Common outfit mistakes in 2024 include clothes that don’t fit, over- or underdressing for the occasion, overtly flashy attire, and going overboard with a provocative outfit.

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1. Poorly fitting clothes

Body positivity mandates that people should wear whatever they love without concern for others’ opinions. This is a commendable attitude, within reason. If one’s clothes are too tight or too baggy, it can send the wrong message about their attention to detail and self-care, even if they didn’t intend for this to happen. The good news is that attention to detail can be learned. According to a recent survey, 81% of executives and 82% of midlevel managers say employees can learn to be more detail-oriented. There are implications of this beyond the workplace.

2. Neglecting grooming and hygiene

Dirty shoes, wrinkled clothes, or unkempt hair can distract from even the most stylish outfit.

3. Over- or underdressing for the venue

Showing up in a suit to a casual coffee date or wearing gym clothes to a fine dining restaurant can signal a lack of situational awareness, which in turn indicates a potential disconnect from the expectations of the environment. In social settings like dating, this can lead to negative perceptions. It can make it seem like one didn’t put effort into understanding the context or what would make the other person comfortable.

When someone overdresses or underdresses, it might appear that they’re more focused on themselves or showing off than on the date.

4. Too many accessories

Too much bling or flashy accessories can feel overwhelming and take the focus away from the person wearing them. They are also among the markings of a pick me girl. Accessories should balance each other out. If you are wearing big earrings, it might be a good idea to limit other accessories. Ideally, stick with two statement pieces at most.

5. Overtly flashy attire

Wearing excessive logos and designer labels can come off as trying too hard. According to a 2022 survey of around 1,600 consumers, just under 40% overspent to impress someone, especially on accessories, clothes, and shoes (16%) and gifts (15%). Impressing a date was one of the most commonly cited reasons. At the time of the survey, more than a quarter (27%) of people who had overspent were in debt, and more than a third (36%) had had debt related to overspending. 34% of Gen X had overspent, and this generation was almost the most likely to be in debt for spending too much money. 77% said they regretted overspending, which is worth keeping in mind.

6. Wearing mismatched patterns

Loud prints or mismatched patterns can be visually off-putting and make an outfit look chaotic. Two examples of patterns that pair well are stripes and florals and stripes and polka dots. Stripes provide structure, while florals add softness, creating a balanced look. To draw attention to the florals, keep the stripes neutral.

Both polka dots and stripes are simple and geometric, making them easy to harmonize. To avoid clashing, use similar color palettes.

7. Ignoring the weather

Showing up in heavy layers on a hot day or sandals in the rain can make one seem unprepared and situationally unaware.

8. Dressing too sexy

While it’s great to feel confident, revealing too much too soon can send unintended signals. A sure sign that an outfit is too provocative is if it has the effect of not knowing where to look. If you’re wearing a miniskirt, keep the rest of the outfit simple and elegant. A low-cut top pairs well with pants or a long skirt.

9. Clashing colors

Clashing colors or overly bright combinations can create an unflattering look.

10. Dirty shoes

Finally, footwear can set the tone of an outfit, and scuffed or inappropriate shoes can ruin the overall impression.