If you have been following me for a while, you know that I love asymmetrical clothing.  They are just a bit edgier and fun and very flattering too.

In this article I will show you how to wear asymmetrical clothes and show you some of the best pieces in stores right now.

Asymmetry is still very trendy this season. In fact, it’s very trend every season. It’s a look which never dates, and it’s one of my favorite looks.

Today let’s look at the benefits of asymmetric clothing and what it can do for your style. I will also highlight some of the best pieces available right now in case you would like to incorporate some asymmetrical style into your own outfits.

So why do I like asymmetry so much and think it would be great for you too?

1. Asymmetric dresses and tops will instantly add an arty vibe to your outfit

Asymmetrical dress that I turned into a top | 40plusstyle.com

Since asymmetrical clothes are a bit different than ‘normal’ clothes, they will automatically help you stand out. Through wearing something asymmetrical I know that you have a bit of an edge and don’t just want to dress like everyone else.

I’m wearing my asymmetrical dress as a top over jeans. Dress DVF (no longer available) Jeans Paige. Booties Liliane. Photo by Denton Taylor.

2. Asymmetrical clothing is edgier and therefore adds a young and hip element

I always think it’s a good idea to add a ‘hip’ element to your look. It makes you look current and youthful. The great thing about asymmetrical clothes is that they are always hip. They are timeless. Some seasons it may be more fashionable than other seasons, but it’s always current. I never tire of my asymmetrical clothing.

For more tips on how to look hip after 40 take a look at this article.

3. Asymmetrical clothing creates interesting vertical lines which have a slimming and elongating effect

Creating an asymmetrical look with a tucked top | 40plusstyle.com

Unlike ‘normal’ tops that create horizontal lines in your looks, asymmetrical clothes create vertical lines. These are much more flattering! For example, you want to avoid ending your top at the widest part of your hip, which will make you look bigger than you are.

You will also want to avoid breaking yourself in half by having your tops too long. Semi tucking or tying a know can avoid this and will turn your tops into asymmetrical top.

You can always create an asymmetrical effect by semi tucking your top. Skirt and blouse from COS (no longer available). Super comfortable shoes from Rollies.

4. Asymmetric dresses and tops are excellent to wear over skinny jeans and leggings and can be a great way to camouflage a tummy.

If you like to wear longer tops but want to avoid breaking yourself in half, then asymmetrical tops can be a great solution. You still get the length but as the top starts much higher on one site, you don’t get the boxy effect of a top that’s too long.

More ideas here on how to hide a belly with the right clothes.

5. They are the perfect layering piece as they will allow for some of the other layers to show

Wearing an asymmetrical top with white jeans | 40plusstyle.com

Having fun with layers is so much easier with asymmetrical tops and will make your looks more dynamic.

Cropped top, white pants from Zara, Yala wedges from Fly London.

How can you wear asymmetric clothing?

Asymmetry is now used in so many different types of clothes so there are lots of possibilities:

1. Asymmetrical dress

Suzie wears an asymmetrical dress | 40plusstyle.com

Asymmetric dresses have that little something extra! They are different, more edgy and more flattering.

Wear to a party as is or dress it down by adding a jean jacket for lunch with friends.

Suzie (above) adds some asymmetry with the flattering side knot and hemline.

Check out this drape hem dress from Amazon that you can pair with this similar pair of ankle strap pumps.

COS draped dress | 40plusstyle.com

COS draped dress

COS knot drape dress | 40plusstyle.com

COS knot drape dress

2. Asymmetrical shirts

An asymmetric top can turn a simple outfit into something special and is often very effective in hiding a belly!

If you like to be a bit more subtle with your asymmetry then this shirt (below) with a high-low hem is perfect. Great to wear on its own and to layer with a jacket or cardigan.

Stella Carakasi shirt | 40plusstyle.com

3. Asymmetrical tank top

You can still add some asymmetry to your outfits during the summer months. This simple asymmetric hem tank top (below) would look lovely with white jeans.

Cestyle asymmetrical hem tank top | 40plusstyle.com

Cestyle asymmetrical hem tank top

4. Asymmetrical tunic

How to wear asymmetrical clothing - Asymmetric tops and dresses to fall in love with | 40plusstyle.com

An asymmetric short dress or tunic that can be worn over pants or skinny jeans is an easy way to create a very stylish outfit.

