Let’s face it: even the most stylish among us hit a creative wall sometimes. The closet is full, but nothing feels exciting. Your go-to outfit formulas feel… formulaic. You scroll through saved posts, browse shopping apps, and still feel like everything’s either “too much” or “already done.”
Welcome to the style slump—that odd in-between where everything looks fine, but nothing feels like you. The good news? This is where style evolution begins. Instead of reaching for another beige trench or those trusty black trousers (again), shake things up with a few unconventional combinations that will surprise you—in the best way.
Because here’s the truth: some of the best outfits happen when you stop trying to be right, and just start playing.
1. The Slouchy Knit + Tailored Pencil Skirt Combo
You’ve seen it before: slim-fit sweater + pencil skirt. Polished, proper… and a little predictable. Let’s flip the proportions.
Try this: a chunky, oversized fisherman sweater loosely tucked into a structured pencil skirt—extra points if it’s in leather or a bold print. The contrast between soft volume and sleek precision creates a balanced tension that screams understated cool.
Style it with:
Totême’s Chunky Cable-Knit Sweater in soft cream
Rejina Pyo’s Taylor Vegan Leather Skirt
A pair of sculptural earrings and a minimal heeled boot like the Aeyde Melia ankle boot
Why it works: The juxtaposition of textures and silhouettes makes the look feel thoughtful but not overdone. It’s a “yes, I meant to wear this” energy.
2. Sporty Outerwear + Luxe Accessories
Athleisure fatigue is real. But before you write off the sporty look, try remixing it with a high-low twist.
Take a technical windbreaker or track jacket, and layer it over a silky dress or a sharp trouser. Then, pile on the elegant accessories—pearl drop earrings, an ultra-structured handbag, a sleek leather loafer.
Try pairing:
Ganni’s Oversized Windbreaker Jacket
The Row’s Margaux 15 Bag (yes, the splurge is worth it)
Laura Lombardi’s Gold Tone Drop Earrings
Cos Tailored Wool Trousers
Why it works: This combination neutralizes extremes. It tells the world you’re both practical and elevated, functional and fashion-aware. Basically, it says you have range.
3. Maximal Top + Maximal Bottom (With Restraint)
We’ve all heard it: “If you go bold on top, go simple on bottom.” But sometimes, breaking that rule makes everything more exciting.
Pick two pieces that shouldn’t work together—like a leopard print blouse and checkered trousers—and anchor them with clean, tonal accessories to make it fashion, not chaos.
Style it with:
Rixo’s Lila Leopard Print Blouse
Stine Goya’s Jacquard Wide-Leg Pants
By Far’s Tanya Block Heel Mules in nude
Acne Studios’ Mini Musubi Bag in cream
Why it works: Clashing prints or bold pieces cancel each other out in a weirdly harmonious way when the base tones connect. The key is keeping everything else muted.
4. Summer Dress + Winter Layers
Take that breezy floral dress you shelved months ago, and give it new life with unexpected layering. Throw on a wool turtleneck underneath, add knee-high boots and a statement coat. Suddenly, your summer fave feels like it belongs in a snowy street style shot.
Try this combo:
Ganni’s Smocked Midi Dress
Arket’s Merino Roll-Neck Sweater
Aeyde’s Uma Knee Boots in black
Stand Studio’s Camille Faux Fur Coat in dusty lilac
Why it works: The feminine energy of a summer dress collides with the grounded, cozy layers of winter—a surprise that feels intentional and very editorial.
5. Monochrome… But Not Minimalist
Monochrome doesn’t have to mean black, white, or beige. Try going all-in on an unexpected hue—think deep green, slate blue, or even saffron. Layer textures (wool, silk, denim) in the same color family, and play with structure.
We love:
COS Alpaca-Blend Turtleneck in Forest Green
Raey High-Rise Straight Jeans in Khaki Green
Neous Phoenix Heeled Mules in Olive Leather
Mansur Gavriel Soft Lady Bag in Moss
Why it works: A rich tone layered in multiple dimensions feels sophisticated and modern. It’s a monochrome move that actually makes people do a double take.
6. Classic Shirt + Unexpected Bottoms
A button-down shirt might be the most versatile item in your closet—but how often are you pairing it with something weird?
Try it with silk boxer shorts, a tulle midi skirt, or even utility cargo pants. Play with silhouettes and fabrics, but keep the top classic and grounded.
Pairings to try:
Frank & Eileen’s Barry Button-Up Shirt
Maison Margiela’s Sheer Organza Skirt
The Frankie Shop’s Hailey Cargo Pants
Everlane Day Glove flats for a grounded touch
Why it works: The structure of the shirt reins in the drama of the bottoms, making even the most “out there” look wearable for everyday.
7. Blazer + Joggers (Yes, Really)
We’re not talking about pandemic-era sweatsuits here. This is about intentional loungewear styling.
Choose joggers in elevated fabrics—silk, linen, or structured cotton—and pair them with a masculine-shouldered blazer. Add a sleek bag and loafers to finish the look.
Try these:
Anine Bing Quinn Blazer
Eterne Silk Jogger Pant
Le Monde Beryl Velvet Loafers
Strathberry Crescent Shoulder Bag
Why it works: It’s the polished/nonchalant contrast that feels modern. Equal parts relaxed and ready.
Let the Rules Go (Temporarily)
When you’re stuck in a style rut, that’s not failure—it’s friction. And friction means change is coming. You’re evolving. The key is to lean into discomfort, try the thing that feels “too weird,” and remember: no one whose style you admire got there by playing it safe.
Fashion doesn’t have to be predictable to be put-together. Sometimes, the coolest looks come from a bit of experimentation, a dash of risk, and the confidence to say, “Yes, I did pair that blouse with those pants—and it works.”
So the next time you feel uninspired standing in front of your closet, try something that feels a little wrong. It just might be exactly what your style has been waiting for.
