These Fashion Rules Were Made to Be Broken

Regardless of how closely you follow fashion, you dress yourself every day; so chances are you’ve been told a rule or two about how exactly to manage this. But the strange thing is, these rules are often so constrictive (or just unnecessary) that they can actually put a damper on your personal style, rather than improve it. Think about it: Every time you’ve really noticed someone’s outfit, it’s probably been because it stood out—and oftentimes, this means breaking rules.

While we’re not saying you need to suddenly become a fashion rebel, wearing anything and everything that crosses your path (though if you want to, that sounds like a pretty cool way to dress), we are advocating for fearless fashion. Dressing should be fun, so if any point along the way you feel yourself worrying, it’s time to take a close look in the mirror (both metaphorically and literally) and bid farewell to the rules that are holding you back.

If you need somewhere to start—we get it, it can be hard to challenge long-held beliefs—don't stress. We’ve done the hard work for you by searching for some of the most common (and least helpful) fashion rules. So say goodbye to your worries, embrace your fearless side, and accept that these rules were meant to be broken. To make things even easier, we’ve gathered up some stylish pieces to help you really dive into this rule-breaking challenge. Ready? This is going to be fun, so keep scrolling to throw all caution to the wind.

DON'T WEAR WHITE PANTS IN WINTER

White pants are back and better than ever this season, so why sleep on the trend just because it’s winter? Our tip: Don’t. If you like white pants, wear them all year long. They look great with anything. The only thing to be fearful of with this style is messy eating (anyone else?).

ONLY WEAR SNEAKERS WITH LEGGINGS

I think the popularity of the pool slide can eliminate this rule from relevance right off the bat for 2018. And while some may not admit it, we do sometimes wear leggings outside of the gym too. So why deny it?

DON'T MIX METALS

Unless you’re a hard-core aficionado of one metal over the other, there’s no reason to feel limited in which jewellery you pair. In fact, a number of jewellery designers have been mixing metals even within individual pieces—and if that’s not proof that it can work, I don’t know what is.

DON'T WEAR CLUNKY SHOES WITH SUNDRESSES

Doc Martens are undeniably one of the coolest shoes of the season… and our favourite way to wear them may or may not involve a floaty Réalisation Par dress as well. While the two pieces may seem contradictory, they actually look amazing paired together.

NO DOUBLE DENIM

This rule should have gone out the window after that famous Britney/Justin red carpet moment. In all seriousness though, jeans are definitely a go-to staple in modern times… as is the perfect denim jacket. If you can pull off pairing them together, why not? It definitely adds a cool-girl vibe to any outfit when you double up on the material.

DON'T MIX PRINTS

This season we’re loving all the wacky combinations that have popped up on runways and in street style. One particular pairing that has been taking over is gingham and stripes, so if you’re looking for a place to start… Well, there you go!

DON'T WEAR A BLACK BRA UNDER A WHITE SHIRT

The best way I can explain this is, “Carrie Bradshaw”. Yeah, it may not be the best look for work. But on a night out? Go for it.

MUM JEANS AREN'T FLATTERING

This rule is both false and annoying because it completely disregards the fact that everyone has a different body type! Don’t worry about what “they” say; wear whatever cut makes you look (and more importantly, feel) your best.

TAKE OFF ONE ACCESSORY BEFORE LEAVING THE HOUSE

Coco Chanel’s famous rule, though good in certain instances, isn’t the most relevant in 2018. So far this year, we’ve seen trends that go above-and-beyond including all sorts of “out there” accessories. If you want to opt for more earrings, do it. A beaded bag AND micro-sunglasses? Why not! After all, fashion is meant to be fun.

MATCH YOUR SHOES WITH OTHER ACCESSORIES

I’m sorry to say, but this sounds like a formula for a boring outfit. Plus, if you’re wearing this season’s craziest shoe trend (we’re looking at you, Jacquemus and Balenciaga), this “rule” sounds pretty impossible. Instead, think of the aesthetic you’re trying to aim for as a whole, and make sure the accessories all speak to that—even if they don’t match perfectly.

Ready to break some fashion rules now? Go wild.