5 Underrated Clothing Items

5 Underrated Clothing Items to Feature in Your Wardrobe

Fashion trends have a way of capturing our attention and dictating what’s “in” and “out” of style. But while it’s exciting in its own way to stay up to date with the latest fashion fads, nothing beats unlocking one’s full fashion potential with more underrated finds.

Clothes, accessories, footwear, or fabrics that are often overlooked in favour of others can give you some unique perspective on how to dress up and look good on your own terms. Once you’ve learned how to properly incorporate them into your outfits, you may be surprised at how the underrated items in your closet shine.

Below are five underrated clothing pieces that deserve some more of the spotlight in your next outfits of the day (OOTDs). Let’s explore their unique qualities and how to style them to perfection, as well as some expert tips and tricks to help you make the most of these hidden gems.

Stylish Tights

Although tights (especially neutral-coloured ones) have been staples in women’s fashion for a long time, many assume that they can only elevate an outfit’s impact to a certain extent. Colours like black, beige, and brown are considered “safe” options, and on their own, they may not have enough appeal to make an outfit stand out.

But a pair of stylish tights can transform your ensemble from plain and simple to unique and attractive in a pinch. Go out of your comfort zone and experiment with these underrated classics in a wider range of patterns, colours, and textures. That way, they’ll be able to add a one-of-a-kind twist to your look, which a pair of generic tights may not be able to do.

From fishnet tights to patterned and opaque tights, there are countless options to suit your personal style and the occasion you want to wear them at. They can be easily paired with simple garments to create statement outfits, for example, a pair of daring fishnet tights with a simple dress or skirt. And why not try wearing a pair of opaque tights in a bold colour to give an otherwise ordinary outfit a more vibrant appeal? Soon, your tights may go from the occasional player to the MVP of your everyday wardrobe.  

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are often underrated because a lot of women find them tedious to wear. But the most well-made pieces can strike a perfect balance between stylish and comfortable, which makes them worth owning and wearing for a variety of occasions.

These versatile one-piece wonders come in various cuts, lengths, and fabrics, and they can easily be styled up or styled down depending on the occasion. Whether you opt for a tailored jumpsuit for a formal event or a casual, flowy one for your next day out, their streamlined and elegant appearance are sure to make a statement.

To style a jumpsuit, consider adding a belt to cinch the waist and create a more defined silhouette. Pair it with heels or wedges for an elevated look, or opt for sneakers or flats for a more relaxed outfit. Accessorize with statement jewellery or a chic clutch for a red carpet-ready ensemble, or a distressed denim jacket and some classic pearl earrings for your next night out with the girls.

Wide-Leg Trousers

Even though people don’t turn to wide-leg trousers quite as often as bottoms like skinny jeans, their flowy and boxy elegance can add a touch of sophistication to your outfits if you know what to pair them with. Try wearing wide-leg pants with a fitted blouse, for example, to create a polished but approachable look that’s perfect for the office. Pair them with a graphic tee for an ensemble with high-street appeal.

As for footwear, a number of shoe types work well with wide-leg trousers. Opt for heels or wedges to elongate your legs and show off your feminine side, or go for ankle boots for an appearance with a little more edge. With wide-leg trousers, you can create a number of versatile and chic outfits that are perfect for any season, which is why they’re worth busting out of your closet a little more often.

Kitten Heels

Kitten heels may be small in height, but they pack a big punch in the style department. These underrated footwear options, which take their name from once being used as training heels for young girls or “kittens,” strike the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. They can easily take you from day to night, offering a more manageable alternative to high heels.

Pair your kitten heels with a pencil skirt or tailored pants for an office look you won’t mind wearing to meetings or pitches. They’ll also work well with dresses and help you give off a feminine touch without sacrificing comfort. For your next date night, try combining kitten heels with cropped jeans and a blouse. These underrated classics might be on rotation a little more often once you give them a try.

Velvet Fabric

Velvet fabric exudes luxury and opulence, yet it often flies under the radar. It’s rich texture and lustrous sheen can instantly turn dresses, blazers, or even accessories like handbags and headbands into fascinating statement pieces. All it takes is some willingness to use velvet in situations where you wouldn’t normally consider it.

Flaunt velvet for a formal event, for example, by wearing a velvet dress in a deep jewel tone. Finish the look with metallic heels and minimalistic jewellery for a stunning ensemble that looks like a million bucks. To add a touch of velvet to your everyday outfits, try popping a velvet blazer over a blouse and jeans. The key to styling velvet is to let it serve as the focal point of your look while keeping the rest of your outfit simple and elegant.

Incorporating underrated fashion elements into your wardrobe will help you break free from the confines of mainstream trends and embrace your unique style. Invest in these often-overlooked pieces to build a wardrobe that withstands the test of time while allowing you to exercise a fashion-forward perspective!