Elevate your looks
Over the past few years, I've learned a few clever tricks to enhance my look with minimal effort. These are simple techniques that I follow in every look I create.
play with contrasts
You should do this with colours, fabrics, aesthetics as well as the fit of the outfit. Wearing contrasting colours can be an asset if you do it right. What I mean by this is that I always make sure that the contrasting colours are balanced, for example, a black t-shirt looks great with a black blazer and light coloured jeans. In other words, make sure that the colour contrast is coherent throughout the outfit.
You can be creative when it comes to fabrics, as a contrast of fabrics can enhance the whole look. Instead of wearing black trousers with a tight jumper, you could swap the trousers for a satin skirt.
Pairing a skirt with a structured blazer is also a great way to add contrast to your overall outfit. I love combining more feminine pieces with rather masculine pieces, because it makes the whole outfit appear more contemporary.
Finally, playing with the fit of your pieces is essential for an elevated look. If you wear an oversized blazer, you can combine it with a mini skirt. Or you can wear wide-leg trousers with a slim-fitting blouse. Thereby bringing the shape back into your outfit and accentuating your silloute.
Don’t wear more than three colours
Try to create a colour plate of three colours. I don't remember exactly who told me this when I was younger, but it has stuck with me: don't wear more than three colours. Of course, you can take this loosely, but the bottom line is that you should create a cohesive colour palette, preferably in the same colour range. Doing so will balance your look and help you achieve that effortless, sophisticated appearance.
Swap your black jeans for black trousers
A simple way to elevate any look. In fact, even a pair of black trousers with a simple T-shirt and a leather shoulder bag and some loafers will look classy and effortless.
Balance
Harmonise the colours of your outfit with each other. For instance, it looks much more coherent if you combine the colour of your top with the colour of your shoes. Or the colour of your shoes with the colour of your bag. The same can be done with aesthetics, for example with a masculine blazer, structured shoes and a satin skirt. Balancing the feel of the outfit makes it look more sophisticated.
wear staple jewellery
The right jewellery can enhance any outfit. On days when I have no idea what to wear, I usually opt for black trousers, a black tight jumper and the right pieces of gold jewellery. There's no harm in wearing bold jewellery, but a simple necklace and some minimalistic gold earrings make getting dressed a lot easier.
the main focus
To accentuate a standout piece, pair it with more neutral and minimal pieces. Not only will this highlight the piece even more, but it will also prevent your outfit from appearing too cluttered.
choose pieces that are unique
For example, instead of buying the Chuck 70 Vintage Canvas, go for the Chuck Taylor All Star Platform. This pair is distinctive and makes you look taller. I for one don't really wear trainers, I rather opt for leather loafers, they are comfortable and enhance any outfit.
Another great example is instead of choosing a simple beige blazer, go for one that has a silver detail that makes it stand out effortlessly.
Iron your cloths
Every piece of clothing looks cheaper and messier if it is not thoroughly cared for. Growing up, my mother refused to let me leave the house with unironed clothes.
BLAZERS
My wardrobe is full of blazers in all kinds of fits and colours. One of the easiest ways to elevate any look is with a blazer. Put on your favourite trousers and a plain white t-shirt and pair that with a structured blazer for a sophisticated look. I would recommend buying blazers in neutral colours as they can easily be combined with a variety of pieces.