Fashion has the ability to change your mood and boost your confidence, but bold fashion is about taking risks and making a statement. It’s not about following trends or trying to fit in.
The rapper Missy Elliott famously wore a bold all-pink tracksuit at the 2003 Grammy Awards. Her unique style is synonymous with bold fashion, and is on of the inspirations behind the hot pink tracksuit fashion of today.
Ultimately, bold fashion can be anything from bright colours and lavish prints to quirky designs and clashing combinations. But at its heart, bold fashion is about expressing your personality through eye-catching unconventional pieces that turn heads.
History of Bold Fashion
For centuries, there have been people who have embraced the notion of dressing boldly without it even being considered a trend or style. The trend became more mainstream in the 1960s with the advent of bold prints and bright colours, while the 70s and 80s saw punk, hip hop, and rap, push fashion in new and radical directions.
Today’s Bold Fashion
Streetstyle is perhaps the greatest example of bold fashion that we see today, with bright colours, oversized garments, and daring accessories all part of the mix. Influencers and celebrities use the trend to stand out and express their personalities to fans, and in doing so, they continue to push the boundaries of bold fashion.
Famous bold dressers:
- Timothée Chalamet: Renowned for his extravagant red-carpet choices, such as embellished bibs and sequin hoodies.
- Zendaya: A modern style influencer, the actress takes risks on and off the red carpet and is known for her adventurous experimentation.
- Billie Eilish: Famed for her signature oversized silhouettes and bold colour choices, the singer continues to challenge the traditional fashion norms with her individuality.
- Lady Gaga: Celebrated for her theatrical and avant-garde outfits, such as her infamous meat dress.
- Rihanna: The singer is regarded as a fashion trendsetter with her unpredictable boundary pushing, bold outfits.
How to dress boldly
The secret to incorporating boldness into your style is to embrace colour and experiment with different prints and textures. Mixing and matching these clashing styles is a key element, so don’t be afraid to take risks.
How to master bold fashion
Start Small: If you’re hesitant to dive into bold outfits, start by adding a statement accessory, like a colourful scarf or belt, or a patterned top or skirt.
Less is more: Bold fashion is all about standing out but be careful not to go overboard when putting your outfit together. For beginners, adding just one bold element to an outfit is a great place to start.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try out different colours, textures, and patterns to create your unique outfit. Mix and match contrasting pieces to create a bold style and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
Comfort: Don’t sacrifice comfort for the sake of fashion. Bold fashion can still be comfortable and functional if you choose the right pieces and fit.
Setting: Consider where you will wear your new bold outfit. Some settings or events may not be suitable – or ready – for your unique style!
Be you: Don’t be afraid to express who you are. Bold fashion is all about confidence, so if it makes you feel good then go for it!
Layering: Adding neutral-toned pieces with bold accents, like a bright belt, bag or hat, can add a dash of colour without overpowering your outfit.
Accessorise: Using statement pieces, such as chunky rings, bold necklace or statement shoes, can help lift your outfit to the next level.
Silhouettes: From oversized blazers to asymmetrical skirts, experimenting with unconventional cuts and shapes can create unusual and interesting silhouettes.
Makeup: It’s easy to forget that you are part of your outfit, so go bold and try out bright lip colours, glittery eyeshadow or graphic eyeliner.
Remember, bold fashion is about expressing yourself through your style choices, so don’t worry what anyone else thinks. As long as you feel comfortable and confident in what you wear, nothing else matters.
