’t gonna do it. Think about what angle would best highlight your food when you are planning your shoot. A very popular angle is the overhead (also called a flat lay). Check out my tips to successfully shoot and style flat lay here.
27. Buy extra ingredients.
There is always an avocado that is too soft or an apple that went brown and needs to be refreshed. You don’t want to have to make a grocery run in the middle of your shoot, so make sure you buy extra ingredients so that you have everything you need on hand.
28. Study the light.
Even more important than the food you shoot is the light you use to shoot it with. Shooting pictures is ultimately not as much about the food as the way the light is shaping it. Once I understood that, I was able to create much more beautiful images, and you can too. My favorite resource to learn to see light is Art of Light by Rachel Korinek.
29. Group items in odd numbers.
When placing props or food on your set, follow the rule of odds. Our brain equates even numbers to complete groups and tends to ignore them, while odd numbers will create a more interesting and dynamic composition.
30.
Pick smaller fruits.
When shopping and choosing your ingredients for food styling, choose smaller fruits and berries. You will be able to fit more in your frame without overwhelming the viewer with very big items, and they will not compete with your main food for attention.
31. Less is more.
If your image doesn’t work and you are not quite sure why, before adding yet another prop, remove one, maybe two, and see if it works. Often times we use too many items and they end up competing with each other and creating chaos. Remove the unnecessary props and work on the composition before adding more props.
32. Food styling looks best edited.
I cannot stress enough how much my images improved when I finally learned to properly edit them. Use Lightroom to its fullest but also learn to know and see what is missing from your image that could transform it from a good image to a great one. I just happen to have a series of blog posts that can help you with this, whether you’re a true Lightroom beginner, an advanced user, or somewhere in between.
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- After
I hope these tips are going to help you create scroll-stopping images every single time! If you want to learn more about food photography, check out my favorite online resources for food photography.
I would love to hear from you, so let me know in the comments which tip you think is the most useful and don’t forget to share your own tips with me!
Pro Tips to Step Up Your Game
Earlier this year, we brought you our complete guide to food photography. We talked about everything from creating optimal lighting and composition to choosing the right props, equipment, and camera settings for your needs. With a little practice, these tips can take you from a discolored, distorted smartphone photo to something like this:
But there's more to food photography than just, well, photography: professional stylists play an integral role in making magazine-quality shots look as viscerally appealing as possible.
That can range from doing the actual cooking and plating to selecting cutlery and arranging an entire table spread. "Stylists," says Serious Eats Visual Editor Vicky Wasik, "prepare the food to make it look its best in real life, and help to set the scene and tell a story. Then it's up to the photographer to make sure the lighting, composition, and framing is right to capture it."
So what does that process actually look like? You asked us for tips to improve your own food photography, so we sat down with professional food stylist Jason Schreiber, whose clients include Martha Stewart, Bon Appétit, and the Food Network, to find out. To take us through his philosophy, Schreiber made us a simple puff pastry plum galette and showed us how to style it one step at a time. Here are his top suggestions for home cooks looking to step up their game. (You can also check out his Instagram feed for tons of inspiration).
1. Choose and Prep Your Ingredients Wisely
When you know you'll be shooting a dish and not just wolfing it down, the appearance of your ingredients becomes a lot more important.
"Not everything needs to be picture perfect," notes Schreiber, "but look for ingredients that are unblemished and have good shapes, especially if you'll be showcasing them raw." When it comes to produce, Schreiber recommends hitting the farmers market, where a wider variety of options is usually available, like the multi-hued plums pictured above.
As for proteins, we suggest shopping from a trusted butcher—many shrink-wrapped cuts of chicken thighs or skirt steak, for instance, may look just fine behind the plastic, but often turn out to have poorly trimmed or rough edges that can impact the appearance of the final dish.
And once you have those ingredients in-hand, think about how you'll be prepping them. When it comes to photos, Schreiber notes, flavor can come at the expense appearance: for instance, he looked for slightly unripened plums for our photoshoot, since they're better able to retain their shape after baking. Similarly, although cutting them all to the same dimensions would guarantee that they'd cook more evenly, Schreiber sliced some plums in quarters, others in thirds, and still others in half, in order to give the dish a less uniform, more rustic appearance that catches the eye and holds the viewer's interest.
2. Show, Don't Tell
Schreiber suggests letting a photograph express as much as possible about the dish it features. "Sometimes," he says, "the process is more interesting than the final product—you'll learn more about a spice rub when you can see the individual components being measured than when you just see a bunch of dry ingredients mixed together in a bowl."
Other times, as with our galette, the process is boring or just plain unattractive. That's why he instead decided to illustrate the ingredients with a scattering of plums in the background and a sprinkle of lemon thyme over the surface.
3. But Stay Realistic
There are good garnishes and then there are illogical ones. "The food needs to look edible," he stresses. "If you can't imagine putting it it in your mouth, then it's probably not a great garnish." Poorly selected garnishes are jarring—rather than alluding to what went into the dish, they make the viewer question whether they even care about the dish in the first place.
