Do you Have a Flair for Fashion, Sense of Styling and Passion for Fabulous Designs?
If you aspire to become a fashion designer then a creative and exciting career is awaiting you that many people can only dream about.
With big fashion houses like Chanel, Ralph Lauren, Valentino, Christine Dior or Jimmy Choo have become a big brand; it doesn't come as big surprise as to why, more and more people are inclined to make their career in the fashion designing. With distinctive style, hard work and proper training, you can carve a niche for yourself as a fashion designer.
Fashion Designing Institutes:
No doubt, you have the talent. But you can earn a great worth in attending a fashion institute. A Fashion Designing Institute is the best way to horn your skills and learn the basic instructions on pattern and clothes making, sewing, embellishing, cuts, colors, fabrics and body measurements.It empowers you with the proper and structured knowledge. A degree from a fashion institute gives credibility and reputation to your creative artistry when seeking an employment. It helps you gain expertise to achieve great heights in the fashion industry.
Enrolling in a well-renowned fashion school provides training to advance in the fashion career. It gives vision to your goals. Once your fashion takes off, you can even launch your own fashion clothing line in a big fancy store. You can actually rake in moolah by designing garments and lifestyle accessories like footwear, handbags, watches or jewelry.
Scope in Fashion DesigningFashion Designing is one of the most important areas of work in the fashion industry. It offers a promising scope for financial as well as professional growth. The fashion industry is booming and encompasses a vast field of studies. There are many fashion design career paths for you to choose from. You can get hired as a fashion designer, accessories designer, design production management, quality controller, fashion merchandiser, sketcher, patternmaker, color mixer, design director, marketing researcher or start your own fashion business. Fashion designing is a dedicated art that exemplifies the cultural and social influences. It makes and breaks the rules of the wildly creative fashion world. So take a plunge, unleash your artistic exuberance and create a design that makes a statement for millions of fashion frenzy's to follow.
A Day in the Life of a Fashion Designer
Ever wonder what Giorgio Armani, Betsey Johnson, Donna Karan, and Ralph Lauren do all the time? Work! Few other professions depend so much on keeping on top of fickle popular opinion and watching what competitors produce.
The life of a designer is intimately linked to tastes and sensibilities that change at a moment’s notice, and she must be able to capitalize on, or-even better-influence those opinions. Designers reflect society’s sensibilities through clothing design. “You have to know just about everything that’s been done before, so that you can recognize it when it becomes popular again,” wrote one respondent.
Fashion designers are involved in every phase of designing, showing, and producing all types of clothing, from bathing suits to evening gowns. Those with talent, vision, determination, and ambition can succeed in this difficult, demanding, and highly competitive industry.
Fashion design can be more glamorous than a 1940s Hollywood musical or drearier than a bank statement, but it’s always taxing. A designer’s day includes reading current fashion magazines, newspapers, and other media that reflect current trends and tastes. She looks at materials, attends fashion shows, and works with other designers on projects. A designer should be able to communicate her philosophy, vision, and capabilities clearly and comprehensively through sketches, discussions, and, occasionally, samples.
No matter what her personal style is, a designer must produce a creative, exciting, and profitable product line. As in most professions that produce superstars, it is easy for a competent but otherwise unremarkable designer to wallow in obscurity, designing small pieces of collections, generic lines (the plain white boxer short, for example), or specialties (cuffs, ruffles, etc.). The personality that raises itself above this level must be as large as the vision of the designer; perhaps that’s why the word “crazy” showed up in over 75 percent of our surveys as a plus in fashion design.Paying Your DuesThose entering the field should have a good eye for color, style, and shape, an ability to sketch, and some formal preparation in design. An excellent portfolio is a must for the job search. A two- or four-year degree in fashion design is helpful, as is knowledge of textiles and a familiarity with the quirks of a variety of fabrics, but no formal certification is required.
Candidates should have a working knowledge of business and marketing. Hours are long for a fashion designer and the initial pay is very limited. This is one of those hit-or-miss occupations where beginners work as someone’s assistant until, when they can muster up enough confidence in their abilities and sell that confidence to their superiors, they design a few pieces themselves. The superstar rise is an unlikely event, but it happens. Based on the number of “international star designers” in the last ten years and the number of people who have entered the profession, the estimated odds of becoming an internationally famous designer is roughly 160,000:1.
Associated CareersFashion designers who become unhappy with the lifestyle (low pay, long hours, hard work, low chance of advancement) leave to do a variety of things. Some use their color and design skills to become interior designers, graphic designers, or fashion consultants. Over one quarter of those who leave remain in the clothing industry, either on the production end or on the institutional buying end. Another 10 percent enter the advertising or promotions industry.
The Business Side of Fashion Design
Imagine for a moment that you are an up-and-coming fashion designer, and someone has given you the chance not only to have your designs featured in a retail store, but also to run part of the store. This is the opportunity four young New York City designers found in Forward, a retail incubator for start-up fashion designers.
Funded by the Lower East Side Business Improvement District (BID), Forward was created as a place where young entrepreneurs could combine their passion for fashion and clothing with the business side of retail. Forward's first four participants, chosen from among 60 applicants, each paid $4,200 to be part of the six-month program, which organizers dubbed "The Real World of Fashion."
Angela Kettler had already been designing a line of clothing from her home when she learned about Forward. And while she had a good feel for fashion and design, learning about the business side presented a challenge. "Doing business [at Forward] gave me better [knowledge] of financials and pricing," she says.
Getting in sync with the other three participants presented some logistical challenges, according to Kettler, 24. Coordinating four different schedules and ensuring everyone did their part in keeping the store looking good and running smoothly were just a few of the hurdles. After all, there weren't any employees to help with the workload. But, says Kettler, "There's a lot that working with [the others] had to offer-their skills, contacts and business information."
That's a sentiment echoed by Forward participant Franklin Rowe, founder of Franklin Rowe International. "It's great to work in an artistic environment where everybody is doing the same thing but has different interpretations," he says. "You have to leave [your] egos at the door and realize we're all after the same thing."
Rowe, who had a little more experience in the fashion industry, heard about Forward through a friend at BID. He'd always wanted to own a retail establishment-but up until then, he'd largely been designing custom pieces for clients.
Sharing a storefront with other hip designers brought in all sorts of clientele-including famous faces like actor Robert DeNiro and Sex and the City costume designer Patricia Fields. The Forward program itself also garnered a lot of publicity for the store, including an article in The New York Times that generated serious foot traffic and calls from customers worldwide.
From that, says Rowe, "I learned what people actually want and spend money on-what women buy and what the average consumer wants in terms of price, fit and fabrics." Rowe plans to use this newfound knowledge as he continues to build his business.
The store was originally slated to open at the end of 2001, but Forward delayed its launch until
January 2002 due to the terrorist attacks and troubled economic times. Still, the participants have learned a lot since then-and they all point to a noticeable increase in sales since opening the store. Jennifer Dwin, 26-year-old founder of Dwin Design Group Inc., is a graduate of the Pratt Institute of Art & Design in New York City (as is Kettler). In her last days at Pratt, someone at her senior show mentioned Forward. Of launching her company after getting out of school, Dwin says, "It was perfect timing."
