Before we get into the details on how to style this look, let’s start with the very meaning of avant-garde fashion.

Avant-garde (pronounced a’vant-garde) is an intellectual, artistic and cultural movement characterized by the experimental, radical, and unorthodox approaches. Derived from French and meaning vanguard or advance guard, the term describes the few who dare to go out in front and defy conventions. The current definition also defines an attitude of freedom from the everyday conventions of society.

Its unorthodox and radical approach has been pushing the boundaries of culture for centuries. Since its creation, this movement has provoked progress in many fields such as music, architecture, film, and most prominently, fashion. In fashion terms, avant-garde has spanned to include generations of notable designers who completely transformed the way people perceive clothes. Defined as innovative and forward-thinking, the once negatively criticized style is now a worldwide phenomenon.

Avant-garde is arguably the most adventurous style type. Seen as more of wearable art rather than articles of clothing, the ideal avant-garde closet would contain various asymmetrical hemlines, different shapes, and pieces with lots of volume. Don’t be afraid to play around with colors or mis-matched patterns; every “unordinary” aspect of the outfit makes it more unique and personal. Also, accessories are a fun bonus, since they tend to accentuate and heighten the look and assist in making  a statement. Some designers to look toward when starting your own avant-garde collection would be Yohji Yamamoto, Junya Watanabe, Eckhaus Latta, and Rick Owens.

Regardless if you have mastered your perfect avant-garde wardrobe or not, here’s some style inspirations that’ll definitely show how to pull it off.