In the world of fashion, it seems that the rules are always changing. While it's fun to keep on top of trends, there's always a voice in the back of your head that reminds you of what's "acceptable": is this too trendy? what colors go together? what's "daring," and what's considered a total faux pas? It's enough to make you want to wear a uniform ever day.
The thing about style rules is that they're made to be broken. Personal style is one of the easiest and most accessible ways we can express our creativity on a daily basis. That's why it's especially important not to be constrained by the rules set by other people. After all, what's life without a little experimentation? In 2016, blue and black can work together, and our shoes don't have to match our "pocketbooks." It's time to throw out the fashion rules that our grandmothers and mothers lived by.
We've teamed up with TRESemmé Beauty-Full Volume to help inspire you to break the mold and push the boundaries of fashion. We've put together a series of women who are breaking conventional style rules and matching unlikely color pairs together — and who look totally fabulous doing it. We've also include some top tips for how you can do the same, because life is too short for strict rules or boring outfits.
Red and Purple
A lot of people will tell you that for good outfits, you should focus on just one color. But sometimes, more is actually more. Red and purple, although an unlikely pair, can come together to create a great — and memorable — outfit. The trick is to look for pieces with clean, simple silhouettes that'll keep a fabulous color combination the focus of your ensemble.
Denim on Denim
Chances are, you've been warned multiple times against wearing denim on denim, lest you look like a big denim mess. To that, we say, "haters to the left." Rocking the Canadian tuxedo is not only mega-comfortable, it can be super-chic, too. The key to pulling it off is to make sure your jeans and chambray shirt are different washes. A little contrast can go a long way.
Black and Blue
Here's the thing about pairing black with blue: there is a slight chance you're going to look like you got dressed in the dark. The way to work around this to dress with purpose. Choosing a slightly lighter shade of navy will contrast with your black piece to create a fabulous look. And, as always, attitude is key.
Pastels On Pastels
Believe it or not, there is a way to wear multiple pastel hues without looking like an Easter egg. Instead of mixing several patterns, try to stick with solid pastel pieces (or limit yourself to one pattern). That way, you can create a light look that is feminine, flirty, and fun.
Multiple Prints
Life is too short not to mix prints. In general, it's best to mix prints that have similar color schemes so the clash isn't too jarring. It's also great to incorporate solid pieces (like jeans or tights) to anchor your outfit. Overall, this is a trend that works best when you go with your gut. If your initial instinct is that two prints work well together, they probably do. Don't second-guess yourself.
Black and Brown
Black and brown can definitely play together, if you know how to do it right. Instead of a dark brown, try to pair your favorite black pieces with taupe, caramel, and camel hues for a look that is anything but expected.
Spots and Stripes
Don't listen to your grandmother; stripes and polka dots can live in perfect fashion harmony. Worried about trying it out yourself? Start simple, with two pieces that share a common, conservative color (like navy blue or black).
This post was sponsored by TRESemmé Beauty-Full Volume.
Images: Brooke Cagle/Unsplash; Courtney Halverson; Color Me Courtney , Courtney Halverson, Brooke Testoni, Alyssa Garrison, Keiko Lynn (2), A Clothes Horse/ Instagram
