Transform Your Outfits With The Law of Opposites

When you feel off, it's often because something is making you feel one-dimensional.

For example, if you wear one style over and over again because that's your comfort zone, eventually, you're going to feel bored.

My suggestion for you is to think of a qualifier that describes your outfit, for example, “pretty.” Then think, what is the opposite of that word you’ve just chosen? What is the opposite of “pretty.”

A pretty dress may feel more balanced when you counterbalance the womanly feel with something more masculine. It's about knowing that a masculine piece completely changes the vibe of that dress.

Let’s say you’re wearing a pretty dress and a pair of sandals on a sunny day. Which type of bag should you add to the look?

This bamboo bag has a feminine vibe that matches the dress style, but it's too much of the same thing.

This slouchy bag definitely opposes the outfit by taming the prettiness a bit and adding some interest.

This third bag is classic and adds refinement, but it's predictable, and we don't want to be predictable all the time.

In a nutshell, changing up accessories is all about understanding why you're feeling the way you're feeling and creating friction to the overall style.

Let’s take a look at some outfits and explore how the law of opposite works.

1. Corset dress

If you’re wearing a corset dress, the first thing that comes to mind is to pair it with sandals - perhaps strappy sandals or barely there sandals.

Both options are very pretty and go with the dress, but they’re also the most predictable way that you can style the dress.

Bringing in an item that evokes a completely different vibe will make the look feel more chilled rather than overly feminine and overall feel like it has more balance and depth to it.

2. Trench coat

When it comes to creating powerful outfits, contradictions are key.

Dare to combine a denim trench coat brought right back from the 90s with a pearl necklace that speaks of 70s glamor.

Two completely opposite decades brought interestingly and harmoniously together.

3. Jeans

A ruffle blouse and baggy jeans are two statement items that look great paired together for a ‘more is more’ look.

This is a really unexpected combination and probably not one that you would have thought of when purchasing that blouse.

4. Blouse and skirt

This very classic outfit is great for wearing to a fancy event.

But we want to get the most wear out of our clothes and it would be a shame to only wear these pieces styled the same exact way for similar events.

We want to be able to style those pieces for other situations and create a different vibe with them.

This is a great example of how you could wear that skirt on a summer vacation with a pair of sandals and a sleeveless top.

For something more formal, going with the original combination but adding a pair of Mary Jane shoes and a classic shoulder bag add an extra layer of refinement.

5. Suit

A suit was once considered a synonym for power and confidence, especially when paired with stilettos can perfectly be paired back with flat flip-flops, offering a nonchalant vibe that oozes charm without losing sophistication.

The law of opposites in fashion

Remember, this isn't about right or wrong, this is just about bringing fun, interest, and diversion to your wardrobe and your daily dressing.

You don’t have to create the very opposite vibe with different pieces just for the sake of it; this concept is about expanding your options to make your pieces work harder for you.

I hope you found this tutorial helpful and you’ll have a go at implementing some of the ideas we’ve discussed!

Next, learn How to Look Polished and Stylish Without Spending a Penny.