Here's a perspective – Fashion takes both intelligence and some doing! One doesn't have to be dripping in designer wear. Real fashion involves subtle yet tasteful elegance, and says who you are – after all what's on the outside is really an expression of who you are.

Understanding fashion, is like understanding yourself. Mansi Agarwal, a model and a designer, says, "People who neglect their clothes, are hiding who they are.With clothes that look good, one can enhance one’s body language. People who dress well are seen as more open and social"

Says Reema Bannerjee, an online sales executive, "Comfort rules, but confidence is the key, if you feel confident in a bikini, there's nothing like it. Surroundings also make a huge impact on the choice of clothes, whether it's a wedding or office. Lastly, who you are and what your occupation is also counts." So it takes intelligence too, to pick the perfect outfit keeping all those parameters in mind.

And how do you make a crossover from being fashion phobic to a fashion ally? Here are some techniques:

Speak fashion
You thought a 'runway' is where the planes takeoff, when in fact in fashion, it refers to the ramp where designers launch their collection. 'Season' not only refers to climatic conditions, but also to the change of clothing trends, and while 'couture' means a well-defined fashion standard. Brushing up on your fashion quotient will help you analyse what trends work for you and what does not, so get clued into the language of fashion, including cuts, designs, and labels.

Soul searching
The most important step, in defining your own style is the most important part; it is a perfect balance between clothes you consider too outrageous to wear and ones in your comfort zone. If you love those 6-inch stilettos but feel uncomfortable wearing them, look for a via media-- go for a 3-inch wedges with a sexy peep toes. Observe the shapes that get you compliments and ask yourself, why you buy garment shapes that do nothing for you.

Window-shopping
Now that you know a thing or two, you need to do a dry run, go window-shopping, but remember to leave your wallet at home, incase you fall prey to those impulsive buys. Window shopping will get you to understand what's available in the market and in your budget.

Invoke your creativity
Fashion is an art, and it isn't perfect unless it makes you look perfect. Clear out the clutter and be brutal. According to feng shui, clutter is an obstacle for creative energy to flow through. Kick out that bulky sweatshirt that makes you look like a sack and replace it with an outfit that's lighter and more contoured.

Colour and cut
The two Cs is what all fashion experts swear by. If you get those two right, then your outfit falls in the category of classic! And if you are a work-horse, pay special attention to quality. A well cut trouser and well cut jacket with perfect seams and fitting is a sure shot.

And finally when you start on your journey into the world of fashion, look around you for clothes that will inspire you and try to pull the reigns when you feel impulsive, especially if you find something that you adore. Wait, ponder over what you've just learned, now decide.