Window Shopping: An Intro
Be it art, design, or fashion, did you ever wonder why self-expression seems to be so effortless for some while it's a constant struggle for others?
As kids, we soak up things like sponges. Things our families and our friends are into, we inevitably learn about and they may become our interests, too. ​If you grew up in a sports-minded family, you most likely played sports, or at a minimum have a good understanding of competitive sports. Our friends, families, television, and the Internet help define us as we're growing up, if not by anything other than exposure. |
Window Shopping
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We all have our go-to clothes. Whether it's an old college sweatshirt, a favorite pair of jeans, or a little black dress, our fallbacks are reminiscent of security blankets: we can always count on them. They represent function over form.
And with time and age, it becomes increasingly difficult to branch out from our comfort zones. Sometimes it may seem that if we haven't learned something by now, then what's the point? We let our insecurities inhibit our ability to learn.
When I work with clients and friends on their personal fashion expression, the first things we figure out are what they're drawn to, what excites them. It could be a particular type of art, an era (i.e. the Roaring ’20s), or an event. Then we explore their favorite colors and styles. Once this is determined, we have a good sense of direction in creating a personal style.
There are many things that have to be considered — body type, skin tone, comfort level, and occasion are a few. I find it's sometimes easier to look at it like costuming: What stage are you going to be on today, and what statement are you trying to make?
I think that one of the most important things to keep in mind is that playing with fashion is fun. It should certainly not be work.
Every month in this column, I will focus on different aspects of fashion, demystifying it and making it more approachable. The end goal? To remind you that we should all feel good about our own means of personal expression, and live inspired lives!