There’s one ensemble that has turned into such an iconic and reliable choice for outfits.
wardrobes of millennial women
It’s essentially become a cliché at this point.

Of course, we are referring to a
blazer
and jeans.

The
combination
It suits many events, ranging from informal gatherings to professional settings, making it an excellent choice when you’re dealing with a fashion emergency.

View: How to implement the Incorrect Footwear concept. The post continues below.

But have you ever considered what makes this blend seem so seamless?

Theoretically, pairing a custom-fit piece such as a blazer with a plainly casual material like denim should not succeed logically, yet it does.

The reason being? The formal jacket is compensating for the casual jeans.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley showcases the easy blend of an oversize blazer with jeans. Image: Instagram/@rosiehw.

Viral stylist and author
Allison Bornstein
suggests that ‘overcompensating’ frequently holds the secret to styling challenging pieces.

The fashion guru presented her
theory
In a video shared on her widely followed TikTok page, she suggests that when putting an outfit together, your approach should really focus on the styling.
against
Your gut feelings to design a more captivating ensemble.

Stick around, as she’s about to share an excellent example centered around — you probably know what’s coming next — denim.

A pair of torn jeans comes to mind; they’re relaxed and informal, leading you to think about pairing them with equally laid-back and loose items,” says the stylist.

In such a scenario, she suggests opting for items like a leather jacket or a band t-shirt instead.

However, using this method might make you appear more like a costume, instead of being stylish and deliberate.

Bornstein suggests that you’re emphasizing and enhancing the features of these torn jeans, essentially magnifying their characteristics.

Alternatively, she recommends balancing out the denim with an opposite element — such as opting for sleek pointed shoes to introduce some edge, or pairing it with a sophisticated blazer to create a distinct contrast in shape.

The concept is akin to what went viral for her
‘wrong shoe’ theory
This implies opting for a contrasting shoe with your ensemble rather than going for the practical option. As before, it’s all about emphasizing the difference.

For this ensemble, personal stylist Fifi Milne pairs a bold white tank top with a sophisticated leather skirt and upscale accessories. Image: Instagram/@shopwithfifi

“Instead of embracing an extreme trend head-on and building your entire look around it, go for a contrasting approach,” Bornstein suggests.

Ponder the exact opposite of that sharp, intense vibe.

Nikki Parsons, a content creator and designer, demonstrates how to pair a bohemian-inspired blouse with more laid-back, utilitarian items. Image: Instagram/@stylingyou

Her idea could potentially clarify the elusive charm behind several major trends that surfaced this year.

Lace maxiskirts paired with
oversized graphic tees
. Sporty trackpants teamed with girlie cardigans. Coats worn with…
thong heels
.

When you consider it, one part always seems to overdo it to compensate for the other.

Fashion stylist Emelia Morris pairs a bold print T-shirt with a flowy maxi skirt featuring lace details. Image: Instagram/@emeliamorrisstylist

You can likewise incorporate this theory into your accessories. Whether you’re sporting a casual outfit or lounge wear, you can elevate the laid-back vibe with a pair of stylish shades and an elegant suede tote bag.

If you’re wearing a printed maxi dress, you can counterbalance the bohemian feel with simple sandals and bold, sculptural jewelry.