9 Fashion Phrases to Ban From Your Vocabulary Before the New Year

You likely took the SATs, are well-read, and know full definitions for plenty of "big" words. Yet you find yourself relying on the same old sayings — chic, statement-making, stylish, etc. — when describing an item or outfit. Admittedly, the fashion world has addicting little go-tos, and while editors are guilty as well, we're on a mission to leave 'em all in 2016. Read on for the full list of words and phrases to (at least try to) ban, then brush up on style terms to know before the New Year.

01
Chic
Angela Datre

Chic

Despite having so many descriptors in our vocabulary, this word is used a lot. Does it even have a real meaning anymore, or this just what we label every outfit we love?

02
Statement Anything
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Statement Anything

It may be the standout item in an outfit, but we're growing tired of sentences that mention "statement earrings" or "statement skirts." Let's simply call them what they are — pavé diamond earrings, ruffled asymmetrical skirts, etc. — instead of being vague.

03
Cool-Girl
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Cool-Girl

Are we not all cool girls (in our own way)?

04
Stylish
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Stylish

Please see chic.

05
All-Black Everything
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

All-Black Everything

It's fun to say, but the last word is kind of . . . pointless. If you tell us someone's wearing all black, we won't question that you do, indeed, mean everything.

06
Breezy
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Breezy

You know what's so much nicer to hear or read than breezy? "Billowing." The fact that "her dress trailed behind her, catching the wind as she walked." Save this little word for when you're describing weather.

07
Daring
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Daring

Is wearing a crop top that daring? What about a plunging neckline? These things seem normal nowadays, so please — reserve this word for when you see a gown being worn over plaid pajamas.

08
Sleek
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Sleek

It's another case of word that's so overused, we're not even sure of its real definition anymore. Do you mean structured? Something slinky, black, and satin? Then say it!

09
Wardrobe Essential
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Wardrobe Essential

Essential is defined as something that is "absolutely necessary." Will you survive without a black t-shirt? We're going to guess, umm, yes.