I’m often asked to weigh in on specific fashion trends and whether I like them. My response is usually, "It depends," or more accurately, "Some people can wear that trend well, while others may not." The key to knowing whether a trend—or any piece you add to your wardrobe—works for you is understanding how the qualities of that item—like silhouette, fabric, pattern, and detailing—align with the lines of your body and face. When your clothing and accessories harmonize with your lines, you look naturally at ease in your ensemble, which is the essence of great style. When they don’t, it can feel like the outfit isn’t quite right for you.
To understand if an item reflects your features, it’s helpful to explore the concept of yin and yang. Originating from Chinese philosophy, these terms describe balance and contrast. In fashion, they refer to the types of lines found in both your physical features and the clothing you wear. Yin lines are curved, soft, and delicate, while yang lines are sharp, structured, and bold.
Yin features
Yin features are rounded and soft, as exemplified by the following photo of Marilyn Monroe. She embodies extreme yin traits, including a heart-shaped face that tapers to a delicate chin, large eyes, a small button nose, and full lips. Her relatively short stature (she was 5'5"), curvy figure, and shapely limbs further contribute to her lush appearance. In general, yin features include large eyes, full lips, a defined waist, wide hips, and rounded shoulders—all of which create an overall appearance of softness and femininity.
Yang features
Yang features are angular and bold, as illustrated by the above photo of Keira Knightley. She exhibits extreme yang traits, including an oblong face with a strong jawline and chiseled cheekbones. Her taller-than-average height (she is 5'7"), long limbs, sharp shoulders, and straight figure further contribute to her striking presence. In general, yang features include a rectangular or square face, prominent facial features, sharp or blunt shoulders, and a straight or athletic figure with little waist definition—all of which project a strong, structured appearance.
Blend of yin and yang features
While Marilyn Monroe and Keira Knightley represent extreme forms of yin and yang, many people display a unique blend of both traits. For example, someone might have coltishly long legs and broad shoulders (yang characteristics) combined with a shorter stature (a yin quality). Another person might have round cheeks and doll-like eyes (yin attributes) paired with a long, thin nose (a yang feature). In a previous article [linked here], I discussed a system that categorizes various combinations of yin and yang characteristics and offers specific styling guidance for each. However, if that feels too detailed, here’s a simpler approach: most people tend to lean slightly toward either yin or yang in their overall look and can make style choices that reflect and enhance this natural inclination.
Yin clothing and accessories
If you have a predominance of yin features, you’ll likely find that yin clothing and accessories suit you well. Yin styles echo the rounded shapes in your body and face with elements like puffy shoulders, blousy sleeves, and gently cinched waists created with belts or ties. Typical yin details include delicate straps, romantic touches such as lace and sequins, and blurred patterns like floral prints. Lush, luxurious textures—think silk, satin, and velvet—further add to the soft, feminine aesthetic, as do ornate, sparkly, delicate jewelry and accessories.
Yang clothing and accessories
If you have a predominance of yang characteristics, you’ll likely find that yang clothing and accessories work well for you. Yang styles mirror the angles in your face and body with elements like boxy or straight silhouettes, long monochromatic lines, and clean necklines—think crewnecks, turtlenecks, and v-necks. Common yang details include angular cutouts, asymmetric hemlines, and graphic patterns like stripes and checks. Medium to heavy fabrics that hold their shape, such as denim and leather, along with bold, elegant accessories, complete the strong, sleek yang aesthetic.
To illustrate how yin and yang elements appear in clothing and accessories, I’ve shared the following outfit examples. All outfit details, including retail links, are available in an online PDF [linked here].
Yin: On the left, jewel buttons add a hint of sparkle to a cropped tweed blazer. Underneath, a printed silk blouse with blouson sleeves brings softness and flow, while a short, pleated skirt brings a fresh, youthful energy.
Yang: On the right, an oversized, straight blazer is elegant atop a refined turtleneck and straight slip skirt. Block heels and bold jewelry ground the look with strength.
Yin: On the left, an ultra-feminine and romantic little black dress features a mermaid silhouette with a defined waist, a ruffled flounce hem, floral lace, and flutter sleeves. Soft, feminine accessories complete the look.
Yang: On the right, a sleek, columnar little black dress gains a modern, powerful edge with silver-tone studs that add sharp punctuation to the side slits. Structured accessories perfectly complement the dress’s bold style.
Yin: On the left, the flowing sweater and pants exude a graceful, soft energy. This look is further enhanced by a robe coat that cinches gently at the waist, delicately beaded earrings, a rounded-edge bag, and ankle-strap heels with softly rounded toes.
Yang: On the right, a cream turtleneck and matching pants create a long, monochromatic line, complemented by a sleek, straight coat, pointed-toe heels, and a structured bag. Geometric fan-shaped earrings add the perfect finishing touch.
Yin: On the left, a flouncy miniskirt adds movement and draws attention to the waist, while a sequin-embellished sweater and rhinestone-studded flats amplify the outfit’s feminine appeal. The coat’s rounded shawl collar and cinched waist keep the look soft and cohesive.
Yang: On the right, a double-breasted, menswear-inspired vest pairs with a straight miniskirt to create a bold, angular look. Jagged earrings, a structured bag, and a streamlined coat further enhance the outfit’s powerful energy.
Did you learn something new about your style today?
When you pull together a look that complements you and feels authentic, that’s the essence of great style! If you discovered something about your features or personal style while reading, I’d really love to hear from you. Every like, comment, and share helps grow this community—and means a great deal to me.
To get the conversation started: Can you identify yin and yang in your features, or would you like a bit of help? Do these outfit recommendations resonate with your style? Chime in!