Go ahead, wear horizontal stripes (we dare you!)

While you need to exercise some restraint--you don't want to look like an oversized bumblebee--but horizontal midsized stripes can look great in a top. Break up the lines with a cute cardigan and steer clear or crew neck tops with horizontal stripes. If black and white is too startling of a contrast, consider color combos like black and gray or purple and magenta.

Match your shoes and bag? No way!

If you want to look old-fashioned and out of date, go for the super matchy look. But if you want to look as fashion forward as a well-known Ms. Carrie Bradshaw a la Sex & the City, then try a hot color combination like a bright yellow leather clutch with brown sandals or a gold clutch with black platforms. Just make sure to pair complimentary colors, or pick up a hue from a blouse, dress or skirt.

Wearing leggings as pants

Okay, ladies. I don't care how old (or young) you are, leggings just don't cut it as pants. This is one trend that has been too liberally interpreted by the masses as a free-for-all let it all hang out frenzy. It must stop. Leggings should be worn as a modern subsititute for tights. Pair them with a long tunic, butt covering blouse or shirt dress but never, ever should your bum--or other girl parts--show.

::A.Covington for The Divas Dreams