7 Types of Fashion Styles Decoded: Unveiling the Secrets to Effortless Style in 2023

Are you always on the lookout for the latest fashion trends? Do you often question, 'What is my fashion style?' If so, you're not alone! Fashion is an ever-evolving industry that has something for everyone. There are countless clothing styles, from classic and timeless pieces to edgy and daring looks. But what exactly is a fashion style, and how is it different from a trend? A fashion style is a distinct and consistent way of dressing that reflects an individual's personality and taste. In contrast, a trend is a fleeting phenomenon that occurs each season. In this blog, we'll dive into the world of fashion styles and explore seven different types of outfit styles that you can try this year. So whether you want to refresh your wardrobe or discover a new fashion aesthetic, read on for inspiration and ideas.

Quick Links

• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are fashion styles
• Trends vs fashion styles
• 7 Types of fashion styles to try
• What is my fashion style?

Frequently Asked Questions

How many fashion styles are there?

From artsy, boho, and business casual to loungewear, streetwear and vintage - you can experiment with a wide range of fashion styles in your wardrobe.

What are fashion styles?

Fashion styles reflect an individual's personality, interests, and personal taste when it comes to clothing. It's essential to self-expression and conveying our identities to the world. There are endless fashion styles, from preppy and polished to bohemian and free-spirited.

The history of fashion styles is a long and fascinating one. It dates back to ancient times when clothing symbolised status and power. In medieval Europe, clothing styles were heavily influenced by religion and class. In the Renaissance, fashion began to take on a more individualistic and creative approach. As the world became more globalised and industrialised, fashion styles became more diverse and accessible. In the 20th century, we saw the emergence of new clothing styles, such as punk and grunge, that challenged traditional fashion norms and paved the way for more experimentation and creativity.

Today, the fashion industry is more inclusive and diverse than ever before. People are embracing different fashion styles and creating their unique looks, breaking away from traditional gender norms and challenging beauty standards. The significance of different types of clothing lies in their ability to empower individuals to express themselves and showcase their personality in a way that feels authentic to them.

Trends vs fashion styles

While fashion styles and trends are often used interchangeably, the two have distinct differences. Trends refer to styles that are popular for a short period and are often driven by celebrity endorsements, social media influencers, or seasonal collections. They tend to be fast-paced and ever-changing, with new trends emerging every season. On the other hand, outfit styles are more enduring and reflective of a person's taste and personality. They're more consistent and evolve gradually, often influenced by cultural and societal shifts. For example, the bohemian style has been around for decades, characterised by flowy, patterned dresses and quirky accessories like fringe and tassels.

Another example of an enduring fashion style is the minimalist trend, which has gained popularity over the past few years. It's all about simplicity, with clean lines, neutral colours, and minimal accessories. The minimalist fashion style is versatile, making it a popular choice for creating a practical and stylish wardrobe.

While trends can be fun to experiment with, the different types of fashion styles offer a more long-lasting approach to fashion. They allow individuals to create a personal fashion aesthetic that speaks to their unique personality and taste. So next time you're tempted to follow the latest trend, consider incorporating it into your fashion style authentically.

7 Types of fashion styles to try in 2023

Now that we've discussed the history and significance of fashion styles let's dive into the top eight types of styles for 2023! These fashion styles offer something for everyone, whether you want to keep it simple and classic or experiment with bold prints and unconventional silhouettes.

Minimalism

Minimalism is a fashion style gaining popularity in recent years. It's all about simplifying your wardrobe and focusing on quality over quantity. Minimalist outfits are classic, timeless, and chic without being too flashy or over-the-top. Incorporating minimalism into your wardrobe can help you save time and money, reduce clutter, and create a streamlined and stylish look.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate minimalism into your wardrobe:

• Stick to a neutral colour palette. Blacks, whites, greys, and beiges are staples of the minimalist wardrobe.
• Invest in high-quality basics like a well-fitting white tee, a classic trench coat, and a pair of black trousers.
• Choose clothing items with clean lines and simple silhouettes. Avoid anything too fussy or overly embellished.
• Opt for classic and functional accessories, like a simple leather tote or a sleek pair of loafers.

Fashion Tip

Be bold and repeat outfits or wear the same piece in different ways. In fact, embrace capsule wardrobes. Build a versatile collection of essential pieces you can mix and match to create various outfits. These types of clothes should help you make the most of what you have.

Athleisure

Athleisure is a fashion style that combines athletic wear with casual pieces, creating a comfortable and trendy look that you can wear beyond the gym. It's all about effortlessly blending fashion and function. Athleisure outfits are perfect for busy women who are always on the go but still want to look stylish and put together. Whether running errands, meeting friends for brunch, or heading to the gym, athleisure outfits will keep you looking fashionable and comfortable throughout the day.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate athleisure into your wardrobe:

• Invest in quality activewear pieces that are both stylish and functional. Look for leggings with unique patterns, moisture-wicking fabrics, and comfortable sports bras.
• Layer these types of clothes with casual clothing like oversized sweaters, denim jackets, or bomber jackets. This creates a balance between sporty and informal elements.
• Mix and match textures. This will add visual interest. Pair a sleek pair of leggings with a chunky knit sweater or a silk bomber jacket.
• Feel free to accessorise! Add a statement necklace or a trendy belt to elevate your athleisure look.
• Opt for comfortable and stylish footwear like sneakers or slip-on shoes. They complete the sporty vibe while providing all-day comfort.
• Experiment with different silhouettes and proportions. Pair loose-fitting joggers with a fitted crop top or a streamlined sports bra with high-waisted jeans.
• Embrace athleisure for both active and non-active occasions. Wear your workout leggings with a longline blazer and heels for a chic and unexpected twist.

