PLEASE let me teach you how to wear your formal clothes in a new way! I made a graph 🥺 💛

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Okay, what piece in your wardrobe immediately came to mind while watching this video? 👀

[@Gus.Martin.Rollerblading]

I just.. wanna rock my leather jacket w/ some slacks 🤭

[@fermentingdragon]

maybe i should just cut up that slip dress i bought like 3 years ago and never wore to add some droop and texture to wear it over jeans and have them peek through

[@MaraAnnelisa]

My thrifted suits! I wear the blazers and the trousers separately, but never together because I feel like it's too formal to wear to campus lol

[@meganechan720]

A green satiny dress with a high collar that is clearly a knockoff of something (no brand tag, stretchy fabric, but also a side zipper? 🤨) but I love it as it is. Maybe I'll try tucking it into something if I can, or put a sweater over it. Though I'm also on the lookout for some tulle to put under it for volume if I actually do need to look fancy.

[@cookiecrispsssss]

An 80's gold Gunne Sax ball gown i found thrifting. It's beautiful and amazing but I have such a hard time styling it

[@gittevandevelde2208]

Something i've also come to realize about "dressing fancy" is that, well - if you always dress fancier than other's, that's just your style. Not groundbreaking at all, but like, when you've been wearing a jeans and a basic button up to work all week, and then on friday you show up in a cocktail dress - of course people are gonna say "woah where are you going" but if you wear things with lots of frill and bling on a daily basis, and someone new comes in and they're like "woah why do they dress like that" your colleagues are just gonna say "yes they always do that is their style", and it's much more.... Normal that way? So I've been easing myself into letting my inner barbie meets galadriel meets renaissance princess loose in babysteps. Gone with the basic t-shirts, enter t-shirts with fancy smocking and applique's, then fancy detailed blouses, then easing in more fancyish dresses into my wardrobe. Other than that - if it is airy/warm, moveable and washable enough for whatever you're doing, it's good enough. I personally don't like several of your tips here on my look and bodytype, such as very casual shoes and colorblocking. But I do love a more formal silhouette in a more practical fabric.

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Oooo I love your point about if it’s movable/washable/airy enough, it’s good enough! It helps me think of clothing more functionally so I don’t get hung up on “but it’s too fancy/casual!”. Love it. Thank you for your thoughtful message, Gitte! Your Barbie elf vibes sound SO cool and chic.

[@Selestrielle]

I totally agree with easing into a more extravagant look on a day to day basis. If all someone ever wears are basic blue jeans and plain t-shirts, changing it up even slightly might feel like "too much" in contrast. It's a good idea to build up to wearing different things, maybe by pushing oneself to style some seldom-worn items of clothing like colorful shoes or patterned pants. Personally, I've been working my way up the "style ladder" so to speak since the pandemic. Sitting at home by myself for months really hammered home how I didn't have any special occasion to wear all the fun clothing I owned. So as soon as we went back to the office I decided fuck it I'll wear the fancy stuff at work. Being consistently overdressed is part of my personal brand now I guess XD.

[@janevim11]

that's exactly how I've done it back in middle school, when I discovered lolita fashion and started to curate myself into a more princessy look. every time I moved into a new environment throughout my life I've always got a few comments asking where I'm going later, but people did catch on quite quickly. the only downside is that if everyone knows you're an elegant little lady, they don't compliment you as much on that anymore:) but I genuinely couldn't go back to wearing "regular" hoodie and jeans every day, I feel deeply uncomfortable whenever I go out in that. if I do go out in something less formal, all of my pants are some kind of thrifted repurposed workwear paired with layered tops or a specially cool lame t-shirt that just gives fun to the whole outfit.

[@justlola417]

Exactly! It just turns into "your thing", and it might even embolden others to follow your lead. I've been wearing a variety of loud lipsticks and necklaces everyday since high school and people usually comment on it at first and then don't even notice it anymore, so I have these two things I can play with no matter the dress code (like, I can't wear my preferred poofy dresses or crop top+shorts at a corporate office or a science lab, but I can still inject some personality with necklaces and lipstick in a way that's not intrusive to my work). And then in my leisure time I go for overdressed (with pieces I can wash easily like you said) and my friends are used to it as well. It's all a matter of expectations

[@333Becca]

Slow clap, yes.

