From her preppy ’90s style of the characters she played in the films Fear, Election and of course, Cruel Intentions, to becoming the definition of a girly girl with her iconic role in Legally Blonde to more grown up roles — both in real life as a mom and more recently in the film Wild — Reese Witherspoon has always inspired us with her sophisticated, polished style. When it comes to fashion and beauty, here are 17 lessons we learned from the sweet Southern belle with big city style.
17 style lessons we learned from Reese Witherspoon
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1. Preppy basics are must-have wardrobe staples
Whether you’re a prep-school student — like Witherspoon's character Annette in Cruel Intentions — or a lady who lunches, a hair band, collared shirt and cardigan are classic preppy staples that always look pretty and put-together.Columbia Pictures
2. Don’t be afraid to wear pink
Want to have a little fun getting dressed? Wear pink. It looks fun, feminine, and in leather, like the ensemble Witherspoon's character Elle wears in Legally Blonde. It’s actually pretty badass.MGM Studios
3. Add a little sparkle to your look
Sparkly accessories can turn even the most basic dress into a red carpet-worthy stunner. Here, Witherspoon wears dangly earrings and two jeweled bangles with her chic burgundy cocktail dress.Getty Images
4. Pair red lipstick with pink blush
The next time you wear red lips, pair your bold pout with a sparkly pink blush; the pairing looks lovely here on Witherspoon in 2008. Just be sure to match your undertones: an orange-red lipstick will go with a coral pink blush, whereas a blue-toned red lipstick should be paired with a pale magenta pink blush.Getty Images
5. A full skirt is always flattering
No matter your size, a full skirt and a more fitted top will define your waist and make your legs look longer and leaner. Witherspoon's black dress is the perfect length — a couple of inches above the knee — to really add length and height to her petite figure.Getty Images
6. Add some sexy lace to a plunging neckline
A hint of lace adds both a level of modesty and a little sex appeal to Reece’s deep V-neck blazer. Find sheer lace camisoles to wear under daringly-cut pieces.Getty Images
7. Invest in interesting LBDs
The little black dress is a classic, of course, but it can get boring. Buy yourself a new one with a twist. Witherspoon's features an asymmetrical neckline and a cut-out that make this dress stand out, but the black colour means she'll be able to wear it for years (if she ever repeats ensembles, that is).Getty Images
8. Don't be afraid of horizontal stripes
Really, stripes won't make you look wider. Here, Witherspoon wears an adorable striped dress while pregnant and she still looks sweet and petite.Getty Images
9. Glamorous hair doesn't have to always be elaborate
Don't go directly to the curlers for sexy, night-out hair. Locks with a more lived-in look can be just as sexy. Loose waves and lots of volume look great here on Witherspoon. Be sure to blow dry while lifting hair at the root for height, then create curls with a curling wand or flat iron.Getty Images
10. Don’t hate your natural hair colour
Look how Witherspoon's gorgeous blue eyes pop with brown hair. Although the star has only hinted that she might be a brunette beneath that blonde, we think her natural colour looks great on her.Getty Images
11. Skinny jeans are a wardrobe necessity
Reese probably owns hundreds of pairs of jeans but the majority of the denim in her closet appears to be the same: skinny skimmer jeans. This style pairs perfectly with ankle boots and lengthens legs, which is perfect for petite ladies like Reese.Getty Images
12. Add some fun to any look with leopard print
Leopard print shoes are a great way to add some pattern to a more subdued ensemble. Witherspoon's jeans and black peplum top look instantly sexier with these heels — the red soles don't hurt, either.Getty Images
13. Match your lipstick to your ensemble
Whether you're wearing a floor-length gown, cocktail dress or a boldly coloured sweater, try matching your lip colour for a fun and cohesive look that's sure to draw attention (from the paparazzi or just that special someone).Getty Images
14. Your accessories don't always have to be black
Are all of your handbags black? Break out of boring accessories and invest in something with a pop of colour, like Witherspoon. This bold yellow bag looks so sunny and cheerful alongside her white and blue floral dress.Getty Images
15. A bold floral print makes an elegant statement
Tired of the little black dress? Update the look with a floral-on-black look that's colourful and eye-catching but will still go with your favourite black pumps or sandals. Again, Witherspoon matches her lip colour to the brightest shade on her dress.Getty Images
16. Try '50s glamour for a night out on the town
Drawing from her time on the set for the movie Pleasantville, Witherspoon has gone all 1950s glam here, complete with cat eyeliner and retro waves. Recreate her look with a deep side part and some simple curls.Getty Images
17. Sometimes a scarf can be better than jewelry
Sometimes a statement necklace can make too much of a statement. A fluid, colourful scarf can add softness and pattern to any outfit. Here, Witherspoon's navy and red scarf really makes her scarlet sweater pop.Getty Images
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