Comfortable and hip, asymmetrical tunics and long sweaters are easy to wear over skinnies and leggings. I love this simple and sleek tunic from Amazon that’s available in various colors. I’d wear with leggings and contemporary jewelry.

Jeanne (above) opts for a white tunic featuring dramatic asymmetry.

Recreate her look with this similar tunic, pants, loafers, earrings and bracelet.

Awesome21 tunic top | 40plusstyle.com

Awesome21 tunic top

5. Asymmetrical blouses

An asymmetrical blouse is a great option for all age groups. You don’t have to wear yours with shorts. You could style with jeans or a classic pair of black pants.

ASOS asymmetrical hem wrap detail blouse | 40plusstyle.com

ASOS asymmetrical hem wrap detail blouse

6. Asymmetrical sweater

Sweaters are super comfortable but can sometimes be a bit dull. Not when you add a bit of asymmetry though. This sleeveless sweater (no longer available) is a good option for summer.

Stella Carakasi knit sweater | 40plusstyle.com

7. Asymmetrical jacket

A good jacket is essential for any wardrobe in all seasons and an asymmetrical jacket can offer just that edge that your outfit needs.

BLANKNYV drape front jacket | 40plusstyle.com

BLANKNYC drape front jacket

8. Asymmetrical pants

While you may not automatically think of pants when you consider asymmetrical clothing, jeans and pants with an uneven hemline are particularly on trend this season.

Deborah wearing an asymmetrical top and pants | 40plusstyle.com

Deborah (above) opts for asymmetry in both her top and her pants, and adds an extra on-trend element with her woven shoes.

Steal her look with this similar asymmetrical top, pants, slides and earrings.

Lyssé crop denim leggings | 40plusstyle.com

Lyssé crop denim leggings

9. Asymmetrical jumpsuit

I love a good jumpsuit and this one is gorgeous and will be sure to make you stand out at your next party. A lovely option for any summer events.

Vince Camuto asymmetrical neck wide leg jumpsuit | 40plusstyle.com

Vince Camuto asymmetrical neck wide leg jumpsuit

10. Asymmetrical skirt

A skirt featuring asymmetry can be incredibly flattering. You could opt for a high-low style if you like to show off your legs, or a style where the hemline dips at one side.

Petra wearing an asymmetrical skirt | 40plusstyle.com

Petra (above) teams her asymmetrical ruffle skirt with a puff-sleeve blouse.

Recreate her outfit with this similar blouse, skirt, sandals, crossbody bag and sunglasses.

Lyssé handkerchief hem midi skirt | 40plusstyle.com

Lyssé handkerchief hem midi skirt

11. Asymmetrical swimsuit

Now that we’re into swimsuit season, if you are lucky enough to be going on vacation, or just relaxing by the sea or pool anywhere, how about adding some asymmetry with a one shoulder style?

Hilor asymmetric ruffle bathing suit | 40plusstyle.com

Hilor asymmetric ruffle bathing suit

Read our article on the best bathing suits for over 40.

12. Asymmetrical shoes

Shoes are a perfect way to add asymmetry to your look as well as your clothing. Asymmetrical strappy sandals were among the key shoe trends for summer 2020.

Naturalizer slingback sandal | 40plusstyle.com

Naturalizer slingback sandal

For many more comfortable shoe brands check out my list of shoes that offer arch support.

13. Asymmetrical bag

If you like to add a bit of asymmetry in a subtle way, you will love this bag, which features an asymmetrical fastening.

Botkier colorblock leather crossbody bag | 40plusstyle.com

Botkier colorblock leather crossbody bag

14. Asymmetrical necklace

Want to take baby steps with asymmetry? You can always start with an asymmetrical jewelry piece or wear your scarves in an asymmetrical way!

GlassPalaceArts asymmetric double layer necklace | 40plusstyle.com

GlassPalaceArts asymmetric double layer necklace 

Great shops for asymmetrical items include:

I found quite a few more pieces I loved and you can shop them in the boutique below.

Do you like asymmetry in your clothing?

Continue reading:

  1. 14 Sure-Fire Ways To Hide Your Belly With The Right Clothes
  2. How To Dress After 40 And Look Hip?
  3. A Capsule Wardrobe And Style Guide For The ARCHITECTURAL Style Personality

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How to wear asymmetric clothing - lots of ideas and current items to buy right now! | 40plusstyle.com

Feature image by Jeanne

Sylvia

Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.

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