As we all seek out tricks to express our visual voice in new and interesting ways, I wanted to share a style tip which is easy to implement and can have maximum impact. Opting for the unexpected choice.
Wearing Kowtow dress; Kindersalmon trench coat* (10% off with mademoiselle2023); Jenni Kayne sweater*; Arket bag; Oliver Cabell sneakers; Linjer moonstone & sunstone ring*; Mejuri black heart necklace*
Using this outfit I’m wearing as an example, you can see it leans decidedly classic and feminine. We have the white cotton poplin dress with tiered pleats. An oversized trench coat in a neutral beige with a slightly androgynous feel adding in some contrast. The knit over the shoulders helping to add in texture. Taking one look at this outfit, and the obvious choice of shoe would be your classic ballet flat. Something with a little bow at the vamp, in a neutral colour.
And when I put this on, I contemplated going with that obvious choice. But it can be the unexpected choice that can be more fun. More visually interesting. And more unique. So instead here I’ve gone with a bright blue sneaker. The burst of colour is eye-catching and adds a sporty touch to the outfit, providing some additional visual friction. Because of the vibrant hue, your eye is immediately drawn to the shoe. It becomes a key detail of the outfit, and conveys a message of playfulness. It feels less serious.
Another option would be to add in something sparkly, or perhaps opt for interesting layers. A long sweater dress over the cotton poplin to highlight the folded pleats and create some textural dimension between starchy and softer, cosier fabrics. More subtle, but again, not the obvious choice here.
