Fashion is always changing. What was once considered a fashion faux pas might now be the hottest trend. In today’s world, personal style is more important than ever. It’s time to break free from outdated fashion rules and express yourself fully through your clothing choices.
This article will explore common fashion rules that you can and should break right now. We’ll look at why these rules existed in the first place, why they no longer apply, and how you can confidently break them to elevate your style.
Remember, fashion should be fun and personal. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to shake up your wardrobe and embrace a more liberated approach to style.
Let’s dive in and discover which fashion rules are meant to be broken!
1. Don’t Mix Patterns
One of the oldest fashion rules in the book is that you shouldn’t mix patterns. For years, people have been told to stick to one pattern per outfit. But it’s time to throw that rule out the window!
Why this rule existed:
The idea behind not mixing patterns was to create a “clean” and cohesive look. People worried that multiple patterns would clash and make an outfit look busy or messy.
Why you should break it:
Mixing patterns can add visual interest and depth to your outfit. It shows creativity and confidence in your style choices. When done right, pattern mixing can create a bold, eye-catching look that’s uniquely you.
How to break it:
Start small by pairing patterns in the same color family. For example, try a striped shirt with a floral scarf in similar shades of blue. As you get more comfortable, experiment with contrasting patterns and colors.
Tips for successful pattern mixing:
- Vary the scale of your patterns. Pair a large floral print with a smaller polka dot.
- Use a neutral pattern (like stripes or checks) as a base and add a bolder pattern on top.
- Look for patterns that share a color to tie the look together.
- Balance is key. If you’re mixing bold patterns, keep the rest of your outfit simple.
Real-world examples:
Fashion icons like Iris Apfel have made pattern mixing their signature style. High-end designers like Gucci and Versace often showcase mixed patterns on the runway. Even everyday brands like J.Crew and Zara now offer pre-mixed pattern outfits.
2. No White After Labor Day
The “no white after Labor Day” rule is perhaps one of the most well-known fashion rules. But it’s also one of the most outdated.
Why this rule existed:
This rule has its roots in late 19th and early 20th century American high society. White clothing was associated with summer vacations and leisure. After Labor Day, it was time to return to the city and pack away summer clothes.
Why you should break it:
This rule is completely arbitrary and has no place in modern fashion. White is a versatile color that can work in any season. Breaking this rule allows you to incorporate white into your year-round wardrobe, giving you more outfit options.
How to break it:
Wear white whenever you want! Incorporate white pieces into your fall and winter outfits. Try a cozy white sweater, crisp white jeans, or even a chic white coat.
Tips for wearing white year-round:
- In cooler months, opt for heavier fabrics like wool, cashmere, or denim in white.
- Play with texture. A white cable-knit sweater or textured white blazer adds depth to fall/winter outfits.
- Mix white with other seasonal colors like burgundy, forest green, or navy for a winter-appropriate look.
- Accessories in white, like boots or handbags, can brighten up darker fall/winter outfits.
Fashion industry perspective:
The fashion industry has long abandoned this rule. Winter white is now a staple on runways and in stores. Designers like Ralph Lauren and Max Mara regularly feature all-white looks in their fall/winter collections.
Cultural considerations:
It’s worth noting that this rule was primarily an American custom. In many other parts of the world, wearing white year-round was never an issue. As fashion becomes more global, such regionally-specific rules become less relevant.
3. Don’t Mix Metals
Another long-standing fashion rule is that you shouldn’t mix different metal tones in your jewelry and accessories. But this rule is ready to be broken!
Why this rule existed:
The idea was that wearing all one metal tone (like all gold or all silver) created a more cohesive, polished look. People worried that mixing metals would appear mismatched or unintentional.
Why you should break it:
Mixing metals adds depth and interest to your accessories. It allows for more creativity in styling and can make your look feel more modern and personalized. Breaking this rule also means you can wear all your favorite pieces together, regardless of their metal tone.
