The Secret To Being Stylish: 5 Steps To Style Success

Is there a science behind looking well-dressed? Or maybe there is some magic formula that separates a great outfit from a bad one? Who knows!

What we do know though, is that there are several things we look for when it comes to deciding on whether an outfit looks good or not. Today, we want to share these with you.

O N E   |   D O   T H E   C O L O U R S   C O M P L I M E N T   E A C H   O T H E R ?

Have you ever learnt about colour theory? Maybe not, but if you're a fan of bold colours this might come in handy if you're ever in doubt with what goes with what.

Colours next to each other on the colour wheel are analogous. Colours that are analogous create a harmonious look which is pleasing to the eye.

For a vibrant look you could opt for a complementary colour scheme which takes colours that are opposite each other in the colour wheel.

Alternatively, for a more subtle and flattering contrast you could try a split complementary colour scheme which is where you choose one colour then pair it with the colour or colours next to its adjacent colour.

The Triadic colour scheme is a group of three colours that are all equidistant from each other in the colour wheel.

Then you have the monochromatic colour scheme which uses different shades and tones of one colour. Neutral colours are often used to break up the look.

Finally you have neutrals, and I'm sure you are all familiar with these. Neutrals fit in with any of the above mentioned colour schemes and will tone down a look if needed.

T W O   |    D O   T H E   P R I N T S   W O R K   T O G E T H E R ?

When it comes to clashing prints (if the outfit includes them) it can be a bit of an art. If in doubt, we have a few tips that might help.

Pick a colour, any colour. Print clashing becomes a lot more simple when you choose one main colour that ties your prints together.

Break it up with a solid. Easily mix different prints by introducing a solid neutral colour into the look.

Stripes are the neutral of prints. So they are a good place to start if you are finding your confidence with clashing prints as stripes go with pretty much every other print from leopard to floral.

Mix the same pattern but in different colours. This is great way to match the prints without actually matching them. Just make sure your colours compliment each other.

Choose one print to be the star of the show. We would recommend not choosing two really busy prints and instead choose one busy print and one that's more subtle or smaller (such as stripes).

Image via www.lovely-pepa.com 

T H R E E   |    H A V E   Y O U   A P P L I E D   T H E   T H R E E   P I E C E  R U L E ?

The three-piece rule, in it's simplest terms, is one basic piece + one statement piece + one in-between piece. You don't always have to stick to this of course, but it's a handy rule to have if your outfit is looking a bit dull. 

So the jist is to base your look around these three key pieces, first you have your base which is usually a top and some bottoms, then you have a third piece which usually helps add some personality to the look. 

Your basic piece could be a plain white tee or some black skinny jeans, a statement piece could be a bold colour, a cool print or an edgy cut, then an in-between piece is something more subtle like an embossed texture or textured material such as suede. 

For more ideas on how to work the three-piece rule, we recently published a post on 5 different things you can add to your look to make sure your outfit always looks amazing! 

Image via instagram account @asos_isabella

F O U R   |   H A V E    Y O U   G O N E    O V E R K I L L ?

Something that can quickly ruin a look is overdoing it and most often this is done with accessories. 

Coco Chanel believed that when you're dressed and ready to leave the house, you should always remove one item from your ensemble as to not overdo your look. 

Follow in Coco's footsteps and keep accessories to one or two key pieces. Also make sure these are spaced far enough apart - for example you wouldn't wear statement necklace with statement earrings, but you could wear a statement necklace with some bold bracelets. 

Don't sell yourself short though, your outfit should always have one accessory at least!

Image via www.sincerelyjules.com 

F I V E   |  H O W   A R E   T H E   Q U A L I T Y   A N D   F I T ?

Nowadays, quality pieces don't have to be expensive, but it's always worth choosing quality over quantity if that's what it comes to. Pay attention to the fabrics you choose and also the cuts of the items, these two things can change a whole look.

Opting for tailored fits will always make your outfit look more expensive than it is. Well fitted clothes can make your look much more classy. You don't have to follow the "rules" of what you should wear according to your bodyshape, but knowing how to flatter your shape can really help make your outfit look more stylish. 

What do you think of the five things we look for in a stylish outfit? Do you agree with us or have any tips to add of your own?

Must Read: Tips on How to Develop Your Personal Style