How do you subtly encourage fashion in your friends… We all have those friends whom we are dying to help with their styling and fashion sense, but how can you do it the right way without hurt feelings?

The first thing to do is lead by example. Show that staying up on fashion trends is doable and applicable in everyday life. Second, share your fashion beta. If you follow a few blogs or are inspired by a celebrity- pass it along. Email your friends, and really do go for the group email so they don’t feel singled out. Spill your beans too. I know we all like to keep some style secrets, but think of helping the greater good here- if you are asked about your outfit tell them where you got it and why you love to shop that brand.

Another sneaky trick is to leave a fashion magazine and resource trail behind you. If you go to their house for dinner, pull out your magazine or catalogue to show them something you are thinking of getting and then casually leave the magazine there. I would start with Lucky magazine, which is centered around putting outfits together with a wide range of prices.

Make fashion your second topic of conversation. It may not be natural to spend all your time talking trends, but do make it a priority in your conversation. Also, incorporate fashion into your plan- so if you are meeting for lunch, go to the mall and swing through Barneys afterwards- just to look. Perusing the fashion aisles may be a given for you, but realize this is something they may never do- and the exposure will have an influence.

Lastly, if you really do occupy that fashion friend role, when it is time to give gifts go for the the gold! Buy them the latest fashion styling book and tell them you loved it so much you just had to share it. There are some really great ones that have come out in the past year that are easy to read and are not overwhelming. I like Rachel Zoe’s Style A to Zoe, Isaac Mizrahi’s How to Have Style, and the newest one- just days old- Who What Wear: Celebrity and Runway Style for Real Life.

Good luck and may your sly style tricks bring out the fashionista in all your friends!