Recently, the fashion consulting firm I work for has been peppered with requests from web journalists and clients alike regarding the so-called fashion rules. As we all ramp up for the fall fashion season and hopefully, a better economic forecast ahead, women are wondering: are there still fashion rules that I need to follow?
Think about it, in this day where the average person changes careers or companies maybe 7 to 10 times, women become moms well after 40 and you can instantly find out what your best friend in Iceland is up to in 140 characters or less (tweet!) are there really any rules left? Here is a small list we have shared for how to not follow the rules:
1. The old rules, i.e., no white after Labor Day, match your shoes and bags, no jeans at the office, no long hair after 45, designers will dictate the hemline of your skirt, are about as relevant as a typewriter.
2. Don’t wear one designer head to toe; it makes you look like an ad, not a person (unless of course you are getting paid to do so).
3. Mix high and low, this highlights your taste– not your bank account.
4. Dress for your body, lifestyle and taste; don’t just be ruled by your age.
5. Business casual at work gives you a lot of choice, however some suggestions might include: don’t show cleavage, don’t look sloppy, take as much care with your clothes as you do with your work.
6. Stylish women don’t dress for men or other women. They dress to please themselves.
7. Accessories are an instant update. For example, if you take your classic pencil skirt and pair it with tights and a pair of platforms, studded heels or booties for fall, you will look fresh and up to date.
8. Make the trends follow you instead of the other way around. Not sure this whole ’80’s revival is for you? Just take the bit that suits you best. Love strong colors? Use just a pop of neon with a belt, scarf or heel. Love a sharply cut suit? Choose one with strong but not exaggerated shoulders.
9. Put a little color in your life. Yes, black is safe, chic and slimming, but there is more to life. Any dark color can be used to create a long line, slimming line. Step out with deep purple, dusky blue or charcoal gray, always favorites for fall. If you must do black, vary your textures, mix cashmere with leather, lace with wool.
10. For heaven’s sake, have some fun. That is what fashion is for!