And the fact that Forward hooked her and the other participants up with some entrepreneurship courses has certainly helped. "Working in the store has been a huge learning process," she explains. "Coming right out of school, I really had no clue in the beginning."
Cooperating with other designers benefited her as well-especially her collaboration with Siri Wilson, who had already designed the Sirius line of clothing before joining the Forward program. The two created a line of home accents to sell at the store. Wilson, 29, didn't have a fashion design background when she started her business; she had gone to film school and then worked as a graphic designer. "I was taking [fashion] classes at night and I started thinking 'I could do this as a real business.'" In addition, Wilson wholesales to other stores.
Luckily for the participants, Forward provides various avenues that let them continue to participate. At press time, Rowe planned to stay for another six months to grow his business, while Kettler had agreed to rent showroom space from the program. Forward also keeps an alumni rack in the store where former participants can sell their designs. "It's not like you're here for six months, then it's 'OK, bye!'" says Kettler. "[BID] is working with us to figure out our next steps."
Is Fashion Design For You?
want to be a fashion designer. How do I get started? What should I know and how will I find out? Should I go to school or try to get a job? Do I want to start my own company? So many questions in my head, where do I start and where will I end up? Sound like you? I remember the feeling exactly like that myself!
Where are your answers? After witnessing both success and failure, I believe that most importantly you must first discover if this is really what you want to do! Start by getting involved in this industry. Your local mall probably has someone on staff that's involved in fashion show production and fashion promotion. Make an appointment and let them know what you're interested in and volunteer to help on the next project. This is a great introduction to the glitz and glamour side of the business, however, you will still need to get a broader picture.
Look for a store in your neighbourhood that makes and sells its own clothes and see if you can meet the owner and a designer (often one in the same).
Try to talk your way into a tour of their studio or factory or ask for the opportunity to see what a typical day is like. Ask as many questions as you can from as many people as possible: this will help you gain a real sense of the industry. Ask about the hours they work, how long it took them to get their own store, if they went to school, what were their greatest hurdles, what is the toughest part of the job…you get the picture. Some may be too busy preparing for a show or new clothing line, but don't be discouraged. You really should make every effort to get a feel for the business-I assure you it's not all catwalks and photoshoots.
If you still want to be a fashion designer, then dig in some more. Go to your local fabric store and see if they offer any lessons, or try buying some fabric and making something for yourself. Contact your local community college to see what courses or programs they offer in fashion. Check to see if they have any visiting professionals that are willing to give a workshop or talk at your school. I know the International Academy of Design in Toronto offers an intensive two-week summer studio, perhaps your local school has something similiar. Check out books on fashion design at your local library. Don't forget the Internet: it is a wealth of fashion information waiting to be tapped into.
Alana Berry and Alexander Labayen, both former students of Toronto's International Academy of Design, have taken somewhat different approaches to world of fashion design.
Alana Berry
Before studying fashion, Alana pursued a career in business and feels it is the best thing she could have done. "When I look at the big picture now, I realize it's not just about being creative: fashion is also a business. If I didn't have a strong understanding of business, it would all be just a hobby."
Once she realized that fashion was calling out to her, she enrolled at the Toronto International Academy of Design. When asked about her experience there, Alana says, "I know that some people have been very successful with little formal training, but I would never pass up what I learned at the Academy-not to mention, that's where I met my partner, Diana. Developing a strong network of contacts in this industry is very important."
When Alana left school she almost immediately formed, 'Alana Berry,' her own fashion company and label. She has teamed up with one of her former Academy classmates, Diana Calma, and is designing elegant custom-tailored formalwear for her clients. Alana believes owning your own company can be very rewarding if you're prepared for "long hours and hard work!"
Alex Labayen
Instead of immediately heading out on his own, Alex Labayen decided to apprentice with one of Canada's hottest new labels, 'Misura by Joeffer Caoc'.
Alex feels that becoming an intern has been a valuable stepping stone to one day going out on his own. His experiences at Misura have already taught him some of the subtler aspects of fashion, "You have to remember it's not for you, the clothes I mean, you just can't design what you like - you have to adapt to what other people want."
Alex has realized that, "People have reasons why they purchase what they do. You have to know what makes people tick, what influences their choices, you really have to learn how to observe what is happening around you and be aware of the past and develop your own ideas of the future."
Working as an apprentice has become an extension of school. Alex says, "I have fun, but it's long hours and hard work (sounds familiar). I've been able to learn about the business side of the industry, things like production, distribution, custom laws, sourcing and marketing. I think this is a great route I've taken because I can learn from someone else's mistakes, learn the ropes, make great contacts and eventually go out on my own better prepared than ever!"
What is Costume Design?
Every garment worn in a theatrical production is a costume. Before an actor speaks, his wardrobe has already spoken for him. From the most obvious and flamboyant show clothing, to contemporary clothes using subtle design language, costume design plays an integral part in every television and film production. It is an ancient theatrical craft and the process today is identical to when Euripedes was writing long ago. Costume design is a vital tool for storytelling.
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When a costume designer receives a script, the process of developing the visual shorthand for each character begins. Costume sketches, fashion research and actual garments are used to help costume designers, directors, and actors develop a common language for the development of each character. Sometimes a glamorous entrance may be inappropriate and destructive to a scene. The costume designer must first serve the story and the director.
The more specific and articulate a costume is, the more effective it will be with an audience. Minute details loved by actors often enhance their performances in imperceptible ways.
Many actors credit their costume as a guide to the discovery of their characters. Actors sometimes need sensitive costume design for imperfect bodies. Flattering figures, camouflaging flaws, and enhancing inadequacies are part of the job description.
Costumes are defined and refined, and the process can be angst-ridden. Each frame of film is a canvas and has its own proscenium. Nothing within it is left to chance. Each choice of color, texture, pattern, and form is deliberate. Like the popular myth of actors improvising their dialogue: contemporary costumes are often taken for granted and sometimes seem to magically "appear." Every actor appearing in front of the camera is scrutinized like a child on their first day of school. Even the most sophisticated audience commonly overlooks some of the finest and most effective contemporary costume design in film and television.
Film is the great collaborative art. The design triumvirate -- the director of cinematography, the production designer, and the costume designer -- struggle to create an invented world to help the director tell his story. A film is one gigantic jigsaw puzzle. A movie is an enormous architectural endeavor of sets and lighting and costumes for one time and one purpose. This minutely crafted kingdom must sit lightly on the shoulders of the narrative.
Costumes have always had enormous influence on world fashion. When a star captures the public's imagination, a film or television role has catapulted him or her there. A style cycle begins as this role is recreated in retail fashion to the delight and demand of fans. The exposure this celebrity brings to a costume generates millions of dollars for the fashion business. When a film engages the public's psyche, it is a powerful selling tool for a clothing manufacturer. Costume designers receive tremendous pride from seeing their efforts reproduced on a global scale, but little recognition and no renumeration for setting worldwide trends.
Often the most successful screen imagery spontaneously becomes iconography. New "classics" feel like they have always been part of the culture. Yet, costumes never spring from the public "collective unconscious." Behind every costume there is a costume designer.