Boho chic

Boho chic is a fashion style that embodies a carefree and bohemian spirit. It's a combination of romantic, vintage, and eclectic elements that come together to create a unique and free-spirited look. The outfit styles include flowy silhouettes, natural fabrics, and earthy colour palettes. Perfect for women who want to express their artistic and adventurous side through different styles of clothing.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate boho chic into your wardrobe:

• Embrace flowy maxi dresses and skirts with intricate prints or floral patterns. Look for lightweight fabrics like chiffon or cotton for a breezy and effortless feel. Pair them with a wide-brimmed hat and sandals for a bohemian touch.
• Incorporate natural and earthy colours into your boho chic outfits. Opt for shades like warm browns, deep greens, rich burgundies, and mustard yellows. These colours evoke a sense of nature and complement the bohemian aesthetic.
• Layer your clothing to create dimension and add interest to your boho chic look. Experiment with layering a fringed vest over a flowy blouse or a chunky knit cardigan over a lacey top. Mixing textures and lengths add depth to your outfit.
• Accessorise with statement jewellery such as oversized earrings, layered necklaces, and chunky rings. Look for pieces with bohemian-inspired motifs like feathers, dreamcatchers, or natural gemstones. These accessories can elevate a simple outfit and give it a boho flair.
• Don't be afraid to mix and match different fabrics and textures. Combine lace, crochet, fringe, and embroidery for a textural boho look. For example, pair a crochet top with distressed denim shorts or a flowy embroidered blouse with a suede skirt.
• Choose footwear that complements the boho chic style. Opt for comfortable yet stylish options like ankle boots, suede sandals, or leather moccasins. Look for details like fringe, tassels, or woven accents to add a bohemian touch to your footwear.
• Complete your boho chic look with relaxed hairstyles like loose waves, braids, or messy updos. Add floral accessories like flower crowns or hair clips to enhance the bohemian vibe.
• Incorporate natural and eco-friendly fabrics into your boho chic wardrobe. Look for clothing made from organic cotton, hemp, or recycled materials to align your style with sustainable fashion principles.

Genderless fashion

Genderless fashion is a style that challenges traditional gender norms and embraces clothing that is not confined to a specific gender. It promotes inclusivity, freedom of expression, and the idea that fashion is for everyone, regardless of gender identity. Genderless fashion allows individuals to explore various styles and break free from societal expectations.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate genderless fashion into your wardrobe:

• Experiment with oversized and boxy silhouettes. Look for pieces like oversized blazers, button-down shirts, or wide-legged pants. These items can be styled in various ways and flatter different body types.
• Embrace neutral colours and monochrome looks. Opt for a black, white, grey, beige, and earthy tones palette. These colours create a versatile and timeless foundation for genderless outfits.
• Play with androgynous accessories. Incorporate accessories such as fedora hats, chunky watches, suspenders, or statement belts. These items can add a touch of personality and uniqueness to your look.
• Incorporate unisex or gender-neutral brands into your shopping choices. Explore fashion labels that specifically design for all genders or opt for unisex collections. These brands often offer a wide range of inclusive and versatile clothing options.
• Mix traditionally masculine and feminine elements. Combine tailored trousers with a flowy blouse or a structured blazer with a skirt. Experiment with layering and juxtaposing different clothing styles to create a cohesive genderless aesthetic.
• Pay attention to fabric choices. Look for clothing made from quality materials that drape nicely on different body types, such as cotton, linen, denim, or silk. These fabrics can enhance the genderless appeal of your outfits.

Retro-vintage

Retro-vintage fashion refers to types of clothing styles inspired by past decades, often characterised by nostalgic elements and a sense of timeless charm. It's a style that celebrates the fashion of bygone eras and allows you to incorporate vintage pieces or recreate the looks with modern interpretations. Retro-vintage fashion is perfect for women who appreciate classic aesthetics and want to add a touch of nostalgia to their wardrobe.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate retro-vintage fashion into your wardrobe:

• Mix vintage pieces with contemporary items to create a modern retro-vintage look. For example, pair a vintage blouse with skinny jeans or a retro-inspired midi skirt with a graphic tee.
• Pay attention to details and accessories. To complete your outfits, look for retro-inspired accessories like cat-eye sunglasses, statement belts, headscarves, or vintage-inspired jewellery.
• Experiment with different eras. Whether it's the glamorous 1920s, the feminine 1950s, the hippie vibes of the 1960s and 1970s, or the bold styles of the 1980s, each era offers unique fashion elements and different types of clothing to incorporate into your wardrobe.
• Incorporate patterns and prints. Embrace polka dots, floral prints, gingham, or bold geometric designs that were popular in different decades. These patterns add visual interest and capture the essence of this fashion style.
• Pay attention to silhouette and fit. Retro-vintage fashion features distinct silhouettes like cinched waists, A-line skirts, or wide-leg pants. Play with different shapes that flatter your body type and accentuate your curves.

