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How to Coordinate Your Hairstyle with Your Outfit for a Polished, Cohesive Look

Coordinating your hairstyle with your wardrobe is key to creating a polished, cohesive look.

Here are some practical tips on how to pair your hairstyle with your outfit for maximum style impact:

1. Consider the Vibe of the Outfit
Casual Look: For a relaxed, casual outfit (like jeans and a t-shirt), opt for a simple hairstyle like a messy bun, wearing your hair down in its natural curls, or a sleek ponytail. These styles maintain a laid-back vibe without competing with your outfit.
Formal Look: A sophisticated look, such as a sleek dress or tailored suit, pairs beautifully with polished hairstyles. Think sleek buns, or curly hair for an elegant, structured finish.
Boho Style: For a flowy, bohemian-inspired outfit (maxi dresses, floral prints), curly afro, braids, or loose waves to complement the carefree, natural aesthetic.

2.Take the Season into Account
Summer: Loose, beachy waves or boho braids complement light, airy summer clothing. Think flowy dresses, shorts, and off-the-shoulder tops. These styles reflect the carefree, relaxed nature of warmer weather.
Winter: For colder months, consider sleek styles or updos (like buns or top knots) that pair nicely with chunky sweaters, coats, or scarves. A neat ponytail or elegant waves can create a chic, put-together look.

3.Hair Texture and Outfit Fabric
Smooth and Silky Fabrics: For smooth materials like satin, silk, or velvet, try a sleek and polished hairstyle, such as a ballerina bun. This helps maintain a refined aesthetic.
Textured Fabrics: If your outfit is made of textured fabrics (denim, tweed, knit), textured hairstyles like a braid out, twist out, or braids work well. They create a balanced contrast between the clothing and your hair.

4.Match Your Hair with Your Outfit’s Silhouette
High-Neck or Collared Tops: An updo or ponytail can showcase the neckline when wearing a high-neck blouse or a collared dress. A sleek bun, large twist, or ponytail will let the collar or high-neck detail shine.
V-Necks and Open Necklines: With a V-neck or low-cut neckline, soft, flowing hair or loose waves work beautifully to complement the shape of the outfit and highlight the exposed neckline.
Oversized Styles: If your outfit is oversized (think oversized sweaters, coats, or wide-leg pants), go for a more structured or tidy hairstyle, such as a sleek bun or neat ponytail, to avoid looking too bulky.

5.The Power of Accessories
Matching Hair Accessories: Coordinate your hairstyle with hair accessories that match your outfit. A bold outfit might pair well with understated accessories like a simple clip or barrette, while a minimalist look could benefit from a statement hair accessory, like a chunky headband or a colorful scrunchie.
Headscarves and Hats: For a scarf, beanie, or hat, style your hair accordingly. A messy bun or low ponytail works well with a beanie or wide-brimmed hat, while a headscarf looks great with vintage waves or a sleek bun.

6.Consider the Occasion
Daytime Look: When wearing casual daytime outfits, hairstyles like ponytails, messy buns, or natural curls will keep things easygoing. These styles also work for a more laid-back brunch or shopping look.
Nighttime Look: Evening outfits – especially those for formal events – pair best with more refined hairstyles. Think sleek updos, glamorous waves, or a chic low bun complementing a cocktail dress or evening gown.

7.Embrace Contrast
Sometimes, the most stylish looks come from contrasting your hairstyle with your outfit. For example, pairing a bold, structured outfit with a messy, undone hairstyle or a relaxed, casual outfit with a sleek, polished hairstyle can create an interesting visual tension.

By considering these elements, you can enhance your overall look and ensure everything feels balanced and intentional.

Za'Tozia Duffie
Za'Tozia is an Illinois native and first-year graduate student at Syracuse University where she studies journalism.