Styling an Outfit: Do More With Less

On Tik Tok recently, a trend has popped up for fashion influencers to create a certain type of video. In these clips, someone will show their way of “wearing” an outfit versus “styling” it. From watching these videos, the audience can assume that “wearing” clothes simply means putting them on, whereas “styling” the clothes means adding on accessories.

Styling in itself means designing, and so of course the word implies you’re changing the appearance of the garments. VALLEY believes that adding accessories can definitely upgrade your fit, but that doesn’t mean you should buy more than you need.

Wearing Versus Styling

@sincerelyaale You DO hace clothes you just dont know how to style them #girliethings #styleclothes #wearingvsstyling #ootdfashion #mystylewhen #zaraoutfit ♬ get him back – user88208558970

In videos like the one above, the influencer often adds on relatively basic accessories that they use frequently. These clips are helpful as they show the audience how to reuse items they likely have in their closet.

However, some of these videos may lead their audience to assume they have to go out and buy multiple accessories to achieve these looks. Even though these clips are still entertaining, they can make individuals feel as if they are “missing out” by not owning the same pieces.

@kerina.wang wearing my clothes vs styling them part 2! #fallstyle #girls #styleinspo #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp ♬ original sound – bree

Look Great With What You Own

There are many ways you can style an outfit without going out of your way to buy extra accessories. Items such as belts, jewelry and scarves can be worn in different outfit combinations. VALLEY thinks there are endless possibilities to design new fits with the same pieces.

Tips To Reuse Accessories

Use a scarf as a top, belt or bandana. Scarves are versatile and can be styled in essentially any way, depending on the pieces you’re already planning to wear.

2. Layer silver jewelry for cool toned clothing and gold jewelry for warm toned pieces. You can definitely mix metals if it adds to your fit, but if you’re in a rush, it might be quicker just to stick to one color scheme.

3. When it’s cold outside, add thick socks on top of tights. This can add both comfort and flair to an outfit. Not only will you be warmer, but your fit will be hotter too.

4. Reuse an old bag from your closet or find a new one that can fashionably hold all of your belongings. Large purses such as these can be used for any occasion during any season.

Comfortable Consumption

In the styling versus wearing videos, the influencers show off their garments to inspire others with new outfit ideas. These suggestions don’t mean you have to go out and purchase the accessories, especially if you would only wear them once. There are various ways to still get the same look, but without it being costly.