It’s that time of the year again when droves of editors, models, photographers and celebrities make the rounds of the shows at Philippine Fashion Week.

However, it is also termed by insiders as a circus, because more often than not, it’s the clothing of the guests that get noticed, and not that of the designers featured.

Off-the-runway looks or street style have become all the rage now that “real people” are now dressing for the cameras, vying to get their 15 minutes of fame on Instagram, Tumblr, or one of the fashion blogs on the web.

It was an accidental culture that somehow became self-aware—the more outrageously you dress, the more likely it is that you get snapped and posted online. That created some unfortunate style trends and an environment where the blogs became as contrived as the runways. The streets became less “me?” and more “Look at me!”

The great thing about fashion is that there are really no rules; it’s about what feels good to you.

But what many aspiring fashionistas may not know is, those people taking pictures of you in that Lady Gaga-inspired getup are more likely laughing at you, not with you. There is a thin line between fashion forward and fashion victim.

Don’t be the latter; here are tips:

1. Don’t wear shoes you can’t walk in.

Yes, I know we all love shoes. Those statement seven-inch platforms make your feet look cute—or so you think. But honestly, if you know you can’t walk in them, everyone else will notice that, too.

Thin line

2. No to anything that references “50 Shades of Grey.”

There is a very thin line between sexy and slutty, and it can be crossed in an instant. You want to see the show, not be the floor show. So please, cover up a little.

3. Dress appropriately for the weather

Just because you see photos of your fave stylish women wearing shearling, fur and maxi coats to New York Fashion Week doesn’t mean you can do the same. Remember, Fashion Week shows in New York and Europe are held in Winter and Fall, so obviously they will need some form of outerwear. But in Manila?

The most you can wear is a jacket or a coat—if it’s raining outside or if the venue’s air conditioning is really cold. Anything else screams fashion victim—and you’ll perspire to death if you insist on wearing them, too.

4. Think twice about the sunglasses

There is a reason Anna Wintour wears her sunglasses 24/7—I imagine she hides her reaction to the clothes behind those dark shades, and to protect herself from the glaring light. In indoor lighting, I guess lighter-colored lenses are ok, but pitch black? You won’t be able to see much of the show if that’s the case.

5. Edit, edit, edit

Look as if you didn’t make much of an effort—a lot of editors these days get noticed for their style sense, and it’s because they edit not just their magazine but also their personal clothing choices.

Be ruthless—you don’t really need to pile on layers and accessories to look stylish. One unique piece, like printed trousers, an embellished top, or an accessory is enough to make a statement.