Fashion 101: Five Ways Owning Your Style Can Change Your Life


“Fashion you can buy, but style you can possess. The key to style is learning who you are which takes years. There is no how to road map to style. It is about self-expression and above all, attitude” -Iris Apfel.

It has been said that style is the perfection of a point of view. And in this regard, only one point of view matters yours. But how would one define style? Well, it differs depending on the individual you ask. Merriam Webster would define it as a distinctive appearance, typically determined by the principles according to which something is designed. Universally speaking, however, it is the manner by which an individual carries himself or herself in their clothes and how one feels while they are doing so–whether that selection of clothes is largely wholesale clothing or designer purchases. The operative word here is feel–in a sense that when an individual wears their selected assembly of clothes, they would and should feel a range of things and confidence is one of them. Each and every one of us has a very distinct sense of style, and although two or more individuals may share some similar aspects and elements to their style, it is never entirely the same.

As style is incredibly personal, it is imperative that one should own it. It is not recommended for the faint of heart as it requires a degree of grit and a combination of confidence and conviction. Style is an innate voice by which we express ourselves through an ensemble of clothes and failing to own it would be suppressing that same voice. Unfortunately, many of us have fallen victim to it by mindlessly following trends which fashion regularly purveys, and as a result, we lose our identity. And if you truly wish to own your style, knowing the difference between fashion and style is paramount. Style echoes your preferences and speaks your language while fashion is basically someone asking you to learn and be a follower.

Below, you will see some of the ways how acknowledging it would significantly change your life:

1.) Helps you make a statement and reveals your identity

A wise adage captured the essence of what style truly is by saying that it is what we say without having to speak. In this regard, the style would be a unique language–a language so deeply personal to us. Initially, it might feel a little daunting to show it to the world, considering how it can be significantly different from that of the others. However, the more you communicate your style with confidence, the much easier it would be to own it and show it to the world every day. Remember, style is what you say without having to speak, so make sure you say it loud and proud.

2.) Reveals discipline

Having and owning your own style requires a degree of discipline from an individual. Discipline in a sense that they should and would say no to the trends purveyed by fashion. If a person has an awareness of their body, their lifestyle and all the aspects that would impact how they express their style, they would not be easily swayed by trends. Furthermore, discipline is seen in the way they shop, with deliberation and patience. They do not indulge their whims and shop with a purpose. They are aware of what they need in their wardrobes and would take their time to find it. Quality over quantity is what these individuals inherently live by when it comes to their clothing choices, ensembles, and purchases.

3.) Separates you from the crowd

While standing out from the crowd is a necessary consequence of possessing a unique style and owning it well, it should never be your driving goal as this may cause you to deviate from your true self. However, if the way you dress consistently aligns with who you are and your lifestyle, then it would easily separate you from the crowd. In this regard, it is important to always dress well regardless how casual or formal the occasion is. Labels and tags do not necessarily matter, as you can look fabulous even in simple clothes so long as you know how to assemble an outfit that looks good and feels good.

4.) Memorable

You might think that wearing a uniform is the epitome of looking just like everyone else and in a sense, you are right. However, this is vastly different from wearing a personal and signature uniform which you garb yourself at the moment you step out of the door–a feat which makes it a lot easier for you to choose an outfit from your closet. It can be anything from the color palettes you gravitate towards to, skirt length preference, a combination of clothing you are seen regularly wearing and the like. If you found a particular style which works for you and you can own rather well, it becomes apparent in the way you dress and consequently, people will remember you better. It can start out small such as an accessory you are always seen wearing–may that be a broach or a type of scarf. In this way, you set yourself apart from the rest with a particular kind of style, and once it sticks, it becomes timeless, and people will remember you for it.

5.) Allows us to create a unique identity

Style allows us to express ourselves in various manners that enables us to establish our identity in other’s minds. As a result, we can craft and create an identity that is truly unique, memorable and is deeply personal to us. Furthermore, as we grow and evolve, so does our style expect to see changes and upgrades in how you dress–a metamorphosis if you may. Alterations to our style stem from lifestyle changes and decisions we make through the different stages of life we go through. It should reflect who you are becoming.
An ensemble of clothes may seem like an insignificant aspect of your personality, but it is deeply telling of who you are. After all, no one would look at you and see your personality immediately and for this reason, owning your style is important. Remember, style is more than just your relationship with clothes; it is the voice and the character by which you present yourself to the world.

 

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