Just look at the effect of adding several whole sprigs of thyme to the tart, rather than the light scattering of leaves that we ultimately went with.
4. Get Messy, But Not Dirty
The grease stains on the parchment in this photo just aren't attractive.We love a little mess in a food photo. It communicates movement, dynamism, and the unbridled pleasure of eating. But there's a difference between mess we want to eat—like a melting scoop of ice cream or a stray crumb—and a big ol' grease stain that reminds you of the clean-up you'll need to do later. If you're going to embrace the mess, just be sure that it makes you hungry.
5. Communicate a Story
The job of a food stylist isn't just to make the food look delicious, it's to bring it to life. "Are you composing a plated dish from a fancy restaurant?," Schreiber prompts. "Is it a family style meal? Dinner for one?" In other words, aim to keep your props, colors, and serving sizes consistent with the atmosphere the dish is meant to evoke.
Above, you can see that we tested a variety of surfaces for the galette, and while they're all aesthetically pleasing, the one we ultimately settled on (bottom right) best expressed the casual, autumnal qualities of the dish.
We could have just left it at that: it's a perfectly pleasing photograph that would certainly be at home on Serious Eats. But Schreiber encouraged us to go further. We started by slicing it to give it a sense of action and accessibility. A single slice seemed forced; we continued to follow our instincts, slicing the entire tart and then pulling out some of the slices to hint at movement, as if to say there's a slice headed your way.
6. Highlight Dimensions and Break Boundaries
For this shoot, we opted to keep the camera in a fixed position to demonstrate the distinction between photography and styling. But no matter what angle you're shooting from, you want to experiment with height and boundaries. "Don't keep everything super flat," Schreiber recommends.
By breaking up surfaces and playing with boundaries, you can bring the image to life and translate it to a three dimensional world. You know, the world where that food actually winds up in your mouth.
7. Know When to Stop
Styling can work wonders...until it doesn't. Schreiber cautions against adding too many props or over-thinking your scene. Just because you can fit another napkin/fork/garnish into the frame doesn't mean you should. When a space grows so busy that the eye no longer knows where to go, it's time to take a step back and take a more minimalist approach. And hey—there's nothing wrong with experimenting. Just look how many different tweaks we made over the course of the photoshoot before we were happy with the final look:
If anything, it's a pretty great excuse to play with your food.
The Food Stylist's Toolkit
Looking to get even more serious with your food styling? While Schreiber is adamant that most dishes can be beautifully styled without any tools at all, there are certainly some items that come in handy.
Here's what he always has at a shoot.
- A sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures that you can make even, precise cuts and avoid that dirty kind of mess we were talking about.
- Brushes: "I actually have way more brushes than you see here. I use them to dust surfaces, move powdery ingredients, or manipulate liquids and droplets," says Schreiber. He advises buying higher quality brushes from art stores or even makeup suppliers. Not only will they last longer, but they'll produce a more even, studied appearance.
- Small scissors: Any kind of scissors are great for trimming edges, making stencils for decorative cakes, or meeting basic utilitarian needs like cutting a sheet of parchment paper down to size. But Schreiber prefers little scissors because they can get into small spaces and perform the more delicate maneuvers often called for in perfecting a vignette.
- Tweezers: Food stylists often need to move around and carefully arrange small objects—it's dainty work! Schreiber loves these tweezers because the bent tips allow him to lower items right into position.
- Utility blade: Can't even get those little scissors into a tiny space? Enter the super sharp and narrow X-ACTO Knife or a common utility blade.
- Ruler: "I use the ruler if I need to measure even distances between items, but it's also great because you can use it as a miniature offset spatula—it can fit into tiny places that other instruments can't reach," Schreiber says.
- Offset spatula: Offsets come in many different sizes, but this little guy is great for smaller-scale work. Use it to smooth out condiments or icing.
Feeling extra nit-picky? Schreiber demonstrated some pro-tips for dealing with minor blemishes: in the photo above, he uses a brush to wipe away bits of flour and cover any dry patches of plum with the natural juices that have pooled at the bottom of the galette. A little simple syrup on desserts or oil on savory dishes will have a similar effect.
Women's Style Tips: Top 50 - Obliqo
As women, we're so busy between the demands of motherhood and the time constraints of our careers that dressing in a way that makes us feel confident and stylish seems like an impossible goal.
But it's not! Just read our style tips for women and you will understand that it is not so difficult.
Have you ever noticed that there are some women who have a consistent quality that seems both effortless and perfectly polished? You get the impression that the way they dress is natural, and what seems impossible to you looks like an innate skill that they have. nine0003
The truth is that for these women, fashion is much less about hidden talent and much more about knowing what suits them and following a few guidelines. They strategize for their personal style, so much of the guesswork is eliminated right away and getting dressed in the morning is a breeze.
