Similar textures and fabrics can be matched in fashion, such as denim. Credit: Courtesy of MCT

Similar textures and fabrics can be matched in fashion, such as denim. Credit: Courtesy of MCT

The passing of Labor Day brings to mind one thought in the fashion world: white clothing is off-limits. This is a rule I’ve always broken, and one I encourage everyone to break. Fashion is no fun when there are strict guidelines, so here are some rules you can throw out the window when planning your future outfits.

All colors can mix

There are no absolute rules about which colors can and can’t be worn together. Whether they are in the same color family or are polar opposites, they can all happily coexist. A navy tank paired with a black pencil skirt translates perfectly into a business casual outfit, while a red button-up tucked into a pink circle skirt works for any occasion. Be careful about colors so closely related they look the same, though — an almost black navy on top of an actual black skirt can give a look that’s tired and faded.

Go for monochrome

If you aren’t feeling up to mixing your colors, why not wear all the same? There’s no reason to avoid wearing a single color in every piece from head to toe. You can go for a contemporary edge with an all-black ensemble, or a bright clean look with entirely white pieces. If you’re feeling especially daring, you can even try a monochromatic mint or coral ensemble. There are no limits when it comes to breaking this rule, so match to your heart’s content.

Skin is in

As long as it’s done in a way that maintains your comfort, there is nothing keeping you from showing off a tasteful sliver of skin here and there. Maxi skirts and crop tanks equal the perfect combination to keep yourself from going too flesh-crazy, or there are long-sleeved versions of cropped tops if you’d rather pair them with high-waisted shorts. You can even look for pieces featuring mesh cutouts so it doesn’t feel like you’re showing as much skin. Do what feels best for you, but don’t be scared to try this trend.

Denim on denim

Just as similar colors can be worn together, similar textures and fabrics can also be matched. Though most people try to stay away from wearing two different forms of denim at a time, it can be done in an incredibly fashion-forward way. Whether you don dark skinny jeans on the bottom and an acid-washed button-up on top or vice versa, you can pull off this look and look good doing it.

Style is all about freedom of expression and silly guidelines have no place in that world. Be a fashion rebel — break the rules, wear the clothes you want and feel good doing it.