User post: Is there such a thing as fashion etiquette, or is it wear whatever?



Fashion etiquette was ingrained in me at a young age. My family was not rich by any means but there were principles of fashion that I was taught. Below are just a few of the fashion insights I had while growing up.

1: Never wear white in winter. Although a winter white is appropriate. Took me awhile to figure that out, lol. What this actually means is that you are not going to wear white slacks made from a lightweight material. A winter white would be slacks made from a heavier material. It is really not the color it is the fabric that mattered.

2: Never wear high heels with cropped pants - Cropped pants are considered casual wear and the fashion etiquette rule was never mix casual clothing with dress shoes. During the fifties a woman wearing high heels and Capri or cropped pants had a definite "naughty girl" association with it. Today women in heels with cropped pants look pretty good. Wider leg crop pants look refined with bulky shoes and a skinny leg cropped pants look more flattering with a pointy toe or wedge sandal which elongates the legs.

3: Your Skirt Should never be longer than you coat - This came about in the 1920's when knee length hemlines finally made the scene. I still practice this rule, but according to the experts it's ok as long as your skirt and coat shape and length are streamlined in appearance.

4: Purse, Shoes and Belt should always match - how boring! I sure do not follow this fashion rule anymore. Combining different textures and colors that compliment each other creates a far more interesting look. And, who could afford or have the patience to change her purse every time she changed her shoes.

Fortunately fashion rules have come along way since I was growing up and I am glad for that. Fashion is more of "if it makes you feel good - wear it" and that to me is what fashion is all about.

My fashion pet peeves:

1: Just because you do not like a particular piece of clothing in the store, keep it to yourself; the person in front of you may be buying it.

2: Dressing for comfort doesn't mean letting it all hang out. Other people may not want to see it.

3: If the outfit doesn't fit, don't wear it. Put it back in the closet or give it to someone it will fit.

4: Wear holiday clothing appropriately and know when to put it away.

5: Wear appropriate clothes for the weather. Also called dressing for the season.

6: When complimented on your outfit, just say "thank you". Have you ever paid someone a compliment on their outfit and then get this whole explanation about why or why not they think it looks good on them?


What fashion etiquette do you follow? Do you have fashion pet peeves? I would love to hear them!

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