---
name: style-advisor
description: |
  Personal style advisor covering style profile assessment, body type dressing guidelines, color coordination, dressing for occasions, wardrobe essentials by gender, accessory guides, seasonal style transitions, and shopping strategies for building a polished personal look.
  Use when the user asks about style advisor, or needs help with personal style advisor covering style profile assessment, body type dressing guidelines, color coordination, dressing for occasions, wardrobe essentials by gender, accessory guides, seasonal style transitions, and shopping strategies for building a polished personal look.
  Do NOT use when the request requires professional specialized advice or falls outside the scope of style advisor.
license: Apache-2.0
metadata:
  author: foundry-skills
  version: "1.0.0"
  tags: "fashion design planning"
  category: "design-creative"
  subcategory: "visual-design"
  depends: ""
  disclaimer: "none"
  difficulty: "intermediate"
---

# Style Advisor
> **NOTE:** Fashion is personal expression. These guidelines are starting points, not rigid rules. Wear what makes you feel confident. The best-dressed person in any room is the one who feels comfortable in their own clothes.
## When to Use

**Use this skill when:**
- User asks about style advisor
- User needs guidance on style advisor topics
- User wants a structured approach to style advisor

**Do NOT use when:**
- Request requires professional consultation beyond educational guidance
- User needs emergency assistance

## Questions to Ask the User First

1. **What is your gender presentation?** (Men's / Women's / Gender-neutral / Prefer not to say)
2. **What is your age range?** (Teens / 20s / 30s / 40s / 50s / 60s+)
3. **What is your body type?** (See body type section below for help identifying)
4. **What is your lifestyle?** (Corporate/Office / Creative/Casual / Active / Mix)
5. **What is your current style?** (Classic / Trendy / Minimal / Bohemian / Streetwear / Don't know)
6. **What occasions do you need to dress for?** (Work / Casual / Formal events / Dates / All)
7. **What is your budget range?** (Thrift/Budget / Mid-range / Premium / Luxury)
8. **What colors do you typically wear?** (All black / Neutrals / Bright colors / Earth tones / No preference)
9. **What are your style frustrations?** (Nothing fits / Don't know what looks good / Wardrobe feels boring / Too many clothes, nothing to wear)
10. **What climate do you live in?** (Hot year-round / Cold year-round / Four seasons / Mild)
---
## Phase 1: Style Profile Assessment

### Discovering Your Personal Style
```
STYLE ARCHETYPE QUIZ:

For each pair, choose which appeals to you more (A or B):

1. A) Tailored blazer | B) Oversized cardigan
2. A) Leather shoes | B) Clean sneakers
3. A) Solid colors | B) Patterns and prints
4. A) Structured bag | B) Casual tote
5. A) Button-down shirt | B) Graphic tee
6. A) Watch as accessory | B) Layered bracelets
7. A) Navy and gray | B) Olive and rust
8. A) Department store | B) Vintage shop
9. A) Crisp and polished | B) Relaxed and effortless
10. A) Timeless pieces | B) Trend-forward items

SCORING:
Mostly A's: CLASSIC - You value timeless elegance, quality, and polish
Mostly B's: CASUAL/CREATIVE - You value comfort, self-expression, individuality
Mix: MODERN CLASSIC - You blend timeless foundations with personal flair

STYLE ARCHETYPES:

CLASSIC: Clean lines, neutral colors, quality fabrics, tailored fit
Icons: Audrey Hepburn, George Clooney, Kate Middleton
Key pieces: Blazer, trench coat, crisp white shirt, well-fitted trousers

MINIMALIST: Less is more, monochromatic, structural
Icons: Steve Jobs, Victoria Beckham, Kanye West
Key pieces: Quality basics, clean silhouettes, neutral palette

BOHEMIAN: Flowing fabrics, patterns, natural textures, layered
Icons: Stevie Nicks, Johnny Depp, Zendaya
Key pieces: Maxi dresses, layered jewelry, earth tones, prints

EDGY/STREETWEAR: Urban, bold, statement pieces
Icons: Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, Billie Eilish
Key pieces: Leather jacket, statement sneakers, oversized silhouettes

PREPPY: Polished casual, collegiate, clean-cut
Icons: Ralph Lauren aesthetic, J.Crew catalogs
Key pieces: Chinos, polo shirts, loafers, cable-knit sweaters

ROMANTIC: Soft, feminine, delicate details
Icons: Florence Welch, Harry Styles
Key pieces: Flowing fabrics, floral prints, delicate accessories
```
---
## Phase 2: Body Type Dressing Guidelines

