Just because something is in fashion doesn’t mean it’s cool or flattering. Sometimes, even go-to wardrobe pieces can look off on the wrong body shape or if it goes against your style personality. Ahead are 15 enduring fashion and beauty trends that you don’t have to embrace just because they are in Vogue, literally.
1. Dramatic Leopard Print
The jury is out on whether leopard prints are a fashion classic or a little on the tacky side. Dramatic leopard prints, especially long dresses, suiting or wearing them head to toe, don’t suit everyone. Not only is it an overpowering look, but it can take you into too-trendy territory. If you like a spot of leopard, tread lightly. A cute shoe or well-placed scarf allows you to embrace the look without going all out Animalia.
2. Tightly Fitted Blazers
A classic blazer is a wardrobe classic, but not all blazers are made equal, and it all comes down to fit and fabric. Tightly fitted blazers can restrict movement, highlight imperfections, and be uncomfortable and unflattering. Not only this, but fitted blazers have left the realm of being fashionable. For a more chic silhouette, look to oversized blazers that still have structure but won’t hug every curve. Steer clear of clingy synthetic fabrics as they can cling to the body and won’t last. Cotton, wool, and linen blazers are your best bet.
3. Overlined Lips
If it’s not done right, overlining your lips can make you look super tacky. Though it may seem like a filler-without-filler look, it’s actually a little dated and unsexy. Line just outside the natural shape of your lips for a more elegant, natural look. Or forget the liner and go for a slightly smudged lip stain (choose lipsticks in hydrating a satin finish) to create a more plumped and glossy pout. makeup look.
4. Shapeless Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses are the ultimate throw-on-and-go piece, and their allure shows no sign of slowing down. It’s important to note, however, that clothing without structure or tailoring can mask your natural curves and make you appear larger and, well, like you’re wearing a tent. Go for a slightly more streamlined midi-length dress. Or, if you are a maxi fan, belt it to add definition and accentuate your natural figure.
5. Heavy Powder Blush
Heavy blush might be all the rage right now, but most people can’t pull it off. Too much blush can make you look like a makeup rookie or a train wreck. Avoid matte powder formulations as they can look cakey and settle into lines and wrinkles. Either go for a liquid illuminator in a soft peach or bronze shade. Or if you do use powder, swipe your hand first to remove excess product, then apply it to the apple of your cheeks, working up toward your temple for a more natural application.
6. Chunky Platform Sneakers
Platform sneakers (aka ugly shoes) add bulk to your outfit and look tacky even though they are trying so hard to be trendy. All platform shoes, whether they’re flip flops, sneakers, heels, or wedges, can overwhelm your entire look and throw off your balance and proportions. They are also the very definition of uncool.
7. Brushed Up and Bleached Brows
Great eyebrows can open up your eye area and frame your entire face. Everyone seems to be experimenting with statement brows right now. For most of us, dark, brushed-up, and bleached eyebrows look tacky and hard, not cool and trendy. It’s best to leave them alone and rock a natural, well-defined eyebrow look. Good grooming is the key.
8. Orange and Coral Lipsticks
Soft peach and coral shades can be flattering on certain people, especially if you have olive skin. The harsh truth is bright orange and dramatic corals can actually make your teeth look yellow and highlight fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth. Always wear a lipstick shade that suits your skin tone, and ideally, ditch the coral and orange lipsticks in favor of a more classic orange-red.
9. Oversized Slouchy Tops
Oversized tops only look good on certain body shapes, and for everyone else, they just swamp your figure. These tops hide your natural body shape and can make you look bigger than you are. They will also throw your outfit out of proportion and can look sloppy rather than cool and slouchy.
10. Matte Foundation
Immaculate, airbrushed-looking skin is the look of the moment, but be warned, heavy, cakey foundations don’t good on anyone. Applying overly thick layers of foundation can settle into fine lines and pores, emphasizing aging and imperfections. They also create an unnatural and unflattering look that detracts from your natural beauty. Opt for a sheerer foundation in a hydrating satin finish or tinted moisturizer to create a more dewy, youthful glow.
11. Distressed and Embellished Denim
Denim is a classic wardrobe staple, so why overcomplicate one of the best things in your wardrobe? Distressed jeans or embellished denim pieces are tacky, not trendy, and can make you look like a fashion victim. Stick to more timeless styles like a mid-rise, mid-wash straight leg, or, if you can pull it off, a high-waisted flare.
12. Fake Eyelashes
In theory, fake stick-on lashes and eyelash extensions should accentuate your eyes, but in reality, they do the opposite. Fake eyelashes can shroud your eyes and make you look tacky and unnatural. Ditch the fake eyelashes and embrace a more natural look. There are so many fabulous lengthening, volumizing mascaras out there you really don’t need to go faux.
13. Prairie dresses
Though prairie dresses are back in fashion, these overly modest, billowy dresses can hide your figure and make you look frumpy rather than fashionable. In addition, the delicate floral pattern that these dresses tend to have isn’t very chic or flattering. Darker, more dramatic floral dresses are way cooler.
14. Midriff Shirts
Midriff tops had their moment in the sun, but now, not only are they out of fashion. Not only are they impractical, but they will cut you off at a weird length and may come across as trying too hard. You should especially avoid wearing them in more conservative or professional settings. Opt for a more elegant, longer hemline. You will never go wrong in a classic, timeless button-down shirt.
15. Tight Activewear
You should bring your activewear game to the gym, and that is where it should stay. Wearing tights and stretchy lycra pieces outside the gym can give the impression of being lazy or lacking a sense of personal style. Leave traditional activewear for workouts, and to pull off a casual off-duty look, embrace stylish athleisure wear that is more of an elevated take on sporty tracksuits and sweats.