This is a collaborative post
Personally, I think everyone should wear whatever makes them feel good. But if you struggle with fashion and style, these suggestions can help guide you to avoid common style mistakes and feel more confident in your choices.
If you’ve ever had a “what was I thinking?” moment while browsing through old photos (let’s face it, who hasn’t?!), you know that style mishaps are part of everyone’s fashion journey. But there’s no need to worry about your wardrobe malfunctions any longer, because today we’re going to take a look at some of the biggest style mistakes to ensure your future self won’t cringe at past outfit choices.
- Choosing Haircuts That Lack Versatility
Ever chopped your locks into that ultra-trendy style that looked amazing on your favourite celeb but realized it only works with their team of stylists on speed dial? Yep, we’ve all been there (the style below, for example, was way too short for me and I couldn’t really style it any other way than that). Opting for a haircut that looks fabulous in one specific style but turns into a nightmare when you try to wear it any other way is a trap. Always consult with your hairstylist about how a cut will work with your daily routine, hair texture, and styling time commitment. For example, this wolf cut long hair guide by L’Oréal is a good place to start if you want style and versatility because, let’s be real: versatility is the spice of life—and hair!
- Over-Accessorizing: When More Is Not More
While accessories can make an outfit, there’s a fine line between just right and looking like a walking jewellery store. Coco Chanel famously advised, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” It’s all about balance. If your outfit has a lot going on, keep the accessories minimal. Let your statement pieces have their moment without competition. Remember, you want to be the star of the show, not your bling.
- Ignoring Fit and Proportion
One of the biggest style blunders is wearing clothes that don’t fit properly. Whether it’s squeezing into a size too small or hiding behind something that looks more like a tent, improper fit can ruin any look. Always tailor your clothes to your body. And while we’re on the subject, proportion is key. Balance your outfit by pairing loose with tight, long with short, giving your body a harmonious silhouette. Your wardrobe should fit you like a glove—figuratively, unless gloves are your thing.
- Sticking to One Era Too Much
Vintage can be chic, but there’s a fine line between being stylishly retro and looking like you’re stuck in a time warp. If you love vintage, try mixing old with new to keep it fresh. Pair that classic 70s blouse with modern skinny jeans or that flapper dress with contemporary heels. Fashion is like time travel—best done with a foot in both past and present.
- Wearing the Wrong Undergarments
The foundation of any good outfit is the right undergarments. Visible panty lines, bras that dig into your skin, or the wrong shade of underwear can all distract from an otherwise flawless outfit. Invest in good quality basics and make sure they’re the right fit for your body and the right match for your outerwear. It’s not just about looking good but feeling good too. Having said that, I do love a black bra beneath a white tee!
- Following Trends Blindly
Just because something is in style doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. Always adapt trends to suit your personal style, body type, and lifestyle. If neon colours are in but you know you look best in earth tones, find a way to incorporate the trend subtly. Maybe a neon belt or shoe, but keep the rest in your comfort zone. Style is about expressing who you are, not just copying a mannequin.
- Neglecting Shoes and Bags
Shoes and bags aren’t just accessories; they can make or break an outfit. Wearing scuffed shoes or a tattered bag can detract from even the most exquisite outfit. Keep your shoes polished and your bags in good repair. And remember, while it’s great to have a few trendy pieces, classic styles in shoes and bags will stand the test of time.
- Forgetting the Season
Wearing fabrics or colours out of season can throw off your whole vibe. Heavy velvets in summer or pastel linens in winter can seem out of place. Respect the seasons in your clothing choices, both for style and comfort. Dressing season-appropriately shows that you’re in tune with your environment—it’s both stylish and sensible.
- Ignoring Personal Grooming
No outfit is complete without personal grooming. Unkempt hair, chipped nail polish, or a lack of attention to personal hygiene can spoil even the most fabulous ensemble. Regular grooming habits ensure you look polished and put-together, making your style choices stand out for all the right reasons.
