When it comes to fashion we all have our comfort zone that makes us feel stylish while looking comfortable. Some women feel at home in jeans and a t-shirt, while others look more fashion-forward and classy in dresses and skirts. As long as your comfort zone matches your style, it’s great. However, there may be a time when your comfort zone is keeping you from fully expressing your personal style. So, keep on reading for our guidelines on how to expand your fashion comfort zone to get a greater style and bolder statement.
Define your personal style.
Before expanding your fashion comfort zone, you have to define your style first, so you’ll know in which looks you’ll be comfortable. If you’re like fashion blogger Danielle Bernstein who’s a fan of a casual cool style and your wardrobe consists of skinny jeans, sneakers, and knitted tops, going for feminine dresses and sexy skirts might not be a good idea. On the other hand, if you’re always dressed up like fashion blogger Mary Orton, going for cut-off shorts and a casual tee may be too uncomfortable for you.
Pair your new “scary” pieces with your go-to basics.
Once you fully understand your personal style, take one “scary” piece at a time that will look just comfortable with your typical pieces. If you are inspired by all-black grungy outfits, find one item that reflects that look just like a leather jacket and pair it with your regular daytime clothes for a while. Like fashion blogger Danielle Bernstein, look trendy with an oversized fur coat with keep it comfortable with an all-black outfit. Once you feel comfortable with that baby step, you can gradually add more pieces into the mix.
Get used to fresh pieces by wearing them around strangers first.
One reason many people feel self-conscious wearing a bolder or different look than usual is a fear of what their friends or colleagues at work might say. When you are stepping outside your comfort zone, don’t try to impress someone so it won’t shake your confidence. Like fashion blogger Micah Gianneli, try wearing an oversized top with your slouchy pants, but wear it on the streets and don’t wear them to the office so you won’t worry how your office mates might react to you wearing a bolder style. It’s more fun wearing fresh pieces around strangers like when you’re out shopping, travelling, or even just at home. Eventually, your fresh pieces will feel like a natural part of your wardrobe and you’ll be able to brush off any comment with confidence.
Wear toned-down versions of your goal look for a while.
If you feel daunted wearing a bolder style, go for a toned-down version at first. Instead of a pair of flared denim jeans, go for a pair with a loose yet not-so-outlandish pair, maybe a pair of boyfriend jeans. Instead of a bright yellow outfit, pick a bright yellow clutch bag that can spice up your overall look. Just take advantage of the trick when you like to wear a new style, but are too self-conscious to give it a try. Instead of letting your comfort zone determine what you wear, work towards expanding it, until it covers the full spectrum of colors, silhouettes, and looks you love.