Personal Style: Wear What You Know
In fashion, like in love, comfort is key.
Chelsea Rae wrote a post on finding personal style, which got me thinking about my own.
My biggest downfall is not sticking to my true style. They tell aspiring authors, “Write what you know.” Well, Wear what you know.
The key to maternity shopping is really knowing your style, which has me thinking about the way I shop and build my wardrobe in general. I’ve lost a lot of money (and even self-esteem) buying pieces that aren’t me at all. So often it is recommended that we experiment “outside the box” with our style, but that has never served me well. I know what I like and what I will wear. Still, I sometimes find myself falling into the trap of buying things that are so NMS (Not My Style) in the name of “Fashion”.
Being pregnant has taught me a lot about my own style, the biggest lesson being the benefit of trying things on! When I was consistently around the same size it was easy to grab pieces from the racks, but when your body changes each month, actually using the dressing room becomes essential. It’s a habit I’ll hold onto. It’s easy to grab an article, imagine how it will look on your body and idealize the hell out of it, but the mirror doesn’t lie – If it isn’t for you, that fact is right there staring you in the face, and (importantly) that’s OK.
If every street style look worked for everyone, no one would ever get hyped. Your look shouldn’t clash with your body type or your personality. I’ve always had a pretty set style, and my downfall has been taking that popular advice to “break out”. The truth is, my style works for me for a reason.
My Personal Style Staples:
- Slim and skinny jeans
- Dark & neutral colors: Black, white, navy, dark gray, & stripes
- V-necks and lower cut tops
- Fitted blazers and jackets
- Big earrings and necklaces
- Simple, large handbags
What are your style staples? Do you agree that “outside the box” is poor advice, or do you feel that style is more about risks than comfort?
© 2012
I love your style. I think that it really suites you and definitely can’t imagine you in some very different things. It just wouldn’t work. I like to throw in new things here and there but I really don’t stray too far either. If I don’t instantly love it, then I don’t do it. So I like to try new things in fitting rooms but they rarely end up in my closet.
I feel like I’m still trying to find my own personal style. (?) I usually stick to skinny jeans and basics like you, but I also love vintage, girly stuff like tulle skirts & Betsey Johnson, and the grungy look — over-sized shirts with shredded leggings. Can’t I just wear it all? lol. I always try stuff on though, and if I don’t immediately love it I don’t buy it. I definitely try and dress for my body type. Now that I’ve gained weight back I have monster boobs again, so I’ll be staying away from loose shirts. : /
I can’t tell if I am more excited about this post in particular, or excited that you posted, in general!!!
For a long time, I marched to the beat of a different fashion drummer, but I feel like I’ve finally found a style that works for me. On any day and with any outfit, I like the feel of fun, feminine, and fitted clothes. A lot about the South made an impression on my closet, so I have learned that I’m super comfortable and happy with a dress and boots (staples in Charleston, for sure), and a pair of interesting earrings. I hate fussy outfits. While I used to wear tons of black, and still have quite a bit, I’ve taken the most risk in the color department…trying new colors has been rewarding. Now that I’m working at a preschool, I do think about my job when I pick clothes–I like details…stuff I can easily move around in…patterns…textures…that variety catches the attention of the kids and helps me feel the part. And, it is best when my work outfit can easily transition to happy hour with the co-workers…or date night with Ray.
xo
I am still figuring out my personal style. I have certain staples like skinny or straight leg jeans, gray, layering and flats. I’m not very good at finishing off an outfit though…accessories and such.
Fitting rooms are my biggest wallet-saver! I pretty much pick up whatever catches my eye, and then try it all on. I’m usually left with one maybe two pieces. I’m on the fence about dressing outside the box. I know the shapes that look good on my body type, but I also like to try new things, and if they work, then they work, and if the don’t then c’est la vie.
p.s. I’m glad I made you think a bit.
I’m still figuring out mine, as well. I live in basic black leggings and I need to change that =/ I like blacks, whites, grays, soft pinks, and beiges. Oh, and purples. IDK, lately, I’ve been lazy to dress up =(