STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Mismatched Perfection

I know that when I first open my closet to make my most important decision of the day (my outfit, of course), one of my number one priorities is to make sure nothing in my ensemble clashes. It seems like it has become a habit in our culture to make sure everything is perfectly matched to avoid the appearance of having dressed in the dark that morning. However, more and more Fashionistas/os around campus have been experimenting with less perfect combinations.

This Fashionista’s tan asymmetrical maxi skirt is an instant eye-grabber. It may be confusing at first, with its long, elegant train in the back and then the more playful mini skirt in the front. Typically, the longer the cut of a skirt, the more suited it is for a fancier event. But instead of pairing it with a fitted halter and killer heels for a gala, she threw on a chunky navy sweater and suede booties to make the outfit appropriate and comfortable for class. 

Though the asymmetrical skirt is probably the most common form of this geometric trend, you can break away from the rigid lines of symmetry shown in most clothing with a relaxed blouse like this one or a cool suede jacket like this one. Dresses also can demonstrate this experimental style.

Asymmetry is so unique because it is bohemian yet sophisticated and prevents us from being stuck in the the monotony of traditional lines. You would be surprised how many ways this chic new trend creeps into our pieces: in sleeves, necklines, hemlines, shoulder pieces, slits, wraps, prints and even jewelry! Try one long feather earring on one ear with a stud on the other for a fast and easy way to incorporate asymmetry into your look. So be free, Fashionistas! Incorporate subtle unevenness and mismatched pieces into your wardrobe for a bold yet timeless look.

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Mismatched Perfection

Sometimes I wish that I could be a kid again. Looking back at pictures of when I was a little girl, I’m astounded at how trendy I looked sometimes. Back in the day I had the guts to pick a T-shirt, trousers and shoes that had no business coming together to form an outfit. True, children get away with some of the biggest fashion faux pas ever because, let’s face it, it’s so darn cute. But, in all honestly, there actually is something utterly perfect about mismatching your clothes; although, as grown ups we have to do it with a little bit more grace and care — there’s a difference between a cool clash and looking like you dressed in the dark! However, this week’s Fashionista nails it.

Her choice of knitwear is spot on; a two tone cardigan is the perfect piece to base this look on, as it will keep you cosy on a sunny autumn day as well as set you off in the right direction for a bit of deliberate incongruity. The mauve and black colours look great together, and instead of going for a plain white T-shirt or one with the same shades as the cardigan, she opts for a striped monochrome lace top, with lovely intricate detail.

She kept it simple at the bottom with basic denim shorts and biker boots, but all eyes go to her red and white striped shoulder bag. It’s pretty much the last thing I would have paired her outfit with, perhaps I would’ve gone for an oversized fringed cross-body bag, but her choice makes it so much more fun. Notice the scarlet head scarf she’s tied to the handle — gorgeous! It’s this attention to detail that is key when going for a winning mismatch.

To avoid over doing it and reaching mismatched perfection, there are some easy ways you can go about it. First, I’d recommend mixing floral patterns together. We tend to instinctively pair patterns with solid colours, but double up on flower power and you get a punchy feminine outfit. There are some amazing wintry bloom prints for the season to choose from, like this MINKPINK twill shirt with these palazzo pants for the ultimate '60s twist. Another way to clash with class is like this Fashionista and experiment with colours and geometric shapes, like stripes. Put together varying sized lines with common colours for a twist on your striped tee with the addition of a striped bag or scarf. Alternatively, go for a much bolder look and mix different animal prints for a daring look. Remember to keep something simple, like your shoes or your accessories.
 

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