Bold colours and accessories are the secret to a unique look. It took me years to learn to integrate bold elements into my outfits, because it’s both exciting and intimidating. After years of testing with clothes and accessories, I discovered that with a subtle approach, you can transform your look without losing your personality.
Here are some ways you can do that.
Stay informed through slow media
Follow Fashion websites: traditional magazines can give you a bunch of fresh ideas and inspiration. Visit websites like Vogue, Elle, or GQ to learn about seasonal colours, items, and make-up looks. As long as you stay away from their political pieces, you’ll have a pleasant experience.
Curate your social feed: limit your following to style icons: actors, artists, athletes, to inspire your desired look. Seek those who blend classic and contemporary styles that resonate with you. Leave influencers out -they wear anything brands throw at them for money, luring you into the clutches of FOMO and shiny object syndrome (two powerful and effective style killers).
Attend Fashion events at your convenience
Watch livestreams: who needs to be there in person when you have technology? Most Fashion weeks and designer shows have live streams that will make you feel you are in the front row without leaving your home. And if they upload the runway on YouTube, you can carefully examine and study those outfits you liked to learn what elements resonate with you.
Local events: it’s easy to forget about local fashion scenes. If you feel comfortable with your local fashion landscape, check out pop-up shops, boutique openings, or local fashion weeks. Get personal outfit inspiration and meet the people behind the clothes.
Network with peers: engaging with others at these events, even virtually, can spark new ideas and provide feedback on your fashion choices. Networking can be as simple as commenting on posts or joining fashion forums.
Shop mindfully for timeless pieces
Invest in classics: build your wardrobe with the pieces that never go out of style. Think of a classic parka or leather jacket, a well-fitted blazer, a white shirt, a straight-leg pair of jeans, or a sheath dress that you can dress up and down.
Sustainable choices: if sustainability is important for you, it’s good news that a growing number of brands are aligning with environment and labor ethics. You can choose clothes that match both your preferences and your values.
Mix and match: the beauty of timeless pieces is their versatility. Pairing a bold new scarf with a classic coat or jeans can introduce trends in a manageable way, allowing for experimentation without overwhelming.
Experiment with your outfits
Take colours and patterns as a game: start small. You can introduce vibrant colours into your outfit by either using accessories or wearing a statement piece of clothing. You can incorporate patterns through scarves or a patterned shirt under a blazer.
Layering techniques: layering is more of an art than anything else, especially useful for incorporating a bold element. A vibrant cardigan worn over a plain tee or a bold jacket donned over a simple dress will add intensity and fascination to your outfit.
Confidence is key: the number one thing to pulling off any look is confidence. When you wear something you love, it shows. This confidence can make even the most subtle fashion statement stand out.
By adopting these strategies, you can dip your toes in the realm of Fashion with a sense of adventure while maintaining a cohesive and personal look. Being stylish isn’t about mindlessly following trends and wearing every new thing, but about making thoughtful choices that work for you, with both subtlety and boldness.