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HOW TO ELEVATE A NEUTRAL OUTFIT

Date: Posted on Category: Tips/Trends Location: ,

Jessica Wang wearing a neutral outfit from tods featuring two tone reversible caban and a two tone midi skirt with logo loafers // Jessica Wang - Notjessfashion.com

Tod’s Jacket (Similar and affordable) | Bralette Similar | Tod’s Midi Skirt | Tod’s Loafers | Tod’s Hobo Bag

If you are familiar with my style at all, you know that I am not one to stray away from more avant-garde looks. In fact, I absolutely live for the outfits that are able to keep people on their toes and catch them off-guard as I walk by. The more colorful and unique they are, the more I am likely to add-to-cart! But contrary to popular belief, I love neutrals just as much as the more extravagant looks. The key to styling a basic white or black look is to ensure it is elevated and has a certain level of interest. In fact, with the right tips and tricks, the simplest of pieces can actually come together to make an extraordinary outfit – which is why I present to you today’s blog post topic. Keep reading to learn how I elevate my neutral outfit so it is far from boring!

Jessica Wang wearing a neutral outfit featuring faux fur coat with corduroy shorts and a tan turtleneck shirt  // Jessica Wang - Notjessfashion.com

Jessica Wang wearing a neutral outfit for fall featuring corduroy shorts and a fendi bag // Jessica Wang - Notjessfashion.com

Jessica Wang wearing a neutral outfit featuring faux fur lined coat with corduroy shorts and a tan turtleneck shirt and carrying a fendi bag // Jessica Wang - Notjessfashion.com

Incorporate Texture

My first tip to elevate a neutral outfit is to find some way to introduce more surface interest. If every piece of the clothing is rather flat, there is a chance the overall effect could look lost and dare I say – boring. Adding an element of texture or 3D embellishment will instantly boost the look of the outfit! A key category that is easy to incorporate texture in is outerwear because there are so many chic options such as faux-fur, shearling and teddy. Even if you happen to go after a fully monochromatic neutral look, the added texture helps to differentiate each piece so more of a balance is created.

Jessica Wang wearing a neutral outfit by max mara and carries a max mara bag // Jessica Wang - Notjessfashion.com

Play with Silhouettes

Another trick I have to take a neutral outfit from drab to fab is to play with differing silhouettes. When each piece drapes at different lengths, it creates a more eye-catching appeal. For instance, one of my all-time favorite outfit combinations is styling a longline coat with a pair of shorts. The long outer layer contrasted against the shorter hemline of the shorts or skirt emphasizes the pieces and creates a more dramatic aesthetic. This neutral outfit tip could also be reversed if you want to opt for a trendy bra top and pair with a maxi skirt or wide leg trousers.

Jessica Wang wearing a neutral outfit featuring a tweed coat and croc embossed christian louboutin over the knee boots  // Jessica Wang - Notjessfashion.com

Jessica Wang wearing an orange chiffon maxi dress with a keyhole cut out and a bvlgari necklace with a petite crossbody bag // Jessica Wang - Notjessfashion.com

Statement Accessories

The accessories you choose also play a really important role in any good outfit. Another trick to make your neutral outfits stand out is to incorporate your favorite statement accessories into the look. These additional pieces can remain mostly neutral too while still packing a punch. The first thing that comes to my mind is a ‘wow’ pair of boots. I love a good pair of over-the-knee boots and these tend to always do the trick when it comes to leveling up a mostly neutral outfit. Additionally, striking accessories such as a structured handbag, dramatic jewelry or chic headwear add that element of unexpectedness to the most basic of looks. Feel free to get creative and incorporate multiples of these statement accessories too.

Jessica Wang wearing a neutral outfit by Maison Margiela with houndstooth printed pants and a jimmy choo metallic shoulder bag // Jessica Wang - Notjessfashion.com

Pattern

My final suggestion to make your neutral outfits less boring is to embrace patterns! Breaking up solid pieces with an interesting design is a surefire way to level up your outfit. You could opt to stick for safe patterns such as a classic plaid, houndstooth or stripe. On the other hand, you could get a little adventurous and shop more trendy designs. This season, I am seeing a ton of mod checkerboards and elevated animal skins. Patterned pieces can take the shape of any form in your neutral outfit too. A graphic knit top is always an effortless option to pair with a neutral bottom or you could rock a pair of all-over patterned pants with a solid top! The possibilities are truly endless so just have fun pick and choosing some pop designs into your white, black and beige looks.

What are your tips and tricks on how to elevate a neutral outfit?

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