When I say I love my clothes—I truly mean it. I cherish them from the second they get delivered to my door, and I make sure they get the attention they deserve. It’s a common misconception that standout and trendy pieces can only be worn a few times, when the reality is, just because something isn’t considered to be a “basic” for everyone, that doesn’t mean it can’t be a versatile piece in your closet. Some of my most worn pieces have been the out-there pieces other people with different styles told me I wouldn’t wear more than once. There are new trends popping up on the fashion scene on a quick basis, it’s just not viable to not be getting the use out of the pieces you’re purchasing.
Of course, there are the special pieces that are reserved for special occasions, but I’m here to help you get used out of the trendy pieces you don;t think can be worn more than once, but absolutely can. Lizzie McGuire may have been embarrassed to be an outfit repeater, but there’s no shame in the game here.
Below, I rounded up my favorite trendy items and gave three options to style each, sourced straight from my favorite fashion girls on Instagram. It’s easy to see things from a cookie-cutter view and think there’s only one way to style a trendy item, but I promise the key to finding your personal style and being content with what you wear is to experiment with different outfit varieties.
I’m a huge fan of anything plissé, simply because of how comfortable (and effortless), they are. Just look at the 3 options below. Invest in a set and you’ll have multiple outfits ready to go.
Option 1: Keep it simple—wear the set as is and pair it with minimal accessories. The plisse deserves its own moment sometimes.
Option 2: Layering is the game. While the set has texture, it’s still simple enough to layer with a button-down or even blazer. A colored button-down is a great way to add a little fun to the look, while still keeping it relaxed.
Option 3: Break the pieces apart! The pants or top can act as a statement even on their own. Pair with a plain tee and printed button-up for the perfect cool-girl ensemble
Tailored suiting has held a strong spot in the fashion scene, but while blazers and trousers have been at the forefront, the vest is the third piece making its mark.
Option 1: There’s never harm in sticking to a full matching set, even with tailored pieces. Add a fun shoe as Amrit did above to take away from the “corporate” look of the suiting.
Option 2: There are days when you match, and there are days when you don’t. Stick to tailored pieces,but mix and match the colors or prints.
Option 3: As the colder weather starts to come around, layering will be your best friend. A crisp poplin shirt underneath just makes everything look so put together. To avoid looking like you’re coming out of a scene of The Office, complete the look with lightweight contrasting trousers.
When I first was thinking to buy a second skin printed top, I was nervous it wouldn’t be versatile. Boy, was I wrong. Not only do I find unique prints that bring joy to my closet, but I find myself wearing them a little too often because that’s how great they are to style. Don’t be fooled by their trend level—I consider them a wardrobe basic.
Option 1: While it’s easy to pair a fun top with jeans or simple slacks, try to think out of the box and get pants in a coordinating color that’s not neutral. It’ll not only flow but look incredibly cool.
Option 2: Bring on the layering! While I’m trying to get a top to look different than the same old, adding an additional layer does the trick. Thick sweaters or leather separates are great since they have different textures that make the outfit much more interesting.
Option 3: To make things a bit more dressed up, pair the top with a midi or mini skirt to contrast the fitted silhouette with something airier.
While a white button-down is usually every member of the fashion set’s go-to, saturated shades have taken over. Despite their vibrancy making it look like it’s hard to style, it’s a lot easier to do so than you think.
Option 1: Pair something bright and extra with…something bright and extra! Why not go all out? The printed skirt above is a perfect example of a coordinating with vibrancy.
Option 2: The button-down has an intense color to stand on its own, so an easy outfit is a white top and simple trousers, or even jeans. If you’re feeling like the look needs more you can accessorize it to your liking.
Option 3: If the top comes with a matching bottom, do yourself a favor and purchase so you can have an easy 5-minute outfit. if not, you can also pair with pieces in the same color range. (This tangerine top would pair so well with a coordinating piece in apricot,no?)
Cowboy boots aren’t just reserved for riding horses anymore. Out of all the trends to come onto the fashion scene in the past few years, these have to be my favorite.
Option 1: Whenever I think of shorts and cowboy boots, I think of Lorelai Gilmore on Rory’s first day of Chilton in Gilmore Girls. Channel your inner Stars Hallow and don the outfit combo—but maybe instead of a raggedy t-shirt like Lorelai, opt for a crisp button-down.
Option 3: Play around with texture and color! Outfits with cowboy boots don’t have to be simple. You can even opt for a pair of printed denim with this outfit idea since those happen to be all over the market at the moment.
Option 2: Cowboy boots can be dressed up, too! it can be tempting to want to wear heels or sandals with a dress, but trust me, cowboy boots will add a wonderful and unexpected touch.
Next, Nordstrom’s Fall Selection is Ridiculously Good—Here’s What We’re Loving
