That’s where textures come in. Mixing them is like adding spice to a recipe – it wakes everything up!
Textures can be seen (matte, glossy, sheer, or opaque). They can even be heard (the rustle of silk, the creak of leather) or felt (smooth, rough, grainy, soft, fuzzy). They’re more than fabric – they’re personality.
When you mix textures skillfully, the effect can be just as striking as combining colors. But when they clash, they cancel each other out.
The real magic happens in contrast, and that’s exactly where The Fabric Textures Wheel™ makes styling so much easier. Think leather with tweed. Bouclé with satin. Suede with chiffon. Suddenly, a simple outfit feels layered, dynamic, and chic.
And textures don’t just change how an outfit looks – they shape how it works with your figure, your face, and even the story your style tells.
For our figures, smooth matte fabrics in medium thickness are little miracle workers – they slim and balance beautifully on just about everyone. Shiny thin fabrics, on the other hand, love to spotlight every curve and line (and not always in the most flattering way).
For our faces, textures can be like magic filters. Smooth matte fabrics flatter the lively, sharper features of the “Gamin family” of Style Identities. Meanwhile, soft, fluffy textures like bouclé add harmony and glow to the “Natural family” of Style Identities.
And then comes the storytelling part. Rich suede, nubuck, velvet, or tapestry instantly bring a “Royal Hunt” style story to life – earthy, noble, and strong. Flowing silk, shimmering chiffon, or delicate lace, on the other hand, create a “Mermaid” style story – light, dreamy, and enchanting.
Now, theory is great, but style is all about seeing it in action. Take a peek at these outfit inspirations where juggling fabric contrasts creates looks that are sleek, sophisticated, and visually captivating.