Most people don’t look effortlessly stylish, and that’s okay. Unless you were born with a natural talent for fashion or spent years honing your skills, chances are you make some style mistakes. But here’s the good news: most of these mistakes are easy to fix once you know what to look for. That doesn’t mean everyone needs to look the same. Style is about finding what works for you. It’s not just about vanity—it’s about feeling confident and putting your best self forward. When you’re not confident in your look, it can trickle into other areas of your life. So, to help you avoid these common pitfalls, we’ve asked top fashion designers and stylists to share the style mistakes they see most often—and how to fix them.
### Mistake #1: Not Using the Rule of Thirds
One of the simplest ways to elevate your style is by using the rule of thirds, a principle that applies to everyone, regardless of shape or size. According to stylist Charlie Carlson, the rule of thirds divides your outfit visually into three sections, creating a more balanced and flattering silhouette. For example, tucking in a shirt so it covers one-third of your body rather than half can make a big difference. Similarly, wearing a long cardigan that hits mid-thigh instead of a sweater that cuts you off at the waist creates a more visually appealing proportion. This rule isn’t just about numbers; it’s about how it makes you look and feel. By applying the rule of thirds, you can instantly create a more polished, put-together look.
### Mistake #2: Neglecting Fit
No matter how expensive your clothes are, if they don’t fit well, they won’t look good. Matt Jefferson, a style consultant at Tweeds suit shops in Florida, stresses that fit is the foundation of great style. “A cheap outfit that fits well will always look better than an expensive outfit that fits poorly,” he says. But finding clothes that fit perfectly off the rack can be tough. As Jefferson notes, “Unless you’re a mannequin, it’s impossible to get a perfect fit.” That doesn’t mean you need custom-made clothes; a visit to a local tailor can work wonders. Even small adjustments can make a big difference. Clothes that skim your body rather than sag or stretch will always look better.
### Mistake #3: Not Using Accessories to Their Full Potential
Accessories have the power to transform even the most basic outfits. Celebrity stylist Amanda Massi suggests curating a collection of statement pieces—like a unique watch, eye-catching tie, or standout jewelry—to add depth and personality to your looks. Accessories can also help you get more use out of your favorite clothes. Stylist Charlie Carlson points out that many people repeat their favorite outfits but style them differently with accessories. By experimenting with accessories, you can breathe new life into old staples and stand out in a crowd.
### Mistake #4: Dressing to Hide Your Figure
Too often, people dress to hide their bodies instead of celebrating them. Stylist Ali Lees of Inspired Styling argues that baggy, shapeless clothes aren’t flattering, even if they make you feel more covered. Instead, she recommends dressing for your silhouette with balance and proportion. If you’re unsure where to start, Lees suggests looking to fashion magazines for inspiration. The key is to be kind to yourself and celebrate your unique shape. Remember, style is about feeling good in your own skin.
### Mistake #5: Treating Footwear as an Afterthought
Shoes are often the last thing we think about, but they can make or break an outfit. Stylist Amanda Vargus with Wave and Woven Style House explains that most people don’t own enough shoes or have the variety to pair with different lengths of dresses, skirts, and pants. Worn-out shoes can also bring down an otherwise great look. Vargus recommends pairing pants with shoes that skim the top of the shoe, cropped jeans with flats or tennis shoes to show off the ankle, and skirts and dresses with higher boots, pointed-toe pumps, or kitten heels. Stylist Bella Hignett adds that wearing shoes in a complementary tonal shade or a similar shade to your outfit can tie your whole look together.
### Mistake #6: Being Too Concerned with Trends
Relying too heavily on trends can be a major style misstep. Stylist AK Brown with Style Connector notes that having a clear sense of personal style is far more important than chasing what’s viral. If you only buy trend pieces, you’ll be left with nothing to wear when the trend fades. Brown suggests investing in timeless, quality staples that align with your personal style. Stylist Kristine Anigwe adds that not all trends work for everyone’s body type and skin tone. By focusing on what works for you and mixing in trend pieces sparingly, you’ll build a wardrobe that’s both stylish and enduring.
### Mistake #7: Not Taking Risks and Having Fun with Style
Finally, don’t be afraid to take risks and have fun with your style. If your closet is filled with the same colors or styles, or if people can predict what you’ll wear tomorrow, it’s time to shake things up. Fashion designer Alexander Lehr suggests buying something unexpected that catches your eye and trying it on with pieces you already own. You might be surprised at how much you love it. If not, you can always return it. The key is to enjoy the process of discovering what works for you. Style is a journey, not a destination—and it’s okay to make a few mistakes along the way.
