Wearing vs. Styling

The difference between wearing an outfit and styling an outfit comes down to your inclusion of accessories, texture, color, shape and final touches. Accessories are key to bringing together a look- they add visual interest, can sell an interesting color story, even change the vibe of the outfit. Textures, unexpected pops of color and interesting shapes give a look dimension and help to determine how dressy or casual the styling is. Lastly, finishing touches help to put your personal spin on an outfit. Whether you're pushing up or rolling a sleeve, cuffing a pant or tying your shirt tails, your finishing touches to manipulate a garment really show off your own personal style.

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Wearing vs. Styling

5 Looks

When styling your straight leg jeans, add a wide cuff at the bottom for added visual interest. Layer an oversized button down as shown under your favorite sweater vest. Play around with cuffing the sleeves or popping the collar based on your preference. When pairing basics and neutrals like this, have fun and opt for a statement shoe! This pair with the studs adds embellishment to the look.

Instead of just wearing a sweater and jeans, layer a white long sleeve under for dimension and/or add a cuff to your jeans.

Styling this maxi dress with boots and a cropped jacket make this the perfect dressy daytime look or evening look. Coordinate accessories with a less represented color in your print for an fresh color pairing.

A white tee dress is anything but basic when you add a statement sneaker and chic bomber jacket. Since the dress is basic, add other items that fit your function when styling. Dressier function? Swap the bomber and sneakers for a blazer and a chic flat.

Adding an element of structure, like this trench coat, is an elevated way to styling your athleisure. Instead of grabbing a fleece or a sweatshirt for your next athleisure look, opt for a more polished coat. You'll also notice in the styled look the sleeves are pushed up, an easy way to add an element of styling in any look. Adding a knit sweater to your shoulders adds some texture to the look.