Costume designers are passionate storytellers, historians, social commentators, humorists, psychologists, trendsetters and magicians who can conjure glamour and codify icons. Costume designers are project managers who have to juggle ever-decreasing wardrobe budgets and battle the economic realities of film production. Costume designers are artists with pen and paper, form, fabric and the human figure.
Start Your Own Clothing Design Company
Of course, there are the horror stories. Like the times New York-based swimwear designer Malia Mills and her business partner, Julia Stern, spent long nights mixing kettles of fabric dye in Mills' studio apartment because they couldn't afford colored cloth. Or the time a factory breakdown forced them to construct 100 bathing suits by hand in two days.
Let's not forget the rejection. At the start of her career, Mills, now 32, offered to work for a top designer for free and was turned down.
And did we mention the money problems? Mills worked as a waitress while trying to get her business, Malia Mills Swim Wear, off the ground but wound up with $100,000 in personal debt anyway. She's still paying that off.
If tales like these don't scare you away--and you have a truly unique idea--you might be ready to start your own fashion-design company. But don't expect it to be all martinis and feather boas, honey.
The fashion industry demands penance from its novices. Count on long, stress-filled days; a battalion of competitors; and, at least in the beginning, very little payback in an entrepreneur's favorite shade: green. In fact, starting a fashion-design firm from scratch, with limited capital, is a lot like boot camp for your soul. Still, despite the many challenges--and sometimes because of them--a growing number of young entrepreneurs, equipped with little more than a sewing machine and a dream, are launching their own fashion lines.
Barbara Bundy, vice president of education at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, confirms that many students like the idea of running their own companies independent of the chains established fashion houses impose. Being the boss promises the possibility of complete creative freedom and control. Those most likely to succeed in the fashion industry start with an idea that will appeal to a specialized or niche market. Mills' sassy bikinis, in flirty prints like cheetah, are designed to fit like lingerie and come in mix-and-match sizes so women can choose the top and bottom that fit. Twenty-two-year-old Elle Hamm of Irvine, California, designs and sells form-fitting sportswear with an athletic edge that can serve as daywear or eveningwear. And 28-year-old designer Mario "Maji" Melendez is gaining attention with his Latino-inspired men's clothing, particularly his guayaberas, or traditional Mexican wedding shirts, which he adapts to American tastes.
"I've stumbled onto an interesting niche," says Melendez, owner of Maji by Melendez, in CITY, California. "Latinos make up a significant portion of the population, especially in Southern California, but this segment has been largely overlooked by designers and retailers. I hope to emerge as a leader in the design, production and distribution of clothing geared toward this demographic as well as consumers who are looking for more unique attire with a little attitude."
Many of Bundy's students have gotten a toehold in costume design for the entertainment industry. Others have found their niche custom designing clothes for individuals, a growing market, she says, because many people are tired of off-the-rack outfits that look alike.
Bundy strongly recommends young designers work for an established company before plunging in on their own. Mills followed that advice. After graduating from Cornell University and a Paris design school, she took a job as design assistant with San Francisco-based Jessica McClintock. Her college chum, Julia Stern, a fashion reporter, was working on the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue and remembered that Mills used to sew bikinis in college. She called her old friend and suggested Mills--who grew up in Hawaii, where she practically lived in a bathing suit--send some suits to the SI editor. Without hesitating, Mills whipped up six suits, none of which made it into the magazine. But feeling that she had found her true calling, she quit her job and moved to New York City.
Alas, the Big Apple wasn't waiting breathlessly for the arrival of yet another young swimwear designer. Mills spent the next eight months working as a waitress and hunting for a job as a design assistant while researching the swimwear industry. In 1992, she decided to start a homebased swimwear business, funded with $20,000 from her parents, her boyfriend and credit cards.
During that time, she visited manufacturers, introducing herself and her then-embryonic line. "I told them, `I'm too small now to use you, but someday I'll need you, and I want you to know who I am when I call,' " Mills remembers. "My philosophy is that the time to ask for help is when you don't need it."
A year later, things started happening. Mills' creations made it into the coveted Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, and her bikinis were featured in accompanying calendars and videos, where supermodel Kathy Ireland strutted in a Malia Mills charcoal-blue, long-sleeved bikini.
Soon after, Stern, now 30, joined as a partner, and the pair were featured in The New York Times and Harper's Bazaar, along with other publications. Celebs like Hugh Hefner's wife bought suits, and so did plenty of ordinary women. Too cash-poor to buy space at top fashion trade shows, where she could have gotten much more exposure, Mills rented a hotel room near the show sites and sent invitations to industry insiders, asking them to drop in after the shows to see her swimwear. "Necessity is the mother of invention," says Mills of her strategy. "A few people stopped by. We sat by the fax for the next week, and slowly, orders came in."
That year, 1993, Bloomingdale's featured the suits in its Christmas window, and Mills' profile went higher. Today the suits are sold by catalog, on the Web (http://www.maliamills.com) and in the new Malia Mills retail store in New York City. After many lean years, Malia Mills Swim Wear is headed for the $1 million mark.
Mario Melendez didn't apprentice as a designer with an established firm, although he did work as assistant production manager for a women's clothing label--a move that helped him make the manufacturing connections he would need later. Having his own design company "was all I talked and dreamed about," says Meledenz, who compares being a designer with being a symphony conductor who brings separate elements together to create a harmonious whole.
By age 18, he was making silk-screened shorts for friends in his parents' garage. After serving in the Persian Gulf War and earning a bachelor's degree in political science, Melendez used $5,000 of his G.I. money to make the first 500 of his guayabera shirts from home. By night, he worked as a waiter to fund the business; by day, he pitched the shirts to every store he could find. "I had no shame," he crows, "and it worked!"
His shirts, which come in a wide variety of styles and colors, are sold in 50 stores and on his Web site (http://www.maji-usa.com). In business for two years, he projects 1999 sales of $500,000. Maji by Melendez has been featured in the Spanish version of People magazine and in regional publications. Like Mills, Melendez used ingenuity as well as persistence to gain attention for his business. Along with participating in West Coast trade shows, he is co-sponsoring a Latin jazz concert and fashion show, with part of the proceeds going toward scholarships for fashion-design students.
She's only 22, but like Melendez, Elle Hamm--part-time rapper, full-time designer--already appreciates the power of persistence. Without any formal design background, she began her Beverly Hills-based company, Rudwear, with just the $40 she invested in fabric to sew hair scrunchies; two years later, her company earns $100,000.
Hamm began by selling the scrunchies to Los Angeles-area hotel and airport gift shops, then expanded into a simple line of accessories, which she tried to pitch to Nordstrom. The upscale department chain initially wasn't interested, in part because of Hamm's inexperience in manufacturing. But with the help of her father--who linked her up with a company willing to manufacture her accessories--and a self-made brochure copied at Kinko's, Hamm landed another meeting at Nordstrom, which agreed to carry her line of scarves and purses. They liked her work so much that when she later proposed her sports-inspired dresses to them, they bit.
Carmen Electra and Pamela Anderson Lee have worn Rudwear fashions, and Claudia Schiffer appears in a Rudwear piece in her new movie "Desperate But Not Serious." Rudwear now has come out with a line of jerseys for men. Some are simple; flashier versions decked with patent leather are intended for entertainers.
