7 Outdated Fashion Rules to Break for a Bolder Style
The fashion world is changing, and if you’re religiously following rules, you might be losing your creativity and personality. Style is an expression of who we are, so flaunt your individuality through the outfits you wear. Since fashion dos and don’ts are ubiquitous, here are the 8 outdated fashion rules you should break to get a bolder style.
Always match your shoes to your bag.
A ‘matchy-matchy’ look might give you a cohesive look, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear two different colors in your accessories and look perfect. Like fashion blogger Chiara Ferragni, you can make your outfit look intentional with color blocking—wearing a pastel green bottom with orange clutch and purple shoes. Do you know that even in the most conservative corporate environments, wearing a wearing a pair of shoes in a different shade from your bag makes you more creative?
Don’t double up on denim
If you’re a minimalist, wearing a chambray shirt with your favorite jeans sounds a breeze, but you can make your outfit look interesting by adding interesting details. Think of printed shoes or a quilted handbag that will add some creative flair to your style without looking overdone. Or, pull off the denim-on-denim look with different pieces in different washes—like a ruffled chambray top teamed with frayed white culottes.
Sequins are only for night time and holidays
It’s true that sparkly pieces are best reserved for holiday parties and night time, but they can work in the day too. Everyone add little bits of sparkle into her wardrobe, but to pull off sequins for the day, moderation is the key. Like fashion blogger Blair Eadie, you may dress down your sequin skirt with a Breton striped top that looks great for the weekend. Or, think of your corporate blazer and casual chambray shirt that will give a great contrast with your sequined shorts like Annabelle Fleur did.
Don't mix your prints
It’s true that wearing mixed prints is a challenging trend to pull off, but you just need to know a few tricks to make it work in your wardrobe. You can mix two different prints of the same color, or two similar prints of different colors. If you’re a little shy about breaking this fashion rule, start conservatively by mixing a simpler print with a more complex one. Some prints like stripes, checks, and leopard are considered neutral, so you can mix bolder prints like Ankara prints, graphic patterns and such.
Sneakers are only for sports
Giving your feet a break from high heels doesn’t mean you have to look sloppy. That’s the reason why athleisure trend became a hit. If you want to get a laidback look while looking dressy, go for chicer style of sneakers like white tennis shoes that will look great with dresses. If you’re working in a creative workplace, you can even think of leopard print slip-on sneakers that will look fashion-forward with your office outfit.
Don’t be afraid to remix trendy pieces
It is true that statement pieces are the highlight of your outfit, but that doesn’t mean you can’t mix them with your wardrobe favorites. Gone are the days of matching sets and monochromatic outfits, so you have the opportunity to be more creative than ever. In fact, you can start by experimenting with different colors, textures, African prints, silhouettes and styles. This way, you’ll be able to thoughtfully put together your outfit in a more personal and creative way.
Take off the last accessory you put on before leaving the house
If you’ll pay attention to current styles, the ‘less is more’ philosophy is no more. It might be a timeless trick to make you look put together, but it should not limit your creativity and style. Have you heard of ring stacking, arm party, and necklace layering? Those are some of the accessorizing technique you can experiment with to add some drama to your simple outfits. The key is to accessorize in an art form, not in a scientific formula.
Remember, the fashion rules you follow should support your personal goals and individuality. This way, you can own your sartorial choices with confidence. After all, confidence is more than half the equation when it comes to making a fashion statement and creating a bolder style.