### Women's Body Types
```
HOURGLASS (Balanced shoulders and hips, defined waist):
DO: Highlight your waist with belted styles, wrap dresses, fitted tops
DO: Wear well-fitted clothing that follows your natural shape
AVOID: Oversized/shapeless clothing that hides your proportions
AVOID: Very stiff fabrics that don't drape
Key items: Wrap dresses, high-waisted pants, belts, V-necks

PEAR (Hips wider than shoulders):
DO: Draw attention upward with detailed necklines, statement tops
DO: A-line skirts, bootcut or wide-leg pants (balance proportions)
DO: Structured shoulders (shoulder pads, puff sleeves)
AVOID: Clingy fabrics on lower body, hip pockets
Key items: Boat neck tops, A-line dresses, wide-leg trousers

APPLE (Wider midsection, slimmer legs):
DO: V-necks and scoop necks (elongate torso)
DO: Empire waist dresses, A-line shapes
DO: Show off your legs with slim pants or skirts
AVOID: Clingy fabrics around midsection, high-waisted tight styles
Key items: Empire waist tops, straight or slim leg pants, structured jackets

RECTANGLE (Balanced proportions, less defined waist):
DO: Create curves with peplum tops, belted waists, ruching
DO: Layer to add dimension
DO: Structured jackets and blazers
AVOID: Straight up-and-down silhouettes without shape
Key items: Blazers, wrap tops, fit-and-flare dresses, layered outfits

INVERTED TRIANGLE (Broader shoulders, narrower hips):
DO: Balance with full skirts, wide-leg pants, volume on bottom
DO: V-necks and simple necklines to minimize shoulder width
DO: Avoid shoulder pads
AVOID: Boat necks, puff sleeves, heavy shoulder details
Key items: V-neck tops, wide-leg pants, A-line skirts, raglan sleeves
```

### Men's Body Types
```
ATHLETIC (Broad shoulders, narrow waist):
DO: Fitted clothing that shows your proportions
DO: Well-fitted shirts (not too tight, not too loose)
DO: Slim or straight leg pants
AVOID: Baggy clothing that hides your build
AVOID: Super tight clothing (looks try-hard)
Key items: Fitted button-downs, slim jeans, structured jackets

SLIM/LEAN (Narrow build overall):
DO: Add visual bulk with layers, patterns, horizontal stripes
DO: Structured shoulders in blazers and jackets
DO: Slightly slimmer fits (but not skin-tight)
AVOID: Oversized clothing (swallows your frame)
AVOID: Vertical stripes (slimming effect not needed)
Key items: Layered outfits, textured fabrics, structured blazers

STOCKY/BROAD (Wide build, shorter torso):
DO: Vertical elements (vertical stripes, unbuttoned layers)
DO: Monochromatic outfits (elongating effect)
DO: V-neck tops (elongate neckline)
DO: Darker colors on heavier areas
AVOID: Wide horizontal stripes
AVOID: Short jackets (make torso look shorter)
Key items: V-necks, longer jackets, vertical striped shirts, dark jeans

TALL AND LEAN:
DO: Break up your silhouette with color blocking
DO: Horizontal details add width
DO: Wider leg pants balance proportions
DO: Layering adds dimension
AVOID: All one color head to toe (emphasizes height)
Key items: Layered outfits, wider ties, chunky knitwear

LARGER BUILD:
DO: Well-fitted clothing (tailoring is your best friend)
DO: Darker colors and monochromatic palettes
DO: Vertical lines, structured fabrics
DO: Quality over quantity
AVOID: Baggy clothing (does NOT hide; it adds visual bulk)
AVOID: Tight clothing (uncomfortable, unflattering)
Key items: Well-tailored blazers, flat-front trousers, V-necks
```
---
## Phase 3: Color Coordination

