Sometimes, our wardrobe choices, instead of making us step out in style and confidence, have the opposite effect. Maybe you’re unintentionally wearing outdated trends, ill-fitting clothes, or just not paying attention to the little details. Our style habits have the power to ruin our outfits, along with our appearance, so here’s how to prevent and correct a fashion faux pas.
1. Not Dressing for Your Shape
Fashion might look amazing on a model or mannequin, but that doesn’t mean it will flatter your figure. Understanding your body type and choosing clothes that highlight your best features can make you feel more confident and look more stylish.
2. Ignoring the Perfect Fit
Ask any style expert, and they’ll tell you that fit is everything in fashion. When your clothes are too tight, too loose, or ill-fitting, they can ruin your entire appearance. Not only will you feel vulnerable if your clothes are too tight or too baggy, but you can draw attention for the wrong reasons. You’ll know if your clothes don’t fit, as you won’t feel comfortable or confident.
3. Clinging to Outdated Trends
Fashion trends come and go at lightning speed. We get that clothes are an investment, but if you’re still wearing trends that died years ago, it’s time for a wardrobe refresh. While it’s okay to have a few vintage pieces, wearing them head-to-toe can make you look like you’re stuck in a time warp. Buy modern but timeless pieces that never go out of fashion rather than trying to be on trend.
4. Forgetting Tailoring
When you buy clothes off-the-rack, remember they weren’t made for your silhouette, so a little tailoring can make a world of difference. Whether it’s hemming your pants, cinching the waistline of a dress, or adjusting the sleeves of a jacket, professional tailoring will help you make a sharper, more polished appearance.
5. Going Overboard On Accessories
Accessories are fun and can elevate an outfit, but overdoing them can quickly overwhelm your look and make you appear tacky. Piling on too many necklaces, bracelets, or rings can make you look like a cluttered Christmas tree and detract from the elegance of your outfit. When it comes to accessorizing, less is more, and subtlety is key.
6. Wearing the Wrong Colors and Prints
Color has the power to totally transform your outfit. It can also ruin it if you don’t choose a shade that complements your hair coloring and skin tone. Knowing your color palette can help you avoid looking washed out or, worse, tacky. Beware also of loud, bold prints, as not everyone can pull these off, and they can overpower your entire look.
7. Making a Footwear Faux Pas
The right shoe can make or break your outfit. Scuffed, dirty, or worn-out shoes are not edgy or bohemian they are sloppy. Clean and care for your shoes, and make sure they’re appropriate for the occasion. If all of your shoes look worse for wear, it might be time to treat yourself to a new pair.
8. Dressing Too Casually
Comfort is key in fashion, and jeans are a staple that will take you to most places. Just be sure to not lean too far into casual territory that you look underdressed. Wearing sweats, oversized t-shirts, or jeans and sneakers in the wrong setting can make you seem like you don’t care for your appearance.
9. Trying Too Hard to Be Trendy
It’s important to be aware of and embrace the latest trends but proceed with caution regarding tricky trends or looks that are too trendy. This could make you look like a try-hard and can also date your look in an instant. Instead of chasing every new trend, focus on building a wardrobe of classic pieces that will stand the test of time and can be easily updated with trendy accessories. A classic blazer, a button-down, a chic trench, and an elegant midi dress will always ensure.
10. Ignoring Dress Codes
Being inappropriately dressed is embarrassing and disrespectful and can make you stand out for all the wrong reasons. Whether you’re underdressed for a formal event or overdressed for a casual gathering, not dressing for the occasion is a fashion sin. Learning how to understand dress codes is an important skill, and if you can’t tell, always ask to avoid mixups.
11. Wearing Wrinkled Disheveled Clothes
Wearing wrinkled clothing is a surefire way to look lazy and unprofessional. You could be wearing the world’s most expensive and stylish outfit, but none of that matters if it’s wrinkled. It sends the message that you don’t care about how you look. Invest in a good steamer or iron, and take a few extra minutes to smooth out those creases before heading out the door.
12. Flexing Too Many Logos
Flexing many logos or heavily branded items can come across as trying too hard. While a classic designer piece can add a touch of luxury to your outfit, going overboard can ruin your whole look. If you like logos, it’s best to stick to one piece for an outfit and ideally make that a bag or shoe.
13. Layering to Excess
Layering is an art form that can add depth and interest to your outfit. Provided you get it right. Wearing too many layers can make your outfit look bulky, while too few can leave you looking flat and boring. Experiment with different textures, accessories, and outerwear to master layering and take your fashion game to the next level.
14. Ignoring Grooming and Hygiene
No matter how great your outfit is, if you’ve been skipping hygiene and grooming, you’re going to ruin your entire look. Whether it’s dirty hair, chipped nails, or a body odor, all of this can detract from your appearance. Wearing a great outfit is important, but being hygienic and well-groomed is just as important, if not more.
15. Messing Up Your Makeup
Your makeup is an extension or even a finishing touch for your look. So it’s important to not overdo it and pay attention not the finer details. There’s nothing more frustrating or embarrassing than when your lipstick bleeds. To ensure it stays in place, keep your lips well hydrated, use a lip pencil, and always set it with a dust of powder or pat it with a tissue.