I originally wrote this post back in 2008. I found it today and it’s relevance still holds true. Hope this advice helps!

I think Tim Gunn is a fashion genius, the man knows his stuff and speaks in a way that is appealing to all people. If you look a hot mess he knows how to tell you in the nicest, most intelligent way. The other day I was reading his book, Tim Gunn: A Guide To Quality, Taste & Style and in the beginning he talks about ways to express your like or dislike for an article or collection of clothing. He explains that if you are going to critique something use words that will help you make the distinction between why it appeals to you or why it doesn’t. This is helpful on the journey to discovering what works for you and what doesn’t.

Here are some opening phrases that will help you in such conversations:

Positive

“I find this (insert item here) to be compelling because…….”

“I respond well to this, because…”

“I’m attracted to this, because…..”

Negative

“I’m not responding well to this, because….”

“This isn’t working for me, because….”

I love this form of expression because it definitely will make you sound more intelligent about your personal style and how to express yourself…so TRY IT…I dare you….