Taking the First Style Risk of the Year: Layers, Denim, and a Bold New Perspective
As we dive into a fresh new year, there's an undeniable excitement about new beginnings and bold choices.
This season marks the perfect time to declutter, shop my closet, shake up my wardrobe, and take some style risks.
This week, I decided to switch things up: breathing new life into a classic denim outfit with unexpected layers and a fresh perspective that left me feeling myself all day, Lol.
Denim has always been a staple in my wardrobe—a go-to for casual days, elevated dinners, and everything in between. But like most of us, I've worn my favorite denim pieces in the same combinations so often that they've started to feel uninspiring. This time, I was determined to see a few of my favs through a different lens, proving that even the most familiar outfits can feel brand new with a bit of creativity.
The Look: A Denim Ensemble Like Never Before
It started with my classic denim shirt and my favorite high-waisted barrell jeans from Banana Republic. Individually, these pieces are wardrobe workhorses—but when styled together in the usual way, they did not give the vibe I wanted to give. So, I decided to layer, layer, and layer some more.
First, I slipped on a lightweight shirt in a neutral shade under the denim shirt. This added texture and gave me a cozy base for the cold winter weather in Germany. On top of the denim shirt, I added a slightly oversized knit vest in a wheat color—a layer that provided warmth while breaking up the all-denim look.
I threw my soft oatmeal-colored trench over my shoulder to bring in some edge, giving the look a polished, street-style finish.
Accessories played a role, too. I carried my brown The Row dupe and wore my brown leather ankle boots for a chic, classic touch.
Why It Worked
Layering has this magical ability to transform even the simplest pieces into something extraordinary. By mixing textures, playing with proportions, and introducing unexpected elements, I created a look that felt exciting and fresh while staying true to my style.
The denim shirt and jeans served as a strong foundation, allowing the layers to shine without feeling overwhelming. The neutral tones of the vest and coat added dimension without clashing, pulling everything together.
Most importantly, this layered look felt like a bold step slightly outside my comfort zone—proof that style risks can pay off in major ways.
Taking Your Style Risks
If you want to reimagine a familiar outfit, start with the pieces you love. Then, experiment with layering in ways you haven't before. Think turtlenecks under blazers, vests over shirts, or coats with unexpected textures. Don't be afraid to mix casual and polished elements—the contrast makes it interesting.
Taking the first style risk of the year reminded me that fashion is meant to be fun and expressive. It's about finding new ways to celebrate the pieces you already own and permitting yourself to experiment with your style. So, here's to a year of bold choices, fresh perspectives, and the confidence to step outside the box—one outfit at a time.
Try This:
1. Start with a small risk, like wearing a bold lip color, funky shoes, or a statement accessory. Take your easy outfits up one notch.
2. Mix patterns you've never tried before—stripes with florals, plaid with polka dots.
3. Choose one item in your closet that makes you hesitate—wear it confidently for a day and see how you feel.
4. Look for inspiration in unexpected places, like street style blogs or vintage fashion.
5. Remember that risks don't have to be big—a pop of color or an unconventional silhouette can make all the difference.
Question For You:
What's one style risk you've been curious to try but haven't yet taken the plunge? Let me know! I plan to go BOLDER, I'll share in Notes Also, let me know in the comments if you want me to link items.