“Wearing” and “styling” are two distinct aspects of the process of putting together an outfit, and they involve different considerations.
Wearing an Outfit looks at Functionality where we are wearing an outfit which primarily focuses on the practical aspects, such as comfort, appropriateness for the occasion, and functionality. This involves choosing clothing items that are suitable for the weather, the event, and the activities you’ll be engaging in. It also features Personal Comfort which involves selecting pieces that you feel comfortable in, both physically and emotionally. This could include taking into account your personal preferences, body shape, and any specific needs or restrictions you might have.
Whereas Styling an Outfit identifies areas such as Aesthetic Considerations, Accessories and Details and Expressing your Personal Style.
Aesthetic Considerations goes beyond just putting on clothes; it’s about creating a visually appealing and cohesive look. This involves considering colour coordination, patterns, textures, and overall aesthetics. Alongside Accessories and Details. Which means including adding accessories, such as jewellery, belts, scarves, or hats, to enhance the overall appearance. Attention to detail, like tucking in a shirt, rolling up sleeves, or choosing the right shoes, contributes to the overall style. It encompasses your desire to Express your Personal Style. Styling allows for personal expression and creativity. It’s a way to showcase your individuality and personality through the clothing choices you make.
Both aspects contribute to the overall experience of putting together an outfit, and the balance between the two can vary based on individual preferences and the context of the situation.
When time is short, or we are just not feeling great about ourselves we can fall into the trap of wearing our clothes, when we could be styling an outfit. So this post is designed to help you get out of that rut and get you looking your most ‘put together’ ever! Here are some fashion hacks to help you enhance your style and make your life a bit easier:
- Belt for Shape: Use a belt to cinch loose-fitting tops or dresses at the waist to create a more defined silhouette.
- Double-sided Tape: Keep your clothes in place with double-sided tape. It’s great for securing low-cut tops, preventing bra straps from showing, or holding up hems.
- Dryer Sheet for Static: If your clothes are staticky, rub them with a dryer sheet to reduce static cling.
- Shaving Cream for Stains: Shaving cream can help remove makeup or deodorant stains from clothing. Just apply a small amount and gently rub the stain before washing.
- Cuff Roll: Give your jeans a stylish twist by cuffing the bottom for a cool and casual look.
- Clear Nail Polish for Runs: Stop a small run in your stockings with clear nail polish. Dab it on the edges of the run to prevent it from getting worse.
- Steam: If you don’t have a garment steamer, hang your wrinkled clothes in the bathroom while you shower. The steam will help release the wrinkles.
- Insole Cushions: Add insole cushions to your shoes for extra comfort, especially if you’re going to be on your feet for a long time.
- White Vinegar for Colour-Fastness: To set the colour in new jeans or dark clothing, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle when washing.
- Bobby Pins for Collar Control: Keep your collars in check by using bobby pins to secure them in place.
- Freeze Your Jeans: Instead of washing your jeans, which can fade the color, place them in a plastic bag and freeze them overnight to kill bacteria and eliminate odors.
- Sock Bun for Curls: Use a sock bun to create heatless curls. Dampen your hair, twist it around a sock bun, sleep on it, and wake up to beautiful curls.
- Hair Straightener for Collars and Hems: In a pinch, you can use a hair straightener to quickly smooth out collar wrinkles or fix small hems.
- Mix High and Low: Combine high-end and low-cost items for a balanced and stylish look. Remember many high end items can be found at a realistic price on sites such as Ebay, Vinted and Vestaire Collective. There are many other reselling websites out there, but these are probably the most well known.
- Layering with Scarves: Transform a simple outfit by adding a stylish scarf. It’s an easy way to add colour and texture.
- Scrunch up or ruche Cuffs on jumpers/shirts: Elevate your look by scrunching or ruching up the cuffs on your jumper or blouse sleeve. You could use elastic bands to keep them in place if they keep falling down.
Just a few subtle changes to an outfit can make you feel a million dollars.
Remember, fashion is about expressing your individual style, so feel free to get creative and have fun with your wardrobe!
Take care, stay safe.
Becks xo
My life and style over 40 