Fashion

17 Statement-Making Asymmetrical Clothing Items

by Melodi Erdogan

If there's one thing I love when it comes to fashion — and trust me, I love a lot of things — it's asymmetrical clothing. Sure, symmetry is beautiful and pretty and all that. But maybe the sartorial world isn't always supposed to be about what's "traditionally pretty" or "classic." Maybe it's supposed to be about individuality, uniqueness, and out-of-the-box ideas. An asymmetrical hem, silhouette, or detail can be easy ways to exercise that creativity.

Sure, you could opt for wearing something totally out there, like meat as a dress or a rainbow pom pom cardigan or whatever. But I know I personally look for interesting pieces that stand out and look different from what I have already seen but are still, you know, practical. I've done a lot of shopping in my day, and while I love a basic white T-shirt just as much as the next person, there's only so much it can do. But paired with an asymmetrical skirt in a bold pattern, the whole ensemble will be much more statement-making.

To celebrate unique, non-traditional design, here are 17 asymmetrical pieces to inspire you. There's no reason you can't get a little quirky with a little black dress or a fall knit, after all.

1. Draped Skirt

Plus Size Draped Asymmetrical Jersey Midi Skirt Grey, $15, Missguided

It’s basically impossible not to feel like a bombshell in this gorgeous jersey skirt. With a high-waisted fit and draped fabric that only reveals one leg, this piece certainly makes an alluring, sexy statement.

2. Oversized Sweater

Sweater With Asymmetric Neckline, $70, Zara

Give your favorite seasonal sweater an update with an asymmetrical neckline. If you thought all seasonal sweaters were itchy and ugly, let this gorgeous architectural piece change your mind.

3. Shift Dress

Pink Clove Drape Front Shift Dress With D-Ring Detail, $9, Asos

Everyone needs a classic shift dress in their wardrobe. One with asymmetrical draping and a defined waist is guaranteed to get a lot of wear.

4. Button-Down

Urban Renewal Remade Asymmetrical Oxford Top, $79, Urban Outfitters

It’s not every day that you run into a crisp button-down blouse with one completely normal sleeve and another totally oversized one. But when you do, you realize there’s really no other way to do it.

5. LBD

Plus Size Mesh Cut-Out Body Con Dress, $30, Charlotte Russe

A little black dress is a no-brainer for any special event. But with asymmetrical mesh cut-outs, the look will be totally elevated.

6. T-Shirt

Quaint A Picture Top In Navy, $35, Modcloth

You can never have too many good T-shirts. With adorable buttons and a beautiful asymmetrical hem, this is a perfect addition to your closet. Pair it with jeans or even some black trousers to steal the show.

7. Graphic Mini Skirt

The shape of an item doesn’t necessarily have to be the only asymmetrical element in a piece of clothing. This skirt has both an asymmetrical shape as well as a print. The more the merrier!

Plus Blue Asymmetric Striped Skirt, $14.99, rue21.com

8. Maxi Dress

Summer (aka primetime for maxi dresses) is long gone. But that doesn’t mean you can’t dress this baby up with some tights and a pair of combat boots and still look like a babe.

Asymmetrical-Hem Maxi Dress, $22.90, forever21.com

9. Blouse

A pretty blouse with an asymmetrical, layered hem is perfect for work, a night out, or even a date. You’ll likely never want to take it off.

Asymmetrical Layered Chiffon Tank Top, $42.50, torrid.com

10. Long Cardigan

The chances that you’ll be wrapped up in a coat for the next few months are very high. Thankfully, you don’t have to give up your statement-making pieces underneath layers of clothes.

Lexi Asymmetric Hem Shawl Collar Belted Duster, $40, boohoo.com

11. Peplum Top

This peplum top is absolutely gorgeous with a pretty cut-out and a shiny, metallic belt. Even though the asymmetrical element is subtle, it’s stunning.

Plus Size Pleather Insert Peplum Top, $59, citychiconline.com

12. Heels

Yes, asymmetry can in fact be applied to shoes. Brilliance.

Vince Camuto Carlotte Point Toe Pump, $128.95, nordstrom.com

13. More Heels

All I have to say is, “Pretty cool, huh?”

ASOS Hyped Up Wide Fit Heeled Sandals, $72, asos.com

14. Parka

Imagine yourself bundled up in this asymmetrical parka come the end of autumn, and tell me you don’t like what you’re seeing. Pairing it with jeans, knee-high boots, and a chic hat would make this coat look like a million bucks.

Grey Cocoon Shaped Parka Jacket With Drape Front, $104, yoursclothing.com

15. Pants

Straight hemlines at the end of your pant leg? Boring! Update your trousers with an asymmetrical hem to add personality and individuality.

Better Late Than Never Skinny, $88, freepeople.com

16. Skort

Take this skirt out on the town paired with a slouchy top and some killer heels. The asymmetrical paneling on the front will not only add a unique element to your outfit, but also have you stand out from the crowd.

Asymmetric Skort, $24.99, lanebryant.com

17. Tunic

Pair this oversized tunic with leggings to maximize comfort and showcase its dramatic train. It’s chic, stylish, and an absolute statement-maker.

Komodo Tee, $89.95, anthropologie.com

Get ready to add a dose of quirk to your fall staples.

Images: Courtesy Brands