The act of love making begins far before the couple enters the bedroom. The two engage in an enticing tangle that includes sensual conversation, the receiving of surprise love notes, the whispering of sweet nothings, delicate kisses placed on the nape of the neck. The manner in which we set the mood for our romantic interludes, likewise feeling sexy in our clothing should begin with the same seduction. This can be achieved when you master the art of Fashion Foreplay.

Trust me when I say, Fashion Foreplay mustn’t be pushed aside if you want to feel sexy as hell in your clothing. Before you decide what to put on your back, it is, without a doubt, the most vital part of setting the mood. Whether you’re opting for jeans and t-shirt, or you’re venturing out to the theater in a silky, black slip dress, the results can feel the same — a sensuality that no one can deny. Here’s how it’s done:

Step One: Let’s face it; a healthy body is a sexy body. Taking the time to care for your physical health is a sure fire way to feel extraordinary in anything you decide to wear.

Step Two: Fall passionately in love with the skin you’re in. Regardless of your age, good skin care is very important. When we have a healthy glow, it demonstrates our vitality. I’m a huge fan of natural, plant derived skincare products because they keep my skin baby soft and the herbal scents are simply delightful!

Step Three: Treat yourself to a steamy, aromatherapy bath. Allow the scent to permeate your senses. While you’re indulging in your soak, use this time to gently exfoliate your entire body. You want to prepare your skin for the intoxicating feel of your favorite body oil or soufflé.

Step Four: Now that your skin is prepped, dry yourself with a warm, fluffy towel. With slow circular motions, gently apply your favorite moisturizer onto your warm, damp skin. Doesn’t that feel good?

Step Five: Dab your sensory points with your favorite perfume or essential oil. My favorite scent is a tantalizing scent of dewy clover, spring lilies and sheer musk that is guaranteed to drive anyone in my vicinity wild.

Step Five: Never leave home without pretty undergarments. Even if no one else sees your hidden treasure, wearing pretty undergarments can be your own little secret.

Step Six: Whether you’re a fresh-faced beauty, or require a bit of makeup, don’t forget these added touches — lipstick or balm, styling of the hair, etc.

Step Seven (Final): This is your final step in Mastering the Art of Fashion Foreplay — Select what you’re going to wear. Guess what, if you’ve made it this far, you can wear a garbage bag and the results will be uncompromisingly sexy. Why? Because you took the time to love yourself first, and by doing this, you’ll exude an uncanny confidence that is attractive in its self. I’m a firm believer sexy stems from how you feel internally and oozes from your pores — which explains how a woman in distressed jeans and tee can look strikingly appealing. Having this self-assuredness always leads to a climatic outcome — which is what we all want (wink).

Glenda K. Harrison is the author of True Style: A Look Beyond the Surface, and, A Place Called Peace. She is also the creator of the style blog, So What to Twenty!

Originally published at medium.com