Fashion rules can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting to build a wardrobe. In this guide, I’ll break down the most common stylistic dos and don’ts: what still matters, what doesn’t, and why. Whether you're aiming for timeless style or just want to feel confident today, these practical principles will. Also: be sure to grab my free timeless style guide at the end to solidify your wardrobe foundation.
1. Match your bag with your shoes
What used to matter: In Europe and earlier generations, matching your bag and shoes exactly was essential.
Is it still needed? Not anymore - and that's a good thing. Now, the goal is to pick a versatile handbag that complements your entire wardrobe.
Styling tip: Choose natural-toned bags (think tan, black, beige) that go with everything.
Have a look at my handbag collection to see new “neutrals” that work with many different outfit colors.
2. No more than 3 colors
What used to matter: More than 3 colors in one outfit was seen as chaotic or overly bold (in French, we say “looking like a Christmas tree”).
My take: That rule can go. Personally, I love colorful outfits, even if you look like a Christmas tree or an artist, it’s all about expression. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, that’s the goal.
Styling tip: If you prefer structure, try a monochromatic base with one bright accessory (like bold shoes or vibrant earrings) to create a focal point.
3. No white after Labor Day
Origin story: In early 1900s North America, white clothes signaled both wealth (cleanliness) and practicality (cooler) so they were strictly summer wear.
Does it still matter? Nope. Unless you’re rolling in dirt or taking a carriage to work, feel free to wear white year-round. Even in winter.
Fun fact: In France, Labor Day is May 1st, so we definitely keep wearing white after that!
4. No socks with sandals
What used to matter: A classic fashion no-no, especially in France.
Is it still frowned upon? Yes. In many places, wearing socks with sandals is still a tourist tell - even Crocs count as sandals!
Styling tip: Skip the socks. Let your summer sandals shine, particularly on warm days, with a pretty nail polish hue.
5. Match shoes and belt (in menswear)
What used to matter: Especially for men, matching belt and shoes is a cornerstone of suit dressing.
My take: That still applies, especially in formal or semi-formal looks.
Styling tip: For business casual, you can mix a blazer color and pant color, but keep belt and shoes matching. That cohesion is expected and polished.
6. Never mix black with navy
What used to matter: A strict rule to avoid clashing cool tones.
My take: It’s more nuanced now. You can mix navy and black. Just mind the proportions.
Styling tip: Wear one as your main color and the other as smaller accents (like a patterned scarf or shoes). Or break up the blocks with a print to keep things cohesive. The print should include one of the solid colors from the other garments, to create a harmony.
7. Don’t mix gold and silver jewelry
What used to matter: Mixing metals was once seen as trendy chaos - or was limited by age or marital status (“married women wear gold”).
My take:
Mixing metals is chic and modern, and it should be based on your undertone, not your marital status.
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Cool undertones? Silver is flattering.
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Warm undertones? Gold or brass looks beautiful.
Want help figuring out your skin undertone? Read my dedicated blog post here, where I walk you through tests to identify what your personal undertone is.
Pro tip: Feel free to mix! Layer necklaces in gold and silver for a polished, intentional look. It’s no longer taboo.
Why timeless style matters
Fashion trends come and go, but timeless style endures. If you want to feel confident, refined, and authentic every day, I recommend a solid style foundation built on classic principles. That’s exactly what I cover in my (free) timeless style guide: detailed, practical advice for beginners who want to build a lasting wardrobe.
