The world of fashion can be complicated and difficult to keep up with. It’s hard to know if black really is slimming or what accessories will properly complement an outfit. The difficult decisions are not made any easier with all of the fashion myths that circulate around the industry. The other day I came across an adorable black and brown dress while feeding my shopping addiction on topshop.com. I’ve always been taught black and brown together is a criminal offense, and the fashion police will immediately snatch up an offender. This got me thinking about all of the fashion myths that have been pounded into our brains. It’s time to break down these myths and learn that breaking the rules is all part of the fun of fashion.

Don’t wear white after Labor Day.

This is definitely the biggest fashion myth of all time. How this myth even began, I will never know, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, a white maxi dress, white skinny jeans, a light white cardigan or summer scarf can be key transition pieces from summer to fall. Don’t let this myth fool you, and don’t be afraid to sport white pieces all year long.

*Never mix and match patterns. *

This is ridiculous. I personally do not know how anyone can get through life without patterns and prints. A confident fashionista can wear a striped shirt with a patterned skirt, or a printed shirt and a polka-dot cardigan. These bold fashions, in moderation, can make a boring outfit pop.

Maxi dresses are only for tall girls.

I’m sure all short girls (like me) have heard that long dresses and skirts only make us look shorter. I beg to differ. My collection of maxi dresses contains some of my favorite spring pieces from the season. If a maxi dress makes you feel short or uncomfortable, try an updo or a pair of comfy, chic wedges to elongate your body. The beauty of a maxi dress is that every girl, of every shape and size, can rock it.

*Don’t wear more than one bold color. *

Hello old fashion, meet color blocking, one of the most popular spring fashions. Color blocking, for those that don’t know, is pairing bold colors together. This daring approach to spring style has proven over and over to be the perfect, flirty addition to any plain ensemble and there is no reason to believe this style will fade out anytime soon.

*Floral patterns are for Grandma. *

All I have to say to those who believe in this myth: Where have you been? Anyone who has stepped inside a mall, boutique or even Target can see floral patterns are the new black (or just as popular). I’m not saying your dress should match your grandmother’s plastic-covered couch, but floral patterns are not something to be afraid of.

Sparkles are only for the holidays.

This myth just breaks my heart. As a lover of all things sparkly, I can’t imagine not having some glitziness in my outfit. Whether it is a sequined crop top with a pencil skirt, some dazzling accessories or glittery high heels, I am always in favor of a little sparkle.

— Ashley Pearlstein is a journalism junior. She can be reached at arts@wildcat.arizona.edu.