"I'm a competitive person," Hamm says, explaining her formula for success. "I get the inspiration for my designs from who I am."
Few young designers can expect a smooth ride. But, according to Mills, the view from the top is worth the climb. "When you have to struggle," she says, "you appreciate it more when you make it over the hurdle. Getting through it all makes the dark days worthwhile." Resources to help you get started:
Want to start your own fashion-design firm?
Here's the experts' best advice:
Find a niche or a unique specialty.
Get some formal education and/or real-life experience working with a designer.
Create a realistic business plan.
Make sure you have enough capital to keep going for one year.
Keep overhead low by working from home, if you can.
Get media attention by sending samples and press releases to members of the fashion press, industry movers and shakers, and celebrities.
Be prepared to meet many challenges.
If you're not near Manhattan or Los Angeles, be willing to move. A niche business outside these fashion hubs, such as designing cowboy boots in Texas, "could make a living," says Joan Volpe at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, "but your chances of becoming nationally recognized and picked up by the big chains aren't very good."
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Fashion Trends you Should Ignore
Fashion trends you should ignore include but are not limited to, mmhhh....let's see, I would most definitly have to ignore my old dance teachers idea of gaining a pair of sleeves by cutting a hole in the crotch of her tights and wearing them over her head. It just seemed too gross for me.
I would also ignore any attire with the snappy mart logo on it. That just seems so uneconomical to me. I would also suggest that you ignore swimsuits that are too small if you are big. I would ignore red lipstick unless you are a dancer on stage.
I would also not wear so many rings on my fingers that you couldn't see the skin of them. We should ask the skaters they ignore everything but their skateboards and ignore sonic carhops because instead of cute skirts and volleyball bloomers they are forced to carhop in polos and khaki's.
Ok so I would ignore any nurse who isn't wearing some sort of cute hoodie from old navy and I would also ignore a nurse who didn't wear nikes. Tennis players have a few things I would ignore but mostly it would be the severe tan lines. I would also ignore any swimmer who wears a swimsuit twenty years beyond her age.
The local coffee shop people who have their fashion trend that doesn't read starbucks. Another fashion trend that should most definately be ignored is the flight attendant style suit that this world said ten years ago was, the thing to wear for a job interview.
I really never dug those broomstick skirts either and thought that people who were fat just got fatter because it was another lazy elastic waisted thing to put around that big belly. Another fashion trend you should ignore is the big giant size belts, I mean go figure, remember those shades that were made in the eighties that were very very gigantic, like you belonged in a marvel comic or something. Anyone who wears a cape and is beyond the age three, claims he is a super hero, should also be ignored.
I have seen most fashion come and go and would say that most things are no longer considered a trend but a total piece of history that repeats itself in your grandaughters generation.
In fashion, one day you're in and then the next day, you're out.
For this season, I've noticed many trends that are fading away and new ones that are coming in. Some of the new trends aren't realistic for the modern-day girl.
For instance, overalls that have short short bottoms and ridiculous straps usually in a black material. This look would be fin for Mischa Barton, but for the Average Jane, you can omit buying into this trend.
The daisy duke trend is officially over. We shouldn't be seeing women on the street trying to pull of Jessica's trademark look circa 2005. If you aren't ready to part from this item, wear them to the beach.
Boho and hippie looks are on their way out also. The newest trends seem to be sleek and more put together looks. Think less casual.
Short ( but not too skimpy) mini dresses are the new dress of the season. Long dresses are out and good thing since global warming is playing a role in the rising heat this summer. Think sheek and cuffed shorts for this season.
Flare jeans are out. Get in with the times and wear those skinny jeans everyone has been raving about, they will flatter your body and you'll feel sexy strutting your stuff. Boot cut jeans are on their way out as well.
Here's another tip, if you're having trouble finding something that you like that is in style, just remember to find an item that fits your body type and looks good on you. Always remember to be yourself and if you don't look good in big retro sunglasses, then don't do it.
Trends change in relation to the times, seasons or as a result of a major event. It can even represent the current mood of the public. For instance, concerns over the troubled U.S. economy prompted the designers to create more high quality clothes, so that people can feel like they're getting more for their dollar. Some trends transcend time like the little black dress while some trends fade faster than a bad hair color. Remember the ponchos anyone?
Trends start as a result of someone's creativity and spreads to the masses and suddenly everyone's sporting that "must have" piece of clothing or accessory. While we see some great trends, whether they originate from the streets or the runway, there are some trends that are better left on the racks.
1. Bubble skirts: While this trend was actually from the last season, it still makes an appearance from time to time via a misguided fashionista. Even on the most sveltest of figures, it can look rather odd. Why, oh why, would you want to sport this fancy potato sack?
2. High-waisted pants: It started off in retaliation to the "bare as you dare and fall victim to the plumber's butt syndrome" jeans. After the shameless and unattractive dispays thongs, waistline kept creeping up until it hit just below the rib cage. This look is said to help legs look longer. However it cuts your torso in half. Anything that makes you appear disproportionate should be avoided. Instead go for the more flattering mid-rise waist which hits just below your natural waistline.
3. See through clothes: Your grandmother was right when she said "please wear a slip". Believe me ladies, not everyone wants to know the color of your underwear. So, do invest in a slip or a camisole to wear under that "lingerie inspired" top or dress.
4. Too much jewelry: Accessories can make or break an outfit. Jewelry should be worn like a little icing on the cake. Too much of it all at once- the long dangling earnings, layers of long beaded necklaces and stacks of chunky bracelets-will make you look cheap and tawdry. If you ever find yourself falling in a body of water, you will sink like a stone.
5. Uggs: Yes they're comfortable. Yes they keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer, but they've been long out of fashion for sometime. Unless you are trekking through the snow in the midst of a bad winter storm, it's time to give them a rest.
6. Animal Prints: The leopard print only looks good......well on the leopard! If you have one of these, or a zebra print, or anything that looks like it came from an animal, faux or real, please put it way back in your closet. Better yet, burn it before PETA comes looking for you.
In any event, no one should be judged based on their appearance. Although that's not the case in the world in which we live. Even the most fashionable celebrities have been fashion victims from time to time. Fashion is subjective because it's an expression of a person's individuality. Even fashion critics don't all share the same views. While some critics may rave about a particular trend another might trash the very same thing. Fashion is a reflection of who you are, so have fun with it.
Analysis of a Trend
Thumb through your favorite photo album and you're sure to encounter some pictures that will leave you cringing in embarrassment. Whatever possessed you to parade about in those fingerless lace gloves and could your hair have gotten any bigger? Not to worry: you were merely following the trends of the moment. Trends are style phenomena that sweep through the worlds of fashion, accessories, hair and makeup with all the force, and short-lived duration, of a tornado!
An integral part of pop culture, trends can define eras in highly unflattering ways. Take for instance the open-to-the-waist polyester shirts sported by John Travolta in the 70's disco classic film Saturday Night Fever. And who can forget rapper MC Hammer's infamous diaper pants or the shoulder pads to rival an NFL linebacker on the female cast of 80's prime-time soap Dynasty?
