A lifelong question: how do I dress better? Or perhaps it’s just mine, as a clothing lover over here constantly looking for ways to dress well with ease. Though I think I have it all down pat after curating a lot of clothes over the years, as well as having a few years of growing an intentional wardrobe under my belt. So today, I’m sharing my top 4 style tips on how to dress better.
Clothing is a form of self-expression for me, so I am always so intrigued by the way it can be styled in unique and flattering ways. I’m all for simplicity – daily routines, a minimal skincare + makeup routine, as well as a wardrobe full of easy-to-wear, neutral, and versatile pieces. So of course, the following tips are super simple to implement with items you probably already have in your closet.
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Outfit details:
Frank and Oak T-shirt (S), ABLE sweater (S), Everlane ’90s Cheeky Jean (sz 24, 26.5″ inseam), Poppy Barley boots (linked to similar), Mejuri earrings, Polène Numéro Un Nano (find a quick review of it here), Sheena Marshall Jewelry necklace (c/o, HERSIMPLESOLE10 for 10% off)
Tip #1: Stick to a Simple Outfit Base
Is there a basic top and bottom combination that you tend to always reach for? A very simple tip is to reach for it again and again while playing with other elements to elevate it. Not only should you be a proud outfit repeater, but why stray away from what you feel most comfortable in? For me, it’s no secret that a T-shirt and jeans base is normally my go-to. It truly is the easiest combination to wear and there are so many ways to effortlessly style it.
Outfit details:
Frank and Oak T-shirt (S), Everlane ’90s Cheeky Jean (sz 24, 26.5″ inseam), Everlane trench coat (no longer available, similar here and here), Poppy Barley loafers (TTS, c/o), Mejuri earrings, Parisa Wang bag (SHARON12 for 12% off; find a quick review of it here, c/o), Sheena Marshall Jewelry necklace (c/o, HERSIMPLESOLE10 for 10% off)
In the two outfits showcased here, I’m wearing the same base, each with a different layer (trench coat vs. sweater over the shoulders), different shoes (loafers vs. chunky boots), and a different handbag (black vs. off-white). This creates two variations of an outfit while utilizing the same two basic wardrobe pieces.
Similarly, throw on a cardigan, a crew-neck sweater, or your favourite denim jacket over top. Or feel free to even ditch the third layer and wear a bunch of statement jewelry. The options in outfits are truly endless.
Tip #2: Repurpose a Wardrobe Piece
I love to get creative with my current items to make the most out of my clothes. By repurposing a piece of clothing (i.e. wearing it in more unconventional ways), you can lower its cost-per-wear, be intentional with your outfit styling, and put every one of your wardrobe pieces into good use.
For example, instead of wearing a crewneck sweater as you normally would, wear it over your shoulders for a clean preppy look. Button up your cardigan and flip it around so it looks like a regular sweater. Consider wearing your belt around a blazer, dress, or coat. In the end, the goal is to get creative and have fun with what you already have.
Tip #3: Incorporate the Third Piece Rule
I love using this tip when an outfit is feeling a bit blah. I’ve pretty much mentioned this rule a few times within the first 2 tips since the best way to incorporate them is by implementing the third-piece rule. The premise of this is to always consider a third piece to complete a look. I’m a big fan of layers (plus I’m always cold) so I’m almost always wearing a third clothing piece. For example, adding a sweater over the shoulders or a trusty trench coat rounds out each of the outfits.
Other ways to incorporate this rule is through the use of accessories such as a belt or hat, or maybe even a pair of statement earrings. If you don’t feel like wearing a third piece, how about carrying a bold-coloured handbag? Trust me, once you become intentional with adding a third piece, you’ll immediately feel like your best-dressed self.
Tip #4: Incorporate the 3 Colour Rule
This is hands down my favourite style tip that never fails. For a fully cohesive outfit, simply consider no more than 3 different colours. Black and white normally don’t count, since technically they’re not actual colours. Instead, they can act as accent pieces. But as a neutral girl at heart, I tend to always consider these tones while incorporating this rule. I just love a black and white outfit with an additional third colour.
I love using the 3 colour rule as a guideline since it helps in making my outfits look more intentional. It also shortens the time it takes to get dressed. There’s less to consider when there are fewer colours involved!
Additional outfit examples that incorporate both tips #3 (layering pieces) and #4 (blue, white, and blue—I clearly have a favourite colour combo!):
Outfit details:
Frank and Oak cardigan (XS, c/o) and tank top (S, c/o), Spanx wide leg jeans (XS, c/o), Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers (sized down 1/2), Mejuri earrings, Polène Numéro Un Nano in Chalk, Sheena Marshall Jewelry necklace (c/o, HERSIMPLESOLE10 for 10% off), Jenny Bird bracelet (c/o)
Outfit details:
Frank and Oak shirt (XS, c/o), Kotn tank top (S), Spanx wide leg jeans (XS, c/o), Open Edit heels (sized up 1/2), Mejuri earrings, Parisa Wang bag (SHARON12 for 12% off, c/o), Sheena Marshall Jewelry necklace (c/o, HERSIMPLESOLE10 for 10% off)
Outfit details:
Uniqlo relaxed blazer (S), Frank and Oak T-shirt (S), Everlane The Original Cheeky Jean (sz 24, 26.5″ inseam, linked to similar colour), Poppy Barley Oxford shoes (TTS, c/o), Oleada Captain Briefcase (SHARON10 for 10% off, c/o)
I hope you enjoyed these 4 easy style tips on how to dress better. These are my tried-and-true favourites and never fail. Just remember that learning how to dress better is all about experimentation and I hope these tips can help guide you in the right direction!
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