If you haven’t had much time to explore the endless eye candy that is Pinterest, here’s a summary to get you started (plus some worthy tips for the seasoned pro).

Be specific.
If you’re like us and you tend to forget things like where you left your car keys, there’s a good chance you won’t remember where that pair of jeans went if everything goes into a board called “My Favorite Things.” Splitting your boards up into categories (i.e. Food, Cocktails, Weekend Style, Positive Quotes) will help you keep your boards organized (so it’s easy to find everything you need to throw an Oscar party).

Give kudos.
Repinning from someone else’s board? It never hurts to “like” or “comment” on the image you borrowed – with the added bonus of a potential follower in return.

Know who to follow.
We’re self-proclaimed Pinterest addicts, which means we round up the best Pinboards to follow once a week, every week. And for endless inspiration to match your style, turn to your favorite magazines, clothing designers, and celebrities with the same aesthetic you’re into – chances are, they’re already on Pinterest, pinning up a storm.

Install a “Pin It” button on your bookmarks bar.
This is quite possibly our favorite – and by far the easiest – way to pin your inspiration. The “Goodies” section of Pinterest has all the instructions for installing the “Pin It” button to your bookmarks bar. Then, any time you want to pin an image you come across (such as while reading our latest road test), you can click the “Pin It” button and voilà! It’s up on the Pinterest board of your choice.

Want to practice your newfound Pinterest knowledge? Stay tuned for our Rue La La + Madewell: Love At First Sight Sweepstakes, launching February 5 at 11AM ET.

By Melissa Mann, Staff Writer

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