These Are the Best Outfits on Instagram, According to Science
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Even if you're not a fashion blogger with thousands of trusty Instagram followers, you want to look your best on social media. No surprise, it all starts with your outfit. How do you think all of your favorite street style stars rack up so many likes on their photos? Turns out, there's a method to the madness.
Researchers at University of Toronto compiled information from #OOTD site Chictopia.com and arrived at a formula for the ultimate outfit success: select pastel shades or black separates — whether fancy or casual-chic — and your go-to accessories, including sunglasses, a bag, and heels, and then find a bold background to stand in front of.
When you've checked all of these items off your list, your ensemble has the potential to become a viral hit. On that note, read on to see 17 Instagram looks that are totally #winning — at least, according to science.
Pastels
Tia Nicole Newton of Four One Oh! worked matching separates from Gap in a pastel shade, elevating her look with a pair of white pumps.
You'll be the focal point of the photo when you throw on a sugar-pink dress and park it in front of a gorgeous flower wall.
Chiara Ferragni let the floral appliqué on her collared minidress stand out by blurring out the background of her photo.
Aimee Song provides this photo with all the color it needs. Wearing pink pastel separates, she looks romantic in a decidedly abandoned yet totally beautiful setting.
Pastels can make for a pretty bold statement when you want them to. Take a note from Jane Aldridge and let the wind style your look before you snap.
A pleated periwinkle skirt takes the spotlight in this sun-filtered photo, daring you to try out a similar ensemble.
Black Separates
Danielle Bernstein provided a hefty dose of edge for her dainty white dress by finishing her look with leather accoutrements. Bonus: she turned to the side to show off her wedge heel.
This look is proof that black can still feel breezy on a casual Summer outing.
When you're wearing a flattering, figure-hugging dress, make sure you work it and finish off your look with simple add-ons.
Bold Background
Never underestimate the power of a colorblock dress. Mara Ferreira from M Loves M played up her feminine number by standing in front of a bold red wall.
A breezy pink skirt and alluring graphic tee will make you feel like you're on top of the world on a beautiful day.
Can't find the right landscape for your all-black look? Add a pop of color by finding an artsy wall to walk by.
Take advantage of being on vacation. Flaunt your brightest, breeziest babydoll dresses — preferably in pastel shades — and head out to the beach.
Be inventive with your background. If you're already wearing the perfect pastel coat and sky-high heels, turn up the brightness on your photo and try a nighttime shot.
Add the Right Accessories
A bright dress is nice, but you're never fully dressed without the essentials: strappy heels, a chain-strap bag, and unique sunglasses that scream personality.
A leather jacket and a simple black sheath look totally luxe and elevated when you provide the right finishing touches.
Shea Marie blended into the country setting by plucking a pastel flower to fasten to her hair and finishing with all the right accessories: a satchel, heeled booties, and shades.