Style Tips: The Visual Phenomena

Hi everyone,

I hope this post finds you well. Have you ever heard of “Visual Phenomena” in styling? If not, don’t worry as today I will be sharing a few style tips relating to this. While the title may seem complicated, it’s actually very easy to comprehend. Some of those tips can make a huge difference in one’s outfit depending on one’s overall goals.

In Stylism, we often use fabrics, colors, patterns, and sometimes accessories to create what we call “an optical illusion”. In theory, the visual phenomena is an optical illusion that can alter how you see an outfit on someone. So basically, you can use your outfit to slightly modify reality. For example, as a petite woman, I enjoy wearing monochromatic looks because it makes me look taller than I actually am.

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On another side, dark colors are also used to make you look slimmer which also creates an elongating effect. While on the other hand light colors and contrasting patterns accentuate your curves and give you a larger frame. In this article, we will mostly focus on lines, colors, and patterns.

A- Direction of lines

1. Horizontal lines tend to broaden and shorten visually. Example: waistbands, belts (especially those in contrasting colors), cuffs on pants and sleeves, layered and frill dresses, horizontal seams, horizontal pleats, horizontal stripes in contrasting colors;
2. Horizontal and diagonal lines have a slimming and lengthening visual effect. Examples: crease on pants, vertical stripes, vertical seams, button rows or tabs, zippers, ribbed look, slits, long necklace or shawl;
3. Curved lines emphasize round parts. They derive from patterns, ruches, frills, and the shape of jewelry.

B- Placement of Colors & Patterns

1. Light, shiny or vivid colors have an emphasizing effect;
2. Dark or matte colors and patterns have a receding effect;
3. One-color, tone-in-tone, or running patterns have an elongating effect;
4. Color transitions attract the eyes. A color transition can occur within a garment, not only where the top and bottom items touch.

So, do you think you have consciously or unconsciously used visual phenomena in your everyday style? If yes comment down below and let me know. Or is there anything you like to do to take advantage of your unique and beautiful body shape? I will be happy to read your thoughts.

Thanks for stopping by.

Xo,