Let’s get real for a second, shall we? It’s completely common to get fixated on one way to wear a piece of attire. We are all guilty of this. Here’s the play-by-play: We go to our closet and pick out the newest addition to our wardrobe, which we’ve already imagined how we’d style with something we already own (or, with something else that was also recently purchased, if you’re a real shopaholic….you go, Glen CoCo!). We throw it on for whatever planned occasion we’ve been holding it out for, and we show that puppy off!

Now, we heard the piece was a hit, and we want to wear it again, because why wouldn’t we? We could wear the same exact outfit again if the crowd is different, but if it’s not, do we wait until enough time has passed or do we put our best IDGAF out there and repeat the look?

Here’s our alternative: Come up with another way to style that main piece. More easily said than done, you say? Feeling like you’re stuck in your ways or like your creative outlets are on vacation?

That, my friends, is what the biz calls a style rut.

Here’s where I come in. I’m about to drop some real sartorial advice on how to overcome that block.

Start off easy: Swap out just one item, like your go-to shoes for a different pair, or try out a different top layer. Add a pop of color or even a statement accessory. A small tweak can be all you need to create a whole new look!

Feeling more motivated? Go big by exchanging more than just one item. With a few minor switches, you can give that piece a whole new life — and give you some newfound style inspiration to boot!

Now, time to put my lessons into practice. I bought these striped crop wide leg trousers and mentally paired them with a crop tee, a cape jacket, flats and a chunky necklace for some edge. This outfit was the perfect look to go from meetings to drinks. Then, along came this off the shoulder top, and coupled with a new opportunity to wear the trousers, I had put together an entirely new outfit before I knew it. I swapped the original necklace for one of my trademark chokers, tossed on some pumps and a chic jacket, and changed up my hairstyle for a more posh ensemble. It was love at first styling.

Scroll through for all the deets on how I personally battled my own style rut.

P.S. I’ve put my tips to good use since taking these pictures and have already put two additional looks together! Keep an eye out on Instagram to check them out 😉

Look One:

Jacket | Top | Pants | Shoes | Bag | Necklace (similar 1) (similar 2) | Assorted Rings (20% off purchase with code: NIKITA20) | Lipstick

Look Two:

Jacket (similar 1) (similar 2) | Top | Pants | Shoes | Bag | Choker | Earrings (similar) | Lipstick mixed One + Two