If you want to learn how to look more stylish and collected without investing in a brand new wardrobe, the secret can be found in a few key rules. nine0003
Scroll down to find 50 of the best style tips for women that work no matter your size, budget, or aesthetic to help you automate your wardrobe and get rid of confusion about what to wear.
1. Determine how you want to appear in the world
The first step in establishing your sense of style is to create a message. Think of it like your personal branding - an outer package that shows the world who you are on the inside and highlights your strongest qualities. nine0003
Start by asking yourself how you would like the people you interact with to perceive you. Choose words that paint a vivid mental picture of how you want to present yourself. Adjectives such as "powerful", "compassionate", "refined" and "intelligent" provide a yardstick for evaluating your image, so it's important to be as clear and concise as possible. When you first begin the process of creating a personal style, this is the first step you should start with. Before you know what your clothes will look like, you must be clear about your message. nine0003
Keep in mind that you are always in control of your private communication, whether you realize it or not. What do you want to say with your style?
2.
Style tips for women: be yourself The clothes you wear are an extension of who you are. This should strengthen your image and become an expression of your true self. That means you don't have to cram your feet into 5-inch stilettos that require an hour-long foot massage at the end of the day if you're more comfortable in flats, or wear the latest trends just because that's how all your friends dress. Wear clothes that look like YOU. nine0003
If you're not sure how you feel about something, take the quiz by asking yourself 3 simple questions: Do you feel comfortable in your clothes or will I keep adjusting them? Do I recognize myself in the mirror, or am I trying to be something I'm not? Do these clothes bring me joy and do I enjoy wearing them? If you answer "yes" to all 3 questions, you're done! If not, look for another option.
3. Don't prioritize fashion over comfort
When it comes to style advice for women, it's non-negotiable. nine0003
If you're torn between style and comfort, always choose what you like best.
When you are uncomfortable or constrained by something, you cannot radiate power. The old adage that beauty is pain is not true. As women, we balance busy careers with raising children and family life. The last thing we need to worry about is spending an 8-hour work day wearing a dress that sucks the life out of us or jeans that feel too tight. There is always an alternative as stylish as we can find. nine0003
4. Style Tips for Women: Identify Your Inspiration
Studying the work of those who have already mastered the skill is a good start when learning something new. As you begin to define the basis for your sense of style, it's helpful to draw inspiration from people who match your vision.
Whether it's celebrities, politicians, TV personalities or colleagues, make a list of the people you think are consistently well dressed. A clear understanding of who you look up to will help you better define your preferences as you create your own unique personal style. nine0003
This exercise can often seem difficult.
As creatures of habit, it's hard to imagine that we're wearing something different. For now, ignore the natural indecision to step outside of your comfort zone and instead focus on what you love.
5. Create a visual style guide
Create a collection of images that reflect your desired sense of style: find outfits you'd like to try on, pins that embody your aesthetic, and anything else you can use as a guide to create your personal brand. nine0003
Pinterest is a great platform for collecting ideas. Their algorithm quickly learns your preferences and makes personalized recommendations.
In addition, you can save images to a special folder on your phone or cut pictures from magazines and create a physical mood board.
Collecting photos allows you to see what your preferences look like in general and easily identify patterns in your taste. This visual structure serves as your style guide as you start putting together outfits and deciding what you're going to wear.
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6. Style Tips for Women: Appreciate what you have and let go of what doesn't fit
Having a clear idea of what you create for yourself will help you honestly and objectively evaluate what you have in your closet. Chances are you've been wearing the same piece for years, not because you chose it strategically, but because it was familiar to you. It's time to be more methodical about what you wear.
Go through your current wardrobe piece by piece to determine if each item matches the style you plan to achieve. Make a promise to yourself to let go of anything that doesn't match. Holding on to clothes out of sentimental affection only guarantees that you will repeat old designs. Leave the items that fit your goals and part with the rest. nine0003
7. Give clothes a second life
Clothes are a gift that continues to be useful, and what no longer works for you will surely benefit someone else. Talk to family and friends to see who might need freshening up.
There are companies that accept donations easily, and you can also reach out to local nonprofits that partner with the homeless community.
And finally, if you want to earn extra income, there are sites for reselling things you don't need. nine0003
8. Women's style tips: Use hangers to see what you're not wearing
After you've done some serious editing, you'll still want to keep an eye on everything you've saved, just in case you're keeping something. - something that is not used. To find out what clothes you never wear, do the hanger test. Start by turning all of the hangers in your closet to face you, unlike what you would normally do. When you put on things, hang them again with a hook away from you in the normal direction. nine0003
Set a time frame for reevaluating what you've used, usually 6 months to 1 year, taking note of anything still hanging in the original order. They can be gifted or sold as it's unlikely you'll ever wear them again and they take up valuable space in your closet.