### Building a Color Palette
```
THE NEUTRAL FOUNDATION:
Every wardrobe needs a neutral base that everything works with.

Core Neutrals (pick 2-3 as your base):
- Black (versatile, slimming, urban)
- Navy (softer than black, universally flattering)
- White/Cream (crisp, fresh, pairs with everything)
- Gray (modern, versatile, ranges from charcoal to light)
- Beige/Tan/Camel (warm, approachable, natural)
- Olive (earthy, versatile neutral)

Accent Colors (pick 2-3 favorites):
These are the colors that add personality to your neutral base.
Choose colors that complement your skin tone (see Color Analysis skill).

COLOR COMBINATION FORMULAS:

Formula 1: Monochromatic (one color, different shades)

Formula 2: Neutral + One Accent

Formula 3: Complementary (opposite on color wheel)

Formula 4: Analogous (colors next to each other on wheel)

THE 3-COLOR RULE:
Aim for no more than 3 main colors in an outfit.
A neutral base + one or two accent colors = polished.
More than 3 colors = costume territory (unless you're going for that).
```

### Color Matching Guide

| Neutral Base | Best Accent Colors | Season |
|-------------|-------------------|--------|
| Black | Red, white, blush, emerald, gold | All |
| Navy | White, light pink, burgundy, camel, coral | All |
| Gray | Blue, purple, pink, yellow, green | All |
| White | Any color (universal canvas) | Spring/Summer |
| Beige/Camel | Navy, burgundy, forest green, rust, cream | Fall/Spring |
| Olive | Cream, rust, burgundy, mustard, brown | Fall |
| Brown | Blue, cream, orange, green, gold | Fall/Winter |
---
## Phase 4: Dressing for Occasions

### Dress Code Decoder
```
BLACK TIE / FORMAL:
Men: Tuxedo (black or midnight blue), bow tie, patent leather shoes
Women: Floor-length gown, cocktail dress, elegant accessories
Never: Jeans, sneakers, casual watches, bright colors (for men)

COCKTAIL / SEMI-FORMAL:
Men: Dark suit, dress shirt, tie optional, dress shoes
Women: Knee-length to midi dress, dressy separates, heels or elegant flats
Never: Jeans, T-shirts, flip-flops

BUSINESS FORMAL:
Men: Suit and tie, dress shoes, minimal accessories
Women: Suit (pant or skirt), sheath dress, closed-toe shoes
Colors: Navy, charcoal, black, subtle patterns
Never: Bright colors, casual fabrics, open-toed shoes (generally)

BUSINESS CASUAL:
Men: Chinos or dress pants, button-down or polo, blazer optional, loafers
Women: Dress pants or skirt, blouse or knit top, blazer optional, flats or heels
OK: Nice jeans (dark wash, no rips), clean sneakers (some workplaces)
Never: Athletic wear, flip-flops, graphic tees, shorts

SMART CASUAL:
Men: Dark jeans or chinos, polo or button-down, clean shoes
Women: Nice jeans or pants, blouse or elevated casual top, stylish shoes
The "nice" version of your casual clothes
Key: One elevated piece (blazer, nice shoes, or quality accessory)

CASUAL:
Men: Jeans or shorts, T-shirt or casual shirt, sneakers or sandals
Women: Jeans, casual dress, T-shirt, sneakers or sandals
Anything goes, but still aim for clean and well-fitting

ATHLEISURE:
Elevated athletic wear for casual settings
Clean sneakers, joggers (fitted, not baggy), performance tops
OK for: Errands, casual brunch, travel
Not OK for: Work, dates (usually), formal settings
```
---
## Phase 5: Wardrobe Essentials

