I like to describe my own personal style as eclectic. To me this means I don’t really have a set style more a mish mash of everything that I like. One of the key elements of a eclectic style for me is contrast. Contrasting is a great way to combine to or more pieces that strictly speaking shouldn’t really go together, thereby creating something and unique, a look that nobody else does. The eclectic look has itself become a bit of a trend of late with fashionista’s gaining inspiration from fashion and style blogs like the immensely popular Style Bubble, to create a look which mixes up all sorts of factors. Here are some of my favourite ways to contrast:

• Colour - I’m not sure this needs any explanation.
• Age - Old vintage clothes with brand new clothes.
• Styles - for example gothic and military or floaty romantic and sharp tailoring
• Proportions - large volumous jacket and skinny jeans. This is not actually eclectic style as a fundamental rule of building a balance look.
• Designer and high street - a few key designer pieces mixed with some high street pieces will give you the designer cost but not as expensive.
• Classic and high fashion - I like to buy classic basics and top up with a few high fashion items each year.
• Fabrics and textures- Satin and faux fur, chiffon and leather, natural wool and high tec fabrics are all interesting combinations.
• Casual and formal - prom dresses and converse.

Contrasting clothes can take a bit of careful though, but if it works well the results can be spectacular.

Contrasting feminine white lace with leather at Temperley London Autumn winter 08/09 - picture from style.com

Contrasting casual wear and sequins at Sophie Hulme Autumn Winter 08 collection - picture from www.sophiehulme.com

For a great contrasting style, try this Made in Heaven Boy Scout Jacket and this Rose organic cotton dress