9. Try the one-in, one-out method
Now you have a wardrobe ready to showcase your updated style. To do so, you must be disciplined. Remember that the goal of a wardrobe overhaul is to maintain the choice of clothes you wear on a regular basis, all of which makes you feel as confident as possible. Over time, create systems that will prevent over-accumulation. A great way to do this is to keep your organization by removing an element every time you add something. If you are buying a new pair of jeans, one pair must go. Everything in your closet needs a purpose so you know it's there so you don't lose it in the clutter. nine0003
10. Women's Style Tips: Understand Your Shape
Understanding your body shape is key to successfully achieving a great sense of personal style. When you know what cuts and silhouettes work best for your body, you save yourself the confusion of what to wear and a closet full of things that don't wear.
One of the best style tips for women is to learn how to balance.
If the lower body volume is larger, the trick is to compensate by adding more upper body volume (think structured shoulders, jackets with chest pockets). If your bust or shoulders are larger, create visual balance by increasing volume at the bottom (eg, A-line skirt, slacks). nine0003
Women who dress lightly know exactly what flatters their body and what to avoid, always emphasizing their dignity. If you're unsure about your figure, check out the most common female body types to easily determine which category you fall into.
The most important part of developing your style is choosing clothes that make you feel great, and there is nothing better than wearing clothes that flatter your figure.
11. Invest what you can afford in good quality basics
Women with style know that by spending a little more money on basics, they will always have access to good quality items that will stand the test of time. Basic things are items that should be in every woman's wardrobe and used in a variety of conditions.
The point is to have less, but get more out of what you have.
We suggest investing as much as you can afford in neutral denim and loose options, versatile coats, classic white button down shirts, fitted dresses, structured blazers, classic leather bags and standard shoes. These pieces will be worn over and over again making them worth the investment. nine0003
While you may have to spend a little more upfront to allow for better quality, you will be changing your basics much less often than if you were buying cheaper, trendier versions. Ultimately, you will shop less frequently and save money that you would otherwise spend on repeat purchases.
12. Women's Style Tips: Create a Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe is the intersection of fashion and function, where everything in your closet can be easily mixed and matched and a single theme runs through it. Think of it like your personal uniform in the sense that everything works together to lay the foundation for your personal style.
When you have a capsule wardrobe, getting dressed in the morning becomes much easier. Everything already fits together so you don't have to guess to create great outfits. nine0003
As you edit your existing wardrobe and start buying new items, the ultimate goal is to build a collection of items you love. The importance of the capsule wardrobe methodology is not to achieve a certain number of items in your wardrobe, but rather to create a dressing framework that makes everyday life so much easier.
13. Don't focus on fashion
Fashion or trends are items that grab attention overnight but don't last long enough. The key style rule is not to spend too much time focusing on these things, spending money on something that will not be relevant for a long time. While we always suggest buying something, if you really can't stop thinking about it, make sure you keep those purchases to a minimum and focus on the classics. Strengthening your sense of style means not being too distracted by trends so you don't have to constantly update your wardrobe.
If you've successfully built your capsule wardrobe, you should have everything you need for the perfect everyday look. nine0003
14. Women's style tips: wear the right clothes
Fit is everything when it comes to great style. Why? Because wearing clothes that fit us enhances our assets, flatters our body type and, most importantly, makes us feel good. Beautiful clothes have no place in our closets if they do not fit the body properly.
When it comes to fit, the pieces we wear need to be shaped and breathable without looking bulky. Too big ends up making us sloppy and disproportionate, too small ends up cutting in the wrong places. Proper fit is how we achieve relaxed style while feeling comfortable in the clothes we wear. nine0003
Don't go down just because the number makes you feel better, and don't go up because you think it hides problem areas. Clothes that fit you properly will always look your best.
15. Experiment and Explore
Creating your look doesn't happen overnight, so give yourself permission to play and explore.
Building a sense of style is a trial and error process designed to help you figure out what makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Use what you have in your closet to experiment with new outfit combinations. Go to the store and try on silhouettes in which you have never seen your body. When you step outside your comfort zone, you open up new possibilities. nine0003
16. Style advice for women: age is just a number
When it comes to clothing, the term "age-appropriate" is not appropriate, if not outdated. The prescriptive notion of a calmer, more controlled look with age suggests that there is a time limit in order to look better.
Being a woman is hard enough without the added social pressure of conforming to a numbers-based approach to clothing. As with everything about fashion, the most important element is how we feel and how our choice of clothing boosts our self-confidence. nine0003
The way we dressed in our 20s may not be what we want to recreate in our 40s, but that doesn't mean we aren't allowed to love dressing our best as well.
No matter what age you are, stick to styles that make you feel good, experiment with fashion and know that you as a woman have every right to be as stylish as you want to be... no matter your age group.
