Fashion is all about self-expression, but some styles, especially tricky ones, can kill your look in a heartbeat. Holding onto outdated trends can make you appear tacky and like you have given up on style. Retire these items from your wardrobe ASAP if you’re ready to elevate your fashion sense and put a more timeless, polished foot forward.
1. Sequin and Glittery Looks
Glittery clothing can seem gaudy and over-the-top, particularly for everyday wear. This is especially true if the silhouette is also outdated. While it looks fun, there are more modern ways to incorporate sparkle and glimmer in your clothes. Instead of glitter, choose clothing with subtle embellishments or metallic accents for a more sophisticated sparkle.
2. Rhinestone-Encrusted Clothes
Jeans and jackets covered in rhinestones and flashy designs were once a statement, but now they look more like relics of the early 2000s. It also signals that you haven’t updated your wardrobe in at least a decade. Swap these out for simple, timeless pieces: a solid denim jacket, a mid-rise mid-wash jeans, simple tops, and tees void of logos, embellishment, and slogans.
3. Prairie Dresses
With their dowdy cut and excessive fabric, Prairie dresses can overwhelm your frame and make you look outdated. These may have once been ironically chic, but wearing these now will make you look like the ghost of fashion’s past. Instead, opt for sleek, modern dresses that flatter your figure without the fuss.
4. Jeggings and Skin Tight Jeans
Jeggings were a questionable hybrid between jeans and leggings, but they often lacked the structure to be flattering. Overall, there is no substitute for a well-fitted pair of denims. Trade your jeggings in for either chic athleisure sweats or a classic jeans style; high-waisted, slightly flared, or a timeless straight leg is your best bet.
5. Ugg Boots with Dresses
Ugg boots may be cozy, but pairing them with dresses or skirts is a style choice that’s best left in the past. We would argue that this should never have been in fashion. Leave the Ugg boots to wear around the house, and when you’re heading out, choose ankle boots or sleek flats like a classic loafer or dressy leather sneaker in black or white to complement your outfits while maintaining comfort and style.
6. Low-Rise Jeans
Low-rise jeans are notoriously unflattering for most body types and have thankfully fallen out of fashion. For most people, low-rise jeans creates a muffin top and draws unwanted attention to your midsection, they’re also a dated fashion trend. Ditch the low-rise jeans for a great pair of high-rise, a more versatile, flattering alternative that accentuates your natural waistline.
7. Loud Tacky Patterns
Chevron, argyle, and psychedelic patterns have had their moment. When you dare to wear loud, chaotic prints out now, you’ll tell the world that your wardrobe is seriously dated. Opt for classic stripes, pretty florals, or subtle, more timeless, and versatile geometric patterns. In the future, avoid all trendy patterns; they will inevitably date fast.
8. Skinny Scarves
Skinny scarves might seem chic, but they often look more like an afterthought than a stylish accessory. Scarves are one of the few accessories with a functional and fashion-forward purpose. A skinny scarf does nothing to keep you warm or look stylish, for that matter. A chunky, textured scarf adds warmth and style, making it a better choice for your wardrobe.
9. Oversized Bags
Oversized bags, especially if they lack structure and are covered in logos or dubious prints, can make you look like you’re trying too hard and tacky. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to spend money on a nice bag, but there’s tact—and chicness— in quiet luxury. A sleek, minimalist designer bag in a neutral color will elevate your outfit and exude effortless style.
10. Cold Shoulder Tops
Cold shoulder tops have had their moment, but now they just look dated. Not only do these draw attention to your arms, but they look frumpy and tacky on everyone. Get rid of your cold shoulder tops and replace them with tops that have unique cuts or interesting sleeves, offering a more modern and stylish alternative.
11. Flat Old Fashioned Shoes
Like Ugg boots, some shoes should never be worn outside the house. Crocs might be practical, but wearing them as everyday footwear is pure tack-ville. Shoes say a lot about a person, so if you want to wear flats, avoid these tacky offenders: Crocs, platform flip-flop platforms, heavy black sandals, jelly shoes, and grandma flats. A stylish slide, sandal, ballet flat, or classic loafer is stylish and offers form and function.
12. Super Tight Bodycon Dresses
Bodycon dresses that are too tight can appear tacky rather than sexy. You might think you look sexy, but wearing tight figure-hugging dresses will make you look out of fashion and tacky, especially in dated shades. A slightly looser fitted midi dress with a long or three-quarter sleeve will flatter your shape without clinging and look far more elegant and comfortable. Pay attention to the shade; you’ll never go wrong in classic black, crisp white, navy, and neutrals.