All us divas may slip up every now and then – think about it, can anyone be perfectly turned out at all times? Probably not. Small errors that are an outcome of laziness, not enough time or lack of notice are fine. But big faux pas, which are based on an ignorance of basic fashion fundamentals, turn into disasters of epic proportions!
Since fashion trends change and yesterday’s “yay” can easily become tomorrow’s “nay”, here I restrict myself to all-time mistakes which pose a problem regardless of what’s in vogue or not. Avoid these fashion disasters like the plague ladies, for they’ll really bring down your street cred amongst other style divas.
Not Dressing for the Occasion
Everyone has a personal sense of style. Some divas have a minimalist approach, others like bright, flashy fashion; some have a boho streak, while others may prefer classic styles. Staying true to your own fashion sense is fine, but turning a blind eye to what an occasion demands is not. Mould your sensibilities to the need of the hour and dress appropriately always – that reflects a superior and refined fashion sense.
For example, those wearing extremely casual western clothing at a big fat Indian wedding are committing a style crime. They stand out like a pimple on the forehead – super annoying and hard to miss. So you don’t like ethnic wear; perhaps you could attempt at a compromise and wear an east-meets-west ensemble? At least try to make your clothes match the occasion!
Heels Too High to Handle
Yes, it is a fact that heels are the ultimate glam tool. Slip on a pair and your outfit looks far more chic than it did a moment ago. But wearing heels is a tricky business and the higher they are, the trickier it gets! If you are not comfortable wearing very high heels – maybe you have balance issues or are simply insecure you may fall – do not feel compelled to wear them. The sight of a beautiful dressed woman waddling about in sky-highs or teetering about gingerly, no matter how fashionable, is not pleasing.
Go in for more sensible, balance-offering heels like wedges or platforms, if you must. Don on the stilettos only if you can wear them confidently and gracefully.
All Over Animal Print
I am personally, all for the spots. And the stripes and skins and so on. But, too much animal print can create a look that will surely be labelled “OTT” by one and all. Even if you love animal prints, not every item of an outfit should reflect that. Add cheetah-print pants to a zebra print top and a snake-skin bag to match and that is one outfit that will universally displease.
Instead, let just one piece of your ensemble have animal print, be it your top, bottom or accessory. Pair it with matching neutral clothes and accessories. That’ll create a classy yet striking look.
Too Much, Too Matchy
Often, women make the mistake of putting a little too much effort into their appearance, a little too obviously. When you try to match every item of your ensemble or add too many accessories for any to be truly noticeable, it creates a look which is very heavy on the eyes; there is simply too much going on.
For instance, it was a popular trend to match the lipstick to one’s outfit exactly, but I’m sure we all agree that a purple-mauve outfit with matching lipstick is not something that looks good. A popping orange or red lip colour would be a better choice. The point is, do not try to match everything. Create more dynamic ensembles using a variety of colours, textures, patterns, etc.
Visible Panty Lines and Camel Toes
No one wants to see what the shape of your crotch or butt is like, at least not through your clothes. When we wear very fitted clothes of finer materials, there is always the risk of panty lines showing and the infamous camel-toe appearing – this can completely distract away from the beauty of an outfit and bring attention to bits of anatomy peeping through.
The solution to this is doing a 360 degree pirouette before the mirror with every outfit to ensure there are no visible panty lines. If there are, immediately put on a pair of no-show panties which contour themselves to the body shape. Also walk towards the mirror from a distance to see if a camel-toe is appearing. If it is, switch to a longer shirt or wear an accessory that covers the crotch area.
Keep away from these fashion disasters and you don’t need to worry about the fashion police.
