9 Style Myths to Throw Out

We’ve all heard the “fashion rules,” some of which have been around longer than others. The two biggest problems with these rules are that they can stifle fashion creativity and prevent people from dressing authentically. There’s been a resurgence in recent years of people realizing how you feel about what you wear and your confidence while sporting the clothes is more important than any fashion rules. Let’s talk about nine style myths that are past their prime.

• Dress Your Age

No adult woman should ever hear “dress your age.” If you’re in your early 20s and want to wear “Grandma sweaters,” then go for it, and if you’re in your 60s and want to model different types of dresses, like a mini dress, so be it. Age limits on clothing stop at the end of childhood. During your free time, wear what makes you happy and what you feel is appropriate for each situation.

• Save Your Fancy Clothes for Special Events

One of the biggest style myths is that fancy women’s clothing should be saved only for special events. Says who? Sit at home and wear a ball gown while eating mozzarella sticks if that’s what you want. Sport a gorgeous maxi dress even if you’re working remotely or want to run out to a local fast food place. Pretty clothes deserve to be shown off as often as possible and not just stuffed into a closet.

• Professional Tailoring Isn’t Necessary for Non-Formal Attire

Your clothing shouldn’t just have a proper fit and look like it’s made for you when you’re going to a formal event. For example, jeans that are too long can be a tripping hazard and look sloppy. This isn’t to say you have to get every piece of clothing tailored. However, key pieces, such as blazers, your favorite jacket and a few pairs of pants you frequently wear, should be at the top of your list for getting professional tailoring. It can make them look better and help you feel better wearing the pieces.

• No White After Labor Day

There are a few times that you shouldn’t wear white, such as if you’re a wedding guest, but feel free to continue to wear white after Labor Day if you so choose. Many beautiful garments, such as white cute tops for women, are a lovely addition to any season.

• No Athleisure Unless You’re Working Out

Some women refuse to wear athleisure unless they go to the gym, but that’s their prerogative. It’s also a woman’s right to exercise athleisure any time, even if they’re going to the grocery store or on a date. If you’re going out somewhere, such as to a restaurant, you may have to adjust your outfits accordingly if they have a dress code. Otherwise, feel free to wear athleisure if you feel comfortable in it and it makes you happy.

• Vintage/Antique Fashion Should Stay in the Past

Many gorgeous clothing items are either true vintage or antique or an homage to them. Just because you missed out on fully enjoying a particular style of clothing during a specific time period doesn’t mean you can never wear it. For instance, if you missed out on the Flower Power era of the ’60s, you could still buy new trendy sweaters with the same vibe. You can even sport pieces at the same time that honor different decades if that’s what you want to do.

• Your Style Matches Your Belief System

Expanding on the previous point, your preferred fashion style at any given point or generally speaking doesn’t reflect your belief system, and don’t let anybody tell you otherwise. For example, if you love 1950s-inspired dresses, it doesn’t mean you adhere to and/or believe in the entire social belief system from that time. The two can juxtapose.

• All-Denim Outfits Are Terrible

There’s no reason you can’t wear all denim outfits, such as a long-sleeved button-up denim shirt with jeans, a sleeveless romper or a denim crop top with a long denim skirt. The material is typically a perfect blend of style, versatility, comfort and durability.

Some people think an all-denim outfit is ideal for a ranch, a farm or other country or Western setting. However, spend a few minutes walking down the street of any major fashion city, and you’ll likely spot at least one or two women wearing all-denim attire. Focus on how you’re styling it, and your own all-denim outfit can look fantastic.

• You Can Only Have One Personal Style

There’s a misconception that your personal style equates to only one type of style, such as streetwear, vintage, preppy, athleisure or business casual. Some people will model the same fashion style every day, but many others have preferences that change from one day to the next. One day, they might feel like wearing romantic-inspired clothing, and another day, it may be all about grunge. Your personal style is all about the clothing, footwear and accessories that make you feel like your happiest, most authentic self on that specific day. You don’t have to jam yourself into the set limits of a particular style.

Focus on the Fashions That Make You Happy

Rather than focusing on all the existing fashion rules, make it a point to dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable, happy and like your best self. It’s when you tend to be your most confident and beautiful. Start stocking up on clothing, footwear and accessories that make you stop immediately when you see them because you’re drawn to those pieces. The color choices are plentiful, whether black, white, neon, pastel or one of the many other numerous shades, making it easy to model your favorites. Embrace your fashion freedoms.