My most recent go-to for sartorial advice is the Essentials Section of Self Service magazine's blog. Having had a sneak peak into the must-haves of stylish individuals from Sofia Coppola to Emmanuelle Alt, it is clear that to some extent style is synonymous with uniform. When I think of stylish women, from fail safe icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Coco Chanel to more modern taste makers like Phoebe Philo, there exists an underlying connection between them in that all of their outfits (for the most part) subscribe to their respective standardised silhouettes. Take Emmanuelle Alt for example, whose style exhibits and rarely strays from the formula of skinny jeans + impeccably cut jacket + towering heels. Where would Sofia Coppola be without her classic silhouette of black slim fit jeans, Charvet shirt and flats? Even the Queen of Eclectic Anna Della Russo is consistent in that the very definition of her style is in it's strict outrageousness.
I think that in setting yourself certain wardrobe limitations, you come to figure out a true sense of your own style. Shopping becomes more of an enjoyable challenge which in turn makes you consider your purchases more carefully. For example, I am now far more likely to choose an item entirely based on a cut that would compliment the other items in my wardrobe rather than making an on- trend purchase that I will later come to regret. But, most importantly of all, the thing about uniforms is that you come to have a signature look, instantly recognisable as being 'you', which, for me, is the holy grail in an industry dominated by the next big thing.
I absolutely agree. To an extent, I think uniformity of colour is very important too; I rarely stray from brown, grey, white and blue and all my purchases have to correspond with or complement this.
ReplyDeleteWhat would you consider your uniform/definitive look?
I love it when you have a signature look. there's a sense of accomplishment about it. mine is a long skirt, a loose jumper, and strappy sandals. I'm pretty laid back! I love this look - a lot. i love the slim-fitting pants, the coat as a cape, and the chanel flats. everything is personal, yet still elegant.
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I like what you're kind of getting at ... the sort of consistency you can create by having a uniform. And you kind of hint at the fact that a uniform doesn't necessarily mean a single silhouette (as in your Anna Della Russo example). I think having a silhouette that works for you is great and an easy way to achieve a consistency in your style (nothing wrong with easy!!). I think it's more challenging to keep a definite look while changing up your silhouette. I mean, when Alt wears flares, she still looks entirely herself, you know? You want people to know you, but you don't want to be entirely without surprises!
ReplyDeleteI enjoy signature style, but also think it's wise to leave room for a little style evolution over the years (decades!). People who have found their signature lines, colors, scents, etc., don't have to think much about dressing. They put it on and go and always look lovely. Alas, I don't quite achieve that, but it's fun to aim for.
ReplyDeleteI never paid too much attention to Self Service save for the occasional editorial or two. Perhaps I should start looking into it for articles! Thanks for the recommendation, and also, who doesn't love a good uniform?
ReplyDeleteThis is really well written. I think it's something a lot of bloggers are striving for now- I wardrobe that consists of a basic "uniform", quality fabrics and cuts rather that a heap of trend items that need to be replaced each season. This outfit is just stunning.
ReplyDeleteoh i love this look...very simple and stunning...;))
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree with you more!
ReplyDeleteMy style is still kind of all over the place, in terms of what I'm attracted to. I have yet to find my signature look, fingers crossed that I do so soon!
what an impeccably chic outfit... well done...xx
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Your outfit is very well put together, and I simply adore your cat-eye sunglasses.
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Kate: My uniform is pretty much an exact replica of what the woman above is wearing! My mum's Mulberry binocular bag, dark wash skinny jeans, Isabel Marant Bator coat and two tone ballet flats... I dream of Chanel but mine are in fact French Sole!
ReplyDeleteWonderland: The photograph isn't of me, but is in fact of Italian Accessories Designer Giorgia Tordini. But I'm pretty sure she's wearing Tom Ford's Nikita Sunglasses.
I think that main factor to look fabulous is to define what kind of personalities are we.I cannot imagine myself the very energetic and full of vibes-Anna Della Russo, dressing in Sofia Coppola's style. That's too much even for my rich imagination:)
ReplyDeleteI find myself favoring classics, good quality and tailored pieces much more than trendy pieces.
But this wisdom and fashion conscience comes with age, I guess.
It is true that once you find your key items it is easier to get dressed and you look more effortless. However I find it really hard not to get pulled in by the latest trends, although I do try and incorporate these into my style. Those Chanel Ballerina's are divine!
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J'aime beaucoup ! :)
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