[@demonicastar]

I love this! I think we should all wear the pieces we love, even the dressier ones. Life is too short to wait for the special occasion or event that never comes .

[@KathleenIllustrated]

100%!!! Life is the special event, baybieeee. PS I was thinking of you recently! Hope you're doing well

[@demonicastar]

@@KathleenIllustrated awe you're too sweet 🥰 and you are absolutely correct, life is definitely the special event and sometimes we forget that. Sending much love your way beautiful ❤❤❤

[@MandaK77]

Adding leather accessories can toughen up any look and make it more casual. You can also incorporate sporty items, sneakers, yes, but also letter jackets, sweatshirts, and branded sports wear to add graphics and more color. Or, if you love Marvel, Anime, Star Wars, add those items in to your outfit! I don't see that enough. Geek it up a little. Yes, you can wear a Groot t shirt with a sequin skirt.

[@coldgrandpa]

I love that everyone is just dressing fun and how they want in cool and unique ways while literally making art, technically. Like using the principles of design to concoct outfits. Fuck yes. We are artists

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Exactly!!! We’re composing, we’re designing, we’re telling stories. It’s magic!!!! 💕💖✨

[@Aster_Risk]

I went to high school from 2005-2009 and I wore a lot of thrift store prom and formal dresses as regular clothing. I had so much energy when I was a teenager. This video really makes me want to go back to that.

[@KathleenIllustrated]

I love that!! I dressed similarly & it felt awesome to express myself like that during such formative years. Let’s get back to it, my friend! 💖✨

[@helenm1085]

I love wearing weird things but I have sensory issues that make it literally uncomfortable to layer certain things... But on the other hand layering can mean that I can put a soft layer between me and a scratchy layer! At the moment I'm dreaming about making weird soft accessories so I can put a bit of strange into an outfit!

[@helenm1085]

I've been eyeing off the string I made out of pieces of an old t-shirt to tie back my sunflowers (which have now finished for the year). It faded a little in the sun and the knots in the fabric create great texture

[@KathleenIllustrated]

@@helenm1085 Ahh love the idea of soft accessories that can be comfy for those of us with sensory issues AND look super cool at the same time!

[@phoeberose2429]

I'm the same, I love pretty jewellery but I can't wear it

[@helenm1085]

@@BillyBobbobbob I'm autistic and am hypersensitive to how my clothing feels

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Sorry Helen, I deleted the unkind comment

[@nicolelee2205]

And I think it's fun to apply your ideas to our interiors too. Mixing high low, antique, collectible, thrift and new. Much more interesting than one note design.

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Such a good point, Nicole! I hadn't thought about it that way before

[@jeanneobbard]

Hel Looks (Helsinki street style) was my favorite to scroll through pre-Instagram, and I think it still exists... The archives may be more fun but I feel like the one-of-a-kind fashion decisions of Finnish art student is kind of timeless and trendless in some ways. I'd say your fashion alignment is "chaotic good." ☺

[@KathleenIllustrated]

I just recently discovered Hel Looks (had no idea it was run by the same person as NYC looks!) and I TOTALLY agree - timeless and trendless.. which is such a powerful combo? Also, i agree to the chaotic good. Feels right :)

[@irissicly]

ohh! I am finnish, i love Hel Looks!

[@becca5232]

I've been following Tokyo Fashion for YEARS, it's an incredible resource for inspiration for any kind of look and style! Of course it's more on the "extreme" side, but I always find interesting looks and ideas that I think are adaptable in more wearable outfits as well :)

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Yes!!!!! such amazing use of layering and accessories 😭

[@jaybee4118]

I’m 50 and I just fell into this kind of casual formal thing when I was about 15 in 1988ish. It was partly necessity because my mum had OCD, it’s complicated to explain why, so I just did whatever I could with the very few clothes I had and the accessories I could get hold of. I’ve had so many people over the years tell me they can’t pull it off, but anyone can. You just have to start small like wearing a very fancy pair of earrings with jeans and a t-shirt and things like that. Work up to the cocktail dress with sneakers and have fun on the way!

