Details Matter
Elevate a simple outfit by adding points of interest
Paying attention to small details often leads to superior results, whether in creative undertakings, professional endeavors, or everyday tasks. That’s why, when my wardrobe starts to feel a bit stale or my outfit lacks excitement, I return to one of my fundamental style tactics: considering the finer points of my ensemble. Adding something as simple as a belt with a bold buckle or a pair of shoes with alluring ankle ties can create dimension and reflect my personality, transforming the outfit into a stylish expression of individuality.
If you find your outfit feeling blasé, here are some details that might add interest to your look:
Infuse color
Color is one of the easiest ways to give your outfit some verve. Adding color doesn’t always mean incorporating striking contrast; sometimes, subtle variations and thoughtful combinations can have an outsized impact. Wearing different shades and tones of the same color can add depth to your ensemble. For instance, pairing an ivory tank with cream cargos and a lightweight camel cardigan creates a cohesive yet dynamic outfit without being overwhelming. This approach to a monochromatic look adds visual interest through subtle variations and can be quite sophisticated when executed well.
If you’re looking to make a bigger statement, consider adding a single vibrant piece to your ensemble. A bright yellow handbag with a neutral outfit or a turquoise necklace with a simple dress can serve as a striking point of interest. If you’re willing to go even bolder, experiment with unexpected color combinations. Seek inspiration from nature or look at how major design houses like Hermès are pairing colors in their offerings.
Wear pattern
Pattern is another straightforward way to add punch to an outfit. Graphic tees, printed separates, or patterned accessories can introduce a playful, sophisticated, romantic, or creative element to your look, depending on the print.
If you are pattern-shy or prefer a more understated look, incorporating subtle patterns can add interest without overwhelming your ensemble. Patterns like pinstripes, Swiss dots, or watercolor florals – used sparingly – can add just the right amount of detail to perk up your look.
For those who want to make a statement, choose a bold pattern as the focal point of your outfit. A plaid skirt, an animal print dress, or a pop art floral blouse can create a memorable look. Generally, it’s easiest to pair these statement pieces with more subdued, solid-colored items to balance the outfit. However, it can be fun to mix patterns for a quirky or dramatic statement. The key to mixing patterns successfully is to keep them within the same color family or to ensure that one pattern is more subdued while the other takes the spotlight.
I mixed a few patterns in the looks that I shared last week on my Instagram @the.stylish.sabbatical here, here, and here. As you can see in those examples, I chose garments with a distinct pattern and accessorized them with more subtly-patterned accessories.
Incorporate texture
Texture adds a tactile dimension and visual depth to your outfits. Combining different fabrics and materials within the same outfit can create a rich, multidimensional look. For instance, combining contrasting textures like a sleek silk slip dress, a woven raffia bag, and leather sandals makes an otherwise simple outfit more interesting. Especially if you’re wearing a monochromatic color palette, using varied textures can make an outfit look more thoughtful.
A single textured piece may be all you need to make a statement. A sequined top, metallic heels, or a snakeskin clutch, for example, can add a luxurious element to your outfit and serve as a striking focal point.
Accessorize
Shoes, jewelry, belts, handbags, headbands, hats, scarves, tights, socks, and sunglasses are all powerful ways to add color, texture, pattern, and personality to any outfit. Whether small and subtle or pronounced, each piece is a point of detail that can draw attention and communicate your unique taste.
With a profusion of options, you might feel inspired – or you might experience analysis paralysis over how to accessorize. If you’d like to better understand the scale of accessories that work best for you, consider reading an article that I wrote about personal style, linked here.
Regardless of the scale or shape of your accessories, coordinate them with your outfit’s color palette. Complementary colors can create a harmonious look, while contrasting colors can add a pop of excitement.
Examples
To illustrate the concepts shared here, I’ve compiled four outfits, each representing a seasonal color palette. To demonstrate how even the most basic items can be enhanced by adding color, texture, pattern, and accessories, I’ve styled four looks that include fundamentally simple items at their foundation. The principles shared here can be applied to all of your outfits, from casual to dressy and basic to extravagant.
Summer: This outfit started with an off-white tee-shirt. I added pink pants (color), a gray leather jacket (color and texture), gray patent leather flats (color, texture, and accessory), a white handbag (texture, subtle pattern, and accessory), and silver sunglasses (accessory). This outfit’s interest comes primarily from the combination of colors and textures added to the look.
Autumn: A brown dress anchors this look that I’ve paired with a patterned scarf (color, texture, pattern, and accessory), patterned sandals (color, texture, pattern, and accessory), sunglasses (accessory), and a leather handbag (texture and accessory). This outfit’s appeal is heightened by the interplay of patterned accessories.
Winter: A cropped white tee and black shorts form the foundation of this ensemble. A leather belt (texture and accessory) and patent loafers (texture and accessory) add polish to the look while a striped tote (pattern and accessory), rings, and earrings (color and accessories) add personality.
Spring: This look started with a camel tee-shirt. I added natural linen mules (texture accessory). I added a punchy madras plaid skirt (color and pattern), a wicker handbag (texture and accessory), and gold and jade earrings (more color and texture). This boldly patterned skirt makes this outfit exciting. It is made all the more charming with the addition of textured accessories.
Make every detail count
Ultimately, your attention to detail suggests that you put effort into your appearance. By extension, people might assume that you put effort into your other endeavors as well!
If you find yourself in a style rut or want to elevate your wardrobe to the next level, consider working directly with me for personalized style advice and guidance. Together, we can explore the finer points of your style preferences, ensuring that every outfit reflects your personality and meets your lifestyle needs.
Email me at hayden.perry@gmail.com to schedule a consultation and start your journey to a more refined, confident, and uniquely stylish you.
Let’s make every detail count.