7 easy tips to become a fashion diva in 2016

Out with the old and in with the new - nowhere is this more relevant than in a stylish fashionista's wardrobe. This year, the trend charts have predicted a mix of styles from across the globe and the ages. There is old, something new, and well, something very light blue to stock up on. Since being ahead of the pack is topmost priority for any diva worth her designer heels, here are the style resolutions to take serious heed of.

Go ahead, welcome the New Year in absolute style!

1. Let your lips do the talking

Strategic colouring is the way to go this 2016, so make sure you're always equipped with a beautiful, bold-coloured lipper. The trick is not to overdo your make-up this year - skip on eyeliner and go for clean, nude eyes with a glossy feel that can be achieved with a lip gloss or Vaseline. Add a hint of colour with a soft, girlish-hued blusher, and a hint of mascara. Ah, (fake) natural beauty is always so appealing!

2. Play with your bag

From clocks and spray paint shaped bags by Moschino to ice cream sodas and hamburger clutches, the statement bag is giving quirkiness a lot of importance this year and so should you. Accessories were never as playful, and anything that reminds you of pop-art, vintage posters or even your childhood is good to carry. One word of caution: Make sure your dress is chic and subtle. An overly cutesy vibe will only leave you resembling an overgrown 12-year-old. Balance is key.

3. Try Rose Quartz and Serenity

The Pantone Colour of the Year is not one, but two pretty tones in 2016! Embrace your softer side with Rose Quartz and Serenity (that's pale pink and blue, basically), which look beautiful, feminine, and sophisticated. A light blue pair of jeans and soft pink shirt will work well in the equation. Throw in hints of gold or sparkles to dress it up, and enliven the softness with a bright lipstick. So pretty!

4. Get plastic

Not in your personality, nor on your face, but on your shoes! Perspex heels and plastic detailing will be all the rage in 2016, giving a cool, '70s vibe to any ensemble. Try transparent block heels or lightly-coloured ones, and play with the fabrics on the shoes for a unique match of textures. Just don't do it like Kim K though, who's often caught painfully forcing her feet into plastic-strap shoes (anyone reminded of Cinderella's stepsisters?). Also, keep studs and rivets at bay, and walk on.

5. Bare your shoulders

It's such a flirty thing to do, the trend shouldn't have left the closet all! It's time to flaunt your shoulders in a low-hanging off-shoulder top that can be embellished with tassels, ruffles, straps, or simply worn as a flimsy long jacket over a strappy T. Fitted or loose, the off-shoulder top can be worn with a skirt or pants and while earrings add to the charm, it's best to keep your neck bare.

6. Be flat-footed

Platforms, flatforms and sandals are here to stay this year so get your piggies in good shape for thick-soled shoes. If strappy sandals aren't your thing, closed-toe options work as well, with a thin ankle strap to hold the shoe together. Keep the colour palette of the shoes plain and simple, like black, white, pastel hues or even metallic tints.

7. Go retro, baby

The biggest trend of 2016 is truly the retro spirit of fashion. Wide pants, flouncy maxi dresses, psychedelic prints, flared jeans and a general leaning towards floral prints will fare you well this year. Dig into your mom's old closet for some vintage inspiration and pair it with your existing wardrobe for interesting results. Your closet is going to have a rare old time.

(Courtesy of Mail Today.)