[@beanbean4563]

I have a habit of dressing super fancy when there's no reason and then ultra casual when the occassion calls for formality lol Also these tips are FIRE and you are SO PRETTY

[@nova4476]

Finally, a video for someone like me who doesn’t want to feel overdressed while wearing formal clothes in every scenario!!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

heck yeah!!! Thanks for watching, fellow-fancy-friend 💃🏻

[@incrediblefelis]

This is why FASHION is FUN. 💛 I loved this video so much and I'll save it so that I can come back when I feel uninspired ✨All your outfits and all the examples of other people's outfits were fabulous, stunning and topped with a great amount of whimsy ofc 🌈 Thank you dearly 🙏

[@KathleenIllustrated]

whimsy of course!!!!! thanks so much for watching, my friend :)

[@keropi193]

I never want this fashion era to end please.

[@Quathryn]

So much fun!! Definitely going to be thinking of this the next time I'm putting together a fun outfit :) Btw, the wood pattern shirt under the green dress is giving "cast as the tree in the school play" vibes in the best way possible. Very whimsical and witchy

[@KathleenIllustrated]

LOL you're so right. That one tree on stage that really takes things to the next level 😆 Thanks for watchin!!!

[@brandycolmer7052]

This is so fun and inspiring. It speaks to my inner 3 yo who loved nothing more than putting together looks like this. I think it can be very healing to dress this way. ❤😊 definitely life affirming

[@KathleenIllustrated]

ah brandy - i'm so so glad you enjoyed it! i love the idea of healing and nurturing ourselves through dress up. take care, my friend!

[@mysizemagpie9592]

Any tips on fun self expression in the HEAT?! I love the layering look but in 110 degree heat I always grab shorts and a tee and lees less funky

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Mags!! I usually gravitate towards long/flowy layers in the heat - I think color blocking and fun (but non constricting) accessories could totally be the winning ticket here 💕and a silk hair scarf to keep the mane off of your neck? LOVE

[@Monicalala]

@@KathleenIllustrated this is the video we need in light of climate change ❤

[@Chickn420]

I’m INCREDIBLY inspired. I love fashion advice that I haven’t heard yet and this new wave of expression through style has been so fun to explore

[@madaffi2434]

I legit have to say that adding the expression axis blew my mind

[@WestTxtsPplBack]

LOVED this video! so good. feeling very inspired to dress my wildest. the piece that came to mind for me: this vintage shoulder-padded western shirt with cutouts on the chest and back that has always felt too formal for casual situations and too casual for formal situations. excited to try and lean hard to the casual side with it. 🤠

[@KathleenIllustrated]

that piece sounds so FUN. i know you'll rock it on the rootinist, tootinist coffee date SOON.

[@lunamegan]

I have this tight white dress with puffy sleeves which I love but I don't tend to wear anything white or frilly so last week I went to a party and put a black corset over it and some statement pantyhose and chunky boots under it to make it less 'serious' and paired with my messy red hair and some jewellery it came out as a pretty good alternative look

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Yess that sounds so cool!! 🔥🔥🔥

[@MaraAnnelisa]

Tokyofashion!! Not the styles I wear daily, I'm definitely team casual and team comfort, but I just love the creativity 💛

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Yes!!! Awesome call. Rocking super creative casual/comfy looks is an amazing art in its own. Thank you for watchin'!

[@hberror404]

what an absolute BANGER of a video! Inspiration for how-to-wear AND introduction to other fashionable folx! Colour me influenced 💖 Lots of love, a Stinky Baby 🥰

[@KathleenIllustrated]

hopie, the stinkiest of babes!!!!! so glad you enjoyed it, my friend

[@MelliaBoomBot]

Fabulous 🐰. Yes, ever since I saw Carrie Bradshaw in the taffeta skirt with baseball shirt I’ve been hooked ❤but another thing is if you keep your clothes for “best” / some occasion etc they’re quite few and far between so best to love it & live it. Top marks again Lady Kathleen..😊..yay! The flail/mace bag lol

[@scandalfrb4154]

Also, don't be afraid to cut up things. You can move closures around, use only the skirt if the top doesn't fit, etc. Worst thing to happen is you ruin the item. It's not like a worst case scenario from rewiring something in your house wrong. (Yes, I just gave up on trying to fix my heater because I got scared of fire and electrocution and have someone coming in to do it.)

