The biggest difference between fashion and style is that fashion is extrinsic (from outside of yourself), and style is intrinsic. Style comes from within your heart, your soul, and your essential self. It also accumulates from your memories, experiences, and your senses. But just like any message from deep within, your personal style can only be heard if you listen carefully.
Remember the last time you saw something like a painting or an amazing view that was so inspirational and beautiful that it touched you deeply, maybe in an unexpected way? Those tiny yet meaningful experiences add a visceral memory to what is developing as your personal style.
Style is an attitude that affects your choices. It’s choosing pieces and putting them together to express your unique character and unbridled spirit. It’s rejecting a whole lot of what retail stores are trying to push on us, because that just ain’t your thang. Style is choosing wardrobe and accessories with the conscious intention of representing your inner essence and your power as an individual with purpose here and now. Style gives you intrigue and interest.
Choosing style over ho-hum is an expression of self-respect and honor. Taking the time to clean, press, and put together a lovely outfit shows that you care enough, first about yourself, and then also whomever you will be with, to make that effort. Having the intent of honor is the opposite of trying to impress another person. Impressing is shallow and superficial; honoring is deep and soulful. You will feel purpose behind the behavior when there is thoughtful intention.
Doing your hair and makeup, adding a scarf, earrings, and cute pumps may seem like it’s a lot of trouble, but think about the rewards. It’s very similar to the feelings you get after eating lots of healthy food and going to the gym four days in a row. You feel so good! You’re taking care of yourself. You feel empowered, right? And confident. And attractive. Nothin’ wrong with that!
Style is an equal opportunity purveyor, meaning every woman, doesn’t matter if she’s a princess, professor, or punk rocker, can stylize herself as a unique individual. You don’t need a lot of money; what you need is information.
As you learn, experience, understand, and grow, your own personal style will evolve. Feed it, nourish it, encourage it, enhance it. Be sincere. Be sensitive. And be selective.
Copyright 2013.
Marian Rothschild, AICI FLC is a certified personal image consultant in the Denver and Boulder areas, founder and president of Look Good Now Image Consulting. Marian coaches successful professionals to put together their complete head to toe image with commanding leadership skills for exquisite influence and executive presence. Call for details: 720-933-9247.
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