Don't get me wrong, I want to care when people in my life say “You shouldn’t wear an oversized shirt with oversized pants, it makes you look bigger than you are,” or, “Why can’t you show off your legs? They’re beautiful! What are you trying to hide?” But the truth of the matter is I feel most empowered dressing for myself, and what I consider flattering rarely has to do with silhouette — and more with the flyness factor of a pair of oversized cargo pants, or an amazing structured mini skirt. If you catch me looking something like Violet Beauregarde in a badass, too-oversized blue pant suit, you better believe I’m amped to have that beautiful blueberry-girl as my muse.
Whether in a super-baggy outfit, or a plunging neckline and sky-high heels, my most confident days are always a reflection of satiating my personal taste, instead of trying to cater my sartorial choices to those around me. In my opinion, the term “flattering” should be defined on a personal level. Whatever makes you feel good is what matters — whether or not the people around you agree.
To be clear, I am by no means suggesting that you reject all clothes that are made to flatter; I am suggesting that you can stop feeling the pressure to buy another pair of average stilettos instead of the granny heels you love. Why not take the leap towards more dynamic options? The slideshow ahead is filled with super-fly items that are less traditionally flattering than your run-of-the-mill skater skirt, your average stilettos, or go-to peplums — but will definitely make you just as happy.
Ditch The Peplum
Peplums highlight your waist, there's no doubt about that. But ruffles and unexpected layers are a cool, more interesting way to achieve the same magic.
Acne Studios Clemente Printed Silk Roses Dress, $850, available at Acne Studios.
Swap The Skater Skirt
Skater skirts can make anyone's middle section virtually disappear. While this style of skirt is tried and true, it isn't the most fashion-forward piece in our closets. In its place, try a structured mini with a bit of an A-line, or a skort with an asymmetric hem.
Sandy Liang Asymmetric Denim Skirt, $445, available at Stylebop.
Show Them Shoulders
Plunging necklines are doing their thang, but there's something amazing and updated about showing off your shoulders instead.
Pixie Market Ruched Balloon Sleeve Off-The Shoulder Striped Top, $56, available at Pixie Market.
Take The LBD Risk
A little black dress is already one of the safest bets in anyone's closet. If you're going to push yourself, doing so with a LBD is virtually unassailable. This one is choice because of its on-trend contrast stitching and structured silhouette. Wear layered with a tee, or without for a more dressed-up look.
Monts Fitted Dress Black, $108, available at W Concept.
A New Take On Skinnies
Lovers of skinny jeans are loyal, and should stay true to their tastes. Even though our R29 editors have designed some bangin' non-skinny jeans, there are still rad versions of the style worth buying. Instead of your run-of-the-mill options, look for pairs with interesting, quirky details, like this double-stacked waistband.
Y/Project Stacked Denim, $428, available at ODD.
Trade Jumpsuits For Dresses
Dresses are the best. But the next time you have an occasion that warrants putting your best foot heel forward, try a jumpsuit instead. There are tons available that are as fancy as any frock, but way cooler. And while jumpsuits can be tricky, especially in a bold color, great details, like the slits in the pants that show off your legs, are major keys to success.
Zara Cut-Out Shoulder Jumpsuit, $129, available at Zara.
Make the High-Waist Unexpected
It's no news that a high-waist always looks good. Push the limit with unexpected iterations, like a bermuda short.
MISBHV Shorts, $115 $69, available at V Files.
Go Low
You know you want to prance around all day and night in those heels. Leave the height at home and opt for a lower heel that looks epic and feels epic, too. Consider this the only instance where "no pain, no gain" doesn't apply.
Marni One Band Sandal, $760, available at Marni.
Loose Blazers Are La Flame
Loose doesn't necessarily mean sloppy! A relaxed-fitting, non-stuffy blazer is actually one of the easiest ways to almost mindlessly polish off your look.
Joseph Crinkle Gauze Okda Jacket, $1,005, available at Joseph.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Summer Clothes You'll Actually Feel Amazing In