7 Fashion Myths Debunked

Real trendsetters don’t follow style rules. They know that restricting what you wear and when you wear it, limits our fashion sense. So we’re here to debunk those enduring fashion myths you may still believe, whether it’s avoiding certain colour pairings or never mixing patterns. Fashion favours the brave – its time to throw out the rulebook.

Myth: You Should Never Wear Clashing Prints

Reality: Clashing prints has become a surprising hack for looking cool in recent years; get it right and two mismatched styles can have a serious street-style feel. That’s because it shows you’re not afraid to experiment – plus, thanks to everything from runway trends to interiors placing an emphasis on busy, haphazard patterns, it’s officially right on trend now.

How to: The key is getting the colour palette right – if you’re feeling brave you can go full-on clashing, but we recommend picking two pieces in the same shade, with different prints, for entry level appeal.

Myth: Sequins Are Only For The Evening

Reality: These days, sequins don’t have to be reserved for big nights out. Thanks to high street brands placing more emphasis on colourful options and softer, iridescent shimmers, the look now holds its own in the daytime too.

How to: Aforementioned bright shades are more day appropriate than party-ready black or metallics. Take a leaf out of Jessie Bush’s book and style with chunky knits or slub tees to balance it out.

Myth: Oversized Clothes Need Balancing Out

Reality: Until recently, oversized separates had to be paired with more structured silhouettes to avoid an unwelcome nod back to the 80s. But this season’s trends have validated boxy, loose fitting separates teamed together – think androgynous trousers with big-shouldered suiting, and relaxed fitting dresses with statement large knits.

How to: Once again, it’s all in the matching colour palette. Stick to a neutral shade to still look polished, and break up the edit with feminine accessories (a pointy boot, a statement bag) to balance out the look.

Myth: Your Bag And Shoes Should Match

Reality: The matching accessories look is officially dead and buried, paving the way for mismatched handbags, shoes and everything in between. It doesn’t mean you should go out of your way to clash those added extras – just that it’s so much cooler to avoid that matchy matchy look.

How to: Try adding an unexpected injection of colour where possible. Adding black boots? Don’t automatically reach for a black bag – try something more fun instead.

Myth: It’s Always Worth Investing

Reality: Sure, where possible it’s great to invest in the basics. However high street brands are forever upping their game, and it’s easier than ever to get great style for less. From trenches to denim, so many of the classics are now easy to source from the likes of Mango, Topshop et al.

How to: First up, when trying on high street pieces, ask yourself ‘does this look expensive?’ It’s a great litmus test for getting it right. Secondly, turn to Instagram – hashtags like Mangogirls and cool account @TheDevilWearsZara show you how to look amazing in current affordable buys.

Myth: You Can’t Mix Metals

Reality: All-gold-everything will always look chic, but for a cooler way to wear jewellery these days, it’s all about mixing and matching metals. Yet another way to prove you know what you’re doing sartorially, layer up rings, necklaces and everything in between.

How to: Stacking rings are the easiest way to do the look, but it doesn’t have to be reserved for one singular item; go for gold necklaces and silver earrings, for example, for a confident take. Our only rule? Don’t start throwing rose gold in the mix. And two metals maximum is best.

Myth: Fashion Has An Age-By Date

Reality: Once upon a time, trends dictated what was and wasn’t age appropriate. These days, however, the focus is less on what you’re wearing and more on how you’re wearing it, meaning everyone can get in on the act. Whether it’s oversized layers or floaty maxi dresses, layer it up to make it comfortable, and you’ll be good to go. There’s no such thing as too old.

How to: Shop with a younger friend. You’re your own harshest critic, and a shopping buddy a few years your junior will help you feel more confident with contemporary choices.

DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com.

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