Making its original debut this past winter, the cut-out trend is still going strong. This spring, cut-out garments are no longer limited to scandalous party dresses — wardrobe essentials such as flowing tee shirts, basic button-ups, and even leggings are getting a new look. Wearable in so many different ways, possibilities for this trend are truly endless. However, because of the risqué and often ornate design, it is easier for outfits with a cut-out piece to slip and fall into the “tacky” category rather than the “trendy” category. Follow these few key rules in order to wear cut-outs right this season!
DO Keep It Simple
Tobi, $28.00
Though technically you are wearing less clothing, cut-out designs appear busy. Avoid anything distracting, such as bold or intricate patterns, sequins, buttons, and big furs. Instead, try wearing all solid colors and conventional fabrics, like cotton and spandex blends, and denims. Pair cut-out pieces with garments that will keep your look neat, such as bottoms with a high waist (perfect for tucking tops in), structured jackets and blazers, or your favorite leggings and body con skirts.
Cut-out tops give sophisticated shorts, like this leatherette pair with a high waist, a fun twist.
Forever 21, $22.80
Widebands are a must-have accessory for adding a subtle pop of color, as well as creating that iconic bohemian look for summer.
Free People, $18.00
DON’T Wear More than One Cut-Out Piece
Similar to the first rule, pairing cut-outs with more cut-outs will create a messy feel, so stick to only one at a time. Cut-out style clothing works well with most of the basics you already own (think: skinny jeans, denim cut-offs, and your favorite tees and sweaters), so creating a simple, yet stylish ensemble is feasible even on your busiest mornings. Not to mention, revealing too much skin is never in style.
DO Play with Color
Urban Outfitters, $59.00
Because busy patterns are a major DON’T when rocking the cut-out trend, color-blocking becomes necessary, so wearing a cut-out piece is the perfect opportunity to experiment with bold colors. The best part of wearing solids is that there are no rules when it comes to mixing colors, so both analogous and complementary schemes are on-trend this spring. For a subdued look choose colors that are closely related or go monochromatic; for a bolder look opt for hues that oppose one another on the color wheel. When in doubt, black and white ensembles are always a fashionable option — and one of this season’s biggest trends.
Moto jackets are a stylish way to beat the chill for those early mornings and late nights. Bright colors take this piece from winter to spring.
Jacket, Tobi, $54.00
This studded tote is big enough for your daytime needs, while the studs add sparkle to a nighttime ensemble. The off-white color is perfect for spring/summer and will set you apart from the crowd.
Studded Tote, Urban Outfitters, $59.00
DON’T Pay for Overpriced Pieces
The cut-out trend has become so popular, nearly all retailers are carrying these pieces this season — so, finding something unique is only as far as your nearest shopping mall. Not to mention, there are hundreds of DIY videos and written tutorials on the internet. These tutorials range from simple slits, to braided muscle tees, to intricate skulls, bow-tie designs and other cut-out patterns. Search for what inspires you to reinvent an old garment simply by using search engines such as Google, or searching YouTube directly for a DIY video!
The post How to Wear: The Cut-Out Trend appeared first on The Campus Companion Svelte.