5 Steps to style the perfect outfit

In this editorial:

Jeans (Loewe); Handbag & Loafers (Bally) – Farfetch | Knitted top – Isabel Marant | Earrings – Closer by Wwake

If elevators, telephones, and my daily dress code have something in common, it’s that laziness was the single greatest motivator that brought all three into existence. The former two were clearly concocted in an attempt to eliminate on-foot travel, vertically and horizontally. As for the latter, yours truly, happy to claim the title of ‘Laziest of Them All’, would run out the door in mismatched socks if it meant a little less time spent rummaging in the depth of my wardrobe. Indeed, no small portion of the looks as seen here were probably due to morning styling sessions given up on half-way through.

Getting dressed, you would think, is something that the collective efforts human civilization could have algebraically reduced to some catchy formula by now. But alas, no. I so get you: the first world struggle is real. When you next find yourself close to tears, pile of rejected wardrobe choices at your feet, consider these following 5 steps.

1 Start with one piece
Every look needs a starting point, and this should be lead entirely by your fancy at the time. The quickest cheat is the new-comer to your wardrobe you can’t wait to wear: that pair of too-arty-for-thou earrings you just nabbed from a consignment store; a long lost beloved jean that had reappeared in mysterious circumstances; the one-size-too-small dress that, after a torturous juice detox, finally fits. As for me, it was my Loewe fisherman pants new in from Farfetch

2 Create a contrast
For me, the perfect outfit is all about contrasts. Now that you have a piece around which to build your outfit, choose pairings that will juxtapose the other. If your hero piece is a bright top, go with muted bottoms. If you’re starting with some roomy pants, choose a tight fitting top. A tailored piece? Swap prissy heels for daggy flat shoes. A glossy leather jacket is well balanced with by textured knit. You see where I’m going with this.

3 Add one unexpected detail
If you’re starting piece is not already attention grabbing, add that one amazing detail that will seal the deal with your look. It doesn’t have to be (and probably shouldn’t be) something that causes gasps of shock from passers by, but it should be something unusual or unexpected. It could be a clashy accessory, a quirky shoe, or simply a way-too-chunky scarf. For my look, it’s my whimsical striped handbag that perks up any look.

4 Mess with it till you’re happy
How you wear it is almost as important as what you wear it (if not more so). The shirt tuck, for example, has a transformative effect on your look. Tuck all the way, for smart casual; the front tuck, for off-duty; the side tuck, for deliberate insouciance; or no tuck at all, for an oversized vibe – get in front of the mirror and try them all for good measure. Similarly, the sleeve roll, cuff turn, belt cinch and collar flip, are all little ways to mess with your look that will change e-v-e-r-y-thing.

5 Comfort test
For any perfect outfit, comfort is your most powerful accessory. It’s hard to strut when you can hardly walk in those blister factories. Practicality in general has to be your final question before leaving the house. Check the weather, in case a flash storm will turn you into an instant exhibitionist. Think ahead for your day, in case un-skirt-friendly activities will leave you in an awkward situation.