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10 Style Mistakes That Are Holding You Back (And How to Fix Them)

Style is all about expressing yourself, but even the most fashion-forward among us can fall into style traps without realising it. Whether you’re rushing through your morning routine or simply stuck in a wardrobe rut, it’s easy to make style missteps that can hold you back from looking and feeling your best. In this post, we’ll dive into 10 common style mistakes many of us make and more importantly, how to fix them so you can elevate your look and boost your confidence with ease. Ready to take your wardrobe to the next level? Let’s get started!

1. Wrong Fit

One of the biggest style mistakes you can make is wearing clothes that don’t fit properly. Whether it’s too tight, too loose, or just the wrong cut, an ill-fitting garment can throw off your entire look. Clothes that are too tight can create uncomfortable bulges or restrict movement, while overly baggy pieces can overwhelm your frame and look a little scruffy. The key to great style is balance – finding pieces that fit your body shape comfortably while still offering a flattering silhouette. If you’re unsure of your size, don’t hesitate to invest in tailoring. A few minor adjustments can make a world of difference and elevate your look in ways you won’t believe!

2. Clashing Colours

While experimenting with colour is a fun way to express your style, clashing colours can easily derail your outfit. Wearing too many contrasting shades can create a chaotic, mismatched look that distracts from your overall appearance. The key to colour coordination is understanding the colour wheel and choosing hues that complement each other. For a balanced look, try pairing neutral tones with one or two accent colours, or explore monochromatic outfits for a sleek, polished vibe. If you’re feeling adventurous, complementary colours (like blue and orange or red and green) can work well when balanced thoughtfully, allowing each hue to shine without overwhelming the eye.

3. Outdated Trends

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of ever-changing fashion trends, but relying too heavily on them can cause you to lose sight of your personal style. Trends come and go, and what’s in today might be outdated tomorrow. Instead of following every trend that pops up, focus on curating a wardrobe that reflects your own unique style. Identify the cuts, colours, and silhouettes that make you feel confident and comfortable, and build your collection around those staples. When you dress for yourself rather than what’s “in,” you create a look that is timeless and truly yours, rather than something that fades with the next season’s trends.

4. Not Accessorising

While it’s easy to focus on the clothing itself, failing to accessorise can make even the most stylish outfit feel incomplete. Accessories are the finishing touch that can transform an otherwise basic outfit into something more polished and personalised. Whether it’s layered necklaces, a pair of earrings, or a classic belt, accessories add an extra layer of depth and interest to your look. They allow you to express your personality and creativity in ways that clothing alone can’t. Neglecting accessories can make your outfit appear flat or uninspired, as they help tie everything together and can even shift an outfit from casual to chic or vice versa. So, don’t overlook the power of accessories – when used thoughtfully, they can elevate your entire look and add a unique touch that’s all your own.

5. Wearing Clothes That Don’t Suit Your Proportions

One of the most important factors in looking your best is understanding your body’s proportions and choosing clothing that complements them. Wearing clothes that don’t suit your proportions can throw off your entire silhouette, making you appear unbalanced or out of sync with your natural shape. For example, if you have a shorter torso, overly long tops can make your legs appear shorter, while oversized clothing might drown your frame. On the other hand, clothes that are too tight can create discomfort and emphasise areas you may not want to draw attention to. To avoid this, focus on styles that highlight your best features – whether it’s opting for high-waisted pants to elongate your legs or choosing tailored pieces that follow the lines of your body. The right fit can create a harmonious look, making you feel confident and showcasing your proportions beautifully.

6. Ignoring Shoes

Shoes are often an afterthought in many outfits, but neglecting them can be a major style mistake. The right pair of shoes can tie an entire look together, while the wrong pair can throw off even the most carefully curated outfit. Whether it’s wearing worn-out shoes, or simply opting for comfort over style, choosing shoes that don’t complement your outfit can detract from your overall appearance. Investing in comfortable yet stylish shoes ensure you always have a decent pair for everyday wear, whether it’s classic loafers, versatile sneakers, or elegant flats. Properly fitting shoes not only enhance your comfort but also add a layer of polish to your ensemble. Don’t overlook this essential part of your wardrobe – consider the style, colour, and appropriateness of your shoes to ensure they complete your look, rather than detract from it.

