My #1 Style Rule for Looking Put Together

We've all been there. Tearing through an overstuffed closet trying to pick out an outfit thinking "I have nothing to wear!" Everything we put on feels wrong...but why?

I'm starting this classic style "curriculum" to distill my tried and true principles for dressing well that can be applied by anyone to up-level your personal style. This is fashion theory 101 on what makes an outfit really come together, or fall flat, and the systems and rules you can use to effortlessly look and feel your best everyday. Whatever your budget, whatever your size, whatever your age! So let's get started.

So, what is my #1 style rule for always looking put together? When it comes to dressing well, simplicity is often the key to looking and feeling your best. One rule I (almost) always follow is keeping my outfits to a maximum of three colors. This approach creates balance, ensures your look is cohesive, and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed by too many hues competing for attention. I believe the fewer colors you wear, the more people notice the woman, instead of noticing the clothes. This may be why royals such as Kate Middleton and The Queen rely so heavily on monochromatic outfits to present an elegant and cohesive image, and stand out from the crowd. Take a cue from the most stylish women in the world, and limit your outfit to 3 colors or less. This will be your secret weapon whether you’re dressing for a busy day, attending a special event, or simply looking for a comfortable, stylish outfit to run errands in. I even use this rule when putting together a ski outfit or beach look! Below, I’ll share how to apply this philosophy across different seasons, using examples that range from transitional weather to vibrant summer days to cozy winter layers.

Since I give so many photo examples of putting this style rule into practice, I recommend viewing this post on your desktop computer for the best experience!

NOTE! The images below are all clickable and will open a new webpage with exact outfit details. However, these outfits are looks I've worn over the last several years and some items might be old or sold out. You can always click the little chat bubble on the lower left of the image and ask a question about a particular piece and I'll get a notification. I'm happy to help you find something similar!

You can also save your favorite photos or outfits anywhere on my site by clicking the bookmark icon in the lower right corner of an image, and organize favorite photos in custom collections. Of course, you can also save photos to Pinterest too!

Transitional weather can be tricky, but sticking to the 3-color rule makes it easier to layer pieces without looking overdone. In these scenarios, choose a neutral base and add one or two accent colors. For example, pair a classic beige trench coat with a white blouse and dark denim jeans, repeating one of the three colors in your bag and shoes. For example, a navy patterned scarf and tan loafers. By keeping the color palette simple—beige, white, and blue—you’ll create a cohesive, polished look that feels balanced and effortless, no matter the season.

Spring and summer are perfect times to embrace color, but even in warmer months, it's important to keep the balance. Stick to the 3-color rule by choosing one bold, vibrant color and pairing it with neutrals. For instance, a bright yellow sundress can be paired with a white cardigan and tan sandals, or a coral top with white shorts and tan accessories. By limiting the color palette to three, you ensure your outfit is fun and vibrant without looking chaotic. If you think you can't wear color, trust me, you can! It's all about grounding vibrant hues with neutrals to pull the look together.

If you are wearing one item that has a multicolored pattern, you can often treat that as one of your three colors, just pick a neutral color from the pattern to repeat in your other pieces such as your coat/jacket, bag and shoes. The neutral accessories will ground your look and pull it all together!

Autumn and winter bring opportunities for layering, but that doesn’t mean you should get lost in a sea of colors. Stick to the 3-color rule by mixing rich, cozy hues with one or two accent colors. Think of a camel wool coat, a cream sweater and slacks, and a deep burgundy scarf or boots. Or, pair a classic black turtleneck with olive green skirt, black knee high boots and a tweed jacket in olive and black hues. By limiting your color choices, you not only create a sleek, polished look, but also ensure that your layers blend seamlessly, rather than competing with each other.

This rule helps streamline your outfits and enhances your ability to mix and match with ease, no matter the season. By sticking to three colors, you’ll always feel confident and stylish, without the stress of clashing patterns or overcomplicated color schemes.