[@catvalentine4317]

Yeees - the scissor is my favourite sewing device! It always makes the item more fun and at least 10x more worn on a regular basis :)

[@sarahkinsey5434]

There are definitely some dresses with weird necklines or too many frills

[@crochetyoustay]

also some tips: - I always see people say u have to stick to one style but I disagree - I actually think it's much more advantageous to play with plenty of styles/aesthetics so all of your clothing items become more versatile - turtlenecks are a MUST HAVE for styling tbh. In my opinion you need a black, a white, a brown, a mustard yellow, a red, and a navy one - shoes can really change an outfit. a dress with docs vs a dress with sneakers vs a dress with sandals really gives each look a much different vibe - if you're concerned about a statement piece not being versatile enough when you're considering buying it, think of 3 outfits SILHOUETTES you can match it with, not just specific outfits you have. If you can think of 3 ways to style it it's worth the buy! - subversive basics outfits have a lot of cool ways you can style items in entirely different way, like a skirt as a crop top or jeans as a shrug etc

[@LunaR2017]

I have two maxi, bell sleeved wrap dresses that I have mostly worn instead as a duster. They look nice when worn as they were intended but they seem cooler/hippy-ish worn open with pants (and a shirt/blouse) I felt seen when you showed that option! I also have some blouses that look much more interesting turned around. I may not stick to trends and I’m by no means adventurous with clothing, but if I own the item, why not wear it the way I feel looks best or most unique?! 😊 Thanks for the wonderful tips- I love frills and long dresses but would definitely like versatility.

[@standdownrobots_ihaveoldglory]

This video made me appreciate that my workwear is 80% jeans, regional tourism sweatshirts & tees (i actually had to buy Sturgis motorcycle rally merch for work, got the one design that was not completely offensive lol), and polished athleisure, and 20% professional looks & semi-fancy events in a creative field. I've been wearing all my "extra" stuff more lately, like handpainted maxis, thrifted retro bright colored coats, and vintage cocktail dresses, since I want to take advantage of this nice fashion lifestyle I've got these days hahaha. I got to wear a vermillion suede swing coat over a violet fit & flare dress last week AND my Tongue River Winery sweats...

[@hobistinyheartbag]

This whole video is like me trying to wear something I love as a modest Muslim woman (layering for coverage but not giving up on the fancy dress or puffy skirt or the colorful piece by covering it for example I put button ups underneath instead of jackets on top or I wear jeans under skirts or dresses and unbutton them) even if I’m an artist people still giving me the “you’re weird” looks I love to see people genuinely appreciate how I dress up 🥰 I’ve never seen that style before I’m not a fashion person so thank you for that! I’ll definitely research more now 🥰

[@KathleenIllustrated]

ahh your style sounds so layer-y and cool! that's awesome - I hope you continue to wear what feels good and cool to you ♥💓❤ I also love the idea of wearing layers UNDER your statement piece so that it gets the attention it deserves. brilliant!

[@hobistinyheartbag]

@@KathleenIllustrated 🥹🥹 thank youu you made my day!! 🥰

[@owlstoathens2265]

I want to especially thank you for the incredible work you did assembling example outfits worn by a gorgeous collection of fabulously diverse humans! Bodies, colours, genders, you had ‘em all. This isn’t always easy to do, and you made it look effortless. Well done, and thank you muchly! 💕

[@KathleenIllustrated]

[@catvalentine4317]

@@KathleenIllustrated You did really well - I didn't even notice, I just felt like all humans are included :)

[@christinajaimes7531]

This!!! I really loved the way you created this video. The message was received because I was ready to hear it. Thank you, Queen!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

aw heck yeah i'm so glad to hear the message was well received! hope you have fun with all your wardrobe choices this week

[@sophiemorin3495]

The way you deconstruct concepts to make them more digestible for beginners is really awesome. I also really appreciate the multitude of visual examples you give in your videos, whether in photos or with your own outfits. Thank you for adding diversity in the exemple you give also! You make playing with fashion seem less intimidating! Oh and your voice is very soothing as a bonus haha.

