Can you combine styles? - YouLookFab Forum

Category

Dressing

Welcome! Read about what to wear and how to wear it on the YLF Blog. Join the YLF Forum to ask specific questions or just chat about fashion and personal style. Or check out the curated list of things we love in YLF Finds.

Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Can you combine styles?

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

I started a discussion yesterday specifically related to me trying out a Helmut Lang item http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....ou-help-me. This led to an interesting discussion on combining styles whereupon Suz suggested I start a separate thread for this discussion.

When asking Helmut Lang (HL) wearers about whether or not I could "pull off" wearing that style, it was noted this doesn't really meld with my current style aesthetic. I couldn't agree more. However I'm wondering if I can wear one arty or edgy piece when combined with something that IS my style aesthetic and thereby keep the outfit looking like me (e.g. an drapey HL top coupled with my black pencil skirt and kitten heels?).

So here's the question to ponder ladies: can a person combine two completely different style aesthetics successfully and have them merge into a unique but pleasing outfit, or conversely, does that just lead to an outfit that is visually confusing?

Dressing

36 replies

Latest reply was from Transcona Shannon

lyn*

(website)

Veteran

Sure! Why not? That's why it's called personal style! :p You add your persona into the mix!

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

OF COURSE.

Why not!

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

Even if it's a completely different aesthetic? and is it this type of combination that becomes an "eclectic" style?

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I do this all the time. Brooks brothers white shirt with torn, distressed, rolled up jeans and Rag & Bone booties... RATE Muubaa jacket with pencil skirt and tee...

I don't see why not! In fact, it's become my favorite way to dress.

DonnaF

Veteran

A style analogy would be like combining something twee/ultra girly with something masculine or RATE. They modify each other. Such combos can also head off a costume-y look on style that doesn't completely synch with one's own particular style. As I head for the big six-0, I am realizing that if I dress in one extreme or another I will look like a fashion victim or completely ridiculous; I need to have a dose of Classic mixed in although I rebel at 100% classic because that isn't me either.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

That's why the classics are so powerful, Shannon. They can be seasoned to take on any flavour - like fresh tofu. ESPECIALLY now, when irregular juxtapositions are the height of directional and trendy fashion. Totally and a billion percent MODERN.

In one outfit:

HL jacket - quite avant guard (like the one from my round up this week)

pencil skirt - classic

lace layering piece - romantic

nude hose - classic, yet directional (how fab is that!!!!)

Docs black booties - trendy tough girl

your hair and specs: trendy

Clutch - modern

And there you go

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I hope that makes sense!

Anonymous

The one edgier piece would make the entire shebang much more interesting. Go for it.

Peri

Veteran

Constantly. I've decided to call my style Casual Arty Classic. I think those are kind of contradictory but the casual keeps the classic from looking too dressed up and the classic keeps the arty from looking costumey.

Diana

Veteran

Sure, why not? I do it all the time, but I guess that's where the "eclectic" part comes in.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Angie, you make it sound super easy!

But I still struggle with it a bit, at times. I mean I struggle to figure out the right pieces to mix. Because sometimes you can mix and it looks fantastic!! And other times...well....like a hot mess, as Una would say.

When I asked this question about a year ago, Shannon, I got some recommendations to keep things within a colour family -- i.e. a monochromatic or tonal look. Or to go with a very classic colour combo like black and white or navy and white. I do think this is pretty good advice.

I also think, to a large extent, you are already doing this. For example, "our" Danier jacket, because of its sharp cut and asymmetrical layering, has a slightly avant guard feel (to me at least). Yet both of us wear it with classic, feminine, boyish (i.e. princely), and even slightly rugged items on a regular basis.

I think the element of our style that gives the most difficulty, Shannon, might be the retro bit. Sure, it is relatively easy to mix a 60s mod retro with super contemporary pieces. Ditto a 90s Lang with contemporary (at least I imagine). What seems harder is mixing a 40s-influenced or 50s-influenced look with these super modern pieces. I struggle with that. I know it's not impossible, but it seems to me it would take some serious fashion savvy to pull it off.

