Putting together an outfit can feel like solving a puzzle. Whether your closet is overflowing or you’re starting from scratch, putting together an outfit that feels well-styled and authentic can be overwhelming. That’s where our styling services come in. We help our clients to break down outfit-building into simple, practical tips and tailored techniques so you can create looks that feel like you even if styling doesn’t come easily. Here I’m explaining one of my favorite techniques for ensuring your outfit feels more intentional and complete: the number method. 

What is the number method?

The number method is an excellent technique for creating a well-balanced look. This is achieved by assigning each garment or accessory a point or points, with the goal of building an outfit between 5 and 8 points total. 

• Garments in a solid color are worth 1 point. 
• Anything with a pattern or statement element is worth 2 points.
• Simple jewelry and accessories are 1 point.
• Loud, extravagant, or dramatic accessory styles are 2 points.
• Minimalist jewelry and accessories, such as wedding rings and diamond studs, add no additional points to the formula.  

When you create an outfit and calculate its points, based on this numbering system, if you get higher than eight points, you might consider removing something or simplifying. If you come in under five points, you should consider adding another element to your look. 

Increasing Points = Elevating Your Look

If you’ve not previously experimented with elevating your personal style, you may find yourself regularly achieving fewer than 5 points. A top/bottom/shoe combo with simple everyday jewelry can result in a measly 3 points, and that is perfectly fine for some. However, if you’re looking to level up and add some intention to your outfit, moving beyond the basics may feel like  a challenge. So how can you add points to your look without feeling inauthentic? 

Jewelry

It is easy to get into the routine of wearing the same jewelry on repeat every day. Wearing just your wedding band, and defaulting to the same stud earrings and simple chain necklace does not add any points to your look. Making a few swaps can add interest and detail to your outfit, with very little added effort. Instead of simple studs, try something more dramatic, like a shiny hoop, or chandelier style earring. Add another necklace or 2 to your everyday pieces, creating a stack, that adds some sparkle and character. Start thinking of your jewelry as conversation starters, and pair your everyday pieces with unique or interesting styles, to add 1 or 2 extra points to your look.

Belts

The easiest way to add a point is simply adding a belt. Maybe that means adding a simple leather belt to your jeans or trousers, or you could belt the waist of a top or dress to add interest and shape to your silhouette. Try to move past thinking of your belt as a functional piece, and think about how you can use it as a styling piece. 

Shoes

Statement footwear is another easy way to pump up your point game. Even the most simple 2-point jeans and t-shirt outfit, can be transformed by adding a bold footwear choice. Look for styles with colors, textures, or unique details to effortlessly add character and points to your look. If you want to bring some personality or interest to the footwear you already own, consider swapping out laces or maybe adding charms or beads to the laces, to increase the point value of even the most basic shoe styles. 

Accessories

Any bold accessorizing will increase your total outfit points: think scarves, hair accessories, glasses, gloves, fun socks; anywhere you add some color or character can increase the point value of your outfit.

Layering

Finally, layering always adds complexity to an outfit, even if you’re just adding a cardigan or jacket to your look. Choose layers intentionally, and incorporate pieces with statement details: prints, texture, unique button or hardware details, bold colors, all add points to your look. When you think about your outfit, think about where you’re going and everything that is required. Are you going to be outside? Pay careful attention to how your coat/jacket choice, these intentional choices elevate your overall look and express a sense of style.

Adding Up the Points

Your style is unique and personal, and the most important thing is how you feel in your outfit. If your outfit calculates to a simple three, or a bold and brilliant ten, that’s totally okay! Outfit numbering is simply a way to guide you in learning to create balance, and thinking about the details of your look.

If you look in the mirror and you’re not in love with your outfit, consider adding points to create a more interesting and thoughtful look that expresses who you are. 

When in doubt about how many points to assign an item, rank the level of statement that piece makes and use your best judgement. Below are some examples to help you better understand how outfit numbering works.