There’s such a big difference between merely getting dressed and actually putting together an outfit. I like to think of it as wearing versus styling—and once you start styling instead of just wearing, your outfits instantly feel more polished, more interesting, and so much more you.
Before we dive in, make sure you’ve grabbed my free Modern Classics Wardrobe Guide. These are the pieces that form the foundation of every great outfit, and they’ll help you make sense of all those styling tips you see online. (You can find the link in the description or pinned comment on the video.) And if you’re ready for deeper, hands‑on help, join me for my free masterclass on Monday mornings at 11—each one is designed to give you an actionable style breakthrough.
Alright, let’s talk about the styling strategies I swear by:
1. Swap Out a Matching Shoe
Instead of defaulting to black shoes with a black outfit or nude shoes with everything, try something unexpected.
- A pop of color in your shoes that isn’t anywhere else in the outfit.
- A tonal mismatch—like oxblood with pink or red with orange.
- A patterned or textured shoe with a simple outfit.
Your shoes are a powerful way to change the vibe of an entire look.
2. Belt Where You Normally Wouldn’t
Belts aren’t just for loops. I love belting over a cardigan, blazer, or even a trench coat. I often cut the belt loops off dresses so I can belt wherever I want, with whatever width I want.
- Try a skinny metallic belt over a chunky cardigan.
- Try a wide wrap belt over a denim jacket.
It’s an instant way to add shape and interest.
3. Layer a Button‑Up Unexpectedly
Layering is huge right now, and it’s not just for warmth.
- Wear a button‑up over a turtleneck or over a tank dress and tie it at the waist.
- Wear it under a sleeveless dress or a sweater vest.
- Throw it unbuttoned over a tee and shorts.
It’s an easy way to add depth and personality.
4. Treat a Dress Like a Skirt or Top
A dress doesn’t have to stay a dress.
- Add a chunky cropped sweater over a midi dress and suddenly it’s a skirt.
- Unbutton a shirt dress and wear it as a duster over jeans and a tank.
- Try a cropped cardigan buttoned up over a dress for a whole new look.
5. Start With an Anchor Piece
Instead of starting your outfit with jeans and a tee, start with a statement item—a bold shoe, a statement jacket, a special scarf. Build around it with your basics. Suddenly those tricky pieces you never wear start earning their keep.
6. Use Your Bag to Disrupt the Vibe
I love carrying an evening bag with a casual outfit or a slouchy canvas tote with a feminine dress. Your bag can add an unexpected element that makes your outfit look intentional and styled.
7. Mash Up Textures, Not Prints
Mix linen with leather, suede with silk, denim with sequins. Texture mixing is an easy way to make a neutral outfit look rich and layered.
8. Repeat a “Wrong” Color Intentionally
If you’re unsure about a color, echo it somewhere else. A chartreuse blouse feels intentional when you repeat chartreuse in your shoes or jewelry. Two touches of the same odd color look like a choice, not an accident.
9. Use Socks as a Styling Tool
Patterned socks with loafers and cropped pants, textured knee‑highs with flats, colorful socks peeking out of boots—it’s a fun, low‑risk way to add personality.
10. Play With Asymmetry
Half‑tuck your shirt, cuff only one sleeve, drape a sweater over one shoulder. It looks effortless and cool—like you didn’t try too hard.
11. Wear a Cardigan Backwards
Try a classic cardigan buttoned up as a top, or even wear a long cardigan buttoned and belted as a dress. These little reinventions breathe new life into pieces you’re bored with.
12. Cinch a Blazer or Dress With a Crossbody Bag
If you don’t love belts, a crossbody bag creates shape in the waistline without adding bulk. It’s such an easy trick for boxy outfits.
13. Tuck a Scarf Into Your Belt
A scarf tucked into your belt adds color, pattern, and movement to an otherwise simple look. You can also wrap a long scarf around your waist as a belt for something really unique.
14. Use Jewelry to Interrupt Clean Lines
Go beyond the same delicate necklace you always wear. Add a bold vintage brooch to your lapel or layer three necklaces at different lengths. Your accessories are a chance to tell your story.
15. Pop Your Collar and Roll Your Sleeves
A simple button‑down shirt can look boring—or it can look like the star of your outfit. Pop that collar, roll those sleeves, and style it intentionally. Try it under a sweater with the collar dramatically turned up for an unexpected twist.
Here’s the truth: styling isn’t about buying more clothes. It’s about tweaking and playing with what you already have to make it feel fresh, intentional, and uniquely yours.
If you loved these tips, I’d love for you to subscribe to my YouTube channel so we can keep hanging out. And don’t forget to grab my Modern Classics Wardrobe Guide—it’s free and it’s going to change the way you see your closet.
Happy styling!
Nada Manley says
Thank you so much Angela! That means so much to me!
Angela DeBoo says
love this content. so helpful. Thanks Nada