7. Not Investing In Basics

Basics are the foundation of any well-rounded wardrobe, yet they’re often overlooked in favour of more eye-catching, trendy pieces. However, failing to invest in high-quality basics – such as well-fitted t-shirts, classic jeans, versatile sweaters, and good quality coats – can leave your wardrobe lacking in both versatility and structure. Basics serve as the building blocks for countless outfits, offering a solid base that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. When you invest in well-made basics, you ensure that your wardrobe remains functional, stylish, and timeless. These staples can be mixed and matched with trendier items or statement pieces to create a polished look every time. By prioritising basics, you’ll find that your outfits are more cohesive, and you’ll always have reliable go-to options, no matter the season.

8. Being Underdressed

When in doubt, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. After all, being the person who shows up looking effortlessly stylish can never hurt, while being underdressed can sometimes leave you feeling out of place. Even in casual settings, a little extra effort can go a long way – whether it’s swapping a basic tee for a trendy blazer or trading flip-flops for a pair of sleek boots. The beauty of being slightly overdressed is that you’ll always stand out in the best way, and you’ll never have to worry about looking like you didn’t put thought into your appearance. Plus, it’s much easier to tone down an outfit than to try and make an underwhelming one more exciting. So, don’t be afraid to embrace a little extra flair and enjoy the confidence that comes with it!

9. Neglecting Proper Garment Care

Clothes that are faded, wrinkled, or poorly maintained can quickly diminish even the most stylish outfits. Neglecting proper garment care – like washing according to labels, using the right detergent, or storing clothes correctly – can lead to unnecessary wear and tear. For example, removing pilling from bobbly jumpers and ironing out wrinkles can keep your clothes looking sharp. Regularly refreshing your wardrobe by taking care of small details, such as using garment bags for delicate fabrics or keeping items stored properly, helps your clothes last longer and continue to look fresh. A little maintenance goes a long way in preserving your pieces and keeping your style on point.

10. Not Unlocking Your Personal Style

If you’re ready to elevate your style and feel more confident in your wardrobe, a Style Discovery is the perfect starting point. This one-off session will help you embrace your unique body shape, identify the colours that enhance your natural beauty, and unlock the secrets to expressing your personality through clothes. With a tailored approach, I’ll guide you through your style journey, ensuring you leave with the tools to dress confidently every day. At just £75, this personalised experience can be done in the comfort of your home or online if you’re further than an hour from Royston, Hertfordshire. Don’t wait to discover the joy of dressing for yourself – let’s get started today!

In conclusion, style is more than just about trends – it’s about expressing who you are, feeling confident, and wearing clothes that make you feel your best. By avoiding common style mistakes, like clashing colours or settling for ill-fitting clothes, and focusing on the pieces that truly suit your body and personality, you can create a wardrobe that works for you. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about creating a style that makes you feel confident every day. If you’re ready to take the next step in discovering your unique look, I can help you to get started. Let’s work together to uncover the wardrobe and confidence you’ve always wanted.

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7 Finishing Touches That Will Make Your Outfits Look More Polished

Are you tired of wearing the same old outfits day after day? Do you feel like your wardrobe needs a little extra something to take your style game to the next level? Start with your finishing touches!

One of the most common requests I get from my Personal Styling clients is to help make them feel more ‘put together’. That Pinterest / Instagram worthy look is created using finishing touches, so keep reading for ways you can achieve that easily.

Believe me when I say that you can wear sweats or loungewear out the house with the help of some careful accessorising!

Accessories are the ultimate way to elevate any outfit and add your own personal touch. From statement jewellery to trendy handbags, there are endless options to choose from. Not only do accessories add visual interest and personality to your look, but they can also be functional and practical. A belt can cinch in a loose dress, or a pair of sunglasses can protect your eyes from the sun.

But with so many accessories out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why in this blog post, we’ll explore the world of accessorising and give you some tips and tricks to help you step up your style game. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right accessories for your outfit to other ways to make your look more polished.

So if you’re ready to take your fashion sense to the next level, read on for my guide to putting an outfit together like a pro!

The right shoes

Think about the shoes you wear most often, and upgrade them. If you’re always in trainers, invest in a modern versatile pair that will elevate your outfits. The same goes if you spend most of your time in boots, heels, flats, whatever! The right footwear can pull the whole look together beautifully.

Also think about complementing the colours in your outfit. If you’re wearing a neutral outfit, you can choose shoes that add a pop of colour. If your outfit already has a lot of colours, you can choose shoes that are a neutral colour.

A pair of sunglasses

Okay, not on the cloudiest days or if you’re inside all day! But don’t reserve them for holidays. They’re a great accessory for every day, and they don’t need to be expensive. In fact, I would actively encourage you to go with what you like and not overpay for a brand name.

