Why your clothes aren't working for you — Designer breaks it down
Andre Tan (photo: instagram.com/andre_tan_official)
Ukrainian designer Andre Tan explained why even a full wardrobe does not guarantee a stylish look. He discussed the four most common strategies for building a wardrobe and highlighted the main mistake that makes outfits look unsuccessful, despite effort and expense.
Main strategies for building a wardrobe
According to the stylist, there are four main strategies people follow, but only one is truly effective.
The first strategy, which Tan calls the "rescue strategy," involves keeping clothes not because they are useful, but out of reluctance to part with them.
"We keep items only because we barely wore them, or because they were once fashionable. Or because they were a good brand," the designer explains.
In his opinion, if a piece needs rescuing, it has already lost its value in the wardrobe.
The second common strategy is styling anyway. This happens when an outfit needs to be enhanced with extra accessories or layers to give it some expression.
Even then, the result can appear overloaded or unnatural.
The third strategy is simply wearing clothes based on comfort. A person buys what seems comfortable, but later notices that, despite looking correct, the outfit does not suit them.
"There's no emotional response, and it becomes obvious in the mirror," Tan notes.
In contrast, the designer highlights the fourth and most productive strategy: creating a wardrobe that looks stylish effortlessly.
According to Tan, the secret lies in a good base and so-called "style markers," pieces that reflect individuality. These are items that don't need rescuing or compensating.
"You just get dressed and look harmonious," he emphasizes.
Andre Tan also shared simple rules for putting together outfits.
How to create stylish looks
Rule 1: Structure in the outfit
Structure replaces the need to rescue items. A jacket, a defined shoulder line, a structured bag. Even the simplest outfit looks thoughtful.
Andre Tan on wardrobe mistakes (screenshot)
Rule 2: Contrasts
Light + dark, voluminous + fitted. Contrast is what makes an outfit look expensive to the eye. It's a tool that works instead of chaotic styling.
Andre Tan on creating perfect outfits (screenshot)
Rule 3: One focal point
Many people often try to enhance an outfit, but they do the opposite. One eye-catching detail (a color, accessory, or interesting cut) is enough to avoid looking overloaded.
Andre Tan on wardrobe mistakes (screenshot)
Rule 4: Style comes from combinations, not pieces
You can have minimal clothing, but if the items work together, you already have an expensive look. True style is about feeling yourself.
Andre Tan on style (screenshot)
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