By Helen Ray
Getting dressed is similar to a game, where obtaining the perfect look involves a strategic method to get to the goal in mind. Like any other game, there are rules in the world of fashion that help govern what fashion savvy people decide to wear. While some rules set standards— like what’s appropriate for a night out verses an interview, others, like not wearing white after Labor Day, just seem outdated and silly. Since fashion is ever evolving, there’s no need to stick by the same rules our grandmother’s did, so here are a few fashion rules that we love to break.
You shouldn’t mix metals
This rule claims that when layering accessories you must stick to one metal. Not only is this rule hard to follow but it’s unnecessary—your gold studs do not clash with your silver flats. In fact, intentionally mixing metals is stylish because it adds texture and glam to any outfit.
You can’t wear athletic shoes with a non-athletic outfit
No longer does wearing athletic wear in public mean you have to be going to or coming back from the gym. Pairing athletic sneakers with a skirt or dress is a style that is fresh, feminine and functional.
Horizontal stripes make you look bigger
This rule has managed to resonate with women young and old for generations. But stripes are a wardrobe necessity; they look great when pairing with patterns and are seen on the runways season after season. Some stripes can even make you look thinner. If you’re hesitant about wearing horizontal stripes try wearing thinner stripes and either tucking the shirt in or adding a belt to a dress to accentuate your waistline.
You can’t wear black with navy
Just because two neutrals look similar to each other doesn’t mean can’t be worn together. Black and navy together creates a look that is sleek and sophisticated and is a color combo that when you finally decide to dawn, isn’t as daring as our grandmother’s would lead us to believe.
Shorts are only for the summer
Sure, shorts are perfectly functional and trendy in the summer, but they can also be a chic piece to wear all year long, and let’s face it, pleated wool shorts were not made for August. By choosing the right materials and laying shorts with thick stockings and boots you can create a warm and versatile winter look.
You can’t wear white at someone else’s wedding
With summer being prime time wedding season it seems unfair to rule out one of the season’s hottest colors. In reality, there is little a person can wear to a wedding that would take away from the showcased couple—especially when one is sporting a couture gown. Jazz up a little white dress at a wedding with funky accessories and unique patterns if you feel the need to exaggerate your separation from the bride.