Introduction
I can recall when I first put on a very statement piece in front of people. It was a big geometrical necklace of brass which I had got in a flea-market in Brooklyn and I almost chickened out twice before going out my front door. My conversation with myself was inhuman: this was enough. People will stare. Who do you think you are?"
However, there occurred a miracle. Some man who was on the subway was complimenting me. It happened that one of the coworkers I hardly had a chance to talk to came down to my desk simply to inquire where I had gotten it. And at the end of the day I felt much more like myself than I had in months.
The experience taught me what it has been taking me years to figure out: statement pieces are not about a display of glamour. They are on taking space in a world where we are usually advised to blend. They are a talking piece, a cheering-up piece and occasionally, a little revolution against the ordinary.
You might have a closet full of statement pieces that you are too afraid to wear or you simply have not yet attempted to venture into anything beyond basic fashion, either way, this guide should help you to know how to wear statement pieces in your wardrobe purposefully and without fear.
What Makes something a Statement Piece?
It is best to first define what it is that we are actually talking about before we get down to the how. The word is used very frequently, and to be honest, it has various meanings to various individuals.
State of the art is any object that requires attention, be it the size, color, or pattern, or texture, or even its mere unexpectedness. It is what people see immediately they look at what you are wearing. It could be:
A bright, colored, scathing blazer in chartreuse or cobalt blue.
- Thick and sculptural pieces of jewelry that appear more of an art than a wearable.
- A designer bag of expensive hardware.
- Shoes of a non-traditional color or shape.
- A volume, print or special detail dramatic coat.
- Huge sunglasses which cover your whole face.
A second-hand object with a discernible background.
The point is however, here it is all relative, what passes as statement in your wardrobe and style is relative to your base line. In case you wear all black minimalism, you can make a statement with a bright red sweater. When what you wear every day is already a variety of color and layers, you may have to have something more extravagant.
I have dealt with clients who think that a scarf printed is pushing the limits when it comes to the clothes they wear and those who think that they are not dressed until they have something in that would pass as an exhibit at a museum gallery. Neither approach is wrong. It is all about what you think about bold fashion.
The Traditional One Statement Rule (And When to Break It).
The typical mantra is that one statement item should worksheet everything else: a simplicity that is more than adequate. This is a strong advice, particularly when you are novice when it comes to wearing bold things.
The reasoning is easy to understand. When all the factors of your outfit are fighting to be noticed, where to rest the eye is unknown. The outcome may be hectic instead of deliberate. You make visual hierarchy by giving one piece overpower and enabling the item to shine.
Striking a Balance Between Bold and Basics: Supporting the Cast.
The statement dressing underdogs are what I refer to as supporting players, the simple items that enable your statement piece to shine.
All well-presented statement looks contain the following components:
Quality Neutrals
This does not necessarily imply black and white (but they are good). Neutrals include:
- Navy, gray, cream, camel, olive, burgundy.
- Denim in classic washes
Soft designs such as the little lines or dots.
A basic investment in high-quality and comfortable basics in these shades is a guarantee of a base before any statement item. As I cleared my wardrobe a few years back and decided to take the matter of constructing a foundation of solid neutrals seriously, it became infinitely simpler to wear more bold things.
Fit That Flatters
There is nothing more demeaning to a statement piece than a poorly fitting supporting cast. When your jacket in the statement is perfectly fitted and the pants are baggy where they should not be, the attention is given to something that should not be focus.
Ensure that your fundamentals are perfect. That does not imply that everything should be tight on over the skin but rather that the proportions should be in harmony with your body as well as the overall appearance you are making.
Minimal Competing Textures
Things can be textural statements all by themselves. When your audacious article is decorative in character--beading, fringe, heavy embroidery, etc.--surrounding textures need not be complicated. Smooth cotton, clean and soft leather, flat knits. Let the state of the texture breathe.
Splendid Statements on Various Events.
It is a widespread misconception that statement pieces are something to be worn on special occasions. As a matter of fact, it is easy to get used to wearing bold items after you learn how to balance them with various settings.
Dressing Statement at the Workplace.
Yes, it is possible to dress up statement pieces to work it even in conservative industries. The trick is in picking the elements of statements that would remain professional.
Safety at the workplace statements are:
- Formed bags with unusual colors.
- Strong yet traditional shoes (red pump, unusual shape of heels)
- Jewelry that is not noisy and distracting during meetings.
- A well-tailored non-traditional color blazer.
- Different sets of eyeglasses.
What I would do with some reservations:
- Anything that will go off with you.
- Fragments that must be changed continuously.
- Pieces of clothing that are more costumes than clothing.
Severe height of the platform should in case you need to move around in your job.
I once had a lawyer interview with the most beautiful aged brooches to court. Always unique, always classy, always good. Her clients loved it. Her co-workers would enquire about them all the time. It was her trademark, and it was effective as she was aware of her surroundings.
Keep in mind: The Majority Are Too Self-centered to think about You.
This is cynical, yet emancipatory. The average citizen takes between three seconds to note your outfit and moves back on to their own issues. It is nearly always the case that the judgment projected is worse than the reality.
Over the years, I have put on some plainly ridiculous things in society. Nobody has ever, on my face, said anything negative to me. The perceived critics are nothing more than that, imagined.