How to break it:
Start by mixing two metal tones, like gold and silver. As you get more comfortable, incorporate rose gold, copper, or bronze. You can mix metals in your jewelry, watches, belts, shoe hardware, and handbag details.
Tips for mixing metals:
- Use a two-tone piece (like a watch with gold and silver elements) as a starting point.
- Keep proportions in mind. If you’re wearing mostly gold pieces, add a touch of silver (or vice versa) for balance.
- Consider your skin tone. Some people find certain metal tones more flattering, so use that as your dominant metal and accent with others.
- Don’t forget about texture. Mixing polished and matte finishes can add another layer of interest.
Fashion industry trends:
Many jewelry designers now create pieces that intentionally mix metals. Brands like Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and David Yurman offer collections featuring multiple metal tones in single pieces.
Historical context:
Interestingly, mixing metals in jewelry has been common in many cultures throughout history. Ancient Egyptian royalty often wore jewelry combining gold and silver. In Indian traditions, mixing gold and silver (in the form of white gold) is considered auspicious.
4. Match Your Bag to Your Shoes
For decades, women were told that their handbag should always match their shoes. This rule has definitely overstayed its welcome.
Why this rule existed:
The matching bag and shoes rule was seen as a foolproof way to create a coordinated, put-together look. It was particularly popular in the 1950s and 1960s, when matching sets were all the rage.
Why you should break it:
Always matching your bag to your shoes can look dated and overly fussy. Breaking this rule allows for more creativity and personal expression in your outfits. It also means you don’t need to own a bag in every shoe color (which can be expensive and impractical).
How to break it:
Feel free to choose bags and shoes in different colors. Your bag can complement other elements of your outfit, or stand out as a statement piece on its own.
Tips for mismatching bags and shoes:
- Consider the overall color palette of your outfit. Your bag and shoes don’t need to match each other, but they should work within the overall color scheme.
- Use contrast to your advantage. A bright bag can pop against neutral shoes, or vice versa.
- Think about proportion. If you’re wearing statement shoes, a more understated bag might balance the look (or go bold with both for a high-impact outfit).
- Don’t forget about style consistency. While colors can differ, keeping a similar style vibe (like both casual and formal) can tie the look together.
Fashion industry perspective:
Modern fashion embraces mixing and matching. Designers and stylists often use contrasting bags and shoes to create more dynamic, interesting outfits. This approach is seen on runways, in magazine editorials, and in street style photography.
Practical benefits:
Breaking this rule can actually make your wardrobe more versatile. A collection of bags and shoes in various colors gives you more mixing and matching options, allowing you to create a wider variety of looks with the same pieces.
Cultural shifts:
The decline of this rule reflects broader changes in fashion and society. As dress codes have become more relaxed and individual style is more celebrated, such rigid matching rules feel ou
5. Don’t Wear Denim on Denim
The “don’t wear denim on denim” rule, also known as avoiding the “Canadian tuxedo,” has been around for years. But it’s time to reconsider this outdated fashion diktat.
Why this rule existed:
Wearing denim on denim was often seen as a fashion faux pas, associated with an overly casual or unsophisticated look. The term “Canadian tuxedo” was coined after Bing Crosby was once denied entry to a hotel in Vancouver because he was wearing all denim.
Why you should break it:
Denim is a versatile, durable fabric that comes in many shades and styles. Wearing denim on denim, when done well, can create a cohesive, stylish look. It’s also practical – denim pieces are likely already staples in your wardrobe.
How to break it:
Start by pairing denims of different shades, like a light denim shirt with darker jeans. As you get more comfortable, try matching shades for a bold, monochromatic look.
Tips for wearing denim on denim:
- Mix up the washes. Pairing a lighter denim with a darker one creates visual interest.
- Play with different denim pieces. Try a denim jacket with jeans, or a denim shirt with a denim skirt.
- Add non-denim elements to break up the look, like a leather belt or colorful shoes.
- Consider the fit. A mix of fitted and looser denim pieces can create a more balanced silhouette.
- Don’t forget about black denim. Pairing black and blue denim is an easy way to dip your toe into this trend.
