Fashion rules have always been considered as holy grail by style enthusiasts. From avoiding mixing prints to matching your shoes with your belt, fashion rules have been deep-rooted in our conscious over the years. But, fashion has evolved to a place where rules are not the only way to look fashionable. Breaking fashion rules have become the latest trend in the fashion industry. From celebrities to fashion bloggers, everyone has started to embrace the trend of breaking rules. Nevertheless, there is a thin line between making a fashion statement and a fashion blunder. Therefore, it is important to know when to bend and when to break fashion rules.
When to Bend Fashion Rules?
Bending rules means making minor changes to your styling to make it look more suitable and modern without compromising on the basic principles of fashion. Fashion rules are not a set of laws that one should follow blindly. They were made to help people dress appropriately for the occasion. Here are some of the fashion rules that can be easily bent:
1. Mixing colors
Fashion rule: Colors should never be mixed
Bending rule: Mixing colors is great when done the right way.
The notion that colors should never be mixed is wrong. Mixing colors can be a powerful way of making a statement. The rule is not that you can’t mix colors, but that you shouldn’t overdo it. You can mix colors in moderation to create a more interesting and visually appealing outfit. For instance, if you’re wearing a pair of black jeans, you can pair them with a navy blue shirt, and a camel-colored jacket to create a fashionable outfit. It’s okay to break this rule as long as it suits your style and taste.
2. Combining prints
Fashion rule: Prints should never be mixed.
Bending rule: Mixing prints is great when done the right way.
Prints are an excellent way of adding depth and interest to your outfit. While mixing prints disrupts the harmony line, it can also look intentional and chic. To pull off this style, select prints that complement each other. For instance, you can wear a floral skirt with a striped shirt, or polka dot top with a checkered skirt. Remember to keep the colors cohesive and don’t mix more than two different types of prints in a single outfit.
3. Wearing statement accessories
Fashion rule: Statement accessories should not be overloaded.
Bending rule: Statement accessories can make a big impact when the outfit is kept simple.
Statement accessories are a great way to elevate your outfit. From chandelier earrings to oversized necklaces, statement accessories can be easily incorporated into any outfit. While the rule is that the statement accessories should not be overloaded, it can be bent with the right outfit. Always remember to keep the rest of your outfit simple to let your statement accessory stand out.
4. Mixing metals
Fashion rule: Metal colors should never be mixed.
Bending rule: Mixing metals can be fashionable and stylish.
Mixing metals has become a recent trend in the fashion industry. The rule of not mixing metals is no longer followed as it can provide depth and contrast to the look. In fact, mixing gold and silver or rose gold and bronze can make a fashionable statement. Be sure to balance the metals in the outfit to avoid clashing with each other.
When to break fashion rules?
Breaking fashion rules means defying fashion restrictions to make a bold fashion statement. It’s about being experimental and creative, going beyond established fashion norms, and forging your style path. However, breaking fashion rules can be tricky as it can lead to some fashion blunders if not executed correctly. Here are some of the fashion rules that can be broken:
1. Mixing patterns
Fashion rule: Too many patterns on the same outfit can look chaotic.
Breaking rule: Mix and match patterns creatively to make it look aesthetically appealing.
While mixing prints is bending fashion rules, creating an outfit with multiple patterns is breaking fashion rules. But, if the patterns are coordinated, mixed, and matched creatively, it can create a bold and stylish look. Be sure to limit the patterns to two or three and balance them with a neutral outfit to avoid overdoing it.
2. Wearing Black in summer
Fashion rule: Black is not for summer as it absorbs heat.
Breaking rule: Wear black whenever and wherever you want to.
In the past, black has been associated with winter, and wearing it during summers was considered a fashion faux pas. However, breaking this fashion rule can make a bold fashion statement. The key is to style black with lightweight fabrics and summery accessories to break the heat. It’s not the color but the fabrics that make all the difference in how the color is perceived.
3. Mixing textures
Fashion rule: Different textures should not be piled together.
Breaking rule: Mix textures to create a modern and fashionable look.
Mixing textures can create a stylish and unique look. While the rule is about not piling different textures together, it can be broken if done correctly. By incorporating different textures such as leather, lace, and silk, a fashionable look can be created.
4. Sneakers outside the gym
Fashion rule: Sneakers should only be worn for work-out or gym purposes.
Breaking rule: Pair sneakers with a suitable outfit for a stylish and comfortable look.
Sneakers were initially designed for work-out purposes. However, breaking this rule can create a stylish and comfortable look. Pairing sneakers with a denim jacket and a dress or a skirt can create a modern and chic look. Sneakers combined with a blazer can create a casual yet professional outfit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while fashion rules help in guiding one on how to dress decently, it is not the primary objective. The primary objective of fashion is to express your personality, your creativity, and your perspective on fashion.
Breaking fashion rules just to make a fashion statement is not always the right way to do it. It is essential to bend and break fashion rules with care and creativity to make a fashionable statement. By doing so, it results in not only confident fashion looks but also owning a unique style that is an extension of oneself.
