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The Top Fashion Don’ts
Jeans too tight? Wearing sweatpants in public? The experts show you how to banish fashion disasters.
Tired. Stressed. Overworked. We’ve all got reasons for letting our inner fashionistas fade, but there’s no excuse for stepping out looking frumpy. Behold the most cringe–worthy style crimes known to womankind. Plus, some simple, inexpensive ways to look chic 24/7.
Overly casual shoes. The old saying is true: Shoes make the outfit. So it’s time to abandon ugly shoes. Specifically, leave those Crocs at home unless you work at a hospital, says Constanze Lyndsay Han, a fashion stylist. And save your fuzzy UGGs for shuffling around the house, not running errands.
Speaking of running, “sneakers are for running and tourists,” says Michelle Madhock of shefinds.com. For weekend walking–around shoes, opt instead for ballet flats or fashionable sneakers such as Converse.
Sweatpants in public. Let’s just face it, at this point sweatpants are barely acceptable even as workout wear. For post–gym errands or a quick run to the post office, try a pair of sleek yoga pants with a fold–over waist. “The tighter fit makes you look more pulled together — and skinnier,” Madhok says. Or throw on a wrap dress or a long tunic with leggings, suggest Sarah Aly and Dahlia Al–Ghunaim of the fashion blog chicintuition.com
White under white. No matter what, a white bra will always show through a white top, Madhok says. The same goes for white underwear and white pants. Instead, pick flesh–colored thongs, seamless panties and nude bras with smooth material to wear under your whites.
Squeezing into too small clothes. Every woman tries on her skinny jeans once in a while, but if you strut out of the house convinced that you look like hot stuff, we have news for you: You’re not fooling anyone. In fact, straining into clothes that don’t fit just emphasizes weight gain. Swallow your pride, and go a size bigger (nobody will know, we promise!), or invest in a pair of Spanx to wear under everything, Madhok suggests. They’ll help smooth and suck you in about half an inch.
Mom jeans. You might think you don’t own these, but you probably have a pair or two lurking in your closet. Let’s face facts: If your jeans are tapered or the waist is above your belly button, you’ve got a case of Mom jeans. For an instant update, try the brand Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, say Aly and Al–Ghunaim. They’re designed to make your stomach look flatter and lift your butt.
Wobbling in high heels. If you can’t walk in them, you shouldn’t wear them, Han says. For stiletto novices, watch a tutorial on how to walk with confidence by clicking here. For those who can’t swing heels, try wedge heels, which offer more support, or kitten heels.
Wearing too many accessories at once. Repeat after us: Less is more. Less is more. Got it? Understatement is key when it comes to accessories, Madhok says. When you pile on the jewelry, the eye doesn’t know where to go. Instead, go by the rule of three — no more than 3 accessories at once — or better yet, opt for one big statement piece at a time. Try a colorful necklace with a simple dress, or some stacked bangles with a tee and jeans.
Playing peek a boo with your panties. Okay, so maybe you’re not wearing Mom jeans, but you’re committing a faux pas that’s just as bad: letting your granny panties show above your waistline. We’ve got two words for you to bring to the department store: low–rise bikinis.
And finally, anything with a cartoon character on it. This works only if you’re being ironic, and the piece is by an avant–garde designer like Jeremy Scott or Vivienne Westwood, says Han. But 99% of people who sport oversize Mickey Mouse tees aren’t trying to make a high–fashion statement. Stick to simple solid–colored tops and you’ll look sleek no matter where you are.
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This was a great article with some really helpful hints for confidence!
OMG, I hadn't realized how many faux pas I have been making until I read this article...thanks for helping me revive my inner fashionista!
My girlfriend wears a blouse and jeans just like your picture. God I love her!