- Choosing the Wrong Colours for Your Skin Tone
Colour can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Wearing colours that clash with your skin tone can make you look washed out or overly harsh. For example, I cannot wear beige because it makes me look so ill! The only way it looks ok on me is if I wear a richer coloured scarf near my face. Understanding whether you have warm, cool, or neutral undertones will help you select clothing colours that enhance your natural glow. For instance, if you have cool undertones, try blues and purples; warm undertones glow in earth tones like reds, oranges, and yellows. When in doubt, consult a colour wheel or seek professional advice at a fashion store.
- Overlooking the Power of a Capsule Wardrobe
Instead of chasing every trend and overstuffing your closet, focus on building a capsule wardrobe consisting of versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched. This approach not only declutters your life but also ensures you always have something fantastic to wear. Start with essentials like a great pair of jeans, a classic blazer, a little black dress, and quality T-shirts. A capsule wardrobe makes daily dressing easier and ensures you always look polished.
- Wearing Inappropriate Clothing for the Occasion
Dressing inappropriately for the occasion can be a major style misstep, whether it’s too casual or overly formal. Research the event beforehand or ask the host about the dress code. Whether it’s a wedding, a job interview, or a casual get-together, showing up in the right attire shows respect and awareness. Remember, being overdressed can be as awkward as being underdressed.
- Ignoring Seasonal and Trend Life Cycles
While it’s great to have a personal style, completely ignoring seasonal changes and trend cycles can make your wardrobe seem dated. You don’t need to overhaul your entire closet, but integrating a few current pieces each season can keep your look fresh and modern. This could be as simple as adding a new accessory, a trendy piece of outerwear, or even just a contemporary pair of shoes.
- Failing to Plan Your Outfit Ahead of Time
We’ve all had those mornings, rummaging through the closet in panic. A little outfit planning can spare you a lot of stress. Try planning your outfits the night before or even for the entire week. This allows you to think about your schedule, the weather, and how you can best express yourself through your wardrobe choices without the pressure of time constraints.
- Letting Brand Names Dictate Your Style
While it’s totally okay to appreciate designer labels if that’s your thing, relying solely on brand names to define your style can lead to fashion disasters. Style comes from how you wear your clothes, not where they’re from. Focus on how pieces fit and complement your fashion sense rather than their logos. True style is about the ensemble and how you carry it, not just the name stitched on the tag.
- Neglecting Layering Techniques
Layering is a skilful way to add interest and dimension to your outfits, not to mention practical for changing weather conditions because no one loves feeling too hot or cold, right? Learn the art of layering without adding bulk—such as a thin turtleneck under a dress or a stylish jacket over a light top. Effective layering ensures you’re comfortable, prepared for any temperature changes, and always in style.
- Wearing Outdated or Ill-fitting Glasses
Glasses are a major part of your facial appearance, as well as, of course, being the things that enable you to see well, so they are pretty important right? Well, you should know that wearing frames that are outdated or don’t properly fit your face shape can throw off your entire look. Invest in a modern pair of glasses that accentuates your features. Consider multiple frames for different types of outfits and occasions, just like you would with shoes.
- Forgetting to Accessorize
Accessories are like the icing on the prettiest cakes, so it does not make any sense to spend time picking an amazing outfit, only to leave the accessories behind in a drawer, right? Whether it’s a silk scarf that adds elegance to a plain outfit or a statement necklace that screams style, don’t leave those little extras out.
- Ignoring Comfort in Footwear
Comfortable shoes are the foundation of any outfit. Ignoring comfort in favour of style can lead to not just sore feet, but also long-term posture problems, back pain, and other health issues. Many stylish options are also comfortable, thanks to advances in footwear technology. Invest in quality shoes that provide support and fit well. For occasions where you opt for less comfortable, high-fashion shoes, consider bringing along a more comfortable pair to change into or using gel inserts for added support. By prioritizing comfort along with style in your footwear choices, you can ensure you’re not just looking good but feeling good too throughout the day.
At the end of the day, when it comes to style, there are no wrong choices, and wearing whatever you feel comfortable in is all you need to do. But that being said, there are some things which are commonly considered to be style mistakes, which, if you avoid them within the parameters of your own style, will mean that you almost certainly look and feel even better!
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