I do think some HL items would mix or fit in more easily than others. It might be a question of buying one or two items.

And now I am curious what you have your eye on?!!

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

Yes, I'm curious too!

I could see you integrating one HL piece into your style as a starting point. For example a HL jacket (I love them but haven't allowed myself due to the price). Or, a sweater (just kept one, I posted it in a K/R thread. You are right to keep the rest of the outfit classic. As far as reflecting your retro style gene, maybe you could do that with a bag or brooch or other accessory?

I once described my style (going on 2 years ago) as Boho Minimal. I still love Boho, but will integrate this style with one piece in the outfit for example with my Boho fringe clutch.

tarzy

Veteran

I'm not sure if this is the same thing you're talking about, but my style descriptor is "Earthy Urban Chic." It may seem that "earthy" and "chic" are contradictions, but it seems to be working for me.

If I went all the way with Earthy I might end up at Boho, which is not me at all. Similarly, totally chic feels too constrained and precious for me. Not every outfit achieves all three, but it gives me a goal post to aim for and it feels very "me."

rae

(website)

Veteran

I totally think you can do it, I hope I said so in your other thread. You have a great handle on what you like and what works for you, so I feel you will pick a HL item that IS you... Does that make sense? If you had not defined your style it would be more dangerous to branch out while also refining. However, I can't see you choosing anything so RATE or edgy that it's not you. I believe this is how UWP was spawned, btw. Warrior was not 100% right, and neither was princess. The overall look matters mkre than the pieces.

Anonymous

I think you could do it easily Shannon. I do a bit of combining all the time but then I've got eclectic in my descriptor. Just start experimenting and see what you like the look of.

K. Period.

Veteran

I know you can do it too! In fact, I think you already are. Most classic dressers don't have Docs in their wardrobe. That's you. Mixing styles. Masterfully.

The HL piece won't be any different. Your classics are the background pieces. They support and show off your statement piece.

Now get out there and buy your HL piece!

Ingunn

(website)

Veteran

*taking notes*

I love the idea of juxtaposing styles and creative contrasting, but it's not easy to grasp just *how*. I liked what K said about your Docs, though. Very enlightening, and I think she's right. I'm curious of which piece you have in mind!

ironkurtin

Veteran

Yes. Of course.

Deborah

Veteran

Absolutely. I think the key would be grounding the newer pieces with your classic pieces. The exciting part is making that newer aesthetic yours. Shannon you know I love Odyssey Home's look BUT to just copy her look wouldn't be quite me. Also my lifestyle, work etc don't quite lend themselves to that total look. But I think with a different shoe or adding a pencil skirt instead of harem leggings, etc, you create a look that becomes unique to you. This is something I have been thinking about a great deal lately so I really appreciate this thread. Perhaps your inner elegant eclectic is trying to get out:)

Caro in Oz

Veteran

I agree with the others. My only question is do you have an idea of where you want to go with this new direction? The reason I ask is I've learned that unless I have a grasp on where I want to go things can easily become a mish-mash - but maybe that's just me:)

Sarah A

Veteran

You have gotten a ton of great advice already, so not much to add... just that Ill be excited to see what HL items you are considering. I love a lot of his things but dont own any.... yet.

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

My sincere apologies for getting back to this thread so late - it has been a CRAZY busy day!

There are many great thoughts here and I thank you all for taking the time to weigh in.

I guess I should start by clarifying that I should have maybe made my question more specific to me and Helmut Lang. I do combine two styles quite frequently I think - i.e. classic and retro, or feminine and masculine. I think my angst comes more from Helmut Lang items being so different from "me", if that makes any sense.

Angie - Suz is right. You make it sound so easy. And I am really understanding now why you quite often discuss the importance of classic pieces and how they can ground any wardrobe, regardless of a person's style. But like Suz, I wonder how to know the right piece. You still want something unexpected in an outfit to look like it's supposed to be there, you know? I would hate to wear an outfit with an HL piece in it and have it stick out like a sore thumb. Is that where confidence comes in?

