Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered why your outfit just isn’t working? Sometimes, it’s not about personal style but rather about embracing trends that are outdated or awkward. Fashion should enhance your appearance, not detract from it. Here are some ringe-worthy fashion styles that could be undermining your style.
1. Dated Prints and Patterns
Loud or outdated prints, such as tie-dye, leopard, zebra, or psychedelic patterns, can be unflattering. It’s safer to keep prints and patterns for skirts or add a hint or print with a well-placed scarf.
2. Tube Tops
Tube tops are not only tacky but also tricky to pull off due to their lack of tailoring and support. They can emphasize the midsection and muffin top, making them generally unflattering for most people. They also come off as cheap and tacky.
3. Bra Tops
Unless you are a supermodel or under 30, bra tops aren’t a great choice. They can make it look like you’re just wearing a bra and, if not styled subtly, can come across as tacky. They can work under a chic blazer if kept understated and not transparent—so button up.
4. Tacky Mid Drifts
Cropped tops, if you’re insecure about your midsection, can be problematic. They often stop at an unflattering point on the torso, making the waistline appear larger. And if you’re going to attempt one, keep it simple; fringing, tassels, or embellishment is overkill.
5. Boxy Crop Tops and Jackets
Boxy crop tops expose the midsection and can make the torso look shorter and broader. The lack of tailoring can make the wearer appear larger than they are. They also make your outfit look out of balance and disproportionate.
6. High-Neck Tops
If you have a fuller bust or a short neck, high-neck tops can create an unflattering silhouette, making you look top-heavy and your neck appear shorter. A classic crew neck might be a better option. It’s also best to give tight bodysuits with high necks a miss, especially in loud, gaudy prints.
7. Off-the-Shoulder Tops
Off-the-shoulder tops can be dated and require constant adjustment, potentially making you look sloppy. They can make broad shoulders look even wider and offer little support for larger busts. Leave these in the too-fussy camp.
8. Billowing Tops
Billowing, shapeless tops, especially off the shoulder or with a cold shoulder, are generally unstylish and can add unnecessary bulk to the upper body. These styles are outdated, and if they feature stripes or bold prints, they can also make you look heavier.
9. Oversized Shapeless Tops
Oversized shapeless tops may be comfortable but can swamp the figure, hiding your natural silhouette and creating an out-of-proportion look. A slimmer-fit shirt is a better choice, and if you do like a bit of slouch, pull your look together with a statement belt.
10. Sheer Tops
Sheer tops can be trendy but are often too revealing and difficult to wear. They require expert layering to avoid looking tacky or frumpy and can expose too much skin if not styled properly. Proceed with caution on sheer pieces.
11. Bulky Leather Vests and Jackets
Leather tops, vests, and jackets can look severe and heavy, especially in slouchy oversized styles or anything too tight. They are tricky to pull off and can add unnecessary bulk. Opt for slimline styles instead, and always stick to classic black.
12. Peplum Tops
Peplum tops are notoriously tricky to pull off. They can create a sleek silhouette on the right body type but often don’t flatter most shapes due to their exaggerated silhouette. They can also draw attention to the hips and stomach in an unflattering way.
13. Cutesy Polkadots and Square Necklines
A hint of a polka dot can look sweet, but head-to-toe spots aren’t cute; they are cringe, especially in dated retro cuts like square necklines and with gathering or ruffled sleeves. It’s hard to get polka dots right, and they generally look better in black and white and wear them subtly, one piece at a time.
14. Plunging Necklines and Tricky Sleeves
Plunging necklines are too revealing and can reveal sun damage and skin imperfections. They can make a large bust look even larger and a small one flatter and shorter. A round neckline is chicer. And beware of batwing or overly dramatic sleeves, as they can also throw out proportions.
15. Asymmetrical Tops
Asymmetrical tops are tricky and dated. They also disrupt the natural body line, creating an unbalanced look. Classic symmetrical designs are often more flattering and stylish.
16. Tight Ruched Tops
Tight bodycon tops, especially those with ruching or made from synthetic fabrics, cling to the body, highlighting every bump. A stylish button-down shirt in classic colors like white, blue, and denim is a better alternative.
17. Flexing Logos and Fashion Brands
Clothes covered in logos can come across as desperate for validation. A subtle logo is acceptable, but an outfit overwhelmed with brand names is overkill. Let the quality of the piece speak for itself, or risk looking like a fashion victim.
18. Knee-high Socks with Shorts
This look can appear confusing, as it often seems mismatched with the season. It also looks young and try-hard. Stick to socks that complement your outfit rather than distract from it, or skip statement socks altogether.
19. Fanny Packs
Once a convenient accessory, fanny packs now often scream, “I give up on style.” Unless for specific practical purposes, modern alternatives like sleek crossbody bags or stylish backpacks are preferable. And you must do a fanny pack go for a sleek, simple, leather style.