There are so many factors that come into play when I’m styling a client one-on-one. I want to share three ideas for you to try yourself. Your first step is to pull pieces from your closet that you love or that you want to wear more.
Combine it Wrong
Intentionally combine items that may not “go” together at first glance. Think a masculine leather jacket and feminine chiffon skirt, for example. This creates an interesting tension in the outfit. The particular items you choose will determine the mood and overall style profile of the outfit (preppy, minimalist, ladylike, etc). More examples are flat shoes with long, drape-y pants, sporty garments mixed with refined items or clogs with dresses.
Pay Attention to Proportion + fit
A successful outfit uses proportion in a deliberate way. One simple rule of thumb is: big on top, small on bottom and the reverse of that. However, mixing volume on top and volume on bottom is a fun and modern way to create an outfit. Another important aspect is fit. How each piece of clothing relates to the other: is the top too short for the mid-rise pant or skirt? Is the blazer too long and hitting you at an unflattering point? The goal is to thoughtfully combine shapes and silhouettes that create a cohesive and interesting overall outfit while highlighting your best features.
Don’t Forget the Details
Layering intentionally, using textures/colors in an unexpected way and choosing interesting accessories are the design details the finish every well-styled outfit. Personal style depends upon these finishing touches to genuinely express who you are. And it’s my opinion that the best personal style combines old and new pieces. I love when a client says to me, “Do you know how old this piece is?” and that’s when I say, “You must love it and that’s what’s gonna make your outfit thoroughly unique and personal to you.”
Final thought
Don’t be afraid to try new proportions. Barrel jeans have been around for a few seasons and yet many people I know are fearful that they will make them “look big” and the irony is that the barrel silhouette tends to be incredibly flattering on many different body types. Even shoulder pads can scare women away from a jacket or cardigan—“I look like a linebacker” is a quote I tend to hear. Those messages coming from the back of your brain are NOT true. Don’t get stuck wearing just one silhouette for the rest of your days. With the right styling, you can make so many cool shapes work.
