Whenever I mention elegant clothes in conversation, people react nervously because they associate elegance with formal and expensive clothes. Both are very far from the real meaning of elegance.
I mention elegance often because, well, I can talk for hours about it. The world become a boring place when people dismissed elegance for trends and one-click shopping. If you feel everyone out there looks the same, you’re not alone. This is why I started this publication.
Today, I’ll explain what elegance is and give you practical tips to help you find (and wear) elegant items.
What is elegance?
Elegance is about developing a personal style based on simplicity, quality and timelessness. Elegant pieces stand out by offering a perfect blend of comfort, style, and suitability for various occasions.
Characteristics of elegant attire
What makes clothing and accessories elegant is their simplicity and the quality of the fabric. The principle of elegant dressing is "less is more". It's not about flashy ornaments or bright colours, but tailored fits and classical colours. Who is it for? Elegant items are ideal for anyone looking to make an impression in formal events, business environments, or sophisticated casual settings, exuding confidence and poise.
Elegant styling for women
Classic pieces every woman should own
Blazers: a must have, it transitions easily from daytime to nighttime, from office to dinner. At the same time, it as adds fine tailoring to any outfit.
Pencil skirts: known for their versatility, pencil skirts are a must have as they pair well with a myriad of tops, giving you a chic and professional look.
The sheath dress: this style is celebrated for its universality. From cocktail parties to formal events the sheath dress can be worn with different accessories to set the right degree of formality.
Choosing your color palette
Neutrals: building a wardrobe around blacks, whites, and beiges ensures that your pieces are interchangeable, maximizing your outfit combinations.
Pop of colour: add one or two vibrant colours with the help of accessories or blouses to not overshadow the finesse.
Accessorizing with elegance
Handbags: a quality handbag in a classic design not only serves a functional purpose but also complements and elevates your ensemble.
Jewellery: keep it simple and subtle. Opt for fine chains, small hoop earrings, or delicate bracelets that add some polish yet not distract.
Elegant styling for men
Must-have items for men
Tailored suit: a non-negotiable in your wardrobe. It's not just for the office; you can mix it with a casual shirt or even a t-shirt for less formal occasions.
Dress shirts: solid colours or subtle patterns work best. They should fit well across the shoulders and allow for comfortable movement.
Footwear
Leather shoes: a pair of well-crafted oxfords or loafers can significantly enhance the sophistication of your look.
Dress ankle boots: I love the smart-casual vibe, and how they work with both suits and chinos.
The art of men’s accessories
Watches: a classic watch is not only functional, it’s a symbol of status and experience.
Belts and ties: leather belts and silk ties would be the appropriate choice. These should be in neutral color, and should match your shoes as well it should also add to the overall outfit cohesion.
Elegance is about making choices that reflect your personality through quality, simplicity, and understanding of what suits your body and lifestyle. By investing in classic pieces, paying attention to fit, and choosing accessories wisely, anyone can dress with elegance. This philosophy not only guarantees longevity in your fashion choices, but also embodies a lifestyle where your attire is always on point, you feel confident and effortlessly stylish.