On Breaking Your Own Style Rules

How I have fun with my wardrobe by adding in unexpected pieces.

Upon purchasing my first Missoni item, a scarf featuring the heritage brand’s signature zig-zag design, a thought crossed my mind. I was never a big fan of Missoni before this purchase and didn’t pay much attention to the brand’s collections because I never felt it was a style match for me. Until I found the scarf (which had all my favorite colors in it, no less), I didn’t think Missoni fit into the box that I often rigidly define as my personal style.

I don’t think I’m alone when I say I have strict rules for dressing. While my style is arguably quite eclectic, it fits into several distinct categories and subcultures that I try not to deviate from when making purchases. Each addition to my wardrobe is carefully thought-out and I don’t want to bring in anything that won’t pair with what I already own and love. This said, I gravitate toward primary colors, sporty and mod silhouettes, and abstract prints — these are the things that feel most “me.” 

My last few purchases, however, have veered outside these preconceived sartorial connotations, so much so that I debated purchasing them. While they fit my color palette, each piece is decidedly more boho and slightly more trendy than what I usually go for. And I have no regrets.

I found the Missoni scarf at a designer vintage pop-up for Shop Nou (an insta-famous shop with a candy-colored assortment of vintage Miu Miu and Dior heels) at Heart & Lou’s Vintage in Soho. Looking through all the racks, I thought I struck out, then from afar, I spotted a gorgeous piece of fabric bunched up on a bench. I didn’t know what it was — a top, a headband? — but I had to see it. Light blue, yellow, red, orange and green zig-zag stripes — a decidedly more vibrant and unconventional colorway for Missoni.

Now, I haven’t been a scarf girl since the circle scarf days of yore. I’ve also never really been a Missoni girl as, like I mentioned it’s a bit too boho (apologies to my Free People days) and usually not my colors, but this one changed my mind. Not only are the colors perfect, but there are endless ways to wear this piece. Plus, it looked amazing with the outfit I had on (blue trench coat, baggy jeans, a green cowboy boots), which is always a good sign that it will mesh well with your wardrobe.