When it comes to fashion, there are style rules that have been around for far too long. Sure, they might’ve made sense when they were created, but why are we still insisting on sticking to them? The only “rule” that matters is that you feel good. That’s first and foremost. End of story, period.
Our shopping editor and former stylist put together a list of her 12 least favorite “style rules” that just…need to be broken. Of course, if you love them, then wear them. That’s the whole idea; that you love what you’re wearing. You’re what makes the outfit work, not the other way around. So if you’re feeling a little boxed in when it comes to your closet, or you want to know how to expand your style horizons, these 12 style rules are totally ready to be broken.
1. “Don’t wear white after Labor Day.”
Whoever said “no white after Labor Day” clearly hadn’t seen snow, white pumpkins, or a cozy ivory sweater. Crisp linen? Maybe not in December. But winter whites? Absolutely.
Think ivory, cream, ecru; softer “candlelight whites” that feel warm instead of stark. Pair them with luxe fabrics and rich accessories, and you’ve got a neutral that works year-round.
Quince Merino Coat in Heather Bone ($160)—Buy Here!
Marcella NY Sweatshirt Dress in Cream ($133.20)—Buy Here!
Amazon Cable Knit Sweater in Beige White ($29.98)—Buy Here!
Banana Republic Factory Hayden Pant in Oyster Pearl ($45)—Buy Here!
Coconuts by Matisse Platform Bootie in Bone ($99.99)—Buy Here!
2. “Navy blue & black don’t match.”
That old idea that navy and black “don’t match” came from the thought that black was more formal, and pairing the two could look confusing. But it’s 2025: both are neutrals, and they pair beautifully. Together, they create a sleek base you can wear as-is or elevate with a bold accessory (think a statement bag or standout earrings).
The only caution? Avoid navy so dark it looks black—it kills the contrast and just looks accidental. Stick to a true navy blue with deep black, and you’ll have a combo that’s timeless and chic.
BRAHMIN Cami Satchel in Anchor Melbourne ($325)—Buy Here!
Boden Chunky Knit Sweater in Bright Blue ($103.20)—Buy Here!
Aerosoles Stacked Heel Bootie in Navy ($75.98)—Buy Here!
Tnuck Sport Zip Up Jacket ($168)—Buy Here!
Anthropologie Twofer Sweater Top in Nightfall ($68)—Buy Here!
3. “You can’t mix silver & gold jewelry.”
Once upon a time, mixing metals was considered a faux pas. Silver with gold? Rose gold with sterling? Supposedly a no-go. But here’s the truth: metals are neutrals, and neutrals go with everything, including each other.
If you love gold but have silver pieces collecting dust, wear them together. The mix actually makes your look more interesting. Still nervous? Start with a piece that already combines metals, then layer in a gold bracelet or silver ring. Easy, chic, and very much allowed.
Rosemarie Collection on Amazon Stretch Bracelet Set ($32.99)—Buy Here!
Mytys Statement Ring in Gold & Silver ($15.99)—Buy Here!
BABYGOLD Lumi Two-Tone Hoop Earrings ($192)—Buy Here!
Artizan Joyeria Herradura Lock Layered Necklace Set ($165)—Buy Here!
4. “Wearing more than one print is tacky”
Mixing patterns gets a bad rap because when it’s off, it can look chaotic. But done right? It’s chic.
If you’re new to it, start with pieces already designed in multiple prints—they’ve been pre-matched for you. Ready to pair your own? Keep these tips in mind:
- Match at least one color across both prints
- Stay in the same color family (all pinks, browns, etc.)
- Balance pattern scale—pair one bold print with one smaller (think wide stripes + tiny florals)
- Structure matters: mix fitted and flowy pieces so it feels intentional, not like laundry day panic
This is one of those “rules” that’s made to be played with. The best combos happen when you experiment.
FREE PEOPLE We The Free Painters Pullover Top ($148)—Buy Here!
Farm Rio Garden Tree Dress ($248)—Buy Here!
Ann Taylor Wide-Leg Satin Pants ($97.30)—Buy Here!
Petal & Pup Slip Skirt ($31.60)—Buy Here!
5. “Black & brown don’t go together, either.”
Like navy and black, brown and black got unfairly labeled a fashion faux pas. But both are neutrals—and if nature can nail the combo (hi, dogs, birds, trees), so can you.
Play with shades: camel, tan, chestnut, even mahogany all look sleek with black—and don’t be afraid to mix in grey, too. One tip if you want longer-looking legs: keep the color flow. Black tights? Pair them with black shoes. Brown jeans? Match them with brown boots. Too much contrast at the ankle can cut your line short.
