Does the thought “I have nothing to wear!” permeate your mind whenever you’re going through your closet? Is it sometimes difficult pairing clothing and accessories together? Investing in and understanding the fundamentals of classic and timeless styles can help improve any wardrobe. To be classic or timeless simply means that the clothing you wear will always be stylish and never go in or out of style. Icons like Audrey Hepburn or the character of James Bond always look timeless and put together, but what are their secrets? Here are some tips that can help you dress classy in a world of ever-changing trends.
- Have a neutral colour pallet: Stick to a universal neutral colour scheme of browns, blacks, whites, and blues; they are flattering on everyone and pair well. In particular, black and navy are considered slimming and match elegantly with white or cream. But be warned that wearing too many colours at once can be overwhelming to the eye. Sandwiching: Like the name suggests, the colours help to create a “sandwich”
- effect by layering one or more colours within the outfit. An example is wearing the same colour belt and shoes, and contrasting coloured jeans or tee. Another way to sandwich is to pair a navy blue suit and a white button-down shirt with a dark brown belt and dress shoes.
- Know your body type: Not all styles are going to look great on everyone, and recognizing your body type and dressing in styles that are the most flattering can help you look timeless and put together. You can look up how to dress for your body type or consider going to a tailor to customize your clothing if needed. It may seem like a big expense at first, but in the long run it can save time, money, and energy.
- Choose timeless styles: Less is more when it comes to choosing clothes that never go out of style. Choose classic pieces like crew neck tee-shirts over a trendy ruched top. Consider creating a capsule wardrobe of basics. Not only will they age better, but they compliment a wide range of body types as well. High fashion trends tend to go in and out of style. It’s best not to spend too much time or money on them.
- Invest in quality items: Consider buying fewer but higher quality pieces like tailored suits and good quality fabrics. Silk, cashmere, and wool clothing are an investment because — although more expensive — they are often better quality and will last longer.
- Fitted over baggy: The more boxy or baggy an article of clothing is, the less put together you will look. Wearing a well-tailored suit will look more put together than a baggy sweater and pants. Wearing clothing that fits well not only makes you look put together, but can be a confidence booster as well.
- Prints: Choose prints that are proportionate to your body type. For example, smaller prints tend to look better on people with a petite body than larger prints do. Not only are smaller prints flattering, but larger prints can make people appear bigger.
- Accessories: Accessories should enhance an outfit, not overwhelm it. For example, pairing an outfit with classic, subtle jewellery like pearl stud earrings or a thin gold chain with a small pendant. Wearing belts with pants is not only functional, but stylish too. A tote, a messenger bag, or a classic handbag can help create a timeless look while keeping your valuables safe.
- Shoes: Wear classic shoes that fit well and also come in neutral colours. Blacks and browns tend to be more versatile and timeless than neon coloured sneakers. Simple cuts and quality fabrics tend to last longer in style.
- Avoid looking like a brand campaign: Wearing too many brands at once detracts from your style. Elegant and timeless styles tend to have less noticeable branding or none at all. An exception is having a handbag with a designer brand logo, but wearing head-to-toe branding can look overpowering and busy.
And there you have it! Ten tips to help you dress timelessly in the world of fashion. This will not only — hopefully — make dressing less stressful, but will give you the comfort of knowing that no matter what you wear, you will always look stylish.
Rachel is working towards a BA with a concentration in English and Theatre. She has been employed at The Cascade since Fall 2021 as a Staff Writer and a Jr. News Editor. Currently, she is the sectional News Editor and enjoys meeting and interviewing people as well as taking long walks in nature. Rachel also likes to stay up to date on the latest trends and informs students through her fashion column entitled Campus Fashion.