If you've ever read a magazine or looked up fashion tips online, you've probably come across at least a few fashion rules that you feel you need to abide by. No one really knows exactly where they came from, or who made them up, but we all know that we're supposed to be following them.
These rules may have began with good intentions, but they actually aren't that helpful. They lead to fashion myths that can smother any sense of personal style. Fashion should be about wearing what you like and what makes you feel good, and that shouldn't come with a set of guidelines. A great outfit can be something classic and trendy, but it can also be something unique and wild. Listening to fashion myths is never going to help anyone find their own personal sense of style.
Even legitimate stylists, who make a living out of coaching people on what to wear, dislike the rules within the industry. INSIDER spoke with a few stylists who talked about the fashion myths they want everyone to stop believing, and their answers just might help you put together a more creative look each day.
Sweatpants are only for your house.
Sweatpants have always been seen as an article of clothing that is only appropriate for the days you spend in the comfort of your own home. But if the last few years have taught us anything, it's that the athleisure trend isn't going anywhere. In other words, sweatpants can absolutely make a stylish outfit. LA-based stylist Kimmy Erin Kertes told INSIDER, "I don't know if we should be thanking Virgil Abloh or whoever Lululemon is, but I'm so grateful that comfort and style can be combined in a modern way and with a statement attached."
Ignore the myth that they can't be dressed up, and pair your comfiest sweats with the right accessories to make them work for any event. Kertes says, "Sweatpants are great. Tracksuits are great (mismatched or matched). Popped with a heel? You're unstoppable."
You shouldn't wear leather in the spring or summer.
Leather is a heavier material than, say, cotton, and so many believe it should be avoided during the warmer months. INSIDER spoke to fashion stylist and costume designer Tiffany Hasbourne, who said, "If this was the truth, then why do they make leather shorts, leather bustiers, and cropped leather jackets? Especially in a time where New York and even LA are experiencing chilly nights, why not throw on your favorite biker jacket over a dress or leather shorts with a cute jean jacket to add a bit of edge to your look?"
Don't feel that you have to wear materials based on the season if you feel comfortable in them.
You can't mix silver and gold jewelry.
Mixing metals if often frowned upon, but two stylists agreed that it's a myth that needs to die. Hasbourne said, "This is one of my favorite myths to defy. I wear silver and gold together all the time."
This doesn't just apply to silver and gold.
"Mix all the metals! Rose, yellow, and white gold are a great place to start, but of course there's room to add in oxidized shades and colored stones," Kertes said.
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