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Thank you so much Sophie! Really glad you found value in the video, my friend. 💙

[@abrilbedoya9274]

This came at a great time! I have so many clothes that I have to keep the majority of it in plastic bins, from time to time I take it all out and refresh my wardrobe, I did it today and pulled out some fancy gorgeous pieces I want to wear, I thought "this is amazing! Why would I not wear it!" 😂

[@KathleenIllustrated]

omg, it's FATE! I need to do the same thing - it's about time for me to bring out the warm weather goodies! 👗

[@NonnyStar88]

I wanted to add my own tips that I do that you mentioned at 7:00 ! Since my style is more minimalist than maximilist (due to the uncomfort with a lot of layers) I usually put very thin layers on that still help break up the figure. For example, for my sundresses I put hoodies over/under them, for my skirts I wear leggings or silly tights, for my blouses/formal shirts I wear it with a sweatshirt. Seeing your applications definitely inspired me to wear more of my cocktail dresses outside of events tho

[@tophatrat5577]

Ma'am, you remind me so much of my science teacher who moved away last semester. Both of you are super cool and creative and just overall literally the nicest. Plus, I think she would LOVE your channel if she knew about it! Anyway, these are genuinely SO useful and I thank you for them. Have a nice day/evening/morning!

[@anika-banikakee-kee1097]

fruits magazine (lots from the 90s and 2000s) has tons of great, colorful, and unique inspo!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

omg anika!! i LITERALLY just ordered two issues of Fruits from ebay! i cannot WAIT to flip through them & am hoping to maybe do a styling video with them! ✨😍

[@anika-banikakee-kee1097]

@@KathleenIllustrated OMG YAYYYY IM SO EXCITEDDDDD!! :D

[@icejadechica]

Middle/high school me would like to contribute that anything is casual if you pop on some crocs. Maybe in neon green or tan. And socks.

[@Ace-1525]

I've been doing a wardrobe cleanse and you've helped me find ways to breathe new life into pieces I've loved for years and was reluctant to part with. Needless to say I'm keeping those pieces, and I have dozens of outfits planned for autumn and winter. Can't wait to see my students' expressions with my "new" wardrobe this semester. ♡

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Aw thanks so much for watching! Hope you have fun with your new “outfits”!

[@cinemaocd1752]

New sub here: Was just yesterday thinking that a niche career option for stylist is to specialize in young actors hoping to leverage a manic pixie dream person phase of their careers. And then I found this video and now realize it is actually a thing and there's a whole channel about it.

[@tabaklappen7558]

I've been needing some inspo for my self expression through fashion and I'm so glad I found this channel! I like your calm energy, thank you for the inspo and entertainment❤

[@graceelizabeth130]

1. Shoes and hair make all the difference 2. accessories 3. layering - monochromatic

[@Cityweaver]

Thanks to this video I am now simultaneously overdressed and underdressed for every occasion. Call it Schrodinger's fashion.

[@Bonnatella]

Right before this year started I decided I was going to take back my style. So I've been wearing more items I haven't worn in years (some never worn before!) I'm not going to let things just hang in the closet gosh darn it! ✌️✨🌸 Have a good week out there, Kathleen 👾

[@KathleenIllustrated]

amen bonnie!!!!!!!!!!! that's an amazing goal & i'm inspired by ya. have a great week yourself, my friend ✨💛

[@blytheblack]

Kathleen, thanks for the inspiration to rummage around in my cupboards yesterday and put together an unexpected outfit that made me feel great. There was a floral top with flowly sleeves, there was a grey kimono jacket, there were purple suede shoes with a ribbon tie that haven’t seen the light of day for years because ‘they’re too fancy’. Love your work.

[@cavelleardiel]

I love Carla Rockmore! You have also given me a lot of inspiration and motivation.

[@Grottysque]

also -if youre crafty- chopping them into pieces is super fun make a two piece or wear them separately

[@rachelk4805]

I am not comfortable wearing a ball gown over jeans. But a big tulle skirt with a casual tank top and jean jacket is easy.

[@aprilrochellebryant8451]

Mind blown 🤯💡thanks for introducing me to the final boss of layering, this should be considered as a public service!!

