Everyday styling tips to elevate your look
Quick and simple
Hi, I’m Leigh. I’m a stylist and my interest and passion for styling is focused on how we feel in what we wear - it is a form of self expression and I work to empower people to align their sense of self with their style and gain autonomy to dress with ease, clarity and confidence.
Have you been wanting your outfits to feel more considered? More ‘put together’?
I have some simple tips for you..
These ideas are not new or groundbreaking, but they are subtly impactful and communicate a consideration as to how you’ve chosen to express yourself through what you wear.
Try some out - and let me know what you liked.
High contrast dressing
Very simply - pair contrasting colours together.
Black with white. Red with light wash denim. Colours that are distant from each other on the rainbow.
This eye catching combo creates tension and interest and it’s easy to do - although it’s not for everyone. I’ve worked with a few client’s lately who aren’t into this look as it’s too severe. For them, I recommend..
Tonal dressing
Exactly as it says on the tin - an outfit made up of similar tones.
Taupe, cream, brown together. Or grey, blue, navy and denim. etc.
A tonal outfit feels elevated, contemporary and chic. It looks very ‘put together.’
Push up the sleeves
So simple and yet so effective. Don’t just put on a shirt, button it up and leave it there. Mess it up - make it feel more lived in. Make it so you are wearing the clothing, not the other way around.
A great way to do this is to unbutton on one of the buttons on the cuff and pull the corner up to the upper arm. Don’t roll the sleeve - as this can look too ‘done'. No need to be too perfect or pristine with this one.
Tuck it in
Same as the above tip - we don’t want to be too perfect with this. A relaxed half / french tuck into your trousers looks effortlessly chic. Tucked in all the way around can feel corporate (not bad, just different.)
If you’re wearing a shirt - leave the bottom two buttons undone and just tuck in one half of the shirt.
Layer up
Add a t shirt under your jumper, some socks to bare legs, a jumper or scarf around your waist.
Adding extra layers not only keeps you warm, it looks thought-out and considered. Try contrasting colours for the layers so they stand out too.
Texture Tetris
Pick n Mix your fabrics - knitwear, silk, leather all together creates contrast that feels interesting, impactful and effortlessly stylish.
Denim + silk. Cotton + cashmere. There are no rules here, but to mix and match with what feels right.
Extra brownie points if you can create a tonal look with a variety of fabrics - it looks very chic.
Belt up
Now, I didn’t wear belts for a long time. I’m not sure why. But I am back on the belt train and I’m not getting off.
Worn traditionally through trousers / jeans or on top of dresses, skirts, pants - however you want to wear it - just do it.
This humble accessory adds another layer and texture to your look that shows you have considered your outfit. I personally love silver hardware for belts, but you do you.
Feel free to share any styling tips you love to work with to elevate your every day looks. And let me know how you go playing around with these.
X Leigh
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All images from Pinterest.