17. Make strategic purchases
To shop effectively, you need to have a plan or you are destined to repeat the same shopping habits you have formed up to this point. Make a list of the specific things you're missing from your current wardrobe so you'll have a clear idea of what you're looking for when you get to the mall. The fact that you already have 3 of them, it just so happens that they are on sale now, not what you came for. Keep to the plan!
It helps you break down your shopping and focus on a few items on each trip. Our minds tend to get overwhelmed when we have too much to think about. If you have blazers and pants on your list, save blouses and sweaters for another day. You are much more likely to find what you need when you are not overwhelmed by decision fatigue.
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18. Women's style tips: getting ready for the dressing room
Trying on clothes in the fitting room can often be a hassle. A combination of fluorescent lights, ugly mirrors, and the discomfort of having to ask salespeople for different sizes and styles.
Being prepared can help make the process less stressful, especially if you're shopping for something meaningful, like a special occasion outfit. Put on some makeup, do your hair, and bring the right underwear and shoes. When you're at your best, you're more likely to enjoy the process of trying on clothes and end up being more successful in finding what you really like. nine0003
19. Don't buy unless you're absolutely sure
We've all had that feeling when we tried something on and knew with certainty that we should have it. But this is not always the case, and the clothes we find in the store turn out to be the best we can find.
If you find yourself weighing the pros and cons of buying something, or convincing yourself that it's the best option in the store, it's likely the item won't wear.
That's why we have so many almost new clothes hanging in our closet. nine0003
If you are unsure about an item, ask the seller to set it aside for you. If you can't stop thinking about it after two days, come back and try again with fresh eyes. If you still like it, go ahead and buy it. In this case, the purchase will not be impulsive.
20. Women's Style Tips: Explore Your Popular Brands
As you experiment with fashion, you'll begin to discover which brands cut to flatter your figure and offer styles that match your aesthetic. Shopping becomes much easier when you already know which stores have items that suit you. If your jeans fit you perfectly, you can save a lot of time (and energy) by knowing where to look first. When someone consistently releases collections that match your personal style, it's safe to say that you can find something you like there without having to scour the entire mall. nine0003
Knowing popular brands is an easy way to lay the foundation for your personal style when designing a capsule wardrobe.
21. Create a personal lookbook
Even if you don't work with a personal stylist, you can easily create your own lookbook. When you wear outfits that make you feel really good, take pictures of them so you can remember them for later. This helps make choosing an outfit much easier and also ensures you never forget a stunning look. nine0003
22. Style tips for women: plan your outfits in advance
Mornings come with a busy to-do list, especially if you have kids and early appointments. Automate your routine as much as possible is one of the easiest ways to get rid of decision fatigue and ensure you get out the door on time. Just like you plan meals, you can also plan outfits so you don't have to look for something to wear at the last minute. A simple strategy like choosing clothes the night before can save you from an unexpected situation in the morning. We also love the idea of choosing outfits for the week on Sunday night so you can split the task and make all your fashion choices at the same time.
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23. When in doubt, dress up
If you're unsure about the dress code, it's always better to look taller than everyone else than to be the most casual. This is especially true in a new work environment where you may not be familiar with wardrobe protocol. People look at well-dressed people and instinctively show them more respect and attention. If you're unsure, it's always safer to err on the side of dressiness.
24. But also learn how to dress stylishly
Building a non-working wardrobe ensures that you feel better when you leave the house. Even if it's a run or a trip to the grocery store.
A small selection of items can make a big difference, especially since they are mostly reserved for the weekend. As you learn how to create everyday outfits, think and focus on the basic pieces of clothing, such as a loungewear set, a denim jacket, and joggers or leggings.
25. Find a tailor
Every well-dressed woman has a tailor and understands the importance of well-chosen clothes.
Making minor changes to something too large or unstructured can have a major impact on its overall aesthetic.
By shortening the sleeves of a blouse or removing the middle part of a blazer, you can completely change their look and instantly improve your style. Remember that the key to choosing clothes for your body type is to balance proportions, and often this can be achieved with minor changes and adjustments. nine0003
26. Use the button hack
If you're a woman with a big bust, you know what happens when you put on a blouse. There is a gap between the two buttons above and below the bust, and you are most likely trying to hide this by wearing a blouse or avoiding it at all costs.
A simple hack can easily solve this problem. Sew a button on the inside, right between the two buttons in question. Outside, no one will know she is there, and she will successfully keep the fabric from separating. nine0003
The button hack can also be done on jackets, blazers and dresses that split in the same area.
27. Hem trousers to the correct height
When it comes to tailoring, don't forget the length of your trousers. Brands cut clothes according to the standard size chart, and chances are your legs may be shorter. Clothing that matches your unique body proportions will always be the most winning, and this is especially true when it comes to trouser length.
This is a very inexpensive change, but it makes a big difference in how you look. When you go to the tailor, be sure to take your shoes with you so that he knows where to cut. Pants should end at a distance of 1.2 to 1.9cm from the floor, so you need to decide beforehand whether you plan to wear them with or without heels.
