Rules are Made to be Broken

There are no rules in fashion! Over the years women have a set of rules that are not to be broken....I believe they are to be broken...take a look!

Never wear black with brown or navy.
Rubbish. Black with brown, navy or gray is a thoroughly modern twist on classic dressing.

Never mix prints
Such an old-fashioned notion. As long as you keep your prints in the same color family and don't get too crazy, go ahead and mix it up for a modern, edgy look.

Madewell

Your bag must match your shoes perfectly.
Of course your bag should not clash with your shoes (or anything else you have on), but the notion that you need a different evening bag for every pair of heels you might wear is rather old-fashioned. Choose a bag that complements your ensemble. For instance, if you're wearing black with a patterned or brightly colored shoe, go for something like a black beaded clutch with a detail or trim that picks up color from the shoe.

Never mix metals.
Give your vintage pieces an edgy twist by mixing silver and gold; choose one to be your primary element and use the other as an accent.

Stella and Dot

Never wear white after Labor Day.
This rule is obviously enacted before we had such a fantastic variety of winter whites. White is modern, smart and wearable year-round.

A pregnant woman should dress to conceal her belly.
Just the opposite. When you're voluminous, adding even more volume only makes you look larger. Enhance your new curves with body-conscious clothing that stretches to accommodate your shape. No maternity tents, ladies.

Never wear stockings with open-toed shoes.
done right, open-toed shoes look fabulous with stockings. The key is wearing pretty, high quality hosiery in any color other than nude. A glimpse of well-pedicured toes under lace or fishnet stockings is edgy and alluring. Match your leg wear to your shoes for a sophisticated look; if you're feeling a bit daring, wear bright hosiery. And always walk on the cutting edge.

Fun Fact: It was unacceptable for women to wear pants on the floor in Congress until the nineties!
I can't believe it took that long for Congress to join the rest of the country. Women can wear pants anywhere they please. With impeccable tailoring, few pieces command as much respect.


Share other rules that can be broken...there are plenty of fashion rules out there!

Alison