Suz - you're very right about the difficulty with the retro part of our style. We both love it but it's very easy for that hint of retro to head into costume territory if not careful. I'm not sure you could mix retro with an avant garde item although Denise's suggestion of that being in the way of a handbag or brooch could work.

Denise - you are brilliant at having boho elements in your style but without going overboard. It's always just the right amount. I think that takes real skill.

Rae - that's an excellent point about already have a fairly firm grasp of my style and what I like. I think if I weren't at the stage I am, I could make a horrible purchasing mistake and end up with a pricey orphan."The overall look matters more than the pieces". Fantastic.

k can shop - I hadn't really looked at my Docs that way but you're right. And maybe that's why I always enjoy wearing them. They are my "different element" in an outfit.

Deborah - maybe I do indeed have an inner elegant eclectic lurking inside. You just never know

I've learned over the past two years on YLF that I enjoy experimenting with different looks and styles, even though at times it drives me crazy trying to get something right.

As for the specific HL piece - I actually don't have one yet that I'm looking at. It's more the concept at this point that I'm interested in - but I suspect if I decide to go for it, it would be just a smaller piece at this point, like a top. And probably off of eBay if I could find to keep the experimental cost to a minimum.

I thank you all for this great discussion

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

Here's two examples of Helmut Lang pieces I could see incorporating into my wardrobe...a smaller dose but still different enough to see if this is a direction I'm interested in exploring more.

What do you think?

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/TRES-ED.....92?pt=US_C

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/NEW-HEL.....-light-gre

I will also admit I'm completely in love with this dress, but I think that might be too much for me to try...http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Helmut-.....ng-RARE-/2

katy

Member

For me, the most resonant style is style that doesn't do a top-to-toe thing. I loooove when people take the risk of stepping outside their tried-and-true.

Carla

Veteran

In a nutshell...absolutely!

I had my style descriptor from the list, and was happy with the sporty/ classic moniker, and then Rachylou provided a new one - academic boho! I would have never shopped boho, but my frequent use of pashminas, sweaters and T's vs button downs, and corduroy, velvet, and tweed...well, it worked! So now, when I'm doing research for style ideas, I 'm checking out stuff listed under boho...including the new 'festival wear'.

I think you could certainly curate one or two HL items into your wardrobe. A fun, new, challenge!

FWIW, if you apcan do that bandage dress of yours, you can certainly try the dress you posted! I like it the best of your examples!

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

Shannon I am not going to suggest any particular item, but yes, I absolutely think you could incorporate a Helmut Lang piece into your wardrobe. The mere fact that you are interested in it tells me that. If you tried something on and like it I have full confidence that you would style it in a way that is you and look (and feel!) splendid! Any of the three you posted (including the dress!) could potentially work - my problem in general is I have to see it on before I can be certain about any particular piece. Try thinking about a drapey top or abstract print without the brand and maybe it will seem easier!

rae

(website)

Veteran

You can absolutely wear ANY of those pieces easily. Right now. Email the sellers for measurements to be sure, but the styles are not a far cry from what you already own. You have fitted dresses with abstract patterns. You have voluminous tops that skim but show your small wrists etc. If these items were by Cleo or Vince Camuto you would own them already!

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I agree with Rae. Those items would be a snap for you to wear. They are not so different from items you already have. Love them!

Gaylene

Veteran

A good friend who is an interior designer once told me to trust my instincts when I was agonizing about choosing interiors finishes for our new house. According to her, most people tend to make mistakes when, as amateurs, they over think decisions instead of trusting what they are drawn towards because they feel an immediate connection with the item. Her take is that trusting your instincts often ends up being more cohesive and ultimately more satisfying because our likes come from an innate personal aesthetic.

If you are drawn to the HL dress, then her advice would be to buy the dress, not the one of the tops, because there is a higher likelihood that it is the dress that will most likely work with the rest of your wardrobe. For those of us who are not fashion experts, her advice might be worth thinking about when we are trying to move in a new direction.

12