[@standdownrobots_ihaveoldglory]

My inspiration in the 90s was Diane Keaton as Annie Hall, definitely a classic look with loads of creative possibilities

[@MADOUT_VPS]

Love very elevated and classssy

[@dkalisd]

OMG so glad you mentioned Susie Bubble!Pretty sure she's the first fashionista (or at least one of the firsts) that STARTED pairing formal clothes with sneakers!

[@rachellydiab]

Such a dope video!!! I love wearing all my ridiculous thrifted gowns with chunky white trainers a la Lily Allen. You did a beautiful job of breaking down this was of styling.

[@KathleenIllustrated]

yes!!!! lily has such a cool style 💞 thanks so much for watching!

[@KD-ou2np]

You have a great voice for podcasting! Idk is that a weird compliment?

[@KathleenIllustrated]

That’s a GREAT compliment, thank you! 🔊

[@omaryland5039]

I create my own fashion by wearing what I like and they always look good on me.

[@denizg.2733]

Great content! Is the chain necklace you’re wearing also thifted? I’d love to know where it’s from if you know the brand🥺

[@concreteduck1989]

Just re-watched this video as inspo for a trip. It’s my fave of yours! 👏🏼 For other inspo I love the Street Style section on the Vogue Runway App 😊 will try and remember to send pics x

[@Danielle-zq7kb]

Atlanta has a great street scene. Loved people watching when I lived there.

[@cnewsom6700]

Something that's helped me feel comfortable is looking for really bland/classic colors but in more interesting cuts and outfits ☺️

[@amoureux6502]

Playing with silhouettes is such a great way to explore your style without having to get overly-flashy

[@fennwenn3317]

I like wearing work pants under frilly, nice tops, and vice versa wearing casual tops with formal pants. Also, accessories can help dress down or up an outfit. If I wear the right kind of heavy chain-link glasses holders instead of the fancy crystalline beads you find everywhere, then it creates a point of interest and also cuts out the usual grandmotherly/librarian/fancy lady associations most people have with glasses chains. Bonus point; heavy chain-link glasses holders are also very sturdy and practical for day-to-day wear. Way less likely to snap on you! Helpful if ya got a physical blue-collar job.

[@kslaney4161]

Thank you for including Posh Heat in your round up of creators, I love their style and would love more folks to know about them. One of my fave fashion creatives on KZbin is Jade Fox and their channel @madeyoulooks

[@KathleenIllustrated]

posh is the coolest and like.. looks good in everything?! i'll go look up jade right now - thank you for the tip! hope you have a lovely week my friend

[@lilamasand5425]

i'm sick and can't be very eloquent right now but this video was randomly recommended to me and i love everything about it 😭you're a great speaker and you have very kind and supportive vibes! i think i have similar style preferences to you so that's exciting - i like watching fashion content, but for some reason i often end up watching people that have a really different style to me. also even though this should be the norm, it's so great to see all different kinds of people in the style example pics that you put up :)

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Lila!! First of all, here’s a lil soup to help you feel better 🥣 okay secondly, I’m so glad you took a chance on my videos & hope you’ll continue to enjoy them! Super glad to have you here 🌟 take care!

[@FunkyKoolThreads]

A video we didn’t think we needed! Yasss love it, Love ya!!! 🫶🏻

[@KathleenIllustrated]

you are just the sweetiest!!!

[@GoogleGoogle-fy3cj]

Have an emerald green sequined all over knee length dress. Live a casual outdoor lifestyle, very rare formal events. I topped it with my black leather biker jacket and knee high boots. Carried a black and green small purse. Looked great.

[@wendys6438]

Not everyone can rock the "clothes horse" look, but for those who can, I applaud y'all! 👏🏻👏🏻💯💯

[@Radishforbreakfast]

Thank you so much, I literally paused the video halfway through to go open my closet because you got me so excited about possibilities!