A bold, statement pair of sunglasses can add personality and individuality to an otherwise simple outfit. You can choose sunglasses with unique frames, lenses or embellishments to make a statement.

Sunglasses can also help balance an outfit by adding visual weight to the upper part of the body. This can be particularly helpful if you are wearing a more voluminous or flowy outfit. Overall, choosing the right pair of sunglasses can help complete your outfit by adding style, personality, and practicality.

Wear jewellery daily

Chunky medium sized hoop earrings are still a really on trend way to finish your look. However, if they aren’t your thing just make sure that you’re adding a piece of jewellery no matter how casual the clothes. It will instantly make your outfit look more intentional, rather than thrown together.

Your jewellery should complement and enhance your outfit, not compete with it. If you are wearing a busy or colourful outfit, opt for more understated jewellery, while a simple outfit can be dressed up with bolder pieces.

Ultimately, wearing jewellery is about expressing your personal style and enhancing your outfit. So have fun with it and experiment with different styles and combinations to find what works best for you. Also if you’ve had a Style Discovery, you’ll know which type of jewellery suits you best.

Change your handbag

The bag you choose each day should be a part of your outfit, not an afterthought. You don’t need a huge array of bags, just a few basics such as a crossbody, a tote, a top handle, a clutch and a shoulder bag. See my list of recommendations here: https://benable.com/emmalouisestyling/handbags

Start by considering the colour of your outfit. Your handbag doesn’t need to match, but it should be complementary. Also please don’t worry about the old adage of matching your shoes and bag, it can sometimes be much more visually interesting to have unexpected accessories.

Think about the style of your outfit. If you’re wearing a casual outfit, you could choose a tote bag or a backpack to keep it casual, or add a clutch or structured bag to contrast and smarten up the look.

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on handbags. There are many affordable brands that are still stylish and well-made. Take care of your handbags. This will help them last longer. Be sure to clean them regularly and avoid storing them in damp or hot places, and please don’t throw them in the back of your wardrobe in a heap!

Do your hair

When you know your Style Personality you can think about how your hair plays a part in the whole look you’re trying to portray. You can even play around with undone hair matched with a more formal outfit, and vice versa. Hair accessories might be a good way to complete your outfit too, such as headbands or claw clips.

The right hairstyle can help you to create a specific look. For example, if you’re going for a romantic look, you could wear your hair down and let it flow freely. Or, if you’re going for a more edgy look, you could tie it back so you feel less girly.

A messy bun can give a relaxed look to a formal outfit. A sleek, straight hairstyle can create a polished look.

No matter what your hair type or style, there’s a hairstyle out there that can help you to look and feel your best. So experiment with different looks and find what works for you. I’m no hair stylist but I use it as an accessory to portray my style personality.

Add a belt

Even a simple jeans & tee outfit can be taken to the next level by adding a belt. Use waist belts to nip in your waist on dresses. Replace belts that come attached to your clothes with a nice leather one. They draw the eye to your waist, or under the bust, to create a beautiful silhouette. They can be used to add a pop of colour, or simply add a touch of style.

When choosing a belt, it’s important to consider the occasion. For a more formal event, you might want to choose a belt made from a dressier material, such as leather or suede. For a more casual event, you could choose a belt made from a more casual material, such as raffia or canvas.

I know belts can be a style cliché, but worn well they will elevate an everyday outfit to a new level.

Last but not least, makeup

You don’t need a full face of cosmetics every day, but a little colour can make such a difference. Lipstick especially will brighten your face, especially if you know which ones suit your complexion. When choosing makeup, it’s important to consider your skin type, eye colour, hair colour, and personal style. If you’re not sure what makeup would look best on you, I offer Makeup Lessons. I can help you to choose products that are right for you and teach you how to apply them properly.

Makeup can finish your look in a number of ways. It can:

  • Highlight your best features. Makeup can be used to accentuate your eyes, lips, cheekbones, and other features that you want to draw attention to.
  • Create a more polished look. Even if you’re not going for a full-face of makeup, a little bit of concealer, powder, and blush can help to create a more polished and put-together look.
  • Change your mood. The right makeup can help you to feel more confident.
  • Express your personality. Makeup is a great way to express your personal style. Whether you like to wear bright colors, smoky eyes, or a natural look, makeup can help you to look and feel your best.

No matter what your makeup goals are, there are a variety of products and techniques that can help you to achieve the look you want. So experiment with different products and looks until you find what works best for you.

I hope this helps you think about ways to complete your outfits, so they feel more put together. Let me know in the comments which ones you already do, and which you’ll be trying next!

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