Venice is a city of magic, romance, and dramatic fashion statements. It was only fitting that I chose to embrace my inner diva by donning sequins during my Venetian adventure. The glistening canals reflected my shimmering attire as I navigated the labyrinthine alleys of this historic city. However, wearing sequins can be a sartorial minefield. One wrong move and you might resemble a walking, talking chandelier. Let’s decode the art of wearing sequins stylishly without looking like you’re auditioning for a Broadway musical.

Gracie Opulanza Grand Canal Venice

Mastering the Art of Sequins: Do’s and Don’ts

Do: Pair Sequins with Casual Items

Sequins need balance. Their natural inclination is to scream ‘Look at me!’ which is fabulous—until it isn’t. Pairing them with casual staples like chunky knitwear, sporty trousers, or cosy coats creates a beautiful contrast. Imagine a sequinned skirt teamed with a thick cable-knit sweater—it’s the ultimate blend of opulence and laid-back chic. Sneakers with sequinned joggers? An unexpected yet brilliant pairing. Mixing textures adds a touch of effortless cool, ensuring that you turn heads for all the right reasons.

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Do: Master the Art of Layering

If you want to tone down the drama while keeping the glamour, layering is your secret weapon. A gilet or a sleeveless tunic over a sequinned dress adds depth and dimension, making the ensemble look less ‘nightclub’ and more ‘runway-ready.’ Another subtle yet effective trick? Let a sequinned cuff peek out from a structured blazer or a tailored coat. It’s the perfect way to inject sparkle into an otherwise subdued look without looking like a walking glitter bomb.

Do: Opt for Flowing Fabrics

While structured sequins can feel a bit ‘stage performer,’ fluid fabrics allow sequins to move with grace. A flowing sequinned dress or an oversized sequinned blouse drapes beautifully, making it an elegant rather than overpowering choice. Structured garments can sometimes look stiff and costume-like, whereas softer silhouettes exude a laid-back luxury.

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Do: Choose Translucent or Muted Sequins

If the mere thought of wearing sequins gives you flashbacks to an ’80s dance party, ease into the trend with translucent or matte sequins. White, grey, or pastel sequins are a softer alternative to their high-impact, mirror-ball cousins. They catch the light delicately rather than in a ‘flash photography at a red carpet event’ kind of way.

Do: Pack Sequins for Travel

Here’s an insider’s tip: sequins are the ultimate travel-friendly fabric. They don’t crease! Whether you’re jetting off for a beachside holiday or a business trip, a sequinned top or dress takes up minimal space and emerges from your suitcase looking pristine. A lightweight sequinned blazer can transform a simple outfit into an evening-worthy ensemble, proving that sparkle isn’t just for special occasions.

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Sequins Sins: What Not to Do

Don’t: Let Your Sequins Collect Dust

Too many people save sequins for the so-called ‘right moment.’ Newsflash: the right moment is now. Stop locking your sequinned treasures away in your wardrobe like some kind of forbidden artifact. Wear them with confidence. A sequinned blazer over jeans and a crisp white shirt? A dazzling day-to-night look. A sequinned pencil skirt with a structured sweater? Office-appropriate sparkle. Sequins are no longer reserved for New Year’s Eve; they deserve a place in your everyday wardrobe.

Don’t: Stick to Silver and Black

Sequins don’t have to be monochrome. The usual silver and black are classics, but why not embrace richer, more unconventional hues? Forest green, burgundy, navy, and even deep chocolate brown sequins offer a fresh take on glamour. These colors exude sophistication without the predictable holiday-party vibe. Plus, they transition seamlessly from day to night.

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Don’t: Overdo the Accessories

When wearing sequins, let them take center stage. The last thing you want is to look like a Christmas tree overloaded with decorations. Avoid excessive jewelry—chandelier earrings, statement necklaces, and chunky bracelets can compete with the sparkle. Instead, opt for minimal accessories.

A pair of simple stud earrings or a sleek belt will do the trick, allowing the sequins to shine without overwhelming your look.

Lucent family, designed by Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert Swarovski

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Don’t: Wear Sequins Next to Bare Skin (Unless You Want an ’80s Throwback)

The combination of sequins and bare skin can sometimes feel too ‘dinner-dance nostalgia.’ If you’re looking to deglamorize a sequinned top, wear it over a fitted long-sleeve T-shirt. This layering technique transforms the piece into something more relaxed and contemporary. A sequinned camisole over a crisp white blouse? The ultimate mix of sophistication and modernity.

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How to Wear Sequins for Different Occasions

For Daytime Chic

Yes, sequins can be worn in the daylight—if styled correctly. A sequinned blazer over a T-shirt and jeans adds instant polish to an otherwise casual outfit. A sequinned midi skirt with a cashmere sweater and ankle boots exudes understated glamour. The trick? Keep the rest of your look relaxed to avoid looking overdressed.

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For Workwear with a Twist

Office-friendly sequins? Absolutely. The key is to incorporate them subtly. A sequinned pencil skirt paired with a button-down shirt and loafers keeps things professional yet fashion-forward. A sequinned jacket over tailored trousers and a silk blouse is another winning combination. Just ensure the sequins are in muted tones for a more sophisticated aesthetic.

Even head bands are a great option.

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For Evening Elegance

For an opulent evening look, embrace full-on sequins. A sequinned maxi dress with sleek heels and a structured clutch oozes red-carpet allure. Alternatively, a sequinned jumpsuit offers a contemporary take on classic glamour. Keep hair and makeup polished yet minimal—let the sequins do all the talking.

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Final Thoughts: Confidence is Key

Wearing sequins is not just about fashion—it’s an attitude. Own the sparkle. Whether you’re strolling through Venetian alleyways, attending a dinner party, or simply elevating your everyday wardrobe, sequins have a place. The trick is knowing how to style them effortlessly. Pair them with casual elements, layer wisely, and choose your colors carefully. Most importantly, wear them with confidence. Because let’s be honest—when has a little extra sparkle ever been a bad idea?