Reiss Charlotte Printed Belted Midi-Dress ($237.49)—Buy Here!
Brackish Marjan Pheasant Feather Earrings ($185)—Buy Here!
GRAPENET Barrel Jeans in Root Beer ($42.99)—Buy Here!
Boden Knit Jacket in Camel ($183.20)—Buy Here!
6. “Socks with sandals are a huge fashion fail.”
Socks with sandals aren’t just for dads grabbing the mail anymore—they’re officially fashion-approved. Beyond being practical (blister prevention, warmth, and sun protection), the combo opens up a whole new world of styling.
Chunky platform sandals with cozy socks? Effortless cool. Sheer socks with strappy heels? Chic statement-maker. Or go casual with retro athletic socks and sporty sandals for an unexpected swap on sneaker days. Trust us: this “rule” was made to be broken.
MEPHISTO Dominica Sandals ($299)—Buy Here!
Birkenstock Arizona Flatbed Sandals ($117.99)—Buy Here!
Mcool Mary on Amazon Lettuce Crew Socks 6pk ($14.99)—Buy Here!
Crocs Getaway Platform Wedge Sandals ($29.95)—Buy Here!
Sock Candy Dark Florals Sheer Crew Socks ($18)—Buy Here!
7. “You can wear pink or red, but not both.”
There was a time when red and pink together were reserved strictly for Valentine’s Day. Now? They’re one of the coolest pairings you can wear.
Here’s why it works: red and pink sit side by side on the color wheel, making them analogous shades. Translation: they naturally flow together, create low contrast, and are almost foolproof to style (designers love the combo for interiors, too). Science says the mix works—and honestly, who are we to argue with science?
Tuckernuck Blossom Jacquard Dress ($112)—Buy Here!
Dokotoo on Amazon Striped Crewneck Pullover ($24.98)—Buy Here!
Anthropologie Mock Neck Sweater ($98+)—Buy Here!
Wolf & Badger Maxi Dress ($223)—Buy Here!
Adidas Track Jacket ($85)—Buy Here!
8. “Stripes aren’t flattering.”
“Stripes aren’t flattering” might be one of the most outdated fashion myths out there. No matter your size or shape, you can absolutely wear stripes and look amazing doing it.
Here’s what to know: horizontal stripes can make areas look broader (perfect for balancing proportions if your shoulders are narrower than your hips). Vertical or diagonal stripes, on the other hand, can elongate your frame. And as with any print, scale matters: wide stripes can overwhelm petites, while very thin stripes can get lost on taller or fuller figures.
Bottom line: stripes are a classic, not a trap. Choose the fit and scale that makes you feel confident—whether that’s a relaxed, oversized sweater or a crisp, tailored blouse.
Lands End Striped Chinos ($39.97)—Buy Here!
Old Navy Vintage Crewneck Tee ($19.99)—Buy Here!
Universal Standard Striped Jersey Dress ($82.60)—Buy Here!
9. “Shorts are just for summer.”
So let us get this straight: skirts are fine in cooler months, but shorts aren’t? Please. Shorts are just as versatile year-round, plus, end-of-summer sales mean you can stock up now and wear them straight into fall.
The trick is layering. Treat shorts like a mini skirt: add tights or leggings (make sure they’re fitted to avoid bunching). Denim works with everything, while leather-look, plaid, tweed, or twill feel instantly polished. Want casual? Toss your jogger shorts over leggings, add sneakers and a sweatshirt, and you’re set.
Amazon Faux Leather Shorts ($21.99)—Buy Here!
SPANX Stretch Twill Shorts ($59)—Buy Here!
Quince Stretch Pleated Shorts ($39.90)—Buy Here!
10. “Your bag has to match your shoes.”
Back in the 1950s, women often bought bags and shoes as a set; partly because options were limited, and partly because fashion “rules” were strict (yes, even down to how you held your bag). Matching made sense then, but 70+ years later? The rule is long outdated.
Of course, if you love a coordinated look, it can still feel chic. But mixing things up is way more modern. Try a high-contrast bag and shoe combo, or pull them together by sharing at least one color or base tone. One small tip: keep them seasonally aligned—leather boots with a leather tote feels intentional; straw totes with winter boots, not so much.
Anthropologie Two-Tone Tote ($108)—Buy Here!
Quince Italian Suede Slouchy Shoulder Bag ($150)—Buy Here!
Amazon Colorblock Crossbody Bag ($29.99)—Buy Here!
11. “You have to dress ‘for your body’.”
Well, this one is sort of true. Dress for your body. Yours. The one you live in. Do you feel good in it? Perfect. You’ve dressed for your body.
12. “Dress your age.”
Style is timeless. Your age has nothing to do with it.
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