When Karl Lagerfeld speaks, the fashion world listens. At this years Chanel’s cruise show, the mastermind behind the amazing success and style hallmarks of Chanel shared his secrets for creating a commanding wardrobe that does not quit. Because Karl can see every angle of his fashion world (he often shoots his own ads), he has a lock on what works and why his statements of style will continue to hold high fashion esteem long after each season has come and gone.

His first word of advice is the most fun to apply. It is also what makes Chanel fashion so inspiring.

1. Never overlook pretty details. Chanel’s cruise collection is full of feather-fringed dresses, pistol shaped high heels in metallic silver and impeccably placed bows. Lagerfeld encourages everyone to apply his style principles. You don’t have to shop the cruise collection to enjoy your clothing. Take a plain white tee and pile on loads of necklaces or homemade trimming at the neck and sleeves and hem.

2. Black and white, baby. It’s an undeniably hot and sophisticated combination that has never and will never go out of style. Chanel stands firm in its black and white combos that awe runways around the globe season after season. But it’s not just any combo of black and white that makes the stage. It’s creative stripes in unexpected places. It’s a black top with white pants, or a starch white outfit with a single black bow.

3. Accessorize with confidence. Chanel is as famous for the way it makes jewelry as it is for quilted purses and the double-C logo. Lagerfeld says dare to experiment and make jewelry work for its place on your body. Don’t just see a long necklace as a necklace; use it as a belt or a dangling bracelet. Never fear accessory placement as long as it adds something spectacular and worth talking (not laughing) about. Chanel-ites call mixing pearls with chains or fancy with tough “refined with raw.” No one decides how you should wear your wardrobe but you!

4. The last bit of sage advice from the man himself is how to build your wardrobe basics – the staples every girl should have. Everything else you buy comes together around these three essential pieces. First is the LBD. Coco brought the little black dress to life in 1926 and it had never left the closet of women. It is priceless in its versatility and is the only piece of clothing that can be automatically packed and worn no matter your destination. The second is what Chanel calls a “black lace intricacy.” It’s not lingerie as many presume. It’s a well chosen, well placed lovely detail that defines your outfit – a collar, a handkerchief barely visible from a pocket or sleeve, or a cuff. It’s not an accessory; it’s an intricacy – big difference. Having trouble getting your fashion mind around what separates the two? Study Chanel outfits. You eye is always drawn to something in a surprising and inventive way. See it? Now you understand.

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