What to Wear: One Question Will Help You Decide
Fashion is in a constant state of flux and with it, the clothing options can be overwhelming. No matter how stylish you may be, at one point or another, deciding what to wear can be daunting. While there may seem like endless possibilities, everyone’s style is unique and finding a way for what you wear to reflect your style and taste is an art. Even so, there is one question that can help you decide what to wear every day—What kind of message do you want to convey?
Just like you dress to impress, or possibly reflect a certain mood, what you wear each day gives off a message. This message can be intentional or intuitive based on whatever ensemble you choose.
Your image can be inspiring, intimidating, intellectual, or really anything you choose. Whether you plan your look ahead of time or throw it together in the morning, on the go, it should make a statement. This statement can be anything from cool and casual to professional and poised. It is all based on the answer to the one question: What message are you trying to convey?
Features That Define Your Fashion Style
Think about pairing items in a way that reflects your aesthetic or make a bold statement. Here are some features of fashion items that make them define your fashion style:
-Materiel: Are you wearing cotton, silk, or wool? The materiel of your attire can be used in a few different ways. For instance, if you want to convey a casual message then cotton may be the best option. If you want to reflect a more dressed-up vibe then silk or wool would be more your speed.
-Color: Color can make a statement as well. For example, a pop of color can make a plain outfit look more interesting. At the same time, if you are in a more professional atmosphere, wearing darker colors such as black, navy, or gray may be more appropriate.
-Shape/Size: Not only is what you wear imperative to conveying a message, but so is the shape or size of the item. For example, an oversized square-cut blazer could be interpreted as a cool and relaxed look, while a tapered tailored suit could be seen as professional.
-Texture: Anything from sequins to lamb’s wool can give off different vibes. For instance, velvet projects a look that is glamourous and elegant, while jeans are seen as much more casual.
-Accessories: Accessories can make all the difference to an outfit. Watches, shoes, and jewelry can be used to add a bit of pizzazz, while also conveying a message. For instance, an urban feel could be achieved with a pair of sleek sneakers and a bright patterned bag, while an edgy rock-and-roll look can be achieved with some chunky silver jewelry and a statement shoe.
Creating a Wardrobe That Reflects Your Personal Style
Now that you know how to take your wardrobe and expressions to the next level with one question (What message do you want to convey?) let’s get into some tips on how to build and maintain a wardrobe that reflects your unique personal style. This will help make the dressing process easier and less stressful.
-Think Ahead: To start, begin by thinking ahead. Ask yourself what kind of places or events you will be attending in the near future. Create a fashion vision for each of these events, this allows you to go shopping for all the items you need, ahead of time. Having a head-start on creating outfits for these events (or any event, for that matter) will make the process of getting ready much smoother.
-Invest Wisely: You don’t have to break the bank to have fashionable pieces in your wardrobe. Spend wisely on pieces that you think would be good investments, this includes things like leather jackets, jeans, and outerwear.
-Less is More: When it comes to the items in your closet, more doesn’t always mean better. Just because it’s fashionable doesn’t necessarily mean you need it. Quality over quantity will always be important. Having fewer pieces of clothing, but more outfits and looks is a better way to go.
-Break the Rules: Playing fast and loose with the fashion rules can land you some pretty interesting and unique looks. Mixing and matching, or throwing unexpected pieces together can lead to a unique ensemble and make you stand out from the crowd.
Achieve the Perfect Look
Despite what you may think, achieving the perfect look can be enjoyable and can become even easier with practice. With the help of the one question—What message do you want to convey?—you can create looks that are both flattering, comfortable, and represent your sense of self.
To help make the process smoother and easier, here is a list of must-haves that you need to have in your wardrobe along with items to complete the perfect look.
Must-Haves for Your Wardrobe
-White dress shirt
-Jeans
-T-shirts
-Pants
-A Little Black Dress
-A blazer
-A cardigan
-A bomber jacket
-Camisole
Items to Complete the Perfect Look
-Shirt dress
-Leather jacket
-Ankle boots
-Heels
-Ballet flats
-Strappy sandals
-Statement necklaces
-Earrings
-Scarves
-Belts
At the end of the day, your style is yours and should make you feel attractive and confident. Ask yourself the one question to help you decide what to wear each day: What kind of message do you want to convey? This will allow you to think about how you want to express yourself and the kind of look you want based on your mood or the occasion. With this question in mind, along with the items on the list and some practice, you’ll find it much easier to decide what to wear and create looks that present your personal style.
