Style is what we really want when we say we want to be trendy and fashionable. It is an extension and expression of who we are and at times, what we stand for or stand against. It gives you a sense of self and self-identity. With style, we mark our personal identity on an arrangement of things. It is the ability for us to speak without saying a single word or phrase. Style is more than just clothes. It is a small foray (excursion) into self-expression through clothing. Style is self-knowledge and self-confidence expressed through what you choose to wear, a life-affirming expression of your character and spirit. Style is you and you are style; both constantly evolving as you morph into a greater version of yourself. Fashion changes but style never fades.
The secret to great style is to start with your inner self: developing a personal relationship and true understanding of yourself, what you stand for and will not stand for and knowing your values and self-worth. It starts with self-love and appreciation. 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV) says “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love”. All that we do and who we are starts with that very love. When you love and understand yourself, your inner style can be authentically cultivated and others options of you will soon fade away. “dear self: when you start taking care of yourself, you start feeling better. You start looking better. You start to attract better. It all starts within you” – author unknown. Look inside of yourself and identify who you are and how does that person look to you.
Once you have a solid self-love foundation, here are a few other things to consider. 1) Know your body type and dress to honor (accentuate) that type. Certain styles look better for your shape than others do. It's all about dressing for your body shape, figuring out which colors, patterns, and silhouettes suit, and having a blast in the process. Over time, you will naturally develop your personal fashion favorites - and that signature style becomes a bit like your own personal uniform. 2) Look for fashion inspiration. Find someone whose style inspires you on social media, in your family, Pinterest, fashion magazines/blogs, etc. Find looks from casual to formal and save those images. For me, I love watching Tracee Ellis Ross. Learn about different style types, and identify the ones with which you most align. 3) Consider your lifestyle. You want to have a practical look for your everyday functions. I ADORE couture pieces but it isn’t practical for my 9-5. 4) Start with some of the basic pieces and build on them; a little black dress, denim jacket, simple t-shirt, pieces neutral in color and a black blazer. You can mix and match these pieces to create various looks from casual to business casual. These items may be simple, but they’ll help you show off your unique style by providing a foundation for more exciting pieces. 5) Don’t be afraid to ‘make mistake’. I put that in air quotes because I believe when it comes to your personal style there really aren’t any mistake; more like what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, prints and textures until you find what feels and looks right to you. This is what creating your own personal style is about, creating your own creative flair! 6) Add some unique pieces to your wardrobe that will show off your personality; bold earrings, a statement necklace, pops of color, etc. Make sure that you utilize handbags, footwear, jewelry, and other accessories to help achieve your desired aesthetic. 7) What is one thing you find to be an attribute and you; is it your eyes, lips, hips, hair? Whatever it is, allow it to be your own personal statement piece. I LOVE an amazing pair of frames and literally can wear a different pair for weeks. Frames have become my statement piece and I make sure that they complement each look. 8) Finish your signature style with little touches completely unique to who you are. This could include wearing items of a deceased loved one to feel close to them or putting on a lace glove as an accessory just because you like the way it looks. Either way, do what feels natural when it comes to your fashion style. Be yourself. There is only one you in the world allow your uniqueness to be your power. 9) Love the items you choose and how they make you feel when you wear them. 10) Have fun with it! Personal style is all about playing with fashion to discover which clothes make you feel your best. This might involve some experimentation; remember, it’s okay to change your mind. Your style can and mostly likely will evolve as you do.
Here’s a recap:
L ove yourself, Love the items you choose and Love the way you feel when you wear your pieces
Y ou are the only one who has to approve it. Style should be a reflection of your personality. Just because others are wearing, it does not mean it is for you. What is it about you that distinguishes you from everyone else? What is your signature look? Individual style will change over time and that is ok
F igure out your body type and how to accentuate it. Dress to honor it!
E njoy it! Have fun with your style and OWN IT! Do not be afraid to mix prints, patterns and colors. Do what makes you feel good. Make sure it is natural and feels true to who you are
Love Yourself For Ever