Thankfully, not all trends are bad. Some have become style classics such as the late Jackie O's ladylike suits and pillbox hats from the 60's that were reinvented on Reese Witherspoon in the hit movie Legally Blonde: Red, White & Blonde. Smooth jazz chanteuse Sade launched another trend with longevity: her sleek ponytail and siren red lipstick look as fresh today as they did when she first burst onto the music scene more than two decades ago.
If you can't survive without the latest trends in your wardrobe, be forewarned: keeping up with them is an expensive habit. Why? Because trends are notoriously brief in duration and quickly replaced by new ones. And if you dare sport a trend at the end of it's life cycle, you'll look dated at best or ridiculous at worst. To remain current with new trends, be prepared to make purchases frequently.
When adding a trend to your existing wardrobe, it's wise to show some restraint. If animal prints are all the rage, don't splurge on the head-to-toe faux leopard ensemble. Yes, the hooded duster, boots, jumpsuit and luggage all looked great in Shania Twain's music video, That Don't Impress Me Much, but remember: she's got designers clamoring to dress her for free.
Try opting for one animal print item - like a blouse, scarf or handbag - that works well with solid neutrals. Still not convinced? Okay, read on. The all-too-brief lifeline of a trend goes a little something like this.
Phase 1: We think we like it! Contemporary buyers attend New York and European fashion shows to preview silhouette, fabric, color and accessory trends. In addition, many buyers subscribe to trend reports from fashion forecasting services. The buyers place orders that will be seen first in limited quantities at cutting edge retailers. The most daring consumers, including celebrities and socialites, purchase the new trend and wear it to high profile events. Contemporary buyers monitor sales of the trend and if it's "hot" - i.e. flying off the racks - reorders for additional quantities are placed.
Phase 2: Everybody wants it! Missy and moderate priced buyers have been analyzing the popularity of the new trend since it's introduction into the market. Once convinced it's a hit that will sell to their customer base, they place orders and soon the product is widely available. National and regional chain department stores with moderate price points prominently feature and advertise the trend. By now mainstream consumers have seen it everywhere: on their favorite celebrities, in magazines and on television. The trend has been universally accepted, consumers purchase it en masse and in no time it has saturated the market.
Phase 3: We hate it! The trend is everywhere and the thrill is gone. The market is glutted with the trend, fashionistas have long since stopped sporting the look and mainstream consumer complain that stores "all carry the same thing." Budget and off -price buyers seek to purchase "immediates," unsold lots of an item manufacturers are eager to unload to recoup a portion of their production costs. Budget shoppers begin to see the trend at closeout stores. Size and color lots may be broken and limited. The trend has now reached the end of its life cycle.
To summarize, trends keep fashion fresh by injecting a sense of newness into the market. Enjoy them but before buying ask yourself one key question: is the trend in Phase 1 or 2? If so, go for it! If it's in Phase 3, take a pass. By following this simple rule you'll always position yourself for maximum wear and enjoyment. And if you should happen to forget everything you've just learned, there's still hope. If you keep it in your closet long enough, it will eventually come back into style!
Just because a celebrity wears it doesn't mean everyone should. Well, many times this isn't the case. There are a lot of young women and even older women who go on following celebrity fashion trends, when they may actually look silly in what they are wearing. It seems like celebrities nowadays wear some outrageous things, many times to get noticed, and then the general public considers them a fashion icon so a whole new fashion trend is started. Many times, the celebrity does not look good, so how can the general public look good in the fashion trend.
Here are some current celebrity fashion trends that you should avoid.
Extra Large SunglassesEveryone has seen Nicole or Mary Kate Olsen wearing huge sunglasses lately. They are so big (and these women are so small) that the sunglasses take up their whole face. Basically they look like a bug and it just doesn't look well. Some larger frames of sunglasses can be cute, but you have to make sure that they are not covering 50% of your face. Stick with a classic frame on your sunglasses and you can always be in fashion.
Short Shorts with Tall BootsSuch celebrities as Hilary Duff have been seen around Hollywood wearing short shorts with tall boots. A popular boot that is worn with short shorts is the moccasin boot. Now, the moccasin boot is a winter boot. It is supposed to provide warmth as it is made from heavy materials. Why would you then wear a winter boot with short shorts. This makes no sense. Leave the tall boots to colder weather and wearing them with longer pants or skirts, because short shorts and tall boots just looks plain silly.
Gladiator Sandals That Go Up To The Knees Gladiator sandals are really popular right now, not only with celebrities but with everybody. Gladiator sandals are sandals that are usually flats that have straps going across them in the front. They can be cute with a pair of shorts or even a dress. The ones that are a celebrity don't are the ones like Ashley Tisdale was seen wearing were the sandal is laced all the way up to the knees. So you have a flat sandal with straps all the way up to the knees. First of all, this can't be very comfortable to wear.
Secondly, it looks very odd to have a sandal all the way up to a person's knee and unless you are actually a gladiator then you may want to skip those. My advice, stick with the cute gladiator sandals that stop at the ankle.
JumpsuitsFor some reason some celebrities such as Rihanna seem to love wearing jumpsuits. I'm really not sure why, as they are not flattering and they look like the person just came from the 80's in a time machine. Thankfully, I have yet to see a person around me wear a jumpsuit, but you never know. This is one celebrity fashion trend that really should not catch on. Jumpsuits are better left to babies and toddlers to wear.
I would also ignore any attire with the snappy mart logo on it. That just seems so uneconomical to me. I would also suggest that you ignore swimsuits that are too small if you are big. I would ignore red lipstick unless you are a dancer on stage.
I would also not wear so many rings on my fingers that you couldn't see the skin of them. We should ask the skaters they ignore everything but their skateboards and ignore sonic carhops because instead of cute skirts and volleyball bloomers they are forced to carhop in polos and khaki's.
Ok so I would ignore any nurse who isn't wearing some sort of cute hoodie from old navy and I would also ignore a nurse who didn't wear nikes. Tennis players have a few things I would ignore but mostly it would be the severe tan lines. I would also ignore any swimmer who wears a swimsuit twenty years beyond her age.
The local coffee shop people who have their fashion trend that doesn't read starbucks. Another fashion trend that should most definately be ignored is the flight attendant style suit that this world said ten years ago was, the thing to wear for a job interview.
I really never dug those broomstick skirts either and thought that people who were fat just got fatter because it was another lazy elastic waisted thing to put around that big belly. Another fashion trend you should ignore is the big giant size belts, I mean go figure, remember those shades that were made in the eighties that were very very gigantic, like you belonged in a marvel comic or something. Anyone who wears a cape and is beyond the age three, claims he is a super hero, should also be ignored.
I have seen most fashion come and go and would say that most things are no longer considered a trend but a total piece of history that repeats itself in your grandaughters generation.
In fashion, one day you're in and then the next day, you're out.
For this season, I've noticed many trends that are fading away and new ones that are coming in. Some of the new trends aren't realistic for the modern-day girl.
For instance, overalls that have short short bottoms and ridiculous straps usually in a black material. This look would be fin for Mischa Barton, but for the Average Jane, you can omit buying into this trend.
The daisy duke trend is officially over. We shouldn't be seeing women on the street trying to pull of Jessica's trademark look circa 2005. If you aren't ready to part from this item, wear them to the beach.
