Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Ronda,

This is difficult issue! I’m sure you don’t want to hurt your friend’s feelings, but at the same time, she needs to know that this is bothering you. Start out by telling her how flattered you are to have a friend that shares your clothing tastes so closely and loves your style so much that she wants to emulate it. Give her the benefit of the doubt--maybe she just honestly doesn’t know what to get and looks to you for guidance. Then be straight up and explain that you feel kind of cheated when she just buys the exact same item that you went out and spent time and energy shopping for. As far as what your closets already have in common, make a pact to check in with each other before events to see what you’re both planning to wear, and go from there to pick something different.

Try going shopping with her. That way she will have you by her side to consult for style advice as she chooses clothing for herself. This will assure her that you, the style diva, have given your stamp of approval. This also lets you see what she’s buying so you can avoid getting the same things. Even if you do buy similar items, you can at least get them in different colors or patterns to avoid being twins.

Celebrities and the fashion-forward are the ones who set the trends that everyone else copies. Think of yourself as a fashion leader, and help your friend develop her own unique style. You should consider a career as a fashion stylist! Good luck!

Sincerely, Fashion Girl