A little known style concept, known as “bottoms up accessorizing,” is the easiest way to visually pull an outfit together. It simply means wearing an accessory at your face that coordinates with the color you are wearing on your bottom half.

My co-author, Janna Beatty, introduces this idea on page 58 of QUINTESSENTIAL STYLE: Cultivate and Communicate Your Signature Look.

Women are always amazed at this simple concept that has never occurred to them. Take a look:

The most striking photograph I’ve seen lately that illustrates “bottoms up” is that of style blogger Jodie Filogomo (Jodie’s Touch of Style). Note Jodie’s all-white outfit accented with a green hat and scarf, and pulled together with repetition of color at her heels.

Wear an accessory at your face that coordinates with the color you are wearing on your bottom half.

Here is my favorite model, Diane Jordan, illustrating the “bottoms up” concept in the photos below. She wears the same ivory pants and coordinating ivory necklace with three different tops–for three completely different looks.

Imagine how this concept can help make packing a breeze.

And here’s my friend, Judi, who simply put this stylish outfit together, not even realizing she had applied the “bottoms up” idea.

You can use the concept with kids, too.

Light gray tights with a light gray cardigan pull this sweet Christmas ensemble together.

Hey, the idea even works for men. Here’s Mr. Style (aka my husband, Joe).

So, think BOTTOMS UP the next time you get dressed. Visually pull your outfits together and see how many compliments you get. Folks will know you look GOOD. They just might not know Why. 

And please comment below…we LOVE your comments!!!