Fashion industry trends:
Denim on denim has made a big comeback in recent years. Designers like Ralph Lauren, Celine, and Balenciaga have all featured denim-on-denim looks in their collections. Celebrities like Rihanna, Gigi Hadid, and Justin Timberlake have been spotted rocking this trend.
Historical context:
While the “Canadian tuxedo” term might be relatively recent, denim on denim has a long history. In the 1950s, it was associated with Western wear. It became a symbol of laid-back cool in the 1970s thanks to celebrities like Marvin Gaye and Debbie Harry.
Sustainability angle:
Embracing denim can be a more sustainable fashion choice. Denim is durable and long-lasting, and wearing it in multiple ways can help you get more use out of your clothes, reducing the need for new purchases.
The rule against mixing navy and black has been around for ages, but it’s high time we bid it farewell.
Why this rule existed:
Navy and black were considered too similar in tone to be worn together. The fear was that they would clash or that the outfit would look like a color-matching mistake.
Why you should break it:
Navy and black can create a sophisticated, elegant color combination when worn intentionally. Breaking this rule opens up new outfit possibilities and allows you to get more wear out of your wardrobe staples.
How to break it:
Start by pairing navy and black in clearly different textures, like a silky navy blouse with black leather pants. As you get more comfortable, try mixing navy and black in similar fabrics for a chic, monochromatic look.
Tips for mixing navy and black:
- Use different textures to clearly distinguish between the navy and black pieces.
- Consider using one color as the base and the other as an accent.
- Add a third color or metallic accents to tie the look together.
- Pay attention to the undertones in your navy pieces. Some navy leans more towards purple, while others have a greener tint.
- Don’t forget about accessories. A navy bag with a black outfit or vice versa can be a great way to start experimenting with this combination.
Fashion industry perspective:
High-end designers have embraced the navy and black combination. Brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Prada have all featured this color pairing in recent collections. It’s also a favorite among fashion editors and street style stars.
Color theory insights:
From a color theory standpoint, navy and black are both cool, deep tones that can complement each other well. They create a sophisticated palette that can be both versatile and striking.
Cultural considerations:
In some cultures, navy and black have long been accepted as a classic combination. In Japan, for instance, this pairing is considered elegant and is often seen in traditional and modern clothing alike.
Practical benefits:
Mixing navy and black can actually make your wardrobe more versatile. Many people own a lot of black clothing; adding navy pieces and mixing them freely gives you more outfit options without requiring a complete wardrobe overhaul.
7. Don’t Wear Socks with Sandals
The “no socks with sandals” rule has been a fashion commandment for years. But times are changing, and this look is making a comeback.
Why this rule existed:
Wearing socks with sandals was long considered the ultimate fashion faux pas, associated with unfashionable tourists and dads on vacation. It was seen as prioritizing comfort over style.
Why you should break it:
The socks and sandals combination can actually be stylish when done intentionally. It’s also practical, allowing you to wear your favorite sandals in cooler weather. Breaking this rule shows you’re confident in your personal style and not afraid to embrace unconventional trends.
How to break it:
Start with dark, solid-colored socks and neutral sandals. As you get more comfortable, experiment with patterned socks or more elaborate sandals. The key is to make it look intentional, not like you forgot to change out of your house shoes.
Tips for wearing socks with sandals:
- Choose the right socks. Opt for crew socks or statement socks rather than ankle socks or no-shows.
- Consider the occasion. This look works better for casual settings or fashion-forward events.
- Pay attention to proportions. Socks and sandals can look great with cropped pants or shorts.
- Coordinate colors. Your socks can match or contrast with your sandals and the rest of your outfit.
- Experiment with textures. Try ribbed socks or sandals with interesting materials like suede or patent leather.
Fashion industry trends:
In recent years, high-end fashion brands have embraced the socks and sandals combination. Designers like Gucci, Prada, and Vetements have all sent models down the runway sporting this look. It’s also popular among streetwear enthusiasts and fashion influencers.
