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You know those Pinterest girlies who can literally wrap themselves in a bedsheet and still look like they’re walking a Vogue runway? Meanwhile, I throw on a classic t-shirt and jeans and somehow look… aggressively average. Make it make sense.
Let’s get one thing straight: fashion and style are not the same. Fashion is what you see on runways—fun to look at, kinda wild, and not always wearable. Style is what we do—making normal clothes look like a whole slay.
Here’s the thing: “fashion” becomes so much easier when you actually know what works—and what seriously doesn’t. And babe, if you just trust me on this one…
I promise these 12 style tips will have your outfit game doing cartwheels. Like full-on glow-up mode. Pinky swear.
1. Don’t Overdo It With Colors
Ever feel like something looks off in an outfit? You may be clashing colors! The rule of thumb is to stick to three or fewer colors in your outfit. You’ll see how instantly cohesive everything starts to look.
Want a classic formula? Stick to one neutral (black, beige, white, gray, denim blue), one base color (navy, pink, green, purple), and one pop of color.
For instance, pair classic blue jeans (neutral) with a crisp white tee and a pop of red from your shoes or bag. It keeps your overall look cohesive without overwhelming the eye.
Pro Tip: Neutral colors like black, white, beige, or gray can act as your “base,” making it easier to introduce a single bold color without overthinking.
2. Invest in Accessories, Not Pricey Clothes
Hot take: No one’s squinting at the tag on your T-shirt—but they are clocking the brand on your bag, belt, or sunglasses (only because they are visible).
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m all for quality clothes. But let’s be real: a $15 white tee can look just as good as a $150 one… unless your accessories are throwing the whole look off. Then it might as well be a $5 tee.
So yeah, accessories matter. And the best part? Bags, jewelry, and scarves can be mixed and matched endlessly while outliving seasonal trends and without anyone noticing (or judging). 😉
3. Watch the Scale of Your Accessories
Ever put on a pair of oversized earrings and a big ol’ statement necklace at the same time and realize, “Woah, this is… a lot?” That’s because mixing large accessories can throw an outfit off balance.
The rule? If you’re wearing one bold piece, keep the rest subtle. Chunky hoops? Skip the heavy choker or go for a delicate bracelet instead.
Likewise, use the scale of your pieces to complement your outfit. For instance, a petite clutch looks perfect with a slinky evening dress, while a structured tote balances out wider silhouettes like maxi dresses.
Or, small face? Avoid huge sunglasses. Petite? Skip oversized bags.
See what I’m talking about?
4. Know Your Undertones and Color Seasons
Here’s a tip that’ll make a world of difference when shopping for clothes and makeup. Take the time to identify your skin’s undertones (warm, cool, or neutral) and learn about your color “season” (spring, summer, autumn, winter).
Why? The right colors can make your skin glow, your eyes pop, and your whole outfit look on point.
- Warm undertones? Earthy greens, golds, and oranges might be your sweet spot.
- Cooler tones? Jewel hues like sapphire blue or magenta are your BFFs.
Don’t forget this applies to makeup, too. Something as small as lipstick, eyeshadow shade, or bronzer and blush hues, if not complementing your skin, can turn into an ashy ball of fire in seconds.
Pro tip: I am so sure that your seasonal color analysis will literally change your entire fashion game. Just ask ChatGPT to help you find yours, and you’ll be shocked.
5. Add Textures to Your Outfit
Raise your hand if your closet is filled with fabric monotony. (We’re looking at you, cotton T-shirts and denim!) One of the easiest ways to make your outfits look interesting is by mixing textures.
The interplay of textures creates depth and visual interest, even when your outfit uses basic neutral tones.
An all-black outfit in cotton? Meh. But throw a faux fur jacket over a ribbed black turtleneck with patent black boots, and suddenly, you’re iconic. Or simply replace the cotton shirt with a satin one. Are you getting my point?
So, what are some ways to add texture? Leather pants/jackets/skirts, knitted sweaters, straw bags, satin tops, silk scarves, lacey tops/skirts/pants.
6. Match Textures, Not Just Colors
Speaking of texture, here’s a next-level hack for styling genius. We often focus so much on color coordination that we forget to consider how textures work together. The right mix (or clash) of fabrics can make an outfit go from “meh” to wow.
For example, pairing a delicate silk blouse with rugged denim jeans creates a perfect contrast. And keep your accessories in mind, too! A woven straw bag works for summer linen dresses, but it feels out of place with a structured business suit.
Remember, colors matter but textures complement each other, too! Think smooth, shiny, matte, soft, structured, boxy… the options are endless.
7. The “Third Piece” Rule
The idea? Your outfit should always have a third piece beyond your basics (like a top and bottoms)—this could be a blazer, a scarf, a statement belt, or even chunky jewelry!
- Pairing a simple T-shirt and jeans? Add a chic blazer. Or a neck scarf. Or a baseball cap. Or a belt. Or a statement, a pop of color bag.
- Wearing a sundress? Throw on a leather jacket or a wide-brim hat. Or belt it up.
- What about a basic tank and skirt? Throw in a statement necklace or a cropped cardigan on the shoulders. Or make a belt out of a scarf.
You see what I’m doing? Just make sure your third piece complements your outfit, not competes with it for attention.
Pro Tip: Want to make your third piece extra fabulous? Look for textures, patterns, or bold colors that pop against your base layer. 😉
8. Balance Your Proportions
You know those moments when you throw on an outfit, and something just…feels off? Nine times out of ten, it’s all about proportions.
Basically, it means – If it’s baggy on top, go slim on the bottom. And if you’re wearing wide-legged on the bottom, keep it sleek on top.
For example,
- If you’re wearing a fitted top, pair it with flowy bottoms like wide-leg pants or an A-line skirt.
- Got an oversized sweater you love? Pair it with slim-fit jeans or a pencil skirt to keep things balanced.
9. Learn to Balance Your Body
We all have unique body shapes, and dressing is all about working with your shape, not against it. Whether you’re curvy, petite, tall, or broad-shouldered, balance is your best friend. Now, I have a guide to help you best with your body type, but here’s something to start.
- Apple Shape? Opt for high-waisted pants/skirts and V-neck tops to draw attention upward.
- Hourglass Figure? Show off your waist with tailored dresses or belted coats.
- Pear Shape? A-line skirts and tops with puffy sleeves are your BFFs to create balance.
- Curvy? Wrap dresses and belted waists will bring all the compliments.
The goal? Highlight your strengths and create harmony between your top half and bottom half. And no, you don’t need to follow every single “fashion rule” out there. Wear what feels good on you.
10. Find the Perfect Skin Show Balance
There’s an art to showing a little skin while keeping things classy. The rule of thumb? If you’re baring skin in one area, keep the rest covered a bit more modestly.
- Wearing a deep V-neck dress? Go for longer sleeves or keep your hemline closer to the knees.
- Rocking a short mini skirt? Pair it with a high neckline or long sleeves to balance the look.
- Love a crop top? Pair it with full-length, high-waisted bottoms to keep things tasteful and modern.
11. Use Your Bag Strap to Frame Your Look
True fashionistas know that a well-placed bag strap isn’t just practical; it’s a statement. Here’s how to work those straps to your advantage:
- Crossbody Bags: Perfect for casual looks. They add a diagonal line to your outfit, which makes your silhouette more dynamic and flattering. Bonus points if you go for a bold strap that pops! (Also, make it sit just above the hip.)
- Shoulder Bags: Keep it classic. Rest the bag higher up to draw attention to your upper body, especially when wearing fitted tops.
Pro Tip: Match your bag hardware with your jewelry accents (gold with gold, silver with silver) for a cohesive finish.
12. Ditch Flashy Brand Logos
We all know the pieces that scream the brand name in bold letters, right? While logos can sometimes make a statement, overly flashy logos often end up making outfits look less stylish and more like advertisements.
Instead, go for pieces that speak through their quality, cut, or unique design. A well-structured blazer or a buttery-soft leather handbag will turn heads far more effectively than a giant logo will.
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