Signature style vs. trends – is there a huge difference? We believe the answer is yes, and most personal stylists would agree. Some use both terms interchangeably, but you shouldn’t. Each is unique in different ways.
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Style vs. Trends
Style, mostly known as personal style, simply reflects an individual’s lifestyle, tastes, and preferences. It involves curating wardrobes that feel authentic and make people feel more comfortable and confident about themselves. Basically, personal style is enduring and timeless and transcends trends.
On the other hand, trends are ever-changing styles, silhouettes, and colors that dominate retail shelves, social media, and the runway. Although trends are fun for us to experiment with, your personal stylist will tell you they come and go. This, in turn, leaves little room for personalization or expression.
Finding Your Fashion Identity
It is important to discern your style before you embark on a journey to achieve a signature look. This journey starts with introspection. Consider which elements will make you feel self-assured and at ease.
In addition, ask yourself which style resonates well with you. Your style must encapsulate your aspirations, lifestyle, and physique. The best way to ensure and find your fashion identity is to consider the following tips:
1. Define Your Preferences
To identify your preferences, first reflect on your comfort level, lifestyle, and interests. Do you prefer traditional and timeless pieces, or are you more drawn to avant-garde and flamboyant designs? Think of all the regular activities you do that complement your lifestyle and suit your personal needs.
2. Gather Inspiration
Explore art galleries, fashion magazines, and social media to get inspiration. Consider creating a mood board that reflects the patterns, styles, and colors that can catch your eye.
Pinterest is a great place to create a visual guide. This guide or representation will serve as a reference point for curating your own wardrobe.
3. Invest in High-Quality Basics
One key aspect of achieving a signature style is having staple pieces that can form your wardrobe’s foundation. Those items must be timeless and well-made and can effortlessly mix and match with several other clothing items. You can think of black dresses, white T-shirts, classic blazers, fitted trousers/jeans, etc.
4. Understand Your Body Type
This is important if you want to develop a unique fashion style. Understanding your body shape and the different clothing items that can go with your figure will help you choose the right pieces to improve your overall appearance and flatter your body.
5. Maintain Authenticity
In the real world filled with a wide range of styles and fashion influencers, it is easy to lose your authentic touch. Staying true to yourself is important when you want to achieve a signature look.
Remember, trends come and go quickly, but authenticity always has lasting power. Engaging with fashion should be fun, not stressful. So, the best style must reflect genuine interests and tastes, ensuring you remain connected to your individuality.
The bottom line is that signature trends and styles go beyond aesthetics to help you find your cultural identity and powerfully express your personal taste. They provide a very cohesive narrative, allowing you to navigate the complexities of art, fashion, and architecture confidently. By embracing the right signature style, you can curate a unique brand that participates in a broad dialogue that spans innovation and history.