### Women's Core Wardrobe
```
TOPS (8-12 pieces):
[ ] White button-down shirt (crisp, well-fitted)
[ ] Black or navy blouse
[ ] Breton stripe top (classic pattern)
[ ] Neutral crew neck T-shirt (quality fabric)
[ ] Black or navy T-shirt
[ ] Silk or satin camisole
[ ] Cashmere or quality knit sweater (neutral)
[ ] Cardigan (versatile layer)

BOTTOMS (5-8 pieces):
[ ] Dark wash jeans (slim or straight)
[ ] Black trousers (well-fitted)
[ ] Neutral chinos or wide-leg pants
[ ] Pencil or A-line skirt
[ ] Casual jeans (lighter wash or relaxed fit)

DRESSES (2-4 pieces):
[ ] Little black dress (versatile)
[ ] Wrap dress or shirt dress
[ ] Casual day dress
[ ] Formal/cocktail dress

OUTERWEAR (3-5 pieces):
[ ] Blazer (black or navy)
[ ] Trench coat (classic beige)
[ ] Leather or moto jacket
[ ] Winter coat (quality, neutral)
[ ] Denim jacket (casual layer)

SHOES (5-7 pairs):
[ ] Black heels or dressy flats
[ ] Nude/neutral heels or flats
[ ] Clean white sneakers
[ ] Ankle boots
[ ] Comfortable walking shoes
[ ] Sandals (summer)
[ ] Winter boots

ACCESSORIES:
[ ] Quality leather bag (day)
[ ] Evening clutch
[ ] Simple watch
[ ] Stud earrings (gold or silver)
[ ] Pendant necklace
[ ] Silk scarf
[ ] Belt (leather, neutral)
[ ] Sunglasses
```

### Men's Core Wardrobe
```
TOPS (8-12 pieces):
[ ] White dress shirt (fitted)
[ ] Light blue dress shirt
[ ] Navy or charcoal polo
[ ] White crew neck T-shirt (quality)
[ ] Gray crew neck T-shirt
[ ] Navy or gray crewneck sweater
[ ] Casual button-down (chambray or oxford)
[ ] Henley (casual layering)

BOTTOMS (5-7 pieces):
[ ] Dark indigo jeans (slim or straight)
[ ] Khaki or tan chinos
[ ] Navy or charcoal dress trousers
[ ] Olive or gray chinos
[ ] Shorts (neutral, 7-9" inseam)

SUITS/BLAZERS (2-3 pieces):
[ ] Navy suit (versatile for work and events)
[ ] Gray suit (optional second suit)
[ ] Unstructured blazer (casual, pair with jeans)

OUTERWEAR (3-5 pieces):
[ ] Overcoat (charcoal or camel)
[ ] Bomber or Harrington jacket
[ ] Rain jacket
[ ] Winter parka or puffer
[ ] Denim jacket

SHOES (4-6 pairs):
[ ] Brown leather dress shoes (oxford or derby)
[ ] Black leather dress shoes
[ ] Clean white sneakers
[ ] Chelsea or desert boots
[ ] Casual loafers
[ ] Athletic shoes

ACCESSORIES:
[ ] Quality leather belt (brown)
[ ] Quality leather belt (black)
[ ] Watch (versatile style)
[ ] Sunglasses
[ ] Quality wallet
[ ] Tie collection (2-3 solid, 2-3 patterned)
[ ] Pocket square (optional)
```
---
## Phase 6: Accessory Guide

### Accessory Rules of Thumb
```
WATCHES:
- Dress watch: Thin, leather strap, minimal dial
- Everyday watch: Steel bracelet, moderate size
- Sport watch: Rubber or NATO strap, functional
- Match metal (gold or silver) to other accessories
- Watch should fit proportionally to your wrist

JEWELRY (General):
- Less is more for beginners
- Match metals (don't mix gold and silver until confident)
- One statement piece per outfit
- Quality over quantity (fewer good pieces > many cheap ones)

BAGS:
- Invest in one quality everyday bag
- Match the formality of your bag to your outfit
- Black and brown/tan are the most versatile colors
- Structured for professional, unstructured for casual

BELTS:
- Match belt to shoe color (brown belt + brown shoes)
- Belt should be 2" longer than pants waist size
- Width: 1.25-1.5" for dress, wider for casual
- Simple buckle for dress; more varied for casual

SCARVES:
- Silk for dressing up, wool/cashmere for warmth
- Can elevate a simple outfit instantly
- Learn 2-3 basic scarf tying methods
- Quality scarves are a worthwhile investment

SUNGLASSES:
- Round face: Angular frames (square, rectangle)
- Square face: Round or oval frames
- Oval face: Most shapes work
- Heart face: Bottom-heavy frames (aviator)
- Invest in UV-protective lenses
```
---
## Phase 7: Seasonal Style Transitions

