Style Guide

Style Guide | Austinbchen
Style Guide

A Quiet System for Getting Dressed

A minimal reference for silhouettes, layering, and outfit balance—built for everyday wear with a refined edge.

01 / Principles

Simple rules that make any outfit look intentional.

Shape First

Pick one focus: structured (clean lines) or relaxed (soft drape). Keep the rest supportive.

Contrast with Restraint

Balance proportions: if the top is roomy, keep the bottom cleaner—and vice versa.

Three-Layer Logic

Base layer (comfort) → mid layer (structure) → outer layer (presence). Remove one without losing the look.

One Statement Only

Texture, silhouette, or color—choose one. Everything else stays quiet.

Palette Direction

Neutral-first outfits read premium. Add color through small accents, not full saturation.

02 / Wardrobe

A practical system: fewer pieces, more combinations.

01

Start with foundations

A clean tee, a reliable shirt, a knit layer, and one outer piece. Prioritize feel, drape, and seam quality.

02

Build around a uniform

Pick one daily silhouette you repeat. Swap fabrics and layers to keep it fresh without changing your identity.

03

Add range with textures

Matte cotton, smooth knit, structured twill, and a refined outer layer. Texture does the work when color stays minimal.

5-Piece Capsule

  • Clean tee
  • Button shirt
  • Light knit
  • Structured pant
  • Outer layer

Upgrade Path

  • Add a second pant silhouette
  • Add one seasonal layer
  • Add one refined accessory
  • Replace basics with better fabric
  • Keep color consistent

03 / Formulas

Ready-to-use combinations. Minimal effort, high finish.

Daily Clean
Tee + structured pant + light outer layer
Workdays / City Errands
Soft Structure
Knit + relaxed pant + clean shoe
Travel / Long Days
Minimal Formal
Shirt + tailored pant + refined layer
Dinners / Tone-on-Tone
Weekend Ease
Relaxed top + clean bottom + accessory
Off-duty / One Accent
Quick Check: If your outfit feels “too much,” remove one element: either a layer, a texture, or a color accent.

04 / Maintenance

Small habits that keep garments looking new.

Wash less

Air out after wear. Spot clean when possible. Over-washing kills drape and color.

Cold, gentle, inside-out

Lower friction preserves surface texture and prevents fading.

Dry flat when needed

Knits and soft pieces keep shape better with flat drying.

Steam over iron

Steaming refreshes fibers without shine marks.