28. Change your clothes
Often inexpensive clothes can be made more expensive by replacing buttons or zippers with something more unique or ornate. Style tips for women often miss this because it requires a bit of extra work. But the high results are worth the time spent!
Visit your local fabric store and see what they have in the haberdashery section.
If you are not very good at sewing, take everything to your tailor and ask him to replace it. nine0003
29. Remove pockets from white trousers
White trousers or jeans are always good, but not when the pockets show through. Depending on the fabric, this fashion faux pas will occur more frequently. Fortunately, this is easy to fix. Ask your tailor to cut pockets out of your pants and sew them on with a sewing machine. This is a very simple change that will give an exponentially more sophisticated look.
30. Always wear the right lingerie
An investment in good bras and shapewear cannot be overstated. If you're having trouble finding the perfect fit, find a specialist in your city or visit the lingerie section of a high-end store (their salespeople are well trained in proper fit). Underwear that smooths out in all the right places without creating lines will help spice up your outfits and ensure you feel more confident in your clothes. nine0003
31.
DIY basic silk tops Just like the right underwear, good silk tops are indispensable wardrobe items. Black and white are must-haves, other neutral colors will also find wide use. They can be worn under a blazer or cardigan and look more sophisticated than their cotton alternative.
If your sense of style leans towards a more feminine side, look for models with lace details. nine0003
32. Choose expensive T-shirts
A good quality T-shirt will outperform its cheap counterpart any day in terms of washability, transparency and ability to retain shape over time. If you can, spend a little more on T-shirts.
33. Have at least one classic white blouse
Even if you don't work in an office, a classic white blouse is a staple in every woman's wardrobe. It is something that can be worn up or down and always looks timeless and elegant. Look for a model with darts or seams on the back - these tend to fit more flattering to the body. nine0003
34. Dark denim is a must
While lighter shades are always welcome, dark (and even black) jeans are a must when creating a capsule wardrobe.
Just like the classic white blouse, they can easily transform you from day to night and provide endless outfit combinations. Unlike lighter pieces, dark ones look polished in nature and are much more versatile - often even suitable for a business office.
35. Monochrome
One of the fastest ways to instantly look chic is to dress in solid colors, also known as monochrome clothes. It's streamlined, classic, and helps you look super stylish with minimal effort. This on-trend formula works not only with neutrals like white and black, but also with brighter colors.
36. Add a belt
One of the easiest ways to improve your figure and visually increase your waist is to add a belt. In this case, we are not talking about what is worn over trousers, but about what sits higher and is combined with dresses, skirts or over sweaters and jackets. A belt will instantly create an hourglass figure and also add a finishing touch to your look that will enhance your look and help you look more sophisticated.
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37. Learn to roll up your sleeves
Learning steps:
- Begin by opening the cuff.
- Fold the sleeve halfway up the arm so that the cuff is at elbow level.
- Turn the bottom of the folded sleeve over once to cover the cuff seam.
- Fold the bottom of the double-folded sleeve up the arm again.
- Start at the bottom inside corner and pull the top outside pleat to stick out.
Voila! A relaxed sleeve with cuffs that you can try on.
38. …and darts
Front darts or full darts, find out how to pair them because they are game-changers in fashion.
People often say that it is more convenient for them to keep their shirts on because they are less fitting and hide "problem areas". In truth, this tactic has the opposite effect. When you tuck in your shirt, you lengthen your body, create definition around the midsection, and create a more streamlined silhouette. You appear much longer and leaner with a half or full pleat than with one left hanging down to form a tent-like shape.
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39. Don't be intimidated by trouser suits
First of all, when choosing a suit, the practical aspect is important. Pants are lighter than skirts, the jacket provides warmth and it's one set so you don't have to worry about matching the outfit. It is inexpensive to maintain and very functional option.
But more importantly, suits still dominate the business and bring with them an inner sense of strength and power. They can be thought of as "armor"—what we put on when we go to meetings ready to demonstrate our strength. nine0003
Women are often intimidated by suits because they have images of shoulder pads and oversized lapels from the 80s. But thankfully, contemporary styles are much more trendy and women-centric, often moving from the boardroom straight into everyday fashion.
40. Collect coats and jackets
If there's anything that can easily bring a look to life without much thought, it's a fantastic coat or jacket. Why? Because the outfit underneath can be very simple - think black skinny jeans, a white t-shirt and ankle boots, and the outer shell will do the job.
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Investing in light trench coats, wool coats, blazers and jackets is always a good idea. Choose styles that don't need to be taken off, that catch the eye, but are classic enough that you can wear them all the time.
41. Prioritize Shoes
The average American woman has 20 pairs of shoes but only changes 5. This means that a small part of your shoes does most of the work, so it's important to choose wisely. Three criteria to consider when buying new styles: quality, comfort and versatility. If your goal is to create a capsule wardrobe, you need to invest in shoes that go with most of your clothes and can be easily put on or taken off. nine0003
42. Nude pumps will always be your friend.
When in doubt, wear a pair of plain pumps that match your skin tone. Not only are they a classic product, but they also elongate the vertical line of your body and visually elongate your legs. If you can, invest in a designer brand that never goes out of style.