[@tofugoob]

Omg that cut in the intro got me hahaha 😂 loved this !! I wanna draw more expressively so can’t wait for more vids :)

[@boggbaby]

came looking for this video after i thrifted the most perfect and beautiful ORANGE VELVET BLAZER?? with shoulder pads ofc. as someone who had zero blazers before and hardly even has any ~formal~ pieces or occasions, but obviously went home with aforementioned orange velvet dream boat, this is so helpful even a year later

[@katiesmetalhands2523]

That transition in the intro was chefs kiss

[@KathleenIllustrated]

🥹💕

[@0blivvy8]

One of my fave ways to do this is by layering dresses and skirts. Some examples: a maxi skirt with a midi dress layered on top, a long sleeve sweater dress with a silk or satin maxi dress on top, or any combo with differing lengths can look really cool. A leather jacket, jean jacket or a sweater with boots are my fave pairing with fancier pieces.

[@Gesepp95]

Wow, when you said you'd always hype us up, you weren't kidding; what a warm and welcoming comment section. Wish you all the best!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

hehe welcome!!!!! 💞🎉

[@ashleyflamion9421]

It goes a bit further than styling alone, but if you have the sewing skills (or a great tailor), you could alter some of your more formal pieces to make them more casual/versatile/dress-down-able. It doesn't work with everything, but generally speaking shortening sleeves/legs/skirts can shift a piece more casual. Cutoffs with raw hems are one version of this, but you can also add a simple hem if you want to keep some polish to it. Some dresses can be split up into separate tops and skirts. Sometimes you can even transform skirts into pants/shorts. There's a lot of factors that affect which pieces are good candidates (or not) for restructuring, but it's a great way to give your pieces a whole new life ❤

[@thisurldoesnotexist]

This video might convince me to keep my very fancy coat until next winter to wear with more casual clothes because even though I love it it's always felt too special to wear

[@emmap6866]

ughhhhhhh Kathleen I literally always have to pause your videos the looks you curate are just too good!! Just followed a handful of your recs over on insta :)

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Yay I’m glad to hear that you take advantage of the pause button! So much goodness to be gleaned! Thanks for watching Emma :)

[@lavendercavern]

YES! So grateful for this, I love fashion experimentation but never considered doing this. My formal dresses are my highest quality, expensive and beautiful items I own but I only wear them once a year. Can't wait to try this out.

[@hoyw8932]

Thank you for your tips! Also, you have such a sweet way to talk, I really had fun while listening you🖤

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Gosh that’s so sweet thank you!! Happy to have you here 💖

[@333Becca]

There is no better accessory to your fancy clothes than a confident, happy attitude. I just wore a 50s mink stole to a steakhouse. I wore it to my table with a smile. As I passed others, a couple leaned in together and the lady said, "I should be more dressed up."

[@tara1638]

I’m going to have this on repeat as I get dressed in the morning! Love it!❤

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Yay thank you Tara!!

[@pfeffer_corp7877]

This video is a goldmine! Thank you, from someone who is just starting on the road to finding my personal style.

[@sarahkinsey5434]

It works the opposite way too, especially the top and bottom tip. I have this plain cornflower blue body hugging t-shirt dress. All I have to do to dress it up is to wear some heals. My boyfriend wears a lot of t-shirts he's gotten from various events he's volunteered at and he instantly looks more put together with a flannel over it. Especially with rolled up sleeves

[@siddhivinay6708]

kathleen you are such a peach please never stop being the creative human being you are🫶

[@KathleenIllustrated]

oh gosh stop!!! that's too sweet. thank you

[@kelceylucia]

I just have to say that I just stumbled across your videos and am now obsessed. But seriously, thank you for being a safe space where people are encouraged to be and express themselves, take risks, and just have a good time. You're so genuine and easy to watch!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Kelcey!! 🥹 I’m gonna save this comment forevs - thanks so much for taking the time to share your encouragement! I’m super glad the internet fates brought us together. Thanks for bein’ here!

[@kelceylucia]

@@KathleenIllustrated Omg thank you so much! I mean every word! You are so kind and watching your videos has helped me feel comfortable to start making my own videos again with the freedom of embracing my own quirky self.

[@vhalll13]

I just came across your channel and i LOVE your energy. I’m sticking around👻

[@lizzyscorner7967]

OMG Thank you! I’ve been doing most of these things for years now. (Reasons why are an essays worth.) I’m glad to know there’s many others who are as well. Plus I love these tips, I feel inspired to do more with my style.

