How did you learn to style outfits?

[BrightonCalling]

So I can identify good pieces but then have no clue how to work them into whole outfits.

I know when an outfit is good or bad but cant figure out how to create "looks".

How do you learn? Or is it innate?

I think it's something you have or don't but I often look at Pinterest for ideas ..
Type in stripey t shirt outfits for example or summer looks and it will bring up loads of pics . If I'm stuck with something I'll try and replicate a phone I've liked on there .

Definitely innate. My mother had it; she knew instinctively what would look good and how to put things together. She did it on a budget as well, having grown up in postwar austerity - even when she had plenty of money she still preferred to hunt out bargains.

I did not inherit this knack.

Study! Magazines, blogs and most importantly - people in the street who look cool.

I find if your stuck for outfits it means you can be missing some of the wardrobe staples.
One good pair of jeans
3 different colored fitted blazers
White loose T-shirt good quality
Decent coat
Nice shoes
Jewelry can really make a plain outfit stylish

Get yourself on pintrest and look at things like capsule wardrobes. There's also some really good blogs with loads of tips etc. 'Putting me together' is one I really like.

It is something that can be learned, but I also think it's about having confidence in wearing what you like and suits you rather than blindly following fashion.

I think it's something innate. My SIL always, always looks really stylish even though her purse only runs to H&M and Zara. I have been known to secretly buy an almost identical outfit to one she has (never wear it when I know she'll be around obvs). I know enough about clothes to not make any mistakes but I know I don't look stylish. I have started following a few IG like The Fashion Lift to get ideas on how to 'lift' my outfits from safe to stylish.

I don't think I have any innate sense. All my best ideas are stolen. Mostly I just watch people: all ages, women and men. Some of the most stylish people I've seen lately are old men.

I walk round real shops as much as I can, just to see what's current and how they're styling it.

And then I just try stuff. I make loads of mistakes but none of them have killed me.

I don't think I've actually learned yet, but I hope I'm at least figuring out the basics which suit my, now much larger, figure.

I look at how the items I'm thinking of buying online are styled in the photos, although they're not always realistic when you're plus size. The models might be size 16/18 but they are smooth! Not lumpy at all, like me. I look on Pinterest for ideas and some of the major stores have automated 'style advisers' on their websites, too.

I found a good guide on Pinterest on which type of necklace suits each different neckline. I didn't have a clue before but it makes sense when I look at the guide. Here's the link:
www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/310607705535759157/

Unfortunately, I always have to wear flat shoes, so I find it really difficult when looking for evening outfits.

Observation in my case.

I do think some people are innately stylish. My DD is still only at primary school but she pulls together outfits in ways I would never have thought of myself.

No one taught her, she just does it. She is naturally artistic and has an eye for colour and texture though.

I’m waiting a few more years and then I’m going to let her advise me what to buy, rather than the other way round.

Although I suspect she just humours me at the moment.

Magazines initially- these where the days pre Pinterest. People watching. Books - in the 80’s I bought a Vogue book about styling. Having an interest in clothes.
The best thing I learnt ever was to not be too matchy matchy. Pair the un-expected - boots with a floaty dress, converse with something more formal, pink with orange .
Love to know other people’s best styling tips!