Styling Patterns

Bold patterns can be tricky to style, I often find myself getting too intimidated to create outfits based around a pattern. Here is what to do when that happens!

Shop the look: Pattern Outfit by Aritzia Link

If you are willing to go bold, double down on the pattern! You will look chic and sharp and will for sure stand out. If you love the pattern but want to subdue it because you are more of a wallflower, style with the most muted colour in the palette. For example, the pattern here will look the most muted with navy blue. You might think white, it's the simplest colour, right? But white often creates a very sharp contrast. SO, if you want to look sharp and relaxed, perfect, but if you want your outfit to simply blend together, look for the colour that "blends- in" the most.

In terms of accessorizing, opt for a simple shoe (I am wearing a nude sandal that goes virtually unnoticed in this outfit). Too much colour or texture will cause the outfit to look messy and disorganized.

Jewellery should also be minimal, you are already making a statement with the bold pattern, so choose a dainty earring over a statement necklace.

Considering giving it a try? Share your outfits and tag me on Instagram @cabernetay !

Make Silk Happen

Can't figure out how to wear silk without feeling "over-dressed" or like you're "trying too hard"?

Check out what works for me!

Shop the look: Allusion Camisole Link

This green top is one of my absolute favourite summer items. I love the colour and I love the tie detailing. As much as I love the way it looks all dressed up, I wanted to maximize it's use in my wardrobe so I decided to experiment with more casual accessories.

Here I styled it with the Aritzia Anthem short which as a beautiful compromise between classy and casual. The flowy neutral short is a perfect way to accentuate the softness of the top without overpowering it.

I also styled it with a pair of non ripped mom jeans (not pictured). I speicifcally chose non-ripped because I find texture has such a significant impact when styling an outfit, with ripped jeans the outfit clashed specifically because of the texture. A full coverage denim will allow for a much more delicate balance and won't clash with the top.

When styling a warm tone silk, opt for simple gold jewellery to create less of a contrast. This cowl neck dress is from Princess Polly and here I styled it with a small pair of mejuri scarab hoops and a low messy bun. Because of the muted colour, its easy to tone the fabric down. In this case I would style this dress with a flat sandal that can add a pop of colour. Too much nude would actually make this outfit look dressier. By added a smidge of colour you create a more fun and flirty vibe which will ultimately make the outfit more suitable for day-to day wear.

I decided to double down on the silk elements in this outfit! I paired a bold silk neck scarf on top of a flowy silk turtle neck. In order to balance it out, I paired this top with plain white linen pants. The linen brings a casual element without contradicting the aesthetic of the outfit. I also continued the muted bottom with my shoes, solid white leather pumps helped keep the focus on the top of my outfit and accentuated the Parisian style. Lastly, I accessorized with a fun pearl bag from Kate Spade. This way the entire outfit was mimicked through the simple colour and french styled accents.

Plaid Blazers Are A Must

The trademark Professor Blazer has now made its way into everyday fashion, and I am here for it.

A plaid blazer can easily look awkward if not styled correctly, I find when I am shopping for blazers I look for a pattern that includes easily matched colours, as well as a fit that can also be styled casually.

Often this means 1. longer, 2. slightly oversized, and 3. straight cut.

Because of the busy pattern, I styled it with a muted pant and tee to keep the focus on the blazer. I accessorized with gold earrings and chains to add an extra edge to the look.

When wearing a more subtle blazer, feel free to opt for bolder outfits! A subdued blazer, like black, beige, or any other neutral colour, can easily upscale any type of look. Even a band tee!