[@AmyBrandon]

What a great video! i am realising i have always done this even when going to "formal" occasions because for some reason i find being explicitly formal uncomfortable or embarrassing? Started from a young age - wearing converse to the prom etc. I know it's cringe but it really is the only way i feel comfortable dressing.. a red carpet could NEVER.

[@KathleenIllustrated]

amy!! I love that you’ve been following your compass since day one. I wore combat boots under my wedding dress so I GET IT lol

[@kylaosburn9041]

haven’t even watched the video yet but the you hooked me. like you made a graph? show me love bug

[@Meowmisery]

I first time viewer. You were recommended. And I think I fell in love with your blog style the fastest I’ve ever havens thank you so much I love the way you speak. You are very knowledgeable and share the perfect amount of information.

[@KathleenIllustrated]

well hey thanks so much for the best comment of the day!! :'o) so glad to have you here!

[@tifferzzz12]

I have a Pinterest “mood” board organized by season just filled with what I’m feeling at the time

[@interventie2007]

Love this! You have such a bright inspiring personality:-) Love love love the video. Thank you!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Aw what the heck! You’re so sweet, thank you for watching :)

[@xAlbinopiratex]

This is my first video of yours, and I subscribed before the "look at this graaaaph" 😂 that was just the icingbon the cake for me lol

[@KathleenIllustrated]

📈　Aw HECK YEAH! Welcome!! 💕

[@colonelstunts4885]

Thank you for the inspo suggestions! Hoping to use some of these same techniques to androgynize some of my more femme pieces

[@KathleenIllustrated]

heck yeah! the best idea

[@valerianplans]

I have recently been experimenting with my style a lot and I find layering to be extremely difficult due to the warm weather and lack of seasons at Puerto Rico. However, certain fabrics like linen make it so much easier! I love to draw inspiration from @evelilycp and had been looking for other accounts with a maximalist kind of fashion. Thank you so much for helping with that and the styling ideas provided ❤

[@TheMirimiru]

I started watching your videos early this weak and yesterday i went to buy some clothes... guess who got a new fairy dress, a cool brown jacket and an urban look oversize t-shirt to rock new fun looks? (I also saw a maxyskirt that was so damn beautiful and i'm planning to get it soon) So in love with your channel and the comment section, so helpful and sweet, love you Kath and love you everyone in this lovely community

[@autumnzellers3855]

What a fun video. I’ve been wearing my sequin skirts more with sweaters and sweat shirts to make them a little more down to earth and for work. I have a beautiful sequin dress that I’m planning on dressing down so I can wear it more often too. Btw, love your beautiful curly hair.❤

[@taedynsteele6484]

Girl! I just found your channel a few days ago but you are like my new favorite channel! I really really enjoy your advice and fun personality! And your editing is great!

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Oh my gosh thank you taedyn! So glad the internet brought us together 🌸✨

[@Oliviathespud]

I love the editing!

[@marykirkland82]

I was recently gifted 9ish pairs of formal slacks and have no idea what to do with all of them! this video was helpful! glad it came up on my feed!

[@catvalentine4317]

Notes for me (I have a quite subdued style, so most aren't applicable): 1. style your hair - but casually! Probably messy buns as mine looks to sleeks when left as it is 2. do unexpected make-up - some black kayal might work, maybe a dark red lip 3. take a casual back - bauchtasche or jute 4. layer! over/under/anywhere - try something wild to get into the right state of mind 5. choose a casual texture - jeans/linen/feinstrick 6. undo the piece if possible Some additional ideas: - add sunglasses and a headscarf - wear patterned tights - add a belt, and not a nice one - cut something off -> crop it/ reseam it/ shorten the sleeves I'll try it out tomorrow :)

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Can’t wait to hear how it goes!!! Love your tips 💕

[@Gus.Martin.Rollerblading]

Yessssssss!!! Kathleen-senpai teaching the masses how to be fancy AND cool, perfecto🤌💋

[@SM-lg3mn]

Great video and I appreciated the side note while editing ❤😂 loooove all the example pics. It was like watching pinterest if you get what I'm saying

[@KathleenIllustrated]

Wow thank you! Pinterest performed, I love it 💕✨

[@carlsaganlover]

love thisssss