While the price may be higher, the quality is exponentially better and they will hold an important place in your closet for years to come. nine0003
43. Don't be afraid of pointy shoes
The very thought of pointy shoes makes some women feel uncomfortable not knowing whether they are a fancy piece or a timeless product.
Contrary to what you might think, pointed heels and flats are the most popular silhouette for a reason. Why? Because they are the most flattering. The elongated cut continues the length of the leg and makes you look longer and slimmer, while the angular toe box gives a sophisticated and elegant look. If you're building a capsule wardrobe and want to invest in shoes that are both versatile and stand the test of time, pointed-toe styles are your best bet. nine0003
Look for pumps with a heel size of 9 cm or less if comfort is your top priority. You will still be able to achieve the same sophisticated look but with less weight dispersed on the metatarsals.
44. Learn to Feel Power on the Flat
As women, we often feel compelled to wear high heels or even pressured by our employer to show off our strength and femininity. While it may be doable for some, spending 8 hours a day in uncomfortable shoes can take a toll on your body. And as we always say, comfort should take precedence over style to make you feel your best. nine0003
If you've worked hard to create a wardrobe that reflects your message and highlights your greatest strengths, you can switch from heels to flats and still feel like your most confident person. Look for classic and sublime styles, especially if you wear them to the office, to keep your sophisticated look.
45. Add Color
We hear this a lot, especially from those who spend all their time Monday through Friday in a corporate setting. "I live in neutral colors - black, white, navy blue and grey." nine0003
If you want to add color (or even print) to your wardrobe but are afraid, start with a bold accent rather than a single piece of clothing.
You can stick to neutral hues that you feel comfortable wearing and include an eye-catching accessory, like a colorful bag or a printed scarf. This is an easy way to add more color to your wardrobe.
And if a color is in your comfort zone, be sure to wear it in excess!
46. Select basic accessories
To complete the look, you need to have a few accessories on hand. As with personal style in general, less is more.
A few good quality classic pieces paired with bright suit pieces, plus a great watch, a variety of belts and a few scarves are often all you need to complete your look. Remember that looking louder than your voice usually detracts from your personality. When choosing accessories, focus on 1-2 essential pieces of clothing so you don't overdo it. nine0003
47. Invest what you can afford in bags
If you can afford it, then yes, choose Chanel or Louis Vuitton, which you have been looking at for a long time. These bags are an investment and with proper care you will wear them for years to come.
If these brands are out of your budget, it's not a problem. Find the best quality you can buy at an affordable price. Spending money on a bag is never a bad idea - it's something that is used regularly and should withstand a lot of wear and tear. nine0003
48. Explore the art of hi-lo style
Mixing high-end designer pieces with affordable fast fashion is every fashion lover's secret weapon of style. This means you can try out the trends without going broke and not feeling guilty when they go out of style next season. A hi-low look means pairing a cute H&M plaid blazer with classic Theory cigarette trousers, a Chloe bag and Zara slouchy ankle boots. A good sense of style isn't just about design labels, it's about finding a balance between what suits you and spending money wisely. nine0003
49. Get Your Own Stylist's Kit
Every personal stylist carries an emergency kit, whether it's shooting a commercial or working one-on-one with a client. You should definitely have it with you so that you can take care of any problems that will inevitably arise with your wardrobe.
Items to be included:
- Needle and thread for minor damage that you can repair yourself.
- Double adhesive tape to prevent the free edge from falling off. nine0232
- Make-up stain removal wipes.
- A lint roller to touch up your dark and woolen garments before leaving the house.
- Safety pins for various emergencies.
50. Dress Joyfully
When you are clear about your unique sense of personal style and have created a wardrobe that reflects your message, dressing no longer feels burdensome. This is one step in your morning routine that sets you up to act from the spot of power. nine0003
Wearing clothes that make you feel good builds confidence and encourages you to perform at a higher level. When you feel better, you not only have more authority over others, but you also have more confidence in yourself. You take more risks, get more attention, ask for what you want, and push yourself to get better. Style is much more than pretty clothes and designer trends.
It is one of the many tools at our disposal that we can use to show ourselves to the world as the best version of ourselves. nine0003
Style advice for women contains the main advice. Have fun with the process and fashion, make your own personal style and see what's possible for you! Remember that this is a work in progress and you can always develop.
Culinary advice. We capture food beautifully! step-by-step instructions for food photography
We often read comments like “I can't shoot beautifully”, “well, I'm not a food photographer”. But it's all about practice and knowing the basic rules! Even in the most ordinary kitchen and with just a phone, you can take beautiful pictures that will look worthy both on your Instagram page and on the Eat at Home website. We have prepared step-by-step instructions and tell you how to take a photo recipe at home. Learn, get inspired and get down to business! nine0003
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
Before starting cooking, carefully check the entire list of ingredients in the recipe.
