Elevate Your Style: How to Achieve Elegance, An Ode to European Fashion
Are you looking for a new style? Try these classy and timeless looks inspired by European fashion–something that has stood the test of time.
Over winter break, I studied abroad in Milan, which is not only the figurehead of fashion in Italy but the world. As such a concentrated hub of style, Milan is up on the trends and has a plethora of examples of what Europeans should wear. With pops of flattering colors and elevated neutrals, this style might be just what you're looking for in the new year. Here are some aspects of European fashion you can incorporate into your looks in 2024.
Start With the Basics
Europeans have a “less is more” approach when it comes to personal style, meaning that investing in quality over quantity will give you more options to experiment with your wardrobe—building a collection of basics that fit well and last will give you more bang for your buck and an easy foundation for any outfit.
Staple pieces that I find myself wearing often include well-fitting denim, neutral tees and sweaters, black mini and midi skirts, and simple dress pants. For denim, try darker washes, straight or wide leg, minimal to no rips, and experiment with the waistline: high, low, and mid-rise are all in this year.
For tops, invest in elevated neutrals: a classic white tee that matches with everything or a comfy turtleneck that can be layered under a sweater. Europeans balance practicality and style, so don’t shy away from dressing up your dunks or new balances either. Clean sneakers with casual slacks and a sweater or jeans are a very common look abroad.
Incorporate Color
After building a simple outfit out of a capsule of quality basics, it's time to add some pops of color. There are many ways to do this while still incorporating your personality, from sweaters to bags, to other accessories. If you're working with a neutral outfit, adding accent colors through accessorizing is a great way to coordinate seasonal colors into your look. Stick with one color and integrate it throughout for a clean, chic ensemble.
For example, notice how these accessories take a fairly basic white top and jeans to the next level by including this classy shade of wine red from head to toe.
This method applies to any outfit, casual or elegant. Just add a wool coat or simple puffer, and you’re ready to walk out the door.
If you want to experiment with even more color in your looks this year, check out Peach Fuzz, the 2024 Pantone Color of the Year.
The director of Pantone, Leatrice Eiseman, describes Peach Fuzz as a color that is “Radiant with warmth and modern elegance,” which is perfect for channeling a sophisticated European taste this season!
Read up on Elle Magazine’s take on including Peach Fuzz in your style this year.
https://www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/g46075946/pantone-2024-color-of-the-year-peach-fuzz-fashion/
Bundle Up
Europeans love their scarves, and especially during this chilly season, take advantage of the opportunity to add some flair to your next fit. Colorblock scarves have been all the rage recently, and they pair well with a coordinating bag, gloves, or jewelry.
Love scarves and want to wear them all year long? Check out this article from Vogue on how to wear scarves in every season.
Written by
Seda Propes