THE 5 RULES OF STYLING
A framework for getting dressed with ease.
The capsule wardrobe has emerged as a game-changer for women seeking simplicity and efficiency in everyday styling. By focusing on a curated collection of versatile, timeless pieces, the capsule streamlines your choices and ensures each piece is thoughtfully considered in your wardrobe. To master this minimalist approach, it’s essential to follow the five key rules of styling. These principles will not only simplify how you get dressed but flatter your body to enhance what you love.
THE RULE OF THIRDS
The rule of thirds borrows design principles from architecture and the science of the golden ratio to achieve a balanced and visually appealing silhouette. The body can be divided up into three parts vertically with this principle using a 1/3 to 2/3 ratio to achieve each look. High waist pants and skirts are a great way to create a longer ⅔ leg, and a top that is tucked in or cropped will create the ⅓. Or reverse it with a longer shirt or dress.
THE 3 COLOUR RULE
The 3 colour rule offers a formula for achieving a put-together look. It’s a simple rule to follow; your outfit be made up of three colours. Visually, limiting your palette to three provides a palatable, balanced and refined look. These three colours will include a dominant colour, a secondary colour and an accent colour.
COLOUR BLOCKING
Create a sense of balance or emphasis within an outfit by strategically placing blocks
of colour. Use light colours to highlight the parts of your body you love and darker colours on areas you want to understate. For example, a white top paired with a black pair of pants will draw attention to the top half of the body drawing attention away from the legs and hips.
THE HOURGLASS EFFECT
A technique designed to create the illusion of a well-defined, balanced silhouette, this look aims to emphasise the curves by highlighting the waist and creating a proportionate balance between the shoulders and hips. Use tailored clothing that cinch at the waist, belts, and high-waisted skirts or pants for an accentuated feminine silhouette.
THE LINEWORK RULE
Lines and shapes in clothing design can influence the overall silhouette and visual impact of an outfit. This technique involves incorporating elements like seams, stripes, and hemlines to guide the eye and create a sense of structure. Vertical lines elongate the body, while horizontal lines add width or create emphasis in specific areas.
