How Much is too Much: The 16 Point Rule

Every once in a while I'm given the chance to review a book that really touches me in one way or another. Recently I read, Good Girls don't have to Dress Bad, by Shari Braendel, and it did just that. One part of the book - the 16 point accessory rule - has stuck with me ever since I read it and changed the way I do things in the morning.

The 16 point accessory rule as explained by Shari is, "a great way to gauge whether you are wearing the right amount," of accessories. You count up the things that you are wearing and add/subtract points until you get to between 14-16 points. No more, no less.

Now I know what you are thinking - 16 accessories is an insane amount and there's no way I could ever wear that many accessories. But Shari gives you easy points to start you out. Here are the starting points:

• One point for each of your shoes (easy two points)
• One point if you have a pretty pedicure that is showing
• One point for each garment you are wearing, two points if it has more than one color (this could be an easy say 4-5 points)
• One point for each of your rings (wedding sets count as one)
• One point if you have makeup on
• One point if you've had a compliment on your hair in the last two weeks
• One point for nice nails (just need to look taken care of)

So if you think about that list, that could be an easy 12 points right there before you even really start adding in true "accessories." All other accessories (watch, bracelet, necklace, belt, headband, etc.) count as an additional point and earrings count for two. It's amazing how quickly you can hit that 14-16 point zone and also amazing what hitting that 14-16 point zone can do for your outfit. A simple black and white blouse and skirt can become a standout outfit when paired with colored shoes, earrings, and a belt. The 16-point rule is a simple way to determine if you need a little more or little less, and I've really enjoyed trying to win the game each morning.

For those of you that see me on a regular basis, you'll probably notice I've been wearing more earrings, bracelets, and makeup. I've also been on a pretty big jewlrey kick, and this is why. I cannot wait to go on the cruise next week and buy all sorts of fun and CHEAP jewelry. 16 point zone, here I come.

For more info on Shari's book, check out my full review here.