How to Write a Fashion Critique

Were you recently given an assignment to write a fashion critique and aren't sure where to start? Whether you're working for a college newspaper or a Web publication, recapping the fashion dos and don'ts of an awards show or red carpet event can be easy. Follow these tips to learn how to write a fashion critique.

Learn the fashion language. Nothing complements a fashion critique more than using terms like "a-line" and "bodice" instead of "flares a little" and "top." Picking up a fashion dictionary, or using the online fashion dictionary on WWD (see Resources) will automatically add knowledge to your critique.

Write your opening with a catchy phrase by trying to connect the ensemble to popular culture or a project the star has worked on if they are a celebrity. "Molly Ringwald wasn't so pretty in pink," is just an example of an opener for a fashion critique.

Give the name and date or day of the event if it is a prominent one. This can be done in the first or second sentence. For example, "Molly Ringwald wasn't so pretty in pink at the premiere of 'Dark Knight' in Los Angeles Wednesday."

Make an overall statement concerning the silhouette of outfit or the designer next. "Molly Ringwald wasn't so pretty in pink at the premiere of 'Dark Knight' in Los Angeles Wednesday. Donning an a-line Dolce and Gabbana gown..."

Describe the attire next, getting into why it was or wasn't a good fashion decision. This should take between one and three sentences depending on your word limits. Remember, using the appropriate words will add style to your review.

Point out the main inconsistency, using the actual attire first. Next, move to the hair and lesser-noticed accessories such as jewelry and shoes.

Make a gentle reference to negativity if the attire doesn't work or positivity if it does. For instance, instead of saying someone looks like Batman, gently suggest she borrowed the outfit from cat woman or a similar antic. The critique should always end with such a catchy positive or negative phrase, similar to how it began.