You Can Pull It Off

We’ve heard it a million times — “you can totally pull that off” or “there’s no way I can pull this off” or “only she could pull that off.” But what do we really mean by this? How can one person “pull off” something while someone else cannot? More importantly, why can’t you?

Like why we post what we do on social media, this is something I didn’t really deeply think about until today. What is it about a person where they can “pull off” certain things and cannot “pull off” others? And how does one become like Olivia Palermo and literally “pull off” anything?

Like a strapless dress over a crisp white blouse for example (and a statement necklace, and two large matching cuffs…)

What I love most about fashion (and is one of the reasons I started this site in the first place) is that it gives people confidence, at least it does for me. When I’m in an outfit I feel good in and that I think represents my personality, I become more confident. It’s pretty cool that clothes can do that to you. So if you’re confident in wearing something, you pull it off. Or at least I’d say that’s true 98% of the time. The other 2% involves those great dress, wrong girl moments that I talk about at least once per red carpet season.

There are certain styles that you really have to own (not literally, as all red carpet dresses are borrowed anyway) to pull off. Look like you belong in that dress. Those shoes were meant to be on your feet. That skirt is SO you. Get it? And I’m not saying this comes easy. I used to think I could never pull off a leather jacket. Now it’s a go-to closet staple for me. I was obsessed with these Stella McCartney brogues when they first came out and when I got them, I actually almost returned them as I didn’t think I could pull off these crazy ass shoes.

Now…aren’t you sick of me wearing them?

I do like to challenge myself a bit when it comes to fashion. Like there’s something I’m interested in wearing, it’s not 100% me but if I can make it “me” then I’ll give it a shot. Like a crop top and a mid-length sort-of fitted skirt? Never in a million years (okay 26 years) did I think I’d be wearing such a thing. But it happened…

And of course, with those damn shoes.

Other “fashiony things” people don’t think they can pull off include culottes (which I admit aren’t easy but if you style it right, anyone can do it), monochromatic (which I’m into), denim on denim (not so fond of) and whatever this is…

Which is amazing…but probably best suited for fashion week only.

So if you want to try something that’s perhaps a little out of your comfort zone, go for it. However, if it’s totally outside your comfort zone and in no way relates to your current personal style, see if there’s a way you can make it your own. For example, if you tend to dress pretty feminine, I wouldn’t go for a leather pants / leather jacket / biker boots combination. You will feel ridiculous and therefore look it too. If you want to wear leather, try one of your feminine dresses with a leather jacket. Or if you really want to go for head-to-toe leather, opt for lighter colors like a blush leather skirt with a white leather top. Get what I’m saying here? I wouldn’t wear a trend just because it’s a trend. You’ll never find me in a denim on denim look because it’s just not me. It looks great on a lot of people, it’s currently on trend, but it’s not my thing.

If it’s something that you want to wear and think suits your personality then DO IT. Wear with confidence and you’ll be pulling “it” off in no time. HOORAY!

Are there any trends / styles you’ve been wanting try but don’t think you can pull them off? Let me know in the comments. Perhaps I can be of some assistance 🙂

Images via Vogue, WhoWhatWear & Le 21ème