How To Wear Asymmetry

When it comes to aesthetic beauty, we usually prefer symmetrical faces and objects. But in fashion, that concept can be thrown out the door. As we explore the latest runway shows, we’ll discover how designers have incorporated asymmetry into their season looks. Looks like we have a whole new love for asymmetrical clothing.
Here’s a mini guide to show how you can sport these asymmetrical looks effortlessly.

CHIC?

We can give thanks to Greek Goddesses for leading the way to this classic staple of asymmetry. In many of the Spring/Summer 2011 RTW looks, we can see that the one shoulder silhouette is back – and fiercer than ever. Whether you’re into draping, florals, or accented shoulders, this asymmetric concept can make you feel like a Goddess in no time.
How It’s Done:
Alice + Olivia styled this side-to-side silhouette in their Pre-Fall 2011 collection appropriately with simple accessories like a gold belt and glasses. Since you’re already baring legs and shoulder, you don’t need many accessories to distract your overall look. Here, simplicity is the key and piling up the accessories will just kill the “toga” look.
If you’re not into the minimalistic look, try bold colours or floral print pieces. If you’re already wearing that much print, again, you don’t need to wear loads of jewelry or accessories. The focal point is to focus on complementing the asymmetry.
[Image Credits]
Top L to R:
* Alexander Wang Pre-Fall 2011
* Nicole Miller Pre-Fall 2011
* Temperley London Spring 2011 RTW
Bottom L to R:
* Naeem Khan Spring 2011 RTW
* Vera Wang

chic?

Here, you’ll see the combination of colour blocking with asymmetrical colours. The main focus here are the odd geometric shapes with the different colour blocks. The architectural shapes and colours yield an illusion of asymmetry for the normal onlooker. The intricate geometric shapes and colours combined definitely represent a modern take of asymmetry.
How It’s Done:
The mixing of colours and shapes can provide a perfect illusion that you’re wearing something asymmetrical even though the piece itself isn’t. Make sure you choose contrasting colours (i.e., yellow and red) and oddly shaped figures to show your playful and artistic side, like Viktor & Rolf for their Spring 2011 RTW collection.
[Image Credits]
Top L to R:
* Zero+Maria Cornejo Pre-Fall 2011
*"Jaeger London Spring 2011 RTW":http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/S2011RTW-JAEGER
* Lanvin Spring 2011 RTW
Bottom L to R:
* TOMMY Spring 2011 RTW
* VPL Spring 2011 RTW

chic?

Aside from the “toga” look, you can also opt for a diagonal hemline when achieving the classic asymmetrical look. Whether it’s in a top or dress form, diagonal hemlines can make your look go from drab to casual cool instantly.
How It’s Done:
Executing this style is fairly easy since you can choose from diagonally plunging maxi dresses to cropped tops. You can wear these pieces as is for a classic, flowy silhouette look. Or, to further exemplify your unique style, get inspired from Sass and Bide in their Spring 2011 RTW collection by adding a funky, embellished vest or chained belt over the asymmetrical clothing.
[Image Credits]
Top L to R:
* Alexander Wang Pre-Fall 2011
* Ann Demeulemeester Spring 2011 RTW
* Helmut Lang Pre-Fall 2011
Bottom L to R:
* Alexander Wang Spring 2011 RTW
* Girl. Band of Outsiders Spring 2011 RTW

chic?

While it isn’t trendy to sport a mullet hairstyle nowadays, you sure can sport a mullet-inspired asymmetrical dress. It’s almost like wearing a wedding dress with a train following behind you in this modern, updated approach. The asymmetry starts from the front to the back and can come in different patterns/textures to accentuate the dress further.
How It’s Done:
For an easy alternative, you can showoff your asymmetry by wearing some shorts underneath your trench coat. Just don’t button up your trench so that you can show your legs while also covering the back. Be like Alice + Olivia in their Spring 2011 collection by wearing a patterned jumper and solid colour trench to make your look pop. You can also style with a bold lip colour and bright coloured wedges to further achieve the look.
[Image Credits]
Top L to R:
* BCBG Max Azria Pre-Fall 2011
* Antonio Berardi Spring 2011 RTW
* Kimberly Ovitz Spring 2011 RTW
Bottom:
* Lanvin Spring 2011 RTW
So, is it possible to achieve proportionality when it comes to asymmetrical clothing? According these looks, why yes!
Happy Styling!
love, wilda!