20 Common Clothing Mistakes That Can Easily Be Avoided

We are constantly being exposed to a frenzy of hot new fashion trends and influencers. Between the runways, celebrities, and our Instagram feeds, it can be difficult to know what's currently acceptable when it comes to clothing. While certain styles are always coming in and out of popularity, knowing how to dress yourself properly will always be fashionable. From the tailor to accessorizing to patterned pieces, this list has got you covered when it comes to avoiding a fashion faux pas. So if you're looking to step up your style game, read ahead for 12 common clothing mistakes and how to correct them. 

1. Showing Too Much Skin 

Looking sexy doesn't have to mean showing a ton of skin. By all means, wear that crop top, but why not complement it with high-waisted pants and a blazer like Chiara Ferragni did here?

2. Transparent Tights 

If your outfit involves a short skirt, skip the transparent tights. Opaque tights (like these!) will not only keep your legs warmer, they'll also look more tasteful. 

3. Skipping The Tailor

Nothing makes me cringe more than a beautiful garment that isn't tailored properly. Especially when it comes to items like trousers and blazers, spending a little extra money on a tailor is totally worth it. 

4. Too-High Heels

Extremely high heels can look completely edgy and fabulous. But this is definitely not the case when you're unable to walk in them. Choose a mid-size heel instead for all of the glamour and less of the falling danger. 

5. Ill-Fitting Bras 

It's no secret that an ill-fitting bra can ruin any good outfit. Help out your back and your girls with a bra that fits properly. The first and second photos show how your bra shouldn't look. The third photo shows what your bra fit should actually look like! 

6. Wearing Too Much Jewelry

I am a total jewelry lover. But I know that moderation is important when accessorizing! If you opt for a statement piece, keep the rest of your accessories minimal to let it really shine. 

7. Patterns Vs. Neutrals 

There's absolutely nothing wrong with a good patterned, printed piece. But remember, neutrals can be worn far more often and with many different pieces, so invest in patterned pieces wisely! 

8. Gold & Silver 

Whoever said you can't mix gold and silver jewelry was sorely mistaken. Gold and silver pieces look wonderful together, especially dainty ones! So go ahead, mix and match away!

9. Dry Clean Only 

Although there are certain times that the "Dry Clean Only" tags should be followed, there are many different fabrics (including cashmere!) that actually prefer to be hand-washed. Save yourself a few bucks and do your fabric research!

10. Avoiding Horizontal Stripes 

Avoiding horizontal stripes is another fashion "rule" I've never understood. If a garment fits you correctly, horizontal stripes will not look unflattering. 

11. Shopping Same Size 

I know a few people who are completely attached to one and only clothing size. Don't be a slave to the number. Different stores size their clothing differently, so focus on fit and not the number on the label.

12. Cheaping Out On Materials 

When it comes to the classics, don't cheap out on materials. Invest in a few luxurious fabric items (wool, cashmere, and silk are a few musts!). They'll last much longer and will look as high quality as they are. 

13. Matchy-Matchy 

Being too focused on precise matching is tacky and exhausting. Look for complementary pieces instead, like this deep plum bag and lilac knit sweater.

14. Trend Overload 

When it comes to wearing the current trends, it's important to stick to one at a time. Piling on too many trends at once is a major fashion faux pas. 

15. Too Tall Mentality

I hate when I hear girls say, "I'm way too tall to wear high heels." This mentality is so unhealthy and sountrue. Embrace whatever height you are and toss on a pair of heels!

16. Avoiding Denim On Denim 

Don't avoid denim on denim, embrace it! Just make sure to do so by pairing together a lighter and a darker wash. 

17. Too Trend-Conscious 

It's pretty much impossible to stay on top of every single trend unless you have an infinite amount of time and infinite budget. Don't get too caught up in buying all of the latest trends. They're constantly changing anyway, so just wear what feels right!

18. One Season Wonders 

Don't restrict certain items to certain seasons, just know how to re-purpose them! Shorts can look impossibly chic during the winter months, especially when paired with tights! 

19. Avoiding Print Mixing 

There's absolutely no valid rule that says you can't mix prints. Stripes and florals? Great. Stripes and plaid? Even better. Fashion is all about experimentation!

20. Following The "Rules"

The most important rule when it comes to dressing yourself is to not take the rules too seriously. The whole "don't wear white after Labor Day" is one that I'll never follow. Don't like any of the tips on this list? That's totally fine! Fashion is about self-expression, so do whatever feels right for you.