Decoding Eclectic Style – There Is Method To The Madness
January 17, 2014
By Brian Maynor
January 17, 2014
We all have a pretty set uniform for the workweek, but it is safe and comfortable. On the weekends why not throw all the fashion rules out the window and wear an eclectic outfit?
Eclectic means varied. Therefore an eclectic outfit is just a collection of various pieces that do not have to go together in any way, shape or form. That means there are no rules. You can literally wear whatever you want. However, instead of embracing this freedom of expression and style people often ridicule and look down upon it, at least that was until Patricia Field took us to Carrie Bradshaw’s closet. Carrie was the epitome of eclectic fashion; mixing and matching pieces with reckless abandon and loving every outfit, as did we all.
So why is the idea of ‘anything goes’ so terrifying? Shouldn’t it be liberating? For most of us it is the fear of making a mistake that stops us from taking chances, both in life as well as fashion. So to make the fashion risk a little easier, and for all of the logical people who like rules, here are the only 3 steps you need to create an eclectic outfit and two inspiration looks anyone can pull together and pull off:
1. Start slowly. You don’t want the theme to be too obvious, but it does help your inner self relax when there is a thread running through all of the pieces. Generally this thread is going to be ‘contrast’. Mixing multiple fabrics, colors, patterns and prints is all about opposites. The easiest way to start is by making each piece work with one other piece. Not every item should go together, but they can work in pairs. Then to make it all come together throw in a completely random accessory.
2. Be bold. There is truly nothing subtle about an eclectic outfit, so be prepared for attention. Even if you choose a muted color palette there will still be a lot going on for people to look at and take in. Don’t let that rattle your nerves. Confidence is paramount to success when it comes to this style. Unleash your inner Carrie. She could care less what anyone else thought about her outfit. She loved it and that’s all that mattered.
3. Make it your own. If you are looking for a style that is unique and one-of-a-kind as you are this is it. An eclectic outfit can be dressy, casual or a combination of both. Use pieces from every part of your closet and especially items you reserve for certain events or special occasions. They should be incorporated into your everyday wardrobe and easily can be with this esthetic.
4. A word of warning. There is one rule that remains, even in this free-for-all style, and that is your clothes should still fit you well. If they don’t you will go from fashion plate to road kill. For the fashion forward and tastemakers an odd collection of pieces that fit is an amazing expression of self and fashion awareness, but an odd collection of pieces that don’t fit is just lazy.
It may take a few attempts to really embrace the concept of wearing an eclectic outfit, especially when every fiber of your being is screaming ‘this doesn’t match’, but give it a try. Spread your creative wings and you just might soar.
Click on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
Click on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
I am always curious to hear about your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and help make your work wardrobe pull double duty. Email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
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