Fashion rules can be both a guide and a source of creativity, offering women the tools to elevate their personal style effortlessly.
While some women think of fashion as restrictive, the right set of rules can actually help simplify choices and make putting outfits together fun.
Understanding a few key principles can make all the difference.
This video explores six essential fashion rules that every woman can use to enhance her wardrobe.
Summary of the video:
Leonie explains that while fashion rules often get a bad reputation, they can provide a helpful framework for putting together outfits. She shares six of her favorite fashion rules, which she follows and believes will help viewers, regardless of personal style or season.
The 2×2 Rule for Smart Casual Outfits
The first rule is the “2×2 Rule.” This involves pairing two casual pieces with two dressier pieces to achieve a smart casual look. For example, Leonie demonstrates by pairing sweatpants and a t-shirt with pointy-toe slingback heels and a leather bag to elevate her casual outfit. She explains that this method works across seasons and for different personal styles, making it an easy and effective way to create balanced outfits.
Nail Down Your Fashion Basics
Leonie emphasizes the importance of having good foundational pieces in your wardrobe. These “go-to” items are the base of your outfits, like her sweatpants, which she frequently reaches for because they’re comfortable and versatile.
She advises revisiting your wardrobe, trying on old pieces to see if they still work, and either finding ways to make them more useful or setting them aside if they don’t serve you anymore. Foundation pieces don’t have to be timeless or classic—they can be modern and trend-focused as long as they are getting a lot of use.
The Third Piece Rule
To take an outfit from “good” to “great,” Leonie recommends following the Third Piece Rule. This involves adding a third element to your look, such as a sweater, a hat, or an accessory like a necklace. This extra piece adds interest and makes your outfit look more intentional, giving it a polished and thoughtful appearance.
The Three Color Rule
The Three Color Rule suggests limiting your outfit to three colors to create cohesion and avoid looking overly busy. According to Leonie, your primary color should take up most of your outfit, the second color adds depth, and the third color adds a pop of interest. Sticking to this guideline ensures that your outfit looks well-put-together and harmonious.
The Big Slim Skin Rule
Leonie explains Amy Smilovic’s “Big Slim Skin Rule,” which balances proportions in an outfit. This involves pairing a big, oversized piece with something slim-fitting and showing a little bit of skin to give the outfit breathing room.
The “skin” element doesn’t necessarily mean baring a lot; it could be as simple as rolling up sleeves or wearing cropped pants to show a bit of ankle. This rule is particularly helpful for petite women who want to avoid feeling overwhelmed by oversized clothing.
Creating a Fashion Uniform
Leonie’s final rule is to create a fashion “uniform”—a go-to outfit formula that works for you and simplifies getting dressed. She likens it to building a taco: you have the base (your foundational pieces), the filling (layering pieces), and the topping (accessories or an extra element). A uniform allows you to experiment with new pieces while still having a solid foundation to build on.
To develop a uniform, Leonie suggests taking photos of outfits you love and looking for patterns in the colors, textures, and styles that consistently work for you. This process helps you understand what fits your style and makes dressing each day easier.
Throughout the video, Leonie emphasizes that these rules are trans-seasonal and adaptable to any personal style.
* Summary created by AI and edited by author
