![](https://clairelately.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG_2024_02_05-14_06_53_3990_D3A6B967-3-768x1024.jpg)
OUTFIT SOURCES:
ANKLE BOOTS // DENIM // BELT // TANK // JACKET (sold out – similar here and here) // NECKLACE // WATCH BAND
The Series
Today is part 2 (see part 1 here!) of a new series I started over on Instagram & TikTok where I pick 15 fashion rules to break. Rules can be a great thing and have their time and place, but when it comes to fashion most of them can be broken. That’s what makes filling up your closet and getting dressed so fun! And breaking them in your own way lets your personality shine through and helps you stand out from the crowd. But I do have one word of caution…
The Key
The key to breaking all the fashion rules is doing it with thought and intention. Just throwing pieces together willy nilly will often result in a loud mess and will definitely not leave you feeling at your best. So here’s my thought process behind how I broke the second rule – Match Your Belt To Your Shoes.
![](https://clairelately.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG_2024_01_19-11_03_57_9980_FB64A275-768x1024.jpg)
![](https://clairelately.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/IMG_2024_01_24-11_31_10_8410_41C27F61-2-768x1024.jpg)
OUTFIT SOURCES:
(LEFT) Boots // Denim // Jacket // Belt // Sweater
(RIGHT) Balzer Vest (similar here) // Belt // Heart Drop Earrings // Blouse (similar here) // Denim // Ankle Boots
How To Break The Rule
– Vary The textures: Shiny Metallic or Blue Leather ankle boots are paired with a woven belt.
– Keep the rest of your look simple: Solid colors are an easy base for breaking this rule.
– Match Your Shoes To Another Pice of Your Outfit: The blue boots speak to the denim on the left and to the shirt on the right.
When To Keep The Rule
Maybe if it’s a loud dress, a pattern on pattern look, or you want to feel more traditional – then definitely match your belt to your shoes! I do it all the time still so it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
Here’s an example of when I kept the rule but again, used varying textures with a leather and a woven to add interest and pesonality:
![](https://clairelately.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG_2024_01_24-12_01_38_9410_803C2A6F-768x1024.jpg)
Blazer (similar here) // Stripe Long Sleeve // Layered Necklaces (here and here) // Wide Leg Denim // Slingback Clogs (similar here) // Navy Trouser Socks
Let’s Keep This Going
So what do you think? Are you on board for breaking this rule? Message me here, I’d love to chat!
And keep up with this series by joining my weekly email list here.
And Don’t Forget…
YOU. ARE. BEAUTIFUL