This Underrated Styling Formula Will Change the Way You Get Dressed
Putting together the perfect outfit is a skill. Even the most effortless look takes, well, effort. There’s thought behind the tiniest details—like matching a hair clip to your sneakers or coordinating sunglasses with your bag. There are levels to what makes an outfit feel complete. Some days, a simple white T-shirt, jeans, and pumps make a statement. Other days, a little more intention is required. Figuring that out, however, can be tricky. So, allow me to introduce you to the 7-Point Rule—also known as the 7 Things Rule. It’s a styling guideline (or hack, if you will) that suggests an outfit should have around seven distinct elements to feel finished. The result? Balance, contrast, and personality.
These “points” are made up of various details or pieces. For example, a top, bottom, and shoes count as three points. Add a belt and sunglasses, and now you’ve hit five. The idea is that the more intentional details you include, the more cohesive—and stylish—your outfit feels. So if your LBD and heels feel a little flat (that’s just two points), try adding a blazer, a necklace, earrings, a clutch, and a swipe of red lipstick. Just like that, you’re at seven.
Luca Kingston, a celebrity stylist who works with actors like Anora’s Yura Borisov and Outer Banks’ Jonathan Daviss, tells StyleCaster that the 7-Point Rule is a great framework to push your personal style or help you get more experimental.
“People are always telling me they wish they could elevate their style, but they’re afraid to take the risk or don’t know how,” Kingston says. “This is a great way to take that extra step toward exploration.”
He adds that the rule can be especially helpful for people who aren’t naturally comfortable in the fashion space, calling it an attainable and fun way to start dressing with more intention.
As for his own approach? Kingston is big on accessories. “A lot of rings, interesting and personal necklaces—pieces that add small touches of personality,” he says. When it comes to clothing, he gravitates toward clean lines. “Nothing needs to be over the top to make a statement. It just needs to feel genuine. A bold color, an interesting shape—something unique that sets the wearer apart.”
For those feeling overwhelmed, Kingston emphasizes that not every outfit needs to hit exactly seven points. It’s more about the thought behind it. “I think the most helpful piece of advice from this rule—and really the ultimate fashion rule—is that everyone deserves to look unique,” he says. “And the rule of more can help achieve that. Please, have fun with your fashion.”
