Style rules smashed once and for all
Long gone are the days of planning our wardrobes according to certain fashion criteria. We show you how to debunk these no-nos in good taste.
Rex FeaturesThe Rule: Socks & Sandals
Smash it: In theory, this conjures images of men wearing Birkenstocks with calf-high socks, and in truth, that’s never ok. IRL this style started to gain traction on the catwalk of Christian Dior in 2010 with thin, shimmery mini socks peeking out of platforms, and now it’s gone super-casual with clogs and prints.
Getty ImagesSticking to her signature off-duty outfit, Alexa Chung opted for a chunkier pair to wear under her bright blue heels.
Rex FeaturesIt’s the bigger the better for Fearne Cotton, who seems to have used sport socks under shiny sandals.
Rex FeaturesThe Rule: Crop Tops
Smash it: A style formerly reserved for gym bunnies and those with an ab-mazing core (see what we did there?), tiny tops are having a moment all thanks to today’s music/festival scene queens – Miley Cyrus, we’re looking at you. If rocking hip-hugging trousers or a low-slung maxi isn’t your thing, then move your skirt up to your waist, showing off only the top of your tummy.
Rex FeaturesSporting her own River Island collection, Rihanna gives us a lesson in the style that was everywhere the summer of 2013. A loose-fitting top swings well with boyfriend jeans and piles of chainlink accessories.
Rex FeaturesBoho and beachy, Vanessa Hudgens has mastered the less-is-more approach in a simple vest and cut-offs. #Absessed
Rex FeaturesThe Rule: Double Denim
Smash it: This taboo has well and truly left the building, all thanks to the Brit fashion brigade working it at every turn. Mixing a chambray separate (try a skater skirt or button down top) helps to lighten the over-all jean effect, just make sure your blues don’t blend together. Kate Bosworth exemplified the trend in a loose, light ombre shirt and dark skinnies.
Rex FeaturesMiranda Kerr's a blue-jean babe in printed short-shorts and a simple shirt.
Rex FeaturesSarah Jessica Parker was on-board with a printed look, too - it's the easiest way to keep denim interesting.
Rex FeaturesRita Ora took to the stage in a casual jacket (a major wardrobe staple in our books) and amped up the fash factor with statement jeans.
PA PhotosThe Rule: Harem Trousers
Smash it: We don’t care who you are or your illustrious style credentials, this is a tough trend to work. Get it wrong, you end up looking like a cross between I Dream Of Jeanie and Hammer-time, nail it and you’re the queen of effortless outfits. The trick is balance, a snug top or a layered blazer adds edge to this style.
PA PhotosWhen Diane Kruger stepped out in this pearlised pair, we knew we had to get on-board with blouson pants. She’s paired hers with a simple roll-neck top and heeled Mary-Janes to elongate her pins.
Rex FeaturesGwen Stefani showed us how to wear this style silky and slung low on the hips – a gym-toned body helps.
Rex FeaturesThe Rule: Navy & Black
Smash it: Mums have been scolding us on this style no-no for as long as we can remember, but it’s about time to start back-tracking. In our book, black goes with every colour under the sun, and navy’s no different.
Rex FeaturesProving the staying power of both black and navy and underwear as outerwear, is Selena Gomez’ Atelier Versace design – so chic!
Rex FeaturesWorking a more subtle approach, Chloe Moretz’ black and navy duo is close in hue and perfectly paired.
Getty ImagesMyth-blasting since 2011, K-Stew rocked a strapless mini that highlighted the brilliance of this colour combo.
PA PhotosThe Rule: Pink & Red
Smash it: Like blue and black, this colour duo are close cousins, so why not match them (or clash them) up for a look that’s outrageously feminine and oh-so chic.
PA PhotosHow much did you love Emma Stone’s pretty in pink… And red Lanvin number? This leaves no doubt that this style is here to stay.
Rex FeaturesBut it's not all about super feminine frocks for this trend; as SJP proves, a pair of disco trousers and a silk blouse are a perfect fit.
Rex FeaturesWearing pretty pink and scarlet? A bit of black will help ground this look. We're looking to Victoria Justice for tips.
Rex FeaturesThe Rule: Matchy-matchy prints
Smash it: Though more straightforward than clashing, all-over matching requires a smart pattern, perfect proportion and an unexpected pop. Try a belt or statement necklace to break up this look.
Rex FeaturesSolange Knowles is well-versed in all-over print power.
Exhibit A...
Rex FeaturesExhibit B.
And there's no doubt she carries it of with aplomb.
Rex FeaturesBy comparison, Emma Roberts gives us a more subtle approach, with a scarlet clutch for added oomph.
Rex FeaturesThe Rule: Clashing prints
Smash it: This one can be risky if you don’t have the eye for mixing patterns, but if you can make a happy marriage of the two (or three, or four), give it a go. The trick is to find prints that complement each other, and usually share at least one colour.
Getty ImagesPolka dots and daisies go together like peanut butter and jelly, according to Diane Kruger.
Rex FeaturesFlo's got a penchant for prints (scroll on back...); whether matching or clashing she owns in-your-face fashion.
PacificCoastNews.comOn set for her new film, Katie Holmes tried on a 70s style, dispelling this myth as a retro renegade.
Rex FeaturesShe's not the first to clash statement scarves with stripes, but that doesn't mean we love Miranda Kerr's look any less. A denim jacket and a simple bowler bag don't compete with everything else on display here.
Rex FeaturesThe Rule: Sneakers/Trainers with a dress
Smash it: We have to admit, we're a little reluctant to come around to this one – it just feels so wrong, but that might very well be the point. Certainly more comfortable than rocking sky-high heels and a whole lot more edgier, trainers hit the festival – and fashion week – circuit by storm.
WennHow to ground this Emma Cook picture-print dress? Follow Michelle Williams' lead and add a pair of sneaks to keep it cool.