Boho and hippie looks are on their way out also. The newest trends seem to be sleek and more put together looks. Think less casual.
Short ( but not too skimpy) mini dresses are the new dress of the season. Long dresses are out and good thing since global warming is playing a role in the rising heat this summer. Think sheek and cuffed shorts for this season.
Flare jeans are out. Get in with the times and wear those skinny jeans everyone has been raving about, they will flatter your body and you'll feel sexy strutting your stuff. Boot cut jeans are on their way out as well.
Here's another tip, if you're having trouble finding something that you like that is in style, just remember to find an item that fits your body type and looks good on you. Always remember to be yourself and if you don't look good in big retro sunglasses, then don't do it.
Trends change in relation to the times, seasons or as a result of a major event. It can even represent the current mood of the public. For instance, concerns over the troubled U.S. economy prompted the designers to create more high quality clothes, so that people can feel like they're getting more for their dollar. Some trends transcend time like the little black dress while some trends fade faster than a bad hair color. Remember the ponchos anyone?
Trends start as a result of someone's creativity and spreads to the masses and suddenly everyone's sporting that "must have" piece of clothing or accessory. While we see some great trends, whether they originate from the streets or the runway, there are some trends that are better left on the racks.
1. Bubble skirts: While this trend was actually from the last season, it still makes an appearance from time to time via a misguided fashionista. Even on the most sveltest of figures, it can look rather odd. Why, oh why, would you want to sport this fancy potato sack?
2. High-waisted pants: It started off in retaliation to the "bare as you dare and fall victim to the plumber's butt syndrome" jeans. After the shameless and unattractive dispays thongs, waistline kept creeping up until it hit just below the rib cage. This look is said to help legs look longer. However it cuts your torso in half. Anything that makes you appear disproportionate should be avoided. Instead go for the more flattering mid-rise waist which hits just below your natural waistline.
3. See through clothes: Your grandmother was right when she said "please wear a slip". Believe me ladies, not everyone wants to know the color of your underwear. So, do invest in a slip or a camisole to wear under that "lingerie inspired" top or dress.
4. Too much jewelry: Accessories can make or break an outfit. Jewelry should be worn like a little icing on the cake. Too much of it all at once- the long dangling earnings, layers of long beaded necklaces and stacks of chunky bracelets-will make you look cheap and tawdry. If you ever find yourself falling in a body of water, you will sink like a stone.
5. Uggs: Yes they're comfortable. Yes they keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer, but they've been long out of fashion for sometime. Unless you are trekking through the snow in the midst of a bad winter storm, it's time to give them a rest.
6. Animal Prints: The leopard print only looks good......well on the leopard! If you have one of these, or a zebra print, or anything that looks like it came from an animal, faux or real, please put it way back in your closet. Better yet, burn it before PETA comes looking for you.
In any event, no one should be judged based on their appearance. Although that's not the case in the world in which we live. Even the most fashionable celebrities have been fashion victims from time to time. Fashion is subjective because it's an expression of a person's individuality. Even fashion critics don't all share the same views. While some critics may rave about a particular trend another might trash the very same thing. Fashion is a reflection of who you are, so have fun with it.
Analysis of a Trend
Thumb through your favorite photo album and you're sure to encounter some pictures that will leave you cringing in embarrassment. Whatever possessed you to parade about in those fingerless lace gloves and could your hair have gotten any bigger? Not to worry: you were merely following the trends of the moment. Trends are style phenomena that sweep through the worlds of fashion, accessories, hair and makeup with all the force, and short-lived duration, of a tornado!
An integral part of pop culture, trends can define eras in highly unflattering ways. Take for instance the open-to-the-waist polyester shirts sported by John Travolta in the 70's disco classic film Saturday Night Fever. And who can forget rapper MC Hammer's infamous diaper pants or the shoulder pads to rival an NFL linebacker on the female cast of 80's prime-time soap Dynasty?
Thankfully, not all trends are bad. Some have become style classics such as the late Jackie O's ladylike suits and pillbox hats from the 60's that were reinvented on Reese Witherspoon in the hit movie Legally Blonde: Red, White & Blonde. Smooth jazz chanteuse Sade launched another trend with longevity: her sleek ponytail and siren red lipstick look as fresh today as they did when she first burst onto the music scene more than two decades ago.
If you can't survive without the latest trends in your wardrobe, be forewarned: keeping up with them is an expensive habit. Why? Because trends are notoriously brief in duration and quickly replaced by new ones. And if you dare sport a trend at the end of it's life cycle, you'll look dated at best or ridiculous at worst. To remain current with new trends, be prepared to make purchases frequently.
When adding a trend to your existing wardrobe, it's wise to show some restraint. If animal prints are all the rage, don't splurge on the head-to-toe faux leopard ensemble. Yes, the hooded duster, boots, jumpsuit and luggage all looked great in Shania Twain's music video, That Don't Impress Me Much, but remember: she's got designers clamoring to dress her for free.
Try opting for one animal print item - like a blouse, scarf or handbag - that works well with solid neutrals. Still not convinced? Okay, read on. The all-too-brief lifeline of a trend goes a little something like this.
Phase 1: We think we like it! Contemporary buyers attend New York and European fashion shows to preview silhouette, fabric, color and accessory trends. In addition, many buyers subscribe to trend reports from fashion forecasting services. The buyers place orders that will be seen first in limited quantities at cutting edge retailers. The most daring consumers, including celebrities and socialites, purchase the new trend and wear it to high profile events. Contemporary buyers monitor sales of the trend and if it's "hot" - i.e. flying off the racks - reorders for additional quantities are placed.
Phase 2: Everybody wants it! Missy and moderate priced buyers have been analyzing the popularity of the new trend since it's introduction into the market. Once convinced it's a hit that will sell to their customer base, they place orders and soon the product is widely available. National and regional chain department stores with moderate price points prominently feature and advertise the trend. By now mainstream consumers have seen it everywhere: on their favorite celebrities, in magazines and on television. The trend has been universally accepted, consumers purchase it en masse and in no time it has saturated the market.
Phase 3: We hate it! The trend is everywhere and the thrill is gone. The market is glutted with the trend, fashionistas have long since stopped sporting the look and mainstream consumer complain that stores "all carry the same thing." Budget and off -price buyers seek to purchase "immediates," unsold lots of an item manufacturers are eager to unload to recoup a portion of their production costs. Budget shoppers begin to see the trend at closeout stores. Size and color lots may be broken and limited. The trend has now reached the end of its life cycle.
To summarize, trends keep fashion fresh by injecting a sense of newness into the market. Enjoy them but before buying ask yourself one key question: is the trend in Phase 1 or 2? If so, go for it! If it's in Phase 3, take a pass. By following this simple rule you'll always position yourself for maximum wear and enjoyment. And if you should happen to forget everything you've just learned, there's still hope. If you keep it in your closet long enough, it will eventually come back into style!
Just because a celebrity wears it doesn't mean everyone should. Well, many times this isn't the case. There are a lot of young women and even older women who go on following celebrity fashion trends, when they may actually look silly in what they are wearing. It seems like celebrities nowadays wear some outrageous things, many times to get noticed, and then the general public considers them a fashion icon so a whole new fashion trend is started. Many times, the celebrity does not look good, so how can the general public look good in the fashion trend.
