Styling Yourself Out Of A Rut
feeling tired of the same old, same old? if like me, you find yourself wanting a bit of a wardrobe refresh every once in a while, here are some easy ways that can help you do just that. some might require a new purchase or two, but i am wholly team wardrobe remix and always prefer to work with what i already have. check out these tips and see which ones you wanna try first!
WHEN IN DOUBT, ACCESSORIZE
accessorizing is an essential styling tool that sometimes gets overlooked. it may be due to time or budget constraints, or simply feeling intimidated by the myriad options available out there. but at the end of the day, the truth remains: adding a few select accessories can make all the difference in the world.
when accessorizing, start by choosing pieces that complement both your outfit and each other. this includes picking items with similar hues that go together, and once you feel comfortable with that you can mix and match textures for some extra oomph. bags and shoes are certainly a good place to start, especially when testing the boundaries of what you like to pair together.
it’s now also incredibly easy to inject a bit of playfulness and originality with more functional accessories, such as laptop bags that carry you through your day, whether that be at work, school or even while traveling. i always used to find these types of essentials to be so serious and all about practicality, but modern designs now manage to combine both functionality and style. i also love seeing so many new brands prioritizing sustainability, with recycled materials and smart features that are designed to make your life easier AND make you look good in the process.
with other accessories, such as jewelry, try to take into consideration what kind of event or occasion you are dressing for. simple jewelry will often work, whereas for something more formal consider investing in luxurious pieces with pearls and statement sparkles. when it comes to hats and other headpieces, remember that size matters — choose one that meets all your needs while still looking chic and appropriate for the occasion.
PURSUE A NEW PALETTE
a little pop of color can do wonders to your look, bringing life and vibrancy while showing off your personal style. this is such an easy way to get out of a styling funk, too!
the simplest way to do this is by adding a bright colored item — a jacket, hat, or bag, for example — to an otherwise plain or monochromatic ‘fit. i have a cherry red crossbody bag that i use all the time, which i love pairing with black and white outfits, as well as other colors like neutrals and soft pastels. it immediately lifts my mood and makes me feel extra cute.
but color doesn’t have to be limited; you can go as experimental as you like! i highly suggest googling color palettes and finding ones that feel inspiring to you, so you have guides you can follow and can ease your way into bolder looks. try pairing an eye-catching shirt with printed trousers, or wearing separates in complementary hues. remember that creative use of color means finding what works for you while having fun!
GET YOUR PRINT ON
prints can add personality and spice to any ensemble, while providing endless fun. i should know; i thrifted mostly printed clothing for years and never got tired of it!
try animal prints such as leopard, zebra or snake for a bit of edge. meanwhile floral patterns offer both subtlety and boldness depending on their design, and abstract patterns are perfect for a unique, standout look.
to add an eye-catching touch to any ensemble, consider pairing contrasting prints – think florals with stripes, or polka dots with paisleys – for maximum visual impact. go for matching hues when mixing prints to create a cohesive look, especially when trying this technique for the first time. but feel free to be creative when it comes to playing with prints — the end results are well worth all the experimentation.
GO THE EXTRA MILE WITH YOUR HAIR
when it comes to taking your hair styling a step further, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. instead, the key to success lies in finding hair accessories that accentuate both your styling preferences and natural texture. from braids and twists to voluminous curls and waves – there are numerous styles available that can add extra drama. to achieve salon-level results at home make sure you invest in quality tools like curling wands and straighteners, as well as products tailored for your hair type.
on days when you feel more adventurous, why not experiment with new updos? french twists, half-up top knots, intricate braids, even daring fauxhawks – just add statement clips or pins for extra flair, or use colored elastics for an on-trend finish. the creative possibilities are limitless; just be sure to experiment until you find your ideal look!
don’t neglect treating your locks, too. be sure to use a shampoo and conditioner set that your hair loves! regular trims will keep split ends at bay, while nourishing treatments can restore moisture levels in dry locks – giving your look that much-needed boost of confidence.
at the end of the day, fashion should be a source of joy and a means to express individuality. any time you’re feeling stuck in a rut, just give your wardrobe a once-over and start doing little tweaks to change things up. from playing around with colors to trying out new hairstyles, there are endless ways to explore your style. so go forth, and get creative!
