Style Rules: Raeann Langas
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My style is best described as comfortable, contemporary and edgy. That said, it changes with my mood. Some days I look like I’ve walked straight off the set of Clueless in the 90s, others I feel like a Gen Z TikTok-er! That’s what I love so much about fashion – you can be a different version of yourself every day. As a curvy woman, what I put on my body has such a big impact on how I feel about myself. Fashion has really helped me develop my confidence, and I’ve found it fun to play around with that.
Size up to make your outfit look cooler. This applies especially to coats and jackets – one of my most worn pieces is an oversized biker jacket I got from ASOS and it gives every outfit a bit of edge. Curvier women often shy away from this look because society has taught us to make ourselves appear as small as possible, but I say ignore the fashion rules. Instead, wear whatever makes you feel confident – if you want to wear the oversized look and you feel good doing it, that’s all that matters.
Put comfort first – and the rest will follow. I’m a big believer that the energy you give off affects the way others perceive you – so if you’re wearing an outfit you don’t feel comfortable in, others will pick up on that. But if you wear what you feel amazing in (regardless of whether it’s on trend) you’ll look stylish. The one piece of style advice I wish I could tell everyone is to stop saying you can’t wear something because of your size. I often hear women saying, “I could never wear that,” to which I ask, “Why not?” We are so used to thinking we should dress our bodies in a ‘flattering’ way, whatever that means. Once you let go of that idea, you can have so much more fun.
Understand the outfit formulas that work for you. It doesn’t mean your style has to look the same all the time, but in general I stick to a few variations on combinations I know work for me. For example, I love a knee-high boot and mini skirt for evening and during the day I usually go for a Hailey Bieber-esque jeans, crop top and oversized jacket look. Good jewellery keeps things interesting.
Find some brands you can come back to time and again. For Love & Lemons has been one of my favourites lately as I’ve been experimenting with preppier looks, and it’s recently expanded itssizing range. It’s not perfect by any means, but it’s exciting to see such unique pieces in inclusive sizes. With Jean is another of my favourites – I just picked up a printed dress I’m obsessed with, so I hope it increase its size range soon, too. I also like Réalisation Par baby tees and Nadine Merabi for occasion wear – it has the most amazing jumpsuits. On the high street, ASOS has one of the best size-inclusive ranges, and I’ve picked up some great pieces at Zara over the years.
Track down the perfect pair of jeans. For great denim, I recommend Abercrombie. I can honestly say that nine times out of ten, my jeans come from there. I don’t know what magic they’re putting into them right now, but they fit so well. It’s one of the only places that does affordable, well-fitting denim that’s truly size inclusive. Their 90s Ultra High Rise style is my favourite.
There are five wardrobe essentials all women should own. They are a black western boot, a leather jacket, well-fitting blue jeans, leather trousers and a good white tee. With a foundation of great basics, you can have more fun with your accessories to change up your look. In terms of core outfits, the ones that look great on a curvier body are matching sets, jeans and a trench coat and – if you feel comfortable – a cropped tee, but if not a tucked in tee with a heeled boot. Both looks are elegant and glamorous.
Always invest in a good bag. I’m no handbag collector, but I do have an amazing vintage Chanel Double Flap bag which I wear all the time. I know it’s a cliché to say it, but it really does go with everything – day or night – and makes every outfit look better. It’s by far my most used bag, so it was worth every penny I paid for it.
Take cues from your style icons. My style icon is Elsa Hosk. The way she dresses is so cool and casual. She’s inspired me to experiment with brighter colours, so expect to see more of that.
Remember, the secret to great style is confidence. I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again: you can wear whatever you want if you feel like you’re the best-dressed woman walking down the street. Stop over-thinking it and wear what makes you feel good.
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