Experts Reveal True Style is About Authenticity, Not Chasing Fleeting Trends
True style is not about chasing the latest microtrends, according to fashion experts. Instead, it involves dressing in a way that brings out your true self and the most honest version of who you are. This perspective challenges the fast-paced world of social media aesthetics, where trends like cottagecore or whimsigoth come and go rapidly.
Understanding Personal Style: Two Key Definitions
Rachel Tashjian, a senior style reporter for CNN, identifies two types of personal style. The first is a traditional, rule-based approach focused on finding silhouettes, fabrics, and colors that flatter your body and suit your lifestyle. This method, often promoted by shows like What Not to Wear, prioritizes making the body appear slimmer.
The second type is more expansive and artistic, based on the idea that your experiences, interests, and aspirations can merge creatively. This high-minded approach has made style icons out of figures like Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and Princess Diana. While few reach such heights, Tashjian emphasizes that everyone can learn to dress in clothes that reflect their identity, rather than trying to fit into predefined categories.
How to Discover Your Personal Style
Developing personal style is akin to building a relationship with yourself, says Stephanie Yeboah, an author and content creator. It involves noticing patterns, testing boundaries, and refining choices. Many people are taught what is flattering or appropriate but not what feels right, which can hinder self-expression.
Professional circumstances, such as conservative work environments, may limit experimentation. Lizzie Wheeler, a vintage expert, notes that even in the fashion industry, she adjusted her style to match brand representation. However, exploring your style can lead to greater happiness and self-understanding.
Practical Tips for Finding Your Style
- Reflect on What Makes You Feel Best: Vitor Arruda, a personal stylist, suggests looking in your closet for a go-to outfit that makes you feel good. Identify why it works—whether it's the fit, color, or comfort—and seek similar items.
- Don't Overthink Your Body: Arruda warns against letting body shape dictate choices, as this can lead to dressing with shame and fear. Instead, focus on self-expression rather than hiding or enhancing parts.
- Experiment with Shape and Proportion: Wheeler encourages trying new silhouettes, like adding volume to shoulders, to break free from restrictive dressing norms.
- Avoid Over-Influence from Trends: While inspiration is valuable, closely following fads can make you dress like a Pinterest board instead of yourself. Arruda advises dressing for your real life, not hypothetical scenarios.
- Don't Spend Too Much Money: Yeboah recommends remixing existing wardrobe items or buying one new piece to create multiple looks. Tashjian adds that browsing in stores without purchasing can help you understand fabrics and shapes better.
- Keep Exploring: Style is not fixed; it evolves as you change. Arruda stresses the importance of being at peace with this ongoing process.
By focusing on authenticity rather than trends, you can develop a personal style that truly represents who you are, leading to greater confidence and self-awareness in fashion choices.
