Developing Your Look.
One of the most interesting things about living, in my opinion, is that we are constantly undergoing changes. And often, those changes can be seen on the outside in how we present ourselves to the world.
The other side of that coin however is that sometimes how we present on the outside gets stuck. That transition into a new state of being can be hard especially when we’re unable to see the ways in which we’ve become stuck and so I’m here to help you understand how to develop the outside to match your inside!
Firstly, you need to understand that trends, styles, and signatures are not one in the same.
Trends come and go like the moon. They follow cycles that have been studied. Style and styling is an art. I like to think of styling as the finished painting after all the ground work has been laid. Signatures are you. They are unique to you and what you love. Your signatures can be styled and they can even become trends BUT there will always be elements of your signature present in your look no matter what trend or method of styling is currently popular.
The true test that comes with developing your own look is that YOU are ready to be open minded and are willing to flow wherever your creative inner self takes you. Fashion is indeed personal. It’s historical. It speaks to changes that are happening in REAL time. Are you bold enough to answer the call?
Ground Zero: Building your base…
Chances are you, like many others, have had your inner creative stifled due to social media trends. Meaning - you view the world in aesthetics rather than as individual moving and breathing things and therefore your ability to style and think outside of the box has been hindered and dampened. No worries, you can get it back.
Go into your closet, your drawers, under your bed (mmhmm, clean it out) and pull pieces you adore. Then look at what remains. Think about why you bought those items - what was your intent? Now look at the pieces you love, how many of them are years old? Why do you like them?
Think about your clothing in terms of artistry. Your clothes are not a means to an end - they are an expression of where you are. Do you know where you are? What direction are you headed in based upon your clothing?
Effort can not be evaded…
The pandemic has been very hard for so many of us. A lot of us (including myself at times) have given up. So much feels lifeless including our clothing…
Well that will need to end today. Creativity is a muscle. The more you use it - the sharper it becomes. The more outstretched it becomes. It’s time to put in some effort. I want you to wear your clothes like you’re putting together a look book and while you’re at it go ahead and document everything you wear with a photo or two or seven.
Study yourself and study your sense of style. Do this for 30 days. What pieces, ideas, styles reappear in your photos? Those are your signatures…
Flex your creative muscle and you may also find yourself having a little extra pep in your step as well.
Build, Discard, Build…
Now that you understand you (your canvas) - it’s time to get rid of things we do not like. Could we have thrown things away in the beginning? Yes. However, doing so at the beginning doesn’t allow us enough time to use what we have. Donate what you’ve not touched and please be sure it is clean and in good condition before doing so.
Next, lay out all of your photos you used to document your style like you’re a fashion editor. Pull what inspires you. Pull what makes your heart jump. Then create two versions of everything you’re wearing & be sure to include your signatures. Day, Night.
For example, if I love my little black dress and a certain heel. I’m going to create a day version of that so that I can wear it out. It may require elevating or adding a piece of clothing here or there but NOW you’re working with your silhouette. You know exactly how things should fit and look. It’s easier now. Go shop!
Shop with your mind, style with your heart…
Are you cheap? Are you easy to get rid of? No and no. Pick your clothes the same way. Deals and steals are wonderful and a blast to find when out with friends - but quality matters more. What makes more sense buying one shirt for $60 that lasts for 6 years vs. a $10 shirt that frays after three wears. This is not an excuse to use your last $60. Be smart. Fibers. vs. fabrics people.
Fibers are RAW. Fiber makes the fabric. Things like cotton, or silk are fibers.
Fabrics describe how the fibers are put together.
Example: Cotton chiffon. Cotton are the fibers that make up the chiffon. Meaning a garment like this would wash well and keep us cool.
This is critical to understand when shopping because it speaks to the quality and durability of a garment.
Avoid plastics like polyester when you can, the hold sweat, they stain, and it’s uncomfortable. Stick to quality fabrics that hold over time. Pay attention to washing instructions and follow accordingly.
This includes lingerie. Please stop throwing it in the washer and dryer. Hand wash. Air dry.
Finally, you’re worth it…
You’re worth getting to know. You’re worth spending the extra time on yourself in the morning. You’re worth the $60 shirt. You’re worth the $5,000 dress. YOUR BEING is WORTHY of EXPRESSION right now as you are.
The world is your runway. Go work it.
XO Celine.
A small list of my favorite stores…
Alice + Olivia: [www.aliceandolivia.com]
Roberto Cavali: [www.robertocavalli.com]
KSUBI: [www.ksubi.com]
PISTOLA: [www.pistoladenim.com]
L’AGENCE: [www.lagence.com]
AREA NYC: [area.nyc] - Accessories
RAG-BONE: [rag-bone.com]
OBJECT-RARE: [objectrare.com]
FRAME: [frame-store.com]