Historical context:
Interestingly, socks with sandals have a long history. Archaeological findings show that the ancient Romans wore socks with sandals. In many Asian cultures, it’s traditional to wear socks with sandals, especially with formal attire.
Practical benefits:
Beyond style, there are practical reasons to wear socks with sandals. It can help prevent blisters, keep your feet warm in cooler weather, and extend the wearability of your sandals into other seasons.
Cultural shift:
The acceptance of socks with sandals reflects a broader trend in fashion towards prioritizing comfort and individual expression over rigid style rules. It’s part of the “ugly” fashion trend that challenges conventional ideas of what’s stylish.
8. Don’t Mix Gold and Silver Jewelry
Similar to the “don’t mix metals” rule we discussed earlier, the idea that you shouldn’t mix gold and silver jewelry is outdated and ready to be broken.
Why this rule existed:
Traditionally, it was thought that wearing all gold or all silver jewelry created a more cohesive, polished look. Mixing the two was seen as clashing or inconsistent.
Why you should break it:
Mixing gold and silver jewelry adds depth and interest to your accessories. It allows for more creativity in styling and can make your look feel more modern and personable
Why you should break it: Mixing gold and silver jewelry adds depth and interest to your accessories. It allows for more creativity in styling and can make your look feel more modern and personalized. Breaking this rule also means you can wear all your favorite pieces together, regardless of their metal tone. It’s a more versatile approach that can help you get more use out of your jewelry collection.
How to break it:
Start by wearing a mix of gold and silver pieces, like a gold necklace with silver earrings. As you get more comfortable, try layering gold and silver necklaces or stacking rings in both metals. You can also look for pieces that already combine gold and silver elements.
Tips for mixing gold and silver jewelry:
- Use a two-tone piece (like a watch with both gold and silver elements) as an anchor for your look.
- Consider your skin tone. Some people find they look better in mostly gold with silver accents, or vice versa.
- Pay attention to the proportion of each metal. Aim for a balance, or intentionally use one as the dominant metal with the other as an accent.
- Don’t forget about other metal tones like rose gold or bronze, which can add even more dimension to your look.
- Consider the style of the pieces. Mixing metals works best when the overall style of your jewelry is cohesive.
Fashion industry trends:
Many jewelry designers now create pieces that intentionally mix gold and silver. Brands like Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and David Yurman offer collections featuring both metals in single pieces. This trend is also popular in costume jewelry, with many affordable brands offering mixed-metal options.
Historical context:
Mixing gold and silver in jewelry isn’t a new concept. Many ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks, combined gold and silver in their jewelry designs. In some cultures, like in India, mixing gold and silver is considered auspicious.
Practical benefits:
Breaking this rule can actually make your jewelry collection more versatile. You don’t need to worry about having separate sets of gold and silver jewelry for different outfits. Instead, you can mix and match freely, getting more use out of all your pieces.
Sustainability angle:
From a sustainability perspective, being able to mix gold and silver jewelry means you can make the most of the pieces you already own. This can reduce the need to buy new jewelry to match specific outfits, which is better for both your wallet and the environment.
9. Don’t Wear Red and Pink Together
The rule against wearing red and pink together has been around for a long time, but it’s definitely one to break in today’s fashion landscape.
Why this rule existed:
Red and pink were often seen as clashing colors, too similar in hue to work well together. There was also a perception that the combination looked overly Valentine’s Day themed or childish.
Why you should break it:
Red and pink can create a bold, eye-catching color combination when worn together. Breaking this rule allows for more creativity in your color choices and can result in fresh, modern looks. It’s also a great way to make a statement and show confidence in your style choices.
How to break it:
Start by pairing different shades of red and pink, like a soft blush with a deep burgundy. As you get more comfortable, try bolder combinations like hot pink and bright red. You can incorporate this color mix through clothing, accessories, or even makeup.
Tips for wearing red and pink together:
- Play with different shades and intensities. A pastel pink can look great with a deep red, or vice versa.
- Consider the proportions. You might want to use one color as the main focus and the other as an accent.