Divide the ingredients into separate bowls. We recommend choosing plain dishes in neutral colors, it will look good in the frame. Peel vegetables and fruits in advance, if necessary, and cut. This will reduce the shooting time, everything should be prepared in advance.
Tip from a food photographer
Buy an inexpensive set of basic utensils: transparent bowls of different sizes, plates, bowls, measuring containers. nine0349
Step 2. Choose a location for shooting
At this stage, it is important to pay attention to the background and light.
Background
Decide whether you want your photo to be light or dark. The dark background emphasizes the color of the food. For example, bright pasta, meat dishes or vegetable stews will look appetizing on a wooden background. Also, this color is suitable for shooting warm cozy pies, hot dishes or soups. While a light background will help focus on the details.
We advise you to take pictures of your favorite breakfasts, light salads or desserts on it. Dishes will look clean and tidy. nine0003
Avoid bright tablecloths and colored napkins, they will distract attention. Get everything out of the frame. Leave only what directly relates to your dish: ingredients, cutting board, spatula, mixing bowl.
Tip from a food photographer
You can make your own photophone. To do this, buy a small sheet of plywood, paint and varnish in a hardware store. You can also buy a plain white countertop and use it as a backdrop. nine0349
Light
Food photos are best taken in natural light. To get more light, shoot as close to a window as possible. With home artificial light, photos are obtained with a yellow tint, which cannot be removed even with the help of a photo editor. The food will look less appetizing. This can only be avoided with white light lamps.
Pay attention to the sun.
The best pictures are obtained in cloudy weather. In this case, the light becomes soft, there are no bright contrasting shadows. If the sun is shining brightly, the shadows can be smoothed out by covering the window with tulle or other material that allows light to pass through. nine0003
Food photographer tip
The best times to shoot are morning and evening. In the daytime, shadows are often too aggressive.
Step 3. Cooking and filming!
First of all, choose the angle. We advise you to remove the layout and the cooking process from above. So it will turn out more clearly and understandably to the viewer. Also choose the format: vertically or horizontally. The Eat at Home website needs exactly the horizontal format. nine0003
The first photo is a snapshot of all products, such a frame is called a layout. The user needs to see what ingredients are included in the dish. The following photos are the main steps. It is important to show consistency, structure.
The more details you shoot, the easier it will be to cook according to your recipe! Brand names on labels must not be visible in the frame, unless it is a recipe for a contest.
Food photographer's tip
Make sure there are no dirty dishes, crumbs, drips or smudges in the frame. The work surface must be clean. If you need to take a photo on the stove or in the oven, also keep them clean. nine0349
Step 4. Choose props
Before starting the final frame, select the necessary props. These can be wooden cutting boards, pot holders, plain linen towels, beautiful dishes. However, you should not get too carried away with the decor, it should not interrupt the dish itself, but only complement it.
For decoration, you can also use the ingredients that are included in the dish. For example, if you have prepared shakshuka, put tomatoes, greens, red bell peppers on the background. If it's an apple pie, garnish with apples and cinnamon sticks.
Use spices and herbs: coarse sea salt, peppercorns, star anise, cloves, sprigs of rosemary, thyme or mint. nine0003
Dried flowers can beautifully complement the frame: cotton, lavender, spikelets, eucalyptus. Or seasonal living plants and flowers: chamomile, lilac, cherry blossom branches, mimosa, spruce branches.
Tip from a food photographer
Use frosted plates and cutlery, they won't glare. Do not take items that are not at all related to cooking: toys, candles, books. Don't put everything in at once. The composition must be balanced.
Step 5. Final Frame
So, let's get down to the most interesting part - creating the final frame of the finished dish. It should be the most catchy so that the viewer immediately wants to cook according to your recipe.
Work on composition. The simplest rule is to arrange objects in the form of a triangle.
Notice the angle. “Flat” food should be photographed from above - pizza, soup, porridge, biscuit or risotto.
Side view helps to show the toppings and height of the dish - burgers, stack of pancakes, lasagna. nine0003
To make the shot more appetizing, carefully peel off a piece and show the cut. Be it a cake, a piece of meat or a pie. Show off your dish in all its glory. You can also gently grease the finished product with vegetable oil, it will become more attractive.
Tip from a food photographer
Take as many photos as possible from different angles, change the position of objects and props. First, remove one whole dish, then cut off a piece, put it on a plate. One photo should take up to 10 minutes, then the dish may lose its appetizing appearance. nine0349
Step 6. Processing
Any application on your phone or basic functions of a photo editor on a computer will do for photo editing. Add light, contrast, saturation, warm or cold colors, emphasize the shadows or, conversely, make them lighter. The main thing is to do it naturally.