Find Your People
It can be very inspirational to follow fashion designers who adopt a fearless fashion. The normalization of statement pieces is achieved by seeing other people feel comfortable in them, particularly those who are similar to you in body shape, age, or other life habits.
I do not imply it in a copy what the influencers put on their clothes. I am talking about exposing oneself to different forms of bold style expanding one personal sense of possibility.
Easy To Grandmother Mistakes in Wearing Statement Pieces.
I have observed some trends over the years that make individuals, unable to integrate bold items in their wardrobes.
Essay error: Storing Statement Pieces in Someday.
And how many beautiful things are in your closet with the labels still on them looking to a serious occasion? The point is that the noble event is now. It's Tuesday. It's grocery shopping. It's existing in the world.
Clothes are meant to be worn. Things in your closet that you will never wear are not doing you any service.
Error #2: Relaxation of Proportion.
Statement pieces tend to be of odd proportions oversized, long, asymmetrical. We should take into account the general form when combining them with a costume.
In general: strike balance with custom-made clothes. Giant balloon sleeves? Pair with slim pants. Full blooded wide-legged trousers? Try a fitted top. This is not a strict rule, but it will allow your outfit not to overwhelm your body.
Error number 3: Forgetting about the Finish.
A statement piece does not mean that the rest of your outfit does not need to be assembled. When your necklace is a gorgeous one, and your hair is messy and your clothes are just wrinkled, the whole effect is ruined.
Statement dressing needs to finish the entire image. All these should appear purposeful.
Mistake number 4: Wearing Statement Pieces that Do Not Fit Your Life.
The sequined coat is a floor-length piece of fabric that is undoubtedly a statement. However, when you work at home, have two children who are under the age of five years, and you hardly ever leave your house after 8 PM, it may not be the right statement to what you are going through in life.
Statement pieces need to match your real-life, and not your dream life. Otherwise, they only cause closet guilt.
Mistake #5: Loving to be Defined as Bold by Another Person.
What you say does not necessarily have to conform to the notion of boldness held by other people. Perhaps it is a gently lavish silk scarf. Perhaps it would be an old-fashioned leather jacket. Perhaps it is an old ring that was given to you by your grandmother.
Developing a Personal Statement Style.
After all, it is not only about wearing statement pieces but about creating a natural and authentic personal style in which bold fashion choices feel more like a natural part of self-expression.
This takes time. It takes experimentation. It involves making mistakes in order to get it right.
During years of developing my personal style, I have settled on some statement pieces that I consider unique to me: vintage jewelry that has a story, quirky shoe styles, and good bags. A statement signature of someone else could be bold prints, structural silhouettes or dramatic eyewear.
No easy way to discover your signature. It is the result of listening to what you pick up, what you feel most at home with, what always gets compliments and you feel good in.
The Bigger Picture: Why Statement Pieces Matter.
In a globalized environment of fast fashion and algorithmic sameness, the conscious decision to wear something unique is a minor gesture of personality. It is taking charge of your right to be seen, memorable and expressive.
Statement pieces are not vacuous and empty. They are a kind of communication a means of indicating who you are before you even utter a word. The correct statement item on the correct day can make you feel confident, make you feel happier, and find people who share your ideas of beauty and daring.
Do not fear to stand out because then you will not be in a uniform of beige basics. Clothes are too boring in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the amount of statement items I should have?
It is not about quantity but quality. Five/ten everyday use statement items you actually use beat fifty of dust collectors. Concentrate on creating a refined collection that will integrate with the available wardrobe and lifestyle.
Are statement pieces appropriate in older women?
Absolutely. There is no age restriction to statement dressing. As a matter of fact, statement earrings, interesting brooches and quality bags are usually bold accessories that only become better as we age, and as we grow more confident. Put on what you feel amazing in.
What happens when my statement piece becomes overwhelming on me once I have dressed?
Trust your gut. You will not wear it well, when you are not comfortable. See what you can change - perhaps a new pair of shoes, or some plain ear-rings. Or put it aside to some other time, when it will do better.
What about statement pieces on a casual minimal wardrobe?
This is in fact what happens to be the best case scenario. The combination of a simple wardrobe and statement pieces is the ideal match to make one stand out. Begin by wearing one bold thing, such as interesting earrings or colored shoes and go on.
Is statement pieces a worthy investment?
Yes, for those that you are going to wear over and over again. A great statement bag, good jewelry or a classic statement coat may be much more expensive in the short term, but will provide years of service. Fashionable statements are cheaply made because they have shorter life.
What are the statement pieces that will suit my body type?
Point attention to proportion and location. Necklaces made with statement attract attention to the face. Long shoes stretch out as they are seen. Huge earrings counteract broader hips. Malice to put upon your particular frame and features what pleases.
Is it possible to have many statement pieces at the same time?
Yes, with intention. It is better to keep them in one color line or aesthetic and ensure that the mixes are not casual. In case of doubts, use one statement at a time before you are sure of combining.
What is the most appropriate statement piece as an amateur?
Low-pressure entry points are sunglasses, ear rings or scarfs. They come in handy when you are feeling overwhelmed, they do not need to be fitted perfectly and will be able to turn basic outfits into transformations.
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