Fashion Rules to Break, According to an Armoire Stylist

I am a natural rule follower. I stop on red, place my napkin on my lap, and I never cut the line. So when a fellow stylist at Armoire suggested I send a client a white pant in December, my first reaction was, “WHAT?! NO WHITE AFTER LABOR DAY!” She boldly told me that white was absolutely a winter color. “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas, Skiing in Whistler, marshmallows in coco,” she offered as proof. She showed me several stunning winter-worthy outfits including white pants, light monochromatic sets, and white-on-white ensembles. I couldn’t argue with her because the looks were stunning and totally had me wishing I was in a lodge for an apres ski event. It was an epiphany for me. As I contemplated this newfound freedom from historical fashion myths, I wondered how my rigid rule-following had prohibited me from exploring fashion in a more artistic way. And what other rules of the past should I throw out? While I appreciate tradition, let’s talk about fashion rules to break with flair and sophistication. After all, true style knows no bounds.

Fashion Rules to Break #1: Mixing Metals

If you wear silver earrings, perhaps pairing it with your silver watch is best. But that doesn’t mean gold and silver can’t be paired together at all. When you pair them together it can actually create a very expensive and effortless look. Don’t be afraid to play! Mixing warm metals like gold and rose gold with cool metals like silver and platinum can create a stunning contrast. Imagine a delicate silver skirt paired with a bold gold blouse; it’s a regal fashion homerun. Just remember, cohesion is key. If your metals have similar finishes (shiny, matte, or textured), they’ll play nicely together. In 2025 I’m breaking the rules and doing bold gold with a sliver of silver.

Try these featured formulas:

1. Boden Plisse Mini Skirt and A.L.C Rosie Camisole
2. Joie V-neck Metallic Blouse and Milly Satin Sequin Mid-Rise Mini Skirt
3. STAUD Oaklyn High Slit Midi Skirt and French Connection Alara Metallic Blazer

Fashion Rules to Break #2: Mixing Patterns

Mixing prints is a bold statement, but when done correctly, it can showcase your creativity and confidence. I’ve heard it said that life is a balance. Pancakes for breakfast, salad for dinner. So to be safe, tradition would balance a bold patterned top with a neutral pant or skirt and vice versa. Sure that’s so chic—if you’re living in the past! 

Who says a bold FARM Rio printed skirt couldn’t go with an equally bold printed top? In math (I’m really not the expert here but hear me out, lol), we learn that a positive and positive equals a positive. So why can’t that be true with prints too? One print plus another different print equals a positively lovely outfit. Following the rules of math makes me so much more comfortable breaking the laws of fashion. 

It’s really all about harmony. Pick patterns that share a color palette. Stripes and florals? A match made in fashion heaven, if they play nice with the same hues. If you’re feeling daring, go for contrasting colors but make sure they still vibe together—think bold synergy to avoid a circus explosion. Now, let’s talk about scale. Pair large prints with smaller ones for a balanced look. A big, bold polka dot top can effortlessly coexist with a delicate paisley print. It’s like a perfectly brewed latte —strong yet soothing. 

Pattern-mixing newbies can start with a fool-proof animal print. Whatever you pair with it will look deliberately next level. Then, work your way up to the more advanced power clashing.

Try these featured formulas:

1. FARM Rio Banana Flowers Tiered Ruffle Maxi Skirt and Joie Veron Ruffle Trim Silk Blouse
2. J. McLaughlin Stewart High-Rise Trousers and Kate Spade New York Hooded Single Breasted Trench Coat
3. Boden Anna Rib Roll Neck Top and Ted Baker London Tachi Side-Stripe Jungle Trousers

Fashion Rules to Break #3: White After Labor Day

Once upon a time, the No White After Labor Day decree was a sign of social status and seasonal etiquette. But, let’s be real: fashion is about self-expression, not archaic rules set by the elite. White is a timeless hue that radiates elegance and freshness, no matter the season. This one I’m still getting used to and—in full transparency—I haven’t tried it myself. For the brave, for the bold, for those of you who are ready to break the rules: here we go! Picture this: a crisp white sweater paired with your favorite denim. A chic white dress layered with a tailored blazer. It’s the perfect blend of sophistication and warmth. Absolute showstoppers. Think chic ivory knits or snow-white outerwear that’ll have you turning heads and raising eyebrows, all while sipping your pumpkin spice latte. Create effortless, chic, minimalist looks pairing white with white, white on beige, and white on white on denim all year round.

Try these featured formulas:

1. White + Warren Organic Cotton Cable Crew Neck Sweater and Paige Anessa Cropped Raw Hem Wide Leg Jeans
2. Victor Glemaud Ribbed Knit Knee Length Dress and Toccin Charlie Safari Blazer
3. DKNY Faux Leather High-Rise Cropped Jogger and Andrew Marc Tilly Colorblock Down Blend Puffer Jacket

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Well, are you sweating? I am. Breaking the rules isn’t easy for me, but fashion is an art and 2025 is my year to be the canvas and the artist. Remember, fashion is not merely the clothes we wear—it’s a reflection of who we are and who we aspire to be. It’s making choices that speak volumes without saying a word. 

As you step out into the world, take a moment to consider your wardrobe. Are you showcasing the best version of yourself, or are you hiding behind the mundane? Embrace bold patterns, daring mix-ups, and unexpected colors. And friend, let’s not forget the most important accessory: attitude. It’s not just what you wear, but how you wear it. Own your look and strut your stuff.