Elevating your style doesn’t require a complete wardrobe overhaul. With guidance from fashion expert Lydia Tomlinson, you can implement simple yet effective styling principles to transform your look. Here are eight of her top styling tips to help you dress with confidence and sophistication.
1. Avoid Excessive Horizontal Lines
Too many horizontal lines in an outfit can disrupt visual harmony. For instance, pairing a sweater with a mini skirt and ankle boots creates multiple cut-off points, leading to a disjointed appearance. Opt for a structured top and pointed heels to elongate your silhouette and achieve a cohesive look.
2. Utilize the Outfit Formula
View this post on Instagram
Simplify your dressing routine with this reliable formula: matching color jacket + matching color top + contrasting color bottoms. This approach ensures a balanced and stylish ensemble, whether you’re combining a neutral blazer and top with dark trousers or a vibrant jacket and jeans.
3. Introduce Pops of Color Strategically
View this post on Instagram
Incorporating color into a neutral outfit adds interest, but moderation is key. Overloading on a single accent color can overwhelm your look. Limit the pop of color to two accessories, such as a bag and shoes, to maintain a chic and intentional appearance.
4. Enhance Outfits with a Neck Scarf
A patterned neck scarf can instantly elevate a simple outfit. Whether tied around your neck or draped over a blazer, it introduces sophistication and personal flair to your ensemble.
5. Coordinate Flats with Your Bag
Matching the color of your flats to your bag creates a harmonious and polished look. This subtle coordination is especially effective in outfits featuring multiple colors, bringing balance without appearing overly matched.
6. Select Earrings to Complement Your Outfit
Accessories can enhance or detract from your outfit. When wearing detailed pieces like a statement belt, choose simple earrings to avoid visual clutter. Aligning the shape and color of your earrings with your clothing details, such as matching gold earrings with gold buttons, creates a cohesive look.
7. Approach the “Old Money” Aesthetic with Subtlety
Embracing the “old money” style doesn’t mean overloading on traditional elements like pearls and structured jackets. Instead, blend classic colors with modern, relaxed fits to achieve a refined yet natural appearance.
8. Style Satin Skirts with Monochrome Pairings
Satin skirts can be challenging to style. Matching the skirt with a top or sweater in the same color creates a sleek, monochromatic look, enhancing elegance and simplicity.
By incorporating these expert-approved tips into your wardrobe, you can elevate your style with confidence and ease.