Bold prints

Embrace the power of prints, have fun mixing and matching, and let your style make a bold statement. Bold prints are a fashion style that embraces eye-catching and vibrant patterns, adding a playful and statement-making element to your outfits. Whether it's floral, animal, geometric, or abstract prints, incorporating bold prints into your wardrobe allows you to express your personality and make a fashion-forward statement.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate bold prints into your wardrobe:

• Start small by incorporating printed accessories. Add a pop of print with a statement handbag, scarf, or pair of shoes. This allows you to experiment with bold prints without overwhelming your entire outfit.
• Mix and match prints. Don't be afraid to combine different prints to create a unique and eclectic look. Pair striped pants with a floral top or mix polka dots with animal prints. Just make sure to balance the scales and colours for a harmonious ensemble.
• Use bold prints as the focal point of your outfit. Opt for a printed dress, jumpsuit, or statement blouse as the centrepiece of your look. Keep the rest of your outfit and accessories simple to let the print shine.
• Play with scale and proportion. Experiment with larger prints to make a bolder statement, or opt for smaller prints for a more subtle approach. Consider your body type and choose prints that flatter your figure.
• Mix bold prints with neutral basics. Balance the vibrancy of the prints by pairing them with solid neutral pieces. For example, style a bold printed skirt with a crisp white blouse or a graphic top with black trousers.
• Be mindful of colour coordination. Ensure that the colours within the bold prints complement each other and the rest of your outfit. Choose prints that incorporate colours in your wardrobe for easy mixing and matching.
• Experiment with different clothing styles. Explore bold prints in various garment styles, such as maxi dresses, tailored blazers, wide-leg pants, or statement jackets. Find the styles that make you feel confident and showcase your flair.

Streetwear style

This outfit style draws inspiration from urban culture and street fashion's casual, edgy aesthetic. It combines comfort, attitude, and a mix of high and low-end pieces to create effortlessly cool and modern looks. Streetwear allows you to express your individuality and embrace a laid-back yet fashion-forward approach to dressing.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate streetwear style into your wardrobe:

• Embrace casual and comfortable pieces. Opt for oversized t-shirts, hoodies, joggers, denim jackets, and sneakers. These items form the foundation of streetwear outfits and provide a relaxed yet stylish vibe.
• Experiment with layering. Combine different textures, lengths, and silhouettes to create visually exciting and dynamic looks. Layer a hoodie under a leather jacket or wear a longline shirt over a crop top. Play with proportions to add depth to your outfit.
• Incorporate sportswear elements. Integrate athletic-inspired pieces like track pants, bomber jackets, or baseball caps. These items add a sporty and dynamic touch to your streetwear looks.
• Don't shy away from bold graphics and logos. Embrace graphic t-shirts, sweatshirts, or accessories with eye-catching prints or brand logos. These elements are synonymous with streetwear and can make a statement in your outfit.
• Mix high-end and streetwear brands. Combine luxury items with more affordable streetwear pieces to create a balanced and unique look. This high- and low--fashion fusion adds an elevated touch to your streetwear style.
• Accessorise with statement pieces. Incorporate accessories like chunky sneakers, statement belts, bucket hats, or oversized sunglasses. These accessories enhance your streetwear outfits and add a touch of individuality.
• Pay attention to details and craftsmanship. Streetwear is not just about casual attire, it also emphasises quality and attention to detail. Look for well-constructed garments with unique stitching, fabric choices, or intricate design elements.
• Embrace the influence of subcultures. Various subcultures like hip-hop, skateboarding, or punk often influence streetwear style. Explore the aesthetics of these subcultures and incorporate elements that resonate with your style.

What is my fashion style?

In the fashion world, trying different styles of clothing and stepping out of your comfort zone is key to expressing your individuality. Embracing different types of fashion styles allows you to explore new aesthetics, break free from constraints, and unleash your creativity. This blog's top 7 fashion styles for 2023 offer diverse options to suit various tastes and preferences. From the minimalism of clean lines and simplicity to the boldness of vibrant prints, each type of style presents an opportunity to redefine your wardrobe and make a statement.

We also recommend checking out the Fashion Hub on the Harris Scarfe blog for more fashion inspiration. There, you'll find a wealth of tips, trends, dress code inspiration and styling ideas to elevate your fashion game. Additionally, browse the extensive women's clothing range at Harris Scarfe, where you'll discover a wide selection of pieces that align with our recommended fashion styles. Whether you're looking for minimalist essentials, athleisure wear, boho-chic garments, sustainable fashion choices, genderless pieces, retro-vintage finds, or bold prints, you'll find something that resonates with your style and helps you bring your fashion vision to life. Remember, fashion is a journey of self-discovery and creativity. So, embrace the adventure, have fun with your style, and let your fashion choices reflect the beautiful, unique person you are.