11 Styling Tricks Every Woman Should Know by Age 30

Black, gray, and tan bags are wonderfully versatile, sure. But if your clothes tend to fall in the more neutral, casual corner, you'll want to invest in a bright leather bag, too, to give your default looks a jolt of energy and a bit of polish.

Ahh, the go-to for Insta-stars everywhere (especially Olivia Palermo). I don't know why people started doing it, but I do know how it reads now: chic. Plus, it's pretty much the easiest way to make your messy hair days look intentional, not lazy.

Love black? Go ahead and stock your closet with black staples, but make sure you've got a few with interesting textures (faux fur, patent leather, suede). Head-to-toe black can look super boring, but if you play with textures, it changes the game.

Add an artfully tied bandana to your rotation of favorite necklaces. It's an accessory that always stands out from the pack, but doesn't feel too overdone (yet).

Instead of wearing your blazer as is, scrunch up the sleeves. It shows off the shirt you're wearing underneath and makes everything a little less corporate, a little more cool―especially if your blazer and shirt fabrics play off each other.

For a fresh spin on color-blocking, choose several pieces in the same color family. (It's a go-to for post-Kanye Kim Kardashian and her quietly sophisticated style.)

Slip a white T-shirt underneath your skimpy summer dresses and you'll not only be less exposed and try-hard, but you'll also add an unexpected '90s element to your look. Cool and so, so easy.

Instead of black tights, reach for a pair of slim-cut leather pants to pair with your polished dresses when it's cold out. A dress and black tights can seem a little stiff and cocktail-party-ready, while a dress over pants skews more laid-back and street style-y.

Belts are great and all, but try swapping in a beautiful silk scarf and knotting it to the side for change. It's a small tweak that'll make your basic jeans-and-top combo a little more French-lady polished.

Keep a stash of crisp white button-down shirts that are a little bit oversize, not too fitted. The starchy fabric and slightly boxy proportion (extra points for a rolled sleeve) will give it an easygoing touch, so you'll look put-together but not too prim.