Leighton Meester wants her 'Gossip Girl' alter-ego to be more relaxed with her fashion.

The actress - who plays Blair Waldorf in the hit US show - says her character puts too much effort into the outfits she wears and needs to realise not everything needs to match.

She said: "She could let loose a bit. She's always got every bow in the right spot and her headband perfectly placed. Tights to match her sweater to match her jacket to match her gloves to put on with her hat."

Although she's not a huge fan of Blair's style, Leighton credits the show with changing her take on fashion.

She told Britain's Glamour magazine: "This character has been an introduction to fashion. I take my own cue and do something different. Blair's much more classic - I like changing it up."

Leighton recently revealed she refuses to wear flat shoes on dates.

She said: "A great pair of heels is a winner every time. It really just gives you that extra oomph, you know? So you feel a little bit more sexy and your posture gets better and everything."