A statement. What is a statement? I am not referring to the English language, but to the clothing term, “a statement piece.”

Half of all fashion articles that I read, whether in magazines or on a blogger’s website, seem to refer to “that perfect statement piece” that is an absolutely necessary addition to your closet. But what exactly can we consider a statement piece, and when exactly can we know that we might be trying to say too much?

Around the age of 17, I first began to learn what it meant to have a unique style. I had finally reached a point where I understood that what other people thought I should wear did not matter so much compared to the happiness I felt when I wore something I truly liked.

Because my style rebellion was still in its early phases, I will be the first to admit that I crossed a few lines. My vintage pieces might have been a little too vintage-y and my colorful outfits might have had one too many colors.

After several months of rebellion, I finally learned that when it comes to making a statement with your clothing, there is definitely a line, and that line should generally not be crossed.

The hardest thing about coming to terms with this concept was the realization that this line was not a neon strip of duct tape laid down across my closet floor. It was not clear.

The vagueness of the line was cause for several trial-and-error tests in which I had to learn the hard way whether or not something made too much of a statement.

Recently, I have been witness to both girls and boys who seem to be trying a little bit too hard with their statement pieces. In fact, they are not making a statement, but rather screaming with their clothing at everyone who sees them. The unfortunate result is people not being impressed, but just being annoyed. This is obviously not an ideal reaction. So, how do you find that “just-enough” balance?

When putting on a statement piece, look in the mirror before leaving. Imagine being someone else who is looking at your outfit. How would you feel if you saw someone else wearing it? Would you be annoyed? Would you rather laugh as if it were a joke than take it seriously?

If the answer to either of those questions is yes and you are someone who is conscious of what others think, you might want to change.

One the most important factors in styling a statement piece is gaging exactly what kind of statement it will make. If you decide beforehand that you will wear what you want despite what anyone else thinks, that is fine.

But if you are socially conscious and looking to be presentable then remember: a statement piece is worn best when it is doing just that — making a simple statement.