Would You Wear A Clashing Outfit?

Nov 06, 2007 @ 9:00am

Today, The Daily Mail discusses a trend they call "The Clash" - throwing a series of clothes together that don't seem to go.

Illustrated by Sarah Jessica Parker, Peaches Geldof, and the Marni runway, "the true point of clash dressing is... to show off your superior fashion intelligence in the ability to throw together a conceptually 'ugly' outfit with apparent nonchalance – and still look fabulous."

But there's a good chance you won't look fabulous, especially if your surroundings aren't packed with people who appreciate your "directional" outfit. You know, "directional," like "weird."

Then of course there's a different sort of Clash - the one that happens when you're exhausted, in a rush, and grabbing a dress off the floor. You can wear it with a meant-to-do-that kind of attitude, and maybe it'll work.

But can a style mash really make you look more sophisticated? Or is "The Clash" better left as an iconic rock band?

posted by Laia

Nov 06, 2007 9:35AM

I think that's one of the signs that someone is stylish; the ability to put things together that normally wouldn't work and still look fabulous. I am not saying it is the ONLY sign, but that's what makes me turn my head and obsessively scan the sartorialist.

posted by Lindsay Sue

Nov 06, 2007 9:38AM

There are a group of girls at my school who tend to have this look. But in my opinion, they look like they have tried too hard to look like they haven't tried at all. Its forced.

I think there is a fine line between the two as described above.

posted by Lindsay Sue

Nov 06, 2007 9:40AM

Excuse me. I meant "There is a group"...

posted by Erin

Nov 06, 2007 11:04AM

I think if you want to achieve this look, confidence has to be your main accessory! You can get away with murder if you look like you know what you're doing. You can't be caught fidgeting with your outfit or fussing in the mirror at work. You have to sell it with your attitude.

posted by Katie

Nov 06, 2007 1:22PM

My favorite outfits are the ones that aren't quite "right". That, for me, is what really looks great. Colors or patterns or shapes that don't go together in a traditional sense but somehow look perfect.

posted by guest

Nov 06, 2007 2:12PM

The above outfit is ugly. The pieces aren't that bad (except the top, perhaps; too boxy). I wouldn't say this outfit actually clashes, though.

posted by JennyYo

Nov 06, 2007 4:24PM

I would and do all the time, leave matchy matchy for the ladies-who-lunch. Being vibrant in a sea of blah boosts my mental health.