In a world where fashion trends are constantly evolving, creating your own aesthetic outfits can be a fun and rewarding way to express your personal style. Whether you’re drawn to the vintage-inspired vibes of the ’70s or the edgy, streetwear looks of today, there are countless aesthetics to explore and experiment with. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating your own aesthetic outfits, from finding inspiration to putting together cohesive looks that reflect your unique personality.
Part 1: Finding Inspiration
1. Explore Different Aesthetics:
The first step in creating your own aesthetic outfits is to explore the vast world of fashion and identify the styles that resonate with you. Take a deep dive into different fashion eras, subcultures, and style movements to get a sense of what appeals to you. Whether you’re drawn to the vintage glamour of the 1920s, the rebellious punk aesthetic, or the minimalist chic of Scandinavian design, there’s a wide range of aesthetics to discover.
Consider browsing through fashion magazines, watching documentaries on fashion history, or following fashion influencers on social media. Pay attention to the details that catch your eye, such as the colors, patterns, textures, and silhouettes. This exploration will help you narrow down your preferences and develop a clearer understanding of the aesthetic you want to embody.
2. Create a Mood Board:
Once you’ve identified a few aesthetics that resonate with you, it’s time to create a mood board. This visual tool will help you organize and conceptualize the elements that define your chosen aesthetic.
You can create a physical mood board by cutting out images from magazines, collecting fabric swatches, or pinning photographs to a corkboard. Alternatively, you can use digital tools like Pinterest or Canva to curate a collection of images, colors, textures, and patterns.
Part 2: Curating Your Wardrobe
1. Assess Your Existing Wardrobe:
Before you embark on a shopping spree to build your aesthetic wardrobe, take a moment to evaluate the pieces you already have. You might be surprised to discover that you already possess some key items that align with the aesthetics you’re drawn to.
- Vintage Finds: Check your closet for any vintage or vintage-inspired pieces that resonate with your desired aesthetic. These could include retro dresses, high-waisted jeans, or statement coats.
- Statement Pieces: Identify any items that already stand out in your wardrobe, such as a bold-colored jacket, a pair of unique shoes, or a statement necklace. These pieces can serve as the foundation for your aesthetic outfits.
- Versatile Basics: Look for versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down, such as a plain white t-shirt, a black blazer, or a pair of neutral-colored jeans. These items can be mixed and matched with more statement pieces to create a variety of outfits.
By starting with what you already have, you can save money and reduce your environmental impact. You can also use your existing wardrobe as a starting point to build your aesthetic, adding new pieces that complement and enhance your existing style.
2. Invest in Statement Pieces:
While it’s important to work with what you have, don’t be afraid to invest in a few key statement pieces that will elevate your aesthetic outfits. These pieces can serve as the foundation for your wardrobe and tie everything together.
- High-Quality Materials: Look for items made from high-quality materials that will last longer and look better over time.
- Timeless Design: Choose pieces with timeless designs that won’t go out of style.
- Versatility: Consider pieces that can be styled in multiple ways and paired with different items in your wardrobe.
By investing in a few well-chosen statement pieces, you can create a more curated and cohesive aesthetic for your wardrobe. These pieces can be the foundation for your outfits and help you express your personal style with confidence.
Part 3: Experimenting with Layering and Styling
1. Mix and Match Textures and Patterns:
One of the keys to creating visually interesting and aesthetically pleasing outfits is to experiment with different textures and patterns. By layering various fabrics and prints, you can add depth, dimension, and personality to your ensembles.
- Contrasting Textures: Pair soft, flowing fabrics with rough, textured materials for a dynamic and visually striking effect. For example, you might combine a silky blouse with a chunky knit sweater.
- Complementary Patterns: Experiment with different patterns that complement each other. For example, you could pair a floral print with a geometric pattern for a visually interesting and cohesive look.
- Layering: Don’t be afraid to layer different textures and patterns to create a more complex and interesting outfit. For instance, you might layer a patterned dress over a plain t-shirt or a textured cardigan over a floral blouse.
By mixing and matching textures and patterns, you can create unique and expressive outfits that reflect your personal style.
2. Play with Proportions:
Another way to elevate your aesthetic outfits is to experiment with different proportions and silhouettes. By combining oversized and fitted pieces, or mixing long and short hemlines, you can create dynamic and visually striking looks.
- Oversized and Fitted: Pair oversized pieces with fitted garments for a balanced and flattering look. For example, you might combine a loose-fitting sweater with skinny jeans or a tailored blazer with a flowy skirt.
- Long and Short: Mix long and short hemlines to create a visually interesting and dynamic silhouette. For instance, you could pair a short skirt with a long coat or a long dress with ankle boots.
By playing with proportions, you can create outfits that are both stylish and flattering. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for your body type and personal style.
Part 4: Adding Personal Touches
Incorporating Vintage and Thrifted Finds
To truly make your aesthetic outfits your own, consider delving into the world of vintage and thrifted finds. These unique pieces can add a layer of authenticity and individuality that sets your style apart. Whether it’s a pair of retro sunglasses, a quirky statement belt, or a one-of-a-kind jacket, vintage items offer a wealth of possibilities for expressing your personal aesthetic.
Explore local thrift stores, vintage shops, and online marketplaces to uncover hidden gems that resonate with your chosen style. When shopping, keep an eye out for pieces that align with the specific aesthetic you’re aiming to achieve. For example, if you’re drawn to bohemian style, look for flowy dresses, embroidered tops, and chunky jewelry. If your preference is for a more minimalist aesthetic, seek out clean lines, neutral colors, and timeless silhouettes.
By incorporating vintage and thrifted finds into your wardrobe, you can create outfits that are not only stylish but also meaningful. These pieces carry a history and a unique energy that can add depth and character to your overall look.
Experimenting with Accessories
Accessories are a powerful tool for adding personality and flair to your aesthetic outfits. Whether it’s a bold statement necklace, a pair of eye-catching earrings, or a stack of vintage-inspired rings, accessories can elevate and personalize your style.
Consider how accessories can complement and enhance the overall aesthetic you’re channeling. For example, if you’re going for a vintage-inspired look, pair your outfit with a classic pearl necklace or a pair of cat-eye sunglasses. If you’re aiming for a more modern streetwear vibe, experiment with chunky chains, baseball caps, and graphic tees.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match accessories to create looks that feel uniquely you. By combining different elements, you can create a personalized and visually interesting outfit that reflects your individual style. Remember, accessories are meant to be fun and expressive, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with them.
In conclusion, creating your own aesthetic outfits is a journey of self-expression and exploration. By finding inspiration, curating your wardrobe, experimenting with layering and styling, and adding personal touches, you can build a collection of outfits that authentically reflect your style and personality. Whether you’re drawn to vintage, modern, or a fusion of multiple aesthetics, the key is to embrace your unique perspective and have fun as you piece together your own signature looks.