Here are some current celebrity fashion trends that you should avoid.
Extra Large SunglassesEveryone has seen Nicole or Mary Kate Olsen wearing huge sunglasses lately. They are so big (and these women are so small) that the sunglasses take up their whole face. Basically they look like a bug and it just doesn't look well. Some larger frames of sunglasses can be cute, but you have to make sure that they are not covering 50% of your face. Stick with a classic frame on your sunglasses and you can always be in fashion.
Short Shorts with Tall BootsSuch celebrities as Hilary Duff have been seen around Hollywood wearing short shorts with tall boots. A popular boot that is worn with short shorts is the moccasin boot. Now, the moccasin boot is a winter boot. It is supposed to provide warmth as it is made from heavy materials. Why would you then wear a winter boot with short shorts. This makes no sense. Leave the tall boots to colder weather and wearing them with longer pants or skirts, because short shorts and tall boots just looks plain silly.
Gladiator Sandals That Go Up To The Knees Gladiator sandals are really popular right now, not only with celebrities but with everybody. Gladiator sandals are sandals that are usually flats that have straps going across them in the front. They can be cute with a pair of shorts or even a dress. The ones that are a celebrity don't are the ones like Ashley Tisdale was seen wearing were the sandal is laced all the way up to the knees. So you have a flat sandal with straps all the way up to the knees. First of all, this can't be very comfortable to wear.
Secondly, it looks very odd to have a sandal all the way up to a person's knee and unless you are actually a gladiator then you may want to skip those. My advice, stick with the cute gladiator sandals that stop at the ankle.
JumpsuitsFor some reason some celebrities such as Rihanna seem to love wearing jumpsuits. I'm really not sure why, as they are not flattering and they look like the person just came from the 80's in a time machine. Thankfully, I have yet to see a person around me wear a jumpsuit, but you never know. This is one celebrity fashion trend that really should not catch on. Jumpsuits are better left to babies and toddlers to wear.
Influence of Fashion
Fashion is something which influences a great number of people's clothing choices from year to year. Some have no interest whatsoever, whereas others will not stop until their wardrobe is filled with the season's top garments. Fashion has existed in many areas of life for a considerable amount of time, so is by no means new.
Fashion designers seek to create new pieces however, pushing the boundaries to create distinctive and sometimes controversial concepts. As top designers are sometimes out of the price range of potential customers, large numbers of stores create similar looking items which are affordable, enabling more people to enjoy new trends.
Fashion journalists tend to either love or hate garments, and can be very influential on public perception of a particular style or design. Those who are very interested in being fashionable will tend to keep a close eye on fashion magazines for up to date information and to see the reception of new looks. People often look back at the popular fashions of past decades with some embarrassment. The 80s look is a good example - currently associated with poor taste and big hair! Fashion, however, can be cyclical. A number of older looks are currently regaining popularity; these looks are often referred to as retro.
Even those who love fashion will stop short of certain trends. The way in which people, especially women, are portrayed by the media tends to champion an unusual and often unhealthy body type, leading to young girls everywhere suffering from low self esteem and even eating disorders. It is easy to see why young people assume you have to look something like Katie Price (glamour model Jordan) in order to marry a man such as Peter Andre. Despite the recent breakup of the couple, many see Katie Price's life as a success in general and wish to emulate her look. Due to differences in appearance and low confidence, it is unusual to find people outside of the modelling, music or movie scene wearing leotards as a fashion statement. The sad truth is that even girls and women who put an awful lot of effort into achieving what they believe to be an 'ideal' look, they would still be too lacking in confidence to wear garments such as leotards.
Most high street and online stores selling the fashionable look to everyday people recognise that the majority of women are not built like models. There are all kinds of trends in existence at any given time, for people with alternative tastes, and for those who wish to just be a bit more covered up than celebrity singers wearing leotards! Items such as jeans and trousers, long skirts and more baggy tops are always to be found. Leotards, there is no doubt, can look great, and are used all over the world by dancers and gymnasts of all kinds, proof of their great flexibility.
Dance wear is becoming increasingly fashionable, and it is reasonable to assume that this will continue to be the case as it features a lot in music videos. The main fashion tip to always remember is to wear something you feel comfortable in, as your confidence and ease will show through making you more attractive than ever!
The Influence of Fashion Blogs on Trends and Fashion
Fashion Blogging is rapidly increasing in popularity, with new fashion blogs springing up everywhere and the number of people turning to fashion blogs as a source of information or inspiration for style and trends growing. But how much influence does fashion blogging have on trends and fashions and why is blogging becoming the latest media for fashion?
Fashion blogs are about fashion, clothing and accessories and also include runway trends, celebrity fashion and street style. Fashion blogs have been reported in the US as early as 2002 (Sinclair, Jenny. Fashion blogs, "The Age", October 17, 2002.) and have been increasing in numbers since, In 2003 The Wall Street Journal reported of 40 bloggers being given invites to
New York fashion week (Dodes, Rachel. "Bloggers get under the tent", The Wall Street Journal, September 12, 2006). Today blogging has become a very significant media for the fashion press with independent fashion bloggers and funded fashion blog networks competing for dominance in the blogosphere.
The significance of fashion blogging in influencing trends and fashions is evident in the increasing number of companies looking to promote their clothing through fashion blogs and fashion blogging and the money associated with fashion blogs. Fashion Bloggers report increasing profits with Manolo's shoe blog reportedly making a six figure sum and the bag snob generating a five figure sum.
The emergence of fashion blog networks such as Coutorture Media and Sugar Publishing Inc have attracted large amounts of investment into the fashion blogosphere. The significance of fashion blogs is also evident in the number of commercial organisations chosing to set up their own fashion blogs such as the Telegraph. In December 2006 , fashion blogs were recognised by Vogue in an article about their significance . In Jan 07, the Daily Mail published an article on the fashion blog stars advising readers to "Forget waiting for the monthly glossies, the sharpest fashion advice is now online".
Perhaps the popularity of fashion blogs is because they are written or perceived to be written by a real person and not a marketing professional. They give individuals honest opinions of trends and fashions and in most cases are not influenced or paid directly for endorsing products although most generate revenue from advertising. This gives fashion blogs a very realistic approach to fashion, more so than many of those working in fashion and fashion marketing.
Fashion blogs are often scathing about a new designers collection and so can diffuse much of the hype created around fashions and trends by marketing professionals. They can also popularise and create crazes for products, which have little or no marketing budgets. Probably the most important factor in attracting so many readers to fashion blogs is the enthusiasm and love of the bloggers for the subject on which they are blogging.
Most fashion blogs are started as a hobby and an outlet for individuals with a love of fashion and clothes. The individual styles of writing often make the blogs an interesting and sometimes very funny read. Blogs do not have to conform to a particular style of writing and so are usually much more informal in tone making it easier for the reader to relate to them.
The nature of blogging means that they are a quicker and more interactive form of communication than traditional glossy magazines, reviews of collections and runway shows can be instantly posted giving readers instant previews for the next seasons trends.
