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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at PSU chapter.

Let’s face it,  no one is perfect. We all make mistakes, and we admit we’ve made some fashion mishaps along the way. 

 

Although many of our fashion mishaps lie deep in the archives of our middle school days, we do find ourselves occasionally making some style mistakes recently. 

 

With thousands of trends out there, it can seem impossible to know exactly what’s right and wrong in the world of fashion. 

 

To eliminate some of this confusion and help you live out your best stylish life, I have created a list of fashion mishaps to steer clear of.

Same-Wash Denim

I am totally for a denim on denim ensemble as long as we are not overdoing the denim (use Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake at the 2001 American Music Awards photo for reference). 

 

However, if you want to master the Canadian tuxedo look, be sure to choose denims that aren’t the same wash. 

 

When styling same wash denim, the outfit becomes too matchy and you can run the risk of appearing as a coordinated bore. When switching up your washes, it becomes less uniformed and ultimately more fashionable.

 

I especially love matching a dark wash jacket with some denim jeans for a denim on denim dream.

Loose Tops and Paper Bag Pants

I’m not the biggest fan of paper-bag pants on myself, but I do love the style on others. Both cute and waist-cinching, they are definitely a favorite among many. 

 

However, when it comes to styling these precious pants, one must make sure to pair it with something fitted on top. When styled with a loose fitting top, it creates an unflattering look since the shorts are unable to do its job of hugging those hips and giving you that hourglass figure. 

 

Whether it’s a crop-top or a body-suit, make sure your top is tight enough to allow the paper-bag pants to work their magic.

T-Shirt Dresses

Although super comfy, t-shirt dresses are the ultimate no-no when it comes to flattering fashion. 

 

With no waist-defining magic or super chic qualities, t-shirt dresses have done their time, and now it’s time to part ways. 

 

But don’t be sad. I promise you there are so many dresses out there that are equally comfortable yet figure flattering and more fashionable.

Boring Gym Fashion

Ladies, the days of sporting baggy old t-shirts and plain leggings to the gym are long over.

 

Although you love the comfort your gym ensembles give you, you should look forward to looking both fashionable and fit in some new workout gear. 

 

Matching workout sets are just about everywhere today. From fun prints and patterns to bright and bold colours, it’s time to step up that gym fashion.

Ill-Fitting Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are near and dear to every fashionista’s heart. Just one piece to throw on, and Voila! You have a stylish ensemble that is also comfortable. 

 

However, jumpsuits are only successful when the fit is just right. Sometimes one can make the mistake of choosing one that has the same fit throughout, which can make us look shapeless. 

 

Instead, one must look for jumpsuits that switch up the fit. Whether it’s a loose bottom and a tight top or vice versa, it is important that a jumpsuit defines our waist and leaves us feeling our best.

Mistakes are meant to happen so you can learn from them and hopefully not repeat them in the future. 

 

The same goes for fashion, and it’s important that we make mistakes in order to help us learn what works and what doesn’t. 

 

So whether or not you have made these mistakes listed above or will make them in the future, fashion is subjective. So maybe it worked for you, or you feel comfortable styling them. 

 

Whatever the case may be, have fun with your fashion and remember to not take it so seriously.

Hi! My name is Brooke and I am a junior at Penn State! I am currently studying Advertising and Public Relations with minors in French and History. I have an incredible love for fashion and I hope to one day fulfill my dream of working in the fashion industry.
Arden Ericson will graduate Penn State in May of 2023. As one of the Campus Correspondents for Her Campus at PSU, she is a double-major in Public Relations and French Language. After graduation, she will pursue a career that combines her passion for educational equity, social justice and French.