It’s always fun to play with prints and colors in an outfit, and it’s certainly tempting to pile layer upon layers of jewelry. But it’s the classic pieces with unconventional silhouettes that make people do a double-take. From fashion bloggers to royalty, these women know that sometimes a few folds and cuts here and there can go a long way. Take the cue from these beautiful fashion icons who know that it’s all in the details.

Olivia Palermo

Photo: Retna

Model, socialite, and actress Olivia Palermo solidified her status on the fashion scene after appearing in reality-TV series The City, where she joined the staff of ELLE magazine. Instead of wearing a plain button-up with a pair of slim-fit slacks, try to lose the collar and instead go for a blouse with loose bow-tie on the front and a pair of high-waist, wide-leg slacks. Separate the two with a thick brown leather belt.

Kate Middleton

Photo: SplashNews Duchess of Cambridge

Kate Middleton just finished her 11-day North American tour complete with 30 covetable looks. One of those looks was this knee-length pleated white skirt and knitted top. Try playing with pleats and lengths the next time you buy a skirt.

Ana Paula Araújo

Photo: SplashNews

This one-time Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Brazilian model arrived at the Emilio de la Morena show in London wearing unusually cut black pumps. Your everyday shoes designed with a twist will have people dropping their eyes to the ground. And skip the plain tee; look for printed details like lace—or collar and ribbons in this case!—on T-shirts.

Rumi Neely of Fashion Toast

Photo: Courtesy of FashionToast.com

Fashion blogger and icon Rumi Neely walked the Paris streets in a layered red leather skirt that seemed to look like squared fish scales. Odd, but unique, and definitely chic. Without this detailed skirt, it’s just another outfit. Pay attention to fabric choice and different ways of laying on skirts!

Natalie Saurez of Natalie Off Duty

Photo: Courtesy of NatalieOffDuty.blogspot.com

Model and fashion blogger Natalie Suarez is known to play with lengths and textures. Here she took proportions to new heights in a high-waist velvet pants and a peek-a-boo crop top. Instead of wearing tanks, find cute tops with a subtle opening in the back that adds a little surprise to your outfit.