- Use patterns that incorporate both colors for an easy way to combine them.
- Don’t forget about accessories. A red bag with a pink outfit or pink shoes with a red dress can be a great way to try this combination.
- Consider the occasion. This bold color combo can work for both casual and formal settings when styled appropriately.
Fashion industry trends:
Many high-end designers have embraced the red and pink combination. Brands like Valentino, Gucci, and Jacquemus have all featured this color pairing in recent collections. It’s also popular among street style stars and fashion influencers.
Color theory insights:
From a color theory perspective, red and pink are analogous colors, meaning they’re next to each other on the color wheel. This proximity can actually create a harmonious look when used together, despite the old rule against it.
Cultural considerations:
In some cultures, the combination of red and pink has different connotations. In India, for example, these colors are often worn together in traditional clothing and are associated with joy and celebration.
Practical benefits:
Embracing the red and pink combination can actually make your wardrobe more versatile. If you have pieces in both colors, being able to wear them together gives you more outfit options without needing to buy new clothes.
10. Don’t Wear Horizontal Stripes
The rule against wearing horizontal stripes, especially for those concerned about their figure, has been repeated for years. But it’s time to put this myth to rest.
Why this rule existed:
There was a common belief that horizontal stripes made a person look wider or heavier. This led to many people, especially women, avoiding horizontal stripes altogether.
Why you should break it:
The idea that horizontal stripes are universally unflattering is simply not true. In fact, some studies have shown that horizontal stripes can actually have a slimming effect. Breaking this rule allows you to enjoy a classic pattern that can add interest and style to your outfits.
How to break it:
Start by incorporating horizontal stripes in accessories like scarves or bags. As you get more comfortable, try striped tops or dresses. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different stripe widths and color combinations.
Tips for wearing horizontal stripes:
- Consider the width of the stripes. Thinner stripes can create a more subtle effect, while wider stripes make a bolder statement.
- Play with color. Navy and white stripes are classic, but don’t be afraid to try other color combinations.
- Mix stripes with other patterns for a more complex, interesting look.
- Pay attention to the fit of striped garments. A well-fitted piece will always look better, regardless of the pattern.
- Try asymmetrical or diagonal stripes for a modern twist on the classic horizontal stripe.
Fashion industry perspective:
Horizontal stripes have been a staple in fashion for decades. Stripes have never really gone out of style, from the traditional Breton stripe shirt that Coco Chanel popularized to modern interpretations by designers like Jean Paul Gaultier and Marc Jacobs.
Scientific insights:
A 2008 study by perception expert Dr. Peter Thompson found that horizontal stripes can actually make a person appear taller and thinner. This is because the visual system has to work harder to process horizontal lines, creating an illusion of length.
Historical context:
Horizontal stripes have a rich history in fashion. The Breton stripe shirt, originally worn by French sailors, became a fashion staple in the early 20th century. Kate Moss, Audrey Hepburn, and Pablo Picasso are just a few examples of style icons who have worn it.
Practical benefits:
Striped pieces can be incredibly versatile in your wardrobe. They can act as neutrals, pairing well with solid colors or other patterns. Stripes can also add visual interest to otherwise simple outfits.
Conclusion
Fashion rules have their place in history, but as we’ve explored in this article, many of them are outdated and ready to be broken. The world of fashion is constantly evolving, and what was once considered a faux pas might now be the hottest trend.
By mixing patterns, wearing white after Labor Day, combining metals, pairing navy with black, sporting socks with sandals, mixing gold and silver jewelry, combining red and pink, and confidently wearing horizontal stripes, you’re opening yourself up to a world of new style possibilities.
Fashion is cyclical, and what’s considered stylish is always changing. By breaking these outdated rules, you’re not just following current trends – you’re participating in the evolution of fashion itself.
So go ahead, mix those patterns, wear white in December, and rock those horizontal stripes. Fashion is about personal expression and creativity. After all, the best-dressed people are often those who know which rules to follow – and which ones to gleefully break.
