Tension is where style gets interesting. It’s the alluring spark that happens when two elements that we don't typically picture together make each other look sharper, cooler and more intentional. When you think tension, think contrast. Playing with opposite colors, juxtaposing different silhouettes or connecting style eras are all surefire approaches to build tension in one's outfits. When you place opposite pieces side by side, each one's character becomes more vivid. Case in point: a crisp blazer looks sharper next to distressed denim. Similarly, a delicate shoe feels even more refined under sculptural pants. Tension elevates looks because it highlights the unique pieces that make up those looks. Now, there are many ways to achieve tension, some more dramatic than others. To add those unexpected touches to everyday outfits, I like to go for small doses of juxtaposition. Here are some easy ways to infuse tension in your work and casual looks:
Sharp Suiting With Platform Sandals
When it comes to classic corporate officewear, you just can't go wrong with a suit. You may be overdressed depending on the company, but better to be overdressed than underdressed, right? One way that I make a sharp suit look trendier and less uptight is by pairing it with proven off-duty staples such as a bold pair of platform sandals.
For this work look, I went for a sharp black blazer and dressy black ankle pants, a combination that always delivers. Then to balance out the seriousness of the black suit, I added off-white platform sandals. Platform sandals have been typically associated with casual Summer wear, going-out outfits, or retro style. Pairing those with a modern black suit makes for an unexpected touch for a work day and that's exactly what tension is about.
Baggy Jeans With A Sharp Blazer
Remember this post where I talked about styling baggy jeans for work? If you checked it out, then you know that you can elevate baggy jeans to office status with the right denim wash and the right blazer. I styled a pair of dark-wash baggy jeans with a structured blazer to create casual and business tension. This is a formula that many of us are familiar with and have experimented with, whether it be baggy jeans or distressed jeans. Adding some polished accessories such as a pearl necklace, a leather belt and a structured bag contributes to giving these baggy jeans a more professional allure.
Dressy Guipure Pants With Casual Pieces
This is another outfit that I featured recently. We tend to associate anything made of guipure lace fabric with occasionwear or evening wear. But guipure pants can be styled casually if you pair them with the right pieces. To create some tension with a dressy and luxe pair of wide-leg guipure pants, just add a casual top and casual accessories.
For a weekend outfit I wore to brunch and for errands, I went for black guipure pants, a casual sleeveless top, and casual raffia accessories. I also reached for a pair of oversized, sharp sunglasses to really balance the contrast. Tension is about making those unexpected moves that just work and with this outfit, the guipure pants really create chic contrast with the casual vibe.
Aviator Sunglasses With A Sharp Outfit
I find aviator sunnies so cool! Yes, I love my classic oversized square sunnies and my Wayfarer silhouettes but when it comes to adding that cool touch, I turn to aviators. I like to pair them with any looks really, but I especially love them with dressier, more polished outfits because they just add that cool touch. There's no way to botch this move when you want to infuse some tension in your outfits.
Casual Shorts With A Sharp Blazer
Someone likes their blazers! And we all love casual shorts for Summer, don't we? They're breathable and comfy plus they offer plenty of styling options. To keep completely casual, you could pair them with a simple tank top. But to really bring some snazzy contrast, you could wear your white casual shorts with your sharpest blazer and vest combo. This is another easy formula to balance workwear polish and weekend casual.
More formulas to build some tension in your looks:
– A feminine dress with masculine shoes
– A casual tee with dressy slacks and dressy pumps
– A flowy skirt with a structured leather jacket
– Graphic printed pants with a layered dressy white shirt (add a tie and sweater to give the look some serious punch!)
Now your turn: how do you build tension in your looks? Or do you prefer to keep a harmonious flow and not mix and match styles? Let's chat below!
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