Vinyl isn’t just for records; it’s a fashion statement that’s bold, edgy, and utterly irresistible. But styling vinyl can be a high-stakes endeavor; get it wrong, and you’re more fashion faux pas than fashion-forward. Thankfully, you’ve landed on the right page. Our tips will walk you through everything you need to know about turning heads without breaking a sweat—whether you’re dressing up for a night on the town or adding a little flare to your everyday look.

Dresses

Calvin Klein and Prabal Gurung stuck to the basics with little black dresses made out of vinyl, while Isabel Marant went with a funkier cocktail dress. La Perla’s vinyl overlay is perfect for adding depth to a simple blue dress, while No. 21’s red ensemble is perfect for work parties and grabbing a drink with friends.

Tips for Styling Vinyl

Styling a vinyl dress is all about striking the perfect balance. This statement piece already draws the eye, so the rest of your outfit should serve to complement, not compete with it. Pair your vinyl dress with understated, neutral-tone accessories and footwear to ground the look. Consider a minimalist leather clutch and simple strappy sandals or chic ankle boots in black or nude. For outerwear, opt for a tailored coat or a sleek blazer to add a touch of sophistication. Remember, the goal is to create harmony in your outfit; the vinyl dress is the star of the show, so let other pieces play supporting roles.

Get dressed with vinyl:

Jackets

Designers stepped up their raincoat game this year. Assembly New York and Threeasfour went with clear coats, perfect for showing off a cute outfit on a rainy day, while La Perla’s red raincoat steals the show no matter what it is paired with. Creatures of the Wind fashioned a two-toned jacket that pairs well with anything, while Belstaff’s minimalist black coat is perfect for any occasion.

Tips for Styling Vinyl Jackets

Since vinyl is a bold and eye-catching material, you’ll want to pair it with more understated pieces to create a harmonious look. For example, a black vinyl jacket can serve as a dramatic focal point when teamed with a simple white tee and classic blue jeans. If your jacket is in a more daring color like red or metallic silver, consider grounding the ensemble with neutral shades like black, white, or beige to keep the look from becoming overwhelming. Keep footwear classic and understated to maintain balance.

Keep cool with these vinyls:

Pants

Red is a popular vinyl pick, with Francesco Scognamiglio and Prabal Gurung fashioning pants out of darker maroons, and Topshop Unique using a metallic, fiery red for their pants. But, there were other colors, with Balmain showing an elegant pair of black pants and Hillier Bartley displaying a stunning pair of hot pink hot pants.

Tips for Styling Vinyl Pants

When styling vinyl pants trick is to mix textures and tones. Pair your high-gloss vinyl pants with softer, more subdued fabrics like a cashmere sweater or a cotton tee to counterbalance the shine. Neutral colors work exceptionally well; think whites, blacks, or grays to let the pants be the star of the show. If you’re feeling adventurous, a monochromatic look can also be striking—just be sure to vary the textures to add depth.

Put on some vinyl pants with these fabrics:

Skirts

Vinyl skirts paired well with everything this season. Balmain and Toga showed clear vinyl skirts, showing some skin while staying stylish. Calvin Klein’s full skirt is a beautiful example of vinyl’s edge, while Francesco Scognamiglio displays its elegance with a mermaid skirt. Mary Kontrantzou’s voluminous skirt is perfect for rainy days, bringing brightness to days without much sun.

Tips for Styling Vinyl Skirts

Since the skirt is already a statement piece with its high shine and bold character, aim to pair it with more subdued, complementary items. For instance, a chunky knit sweater or a simple cotton tee can soften the skirt’s edginess. Opt for neutral colors or minimal patterns to let the skirt take center stage. If you’re looking to add layers, consider a denim jacket or a tailored blazer to give the outfit a structured look without overshadowing the skirt’s appeal. Accessories should be kept minimal—think delicate necklaces or stud earrings—to maintain focus on the skirt.

Balmain | Spring 2018 Ready-to-Wear

Look fashionable with these fabrics:

Tops

Balmain and M Missoni carefully revealed some skin with clear tops, while Toga’s slightly sheer button-up shows just enough. Calvin Klein’s vinyl cowl neck is perfect for overcast days at the beach, while Jourden’s crop top would fit in well at a dive bar or at a show for a local band.

Tips for Styling Vinyl Tops

Since vinyl is a material that draws attention, it’s crucial to pair it with more subdued, complementary pieces to create a harmonious look. For instance, if you’re rocking a vinyl crop top, consider teaming it up with high-waisted trousers or a flowy maxi skirt to offset the edginess of the vinyl. The matte textures of cotton or linen pants and skirts can provide a pleasing contrast to vinyl’s glossy finish. Alternatively, a vinyl blouse could be tucked into a tailored pencil skirt for a chic office look that’s far from boring. For colder seasons, throwing a long, chunky cardigan or a sleek wool coat over your vinyl top can not only balance the outfit but also add a layer of sophistication.

Be the top tier with these fabrics:

The Top 5 Don’ts of Wearing Vinyl

Vinyl is a showstopper, no doubt. But, as with any eye-catching fabric, there are pitfalls to avoid. Here’s what you need to watch out for:

Beware of the Sweat Factor

Vinyl doesn’t breathe. You could find yourself uncomfortably sweaty on a hot day or in a heated environment. Always consider the temperature and setting before stepping out in vinyl.

Watch the Fit

Vinyl isn’t forgiving when it comes to fit. It doesn’t have the same elasticity as fabrics like cotton or spandex. Make sure your vinyl pieces fit perfectly; too tight, and they’ll cling and show every lump and bump; too loose, and you risk looking sloppy.

Be Careful with Color Coordination

Vinyl often comes in bold, intense colors. Pairing these with equally bold colors can clash and overwhelm. Aim for balance by pairing your vinyl item with neutral tones or understated patterns.

Consider the Occasion

Vinyl might not be appropriate for all settings. It’s perfect for a night out or a fashion-forward event, but maybe reconsider wearing it to a business meeting or a family gathering unless you’re confident it won’t raise eyebrows.

Mind Your Accessories

Vinyl is a statement in itself, so go easy on the accessories. Simple, elegant pieces work best and don’t compete for attention.

How do you style your vinyl fashion? Let me know in the comments!