### Seasonal Wardrobe Strategy
```
SPRING:
- Layer light pieces (chambray, cotton, light knits)
- Transitional jacket (trench coat, denim jacket, light bomber)
- Colors: Pastels, light neutrals, fresh tones
- Fabrics: Cotton, chambray, light wool, linen blends

SUMMER:
- Light, breathable fabrics (linen, cotton, moisture-wicking)
- Minimal layers
- Colors: White, light blue, pastels, vibrant accents
- Fabrics: Linen, cotton, seersucker, lightweight knits
- Tip: Invest in quality basics that breathe

FALL:
- Layering season (base + mid + outer)
- Rich, warm colors (burgundy, forest green, camel, rust, mustard)
- Fabrics: Wool, corduroy, flannel, tweed, suede
- Key items: Blazer, sweater, quality outerwear, boots

WINTER:
- Warm, quality outerwear is essential
- Layering for warmth AND style
- Colors: Deep tones (navy, charcoal, black) + pops of color in accessories
- Fabrics: Wool, cashmere, down, fleece, heavy cotton
- Accessories matter: scarves, gloves, hats can make an outfit
```
---
## Phase 8: Shopping Strategies

### Smart Shopping Framework
```
BEFORE YOU SHOP:
1. Audit your closet (what do you have, what's missing?)
2. Make a specific list (never shop aimlessly)
3. Set a budget
4. Know your measurements (not just a size -- measurements)
5. Identify gaps: What do you NEED vs what do you WANT?

THE COST-PER-WEAR FORMULA:
Cost per wear = Item price / Number of times you'll wear it

INVEST IN (quality matters):
- Outerwear (coats, jackets) -- you wear these daily for months
- Shoes (good shoes last years and affect comfort/posture)
- Suits and blazers
- Bags/wallets (daily use items)
- Basics you wear weekly (jeans, T-shirts, button-downs)

SAVE ON (trend-driven, less wear):
- Trendy seasonal items
- Going-out clothes
- Statement accessories
- Colors/prints you're experimenting with

WHEN TO BUY:
- End of season sales (buy for next year): 40-70% off
- Holiday sales: Black Friday, Memorial Day, Labor Day
- Mid-season sales: Usually 20-30% off
- Never pay full price for basics (always on sale somewhere)

TAILORING:
- The secret weapon of well-dressed people
- A $100 jacket tailored for $30 looks better than a $300 ill-fitting jacket
- Common tailoring: Hem pants, take in waist, shorten sleeves, adjust shoulders
- Budget: $15-75 per item for basic alterations
```
---
## Output Format

When providing style advice, present it as:
```
STYLE PROFILE
Style Archetype: [Type]
Body Type: [Type]
Lifestyle: [Description]
Climate: [Location/Seasons]

RECOMMENDED COLOR PALETTE:
Base Neutrals: [2-3 colors]
Accent Colors: [2-3 colors]
Avoid: [Colors that don't work for you]

WARDROBE GAPS:
# | Missing Item | Priority | Budget Range | Where to Shop

## Example

**Input:** "Help me get started with style advisor"

**Output:** A structured style advisor plan tailored to the user's specific situation, following the process outlined above.

## Edge Cases

- **Incomplete information:** Ask clarifying questions before proceeding. Do not assume details the user has not provided.
- **Out of scope requests:** Redirect to appropriate professional resources when the request exceeds educational guidance.
- **Conflicting requirements:** Present trade-offs clearly and let the user decide priorities.
