7 Necessary Rules for High-Low Style Mixing
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Loading... - Fedrick Jesus
- 26 May 2023
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Mixing luxurious designer garments with affordable fast-fashion pieces is a secret weapon for fashion enthusiasts who are conscious of their budget. In the past, it was unimaginable to pair a Chanel bag with a cheap dress or a thrifted coat. However, the trend of combining high-end and low-priced items is currently in the spotlight, and we wholeheartedly embrace it. But how can you create a cohesive, stylish outfit when the pieces come from such distinct backgrounds? Below, you'll find seven guidelines to follow when blending high- and low-priced fashion items.
1: Invest in Long-Term Pieces
Identify which items you consider investment pieces. Are they essential elements of your wardrobe, such as jeans, a coat, shoes, or a handbag? Whatever you choose as your staple items, ensure that your investments will stand the test of time. Since you'll be wearing these pieces repeatedly, prioritize high-quality, durable options that won't need replacement after just a few uses.
2: Avoid Splurging on Trends
If you have a desire for seasonal trends like fanny packs, bold embellishments, or baker boy hats, consider browsing through fast-fashion retailers like H&M, Zara, or Forever21. Avoid spending a significant amount of money on looks that may feel outdated in six months to a year. Instead, experiment with low-cost items to test the trend's appeal. If you find yourself enjoying the trend and incorporating it into your style frequently, then you can invest in a higher quality version. You can effortlessly combine these trendy items with your high-end pieces, achieving a pleasing aesthetic balance.
3: Shop Intelligently
When you're planning to invest in staple items that will remain in your wardrobe for several seasons, shop strategically. Look for sales at the end of the season or during the off-season. Explore designer third-party retail websites like Net-a-Porter and Gilt, as well as resale platforms like TheRealReal or Tradesy. Make sure to compare prices and seek out the best deal before making a purchase. With high-end items, you're not limited to neutral colors or black—you can opt for a vibrant color or embellished piece. Just ensure that it can be worn on multiple occasions and that you genuinely love it.
4: Know When to Bend the Rules
Don't be afraid to break the rules occasionally. You can pair an expensive dress with affordable trendy shoes, or an expensive coat with mid-tier shoes and a budget-friendly $10 bag. The key is to mix and match items that coordinate well and don't draw too much attention individually, as this can diminish the overall look.
5: Opt for an Expensive Look
This guideline is crucial when selecting low-priced items. Aim for items that exude an expensive look. Inspect the fabrics to ensure they won't easily fall apart, pill, tear, or stain. Many fast-fashion stores offer good-quality items if you search carefully, so be diligent in your examination. If an item appears cheap at first glance, it will only look worse when paired with your other clothes—so it's best to skip it.
6: Personalize Your Style
Remember that you're not confined to the way an item looks when it's fresh off the rack. You can remove detachable belts, replace cheap plastic buttons, or have an item tailored to your liking. The art of making a low-priced item your own and imbuing it with uniqueness involves personalization. If you believe an item is worth it, consider reinvesting in it. It's all about envisioning your desired style.
7: Steer Clear of Knock-Offs
Our final and most significant guideline: avoid knock-offs. Many fast-fashion and mass retailers produce designer replicas of bags, shoes, and more. Moreover, you can find imitation designer items online or in places like Chinatown. These items stand out and diminish the value of your authentic high-end pieces. When in doubt, embrace simplicity, seek out distinctive items that can pass as high-end, avoid pieces with visible branded labels, and remember that monochromatic outfits are always a winning choice.