So what about the future of blogging? As Designerhighstreet prepares to launch its very own blog, fashion blogs are fast becoming the preferred source of information and inspiration for fashion consumers in the know.
Fashion designers seek to create new pieces however, pushing the boundaries to create distinctive and sometimes controversial concepts. As top designers are sometimes out of the price range of potential customers, large numbers of stores create similar looking items which are affordable, enabling more people to enjoy new trends.
Fashion journalists tend to either love or hate garments, and can be very influential on public perception of a particular style or design. Those who are very interested in being fashionable will tend to keep a close eye on fashion magazines for up to date information and to see the reception of new looks. People often look back at the popular fashions of past decades with some embarrassment. The 80s look is a good example - currently associated with poor taste and big hair! Fashion, however, can be cyclical. A number of older looks are currently regaining popularity; these looks are often referred to as retro.
Even those who love fashion will stop short of certain trends. The way in which people, especially women, are portrayed by the media tends to champion an unusual and often unhealthy body type, leading to young girls everywhere suffering from low self esteem and even eating disorders. It is easy to see why young people assume you have to look something like Katie Price (glamour model Jordan) in order to marry a man such as Peter Andre. Despite the recent breakup of the couple, many see Katie Price's life as a success in general and wish to emulate her look. Due to differences in appearance and low confidence, it is unusual to find people outside of the modelling, music or movie scene wearing leotards as a fashion statement. The sad truth is that even girls and women who put an awful lot of effort into achieving what they believe to be an 'ideal' look, they would still be too lacking in confidence to wear garments such as leotards.
Most high street and online stores selling the fashionable look to everyday people recognise that the majority of women are not built like models. There are all kinds of trends in existence at any given time, for people with alternative tastes, and for those who wish to just be a bit more covered up than celebrity singers wearing leotards! Items such as jeans and trousers, long skirts and more baggy tops are always to be found. Leotards, there is no doubt, can look great, and are used all over the world by dancers and gymnasts of all kinds, proof of their great flexibility.
Dance wear is becoming increasingly fashionable, and it is reasonable to assume that this will continue to be the case as it features a lot in music videos. The main fashion tip to always remember is to wear something you feel comfortable in, as your confidence and ease will show through making you more attractive than ever!
The Influence of Fashion Blogs on Trends and Fashion
Fashion Blogging is rapidly increasing in popularity, with new fashion blogs springing up everywhere and the number of people turning to fashion blogs as a source of information or inspiration for style and trends growing. But how much influence does fashion blogging have on trends and fashions and why is blogging becoming the latest media for fashion?
Fashion blogs are about fashion, clothing and accessories and also include runway trends, celebrity fashion and street style. Fashion blogs have been reported in the US as early as 2002 (Sinclair, Jenny. Fashion blogs, "The Age", October 17, 2002.) and have been increasing in numbers since, In 2003 The Wall Street Journal reported of 40 bloggers being given invites to
New York fashion week (Dodes, Rachel. "Bloggers get under the tent", The Wall Street Journal, September 12, 2006). Today blogging has become a very significant media for the fashion press with independent fashion bloggers and funded fashion blog networks competing for dominance in the blogosphere.
The significance of fashion blogging in influencing trends and fashions is evident in the increasing number of companies looking to promote their clothing through fashion blogs and fashion blogging and the money associated with fashion blogs. Fashion Bloggers report increasing profits with Manolo's shoe blog reportedly making a six figure sum and the bag snob generating a five figure sum.
The emergence of fashion blog networks such as Coutorture Media and Sugar Publishing Inc have attracted large amounts of investment into the fashion blogosphere. The significance of fashion blogs is also evident in the number of commercial organisations chosing to set up their own fashion blogs such as the Telegraph. In December 2006 , fashion blogs were recognised by Vogue in an article about their significance . In Jan 07, the Daily Mail published an article on the fashion blog stars advising readers to "Forget waiting for the monthly glossies, the sharpest fashion advice is now online".
Perhaps the popularity of fashion blogs is because they are written or perceived to be written by a real person and not a marketing professional. They give individuals honest opinions of trends and fashions and in most cases are not influenced or paid directly for endorsing products although most generate revenue from advertising. This gives fashion blogs a very realistic approach to fashion, more so than many of those working in fashion and fashion marketing.
Fashion blogs are often scathing about a new designers collection and so can diffuse much of the hype created around fashions and trends by marketing professionals. They can also popularise and create crazes for products, which have little or no marketing budgets. Probably the most important factor in attracting so many readers to fashion blogs is the enthusiasm and love of the bloggers for the subject on which they are blogging.
Most fashion blogs are started as a hobby and an outlet for individuals with a love of fashion and clothes. The individual styles of writing often make the blogs an interesting and sometimes very funny read. Blogs do not have to conform to a particular style of writing and so are usually much more informal in tone making it easier for the reader to relate to them.
The nature of blogging means that they are a quicker and more interactive form of communication than traditional glossy magazines, reviews of collections and runway shows can be instantly posted giving readers instant previews for the next seasons trends.
So what about the future of blogging? As Designerhighstreet prepares to launch its very own blog, fashion blogs are fast becoming the preferred source of information and inspiration for fashion consumers in the know.
The Importance of Fashion
Fashion has its own importance in world.Fashion is not a new thing in the world.Fashion is an old thing and it is found every where and at all the times.Yes, from time to time fashion changed but it has shown its existence in all ages.And it is not true to say that only young people do fashion,fashion is for every body and every body do the fashion.Yes the fashion may be different for all age groups.
Actually fashion is a way to express yourself.Mostly you can judge a person's nature and to some extent you can judge a person from his/her fashion.Fashion shows what kind of person you are.
Fashion,if done in a good manner,also increases your beauty.Actually,these days beauty depends on fashion.Fashion is a way to measure how beautiful some body is. And in the modern society an old fashioned guy is not liked by many people.Fashion is done in many ways.First there are fashionable clothes.
It is said these days that fashion in clothes changes overnight.And it is also a joke that if one has bought a clothing today,he/she must wear it today because it is possible by tomorrow it can go out of fashion.Fashion is also seen in hair.And fashion in hair is also an old age tradition.Some people like long hair and some like their head without hair.Hair styling is a different kind of fashion. Fashion also exists in cosmetics.
Now,from where it comes? And I think it is well known fact that it comes from the show business,The Film Industry.Mostly people follow the celebrities for fashion. What most popular Actress/Actor wore in a film,it becomes a fashion overnight.Actually,fashion is an industry these days.
Since the vast majority of people have no choice but to clothe themselves, there is no excuse for people to wear unflattering clothes. People come in all shapes and sizes and there are an assortment of clothing styles that are capable of both accentuating your best assets and concealing your flaws. This alone makes fashion a very important thing. If women were to accept their body types and learn how to dress them by wearing flattering clothing, they may never have to ask their husbands the dreaded question "Do I look fat in this?" again.
If you do not look the part when you are going into a job interview, you risk your employers giving the job to someone they feel would be more qualified. Your wardrobe may not only have an impact on your professional life, but your personal life as well. If you are in the dating scene, you want to look your best and a part of that is by dressing appropriately. If you are a women who wear miniskirts and low-cut shirts, you may attract the wrong kind of men because you