When it comes to style it is important to have some funfundamental rules which can be relied on especially when shopping and building outfits. Following rules can help to avoid making shopping mistakes, over buying and buying things that end up living in the back of the wardrobe forever.
In saying that, rules are made to be broken and so some of these rules are outdated now. Read on to find out the style rules to live by and the rules that can be ignored.
Rule 1: Find a signature style
This is not so much a rule as a piece of advice. A signature style refers to how personal style is defined, the look, feel or items that make someone’s style memorable and personal. This could be as simple as jeans, a classic t-shirt like those from fabianafilippi.com, leather jacket and statement sunglasses.
Creating a signature style or a style uniform means always having a flattering outfit ready when time is short for planning and preparation. The chosen style uniform should be put together, flatter body shape and be suitable for most occasions.
Rule 2: Start with the basics
Surprisingly, most women wear ill-fitting underwear. The second style rule is to invest in great underwear that is correctly fitted. This will immediately make clothes look and feel better. It will create a more flattering shape, provide the necessary support and give confidence. Choose underwear that matches skin tone and is seamless to ensure that it can be worn with any outfit.
Rule 3: Shop with consideration
It can be easy to get swept up in discounts, sales and eye-catching pieces when shopping. However, these are often the items that are left unworn. Instead avoid impulse shopping and make careful, considered purchases. For more thoughtful shopping, assess the wardrobe for key items that are missing, create a list of desired items and shop purposefully. Shop for current size and not for the desired size in the future and look for a well-fitting garment rather than the size on the label.
Rule 4: Spend money on certain items
There are certain areas of a closet where more money can be spent such as on coats and bags. They are often the items that are front and center of an outfit especially in the colder months. As they get the most wear it makes sense to invest money in great quality and classic coats and bags in versatile colors which go with everything and will stand the test of time.
Rule 5: Take care of shoes
Scuffed shoes immediately let down what could otherwise be a great look. Therefore, it is necessary to prioritize shoe care. Give white trainers a wipe regularly and wash white laces to avoid grubby grey shoes. Polish leathers frequently to keep them looking new. Spray suede fabrics to protect them against the elements. This way footwear won’t let the outfit down.
Rule 6: Avoid Black with color
Black is a go to color for most women and when trying to pair a colorful top or jacket with another item in the closet black is often the easy and safe option. But black often dulls down a bright color. Instead try pairing color with a complementary color, for examples, red and purple, green and pink, blue and orange. If this is a step too far outside the comfort zone then even wearing color with other neutrals such as grey, beige and white is a brighter alternative.
And here are two rules which are old fashioned and outdated and best ignored:
- Mixing metals
There is a dated mindset that metals should not be worn together and instead the entire outfit should either be gold or silver. However, this can create a look that is too considered. As an alternative a range of fresh looks that can be created, pairing silver with gold, and subtly incorporating the two together. This goes for jewelry as well as hardware on handbags and belts. Next time when putting the finishing touches on an outfit play around with metals for a more unique style.
- Matching bag and shoes
This is one we learned from our mothers and grandmothers. Matching handbag and shoes can appear contrived and trying too hard. Next time, add more creativity and individuality by mixing things up and choosing mismatching pieces. You could opt for contrasting colors or colors from the same family. As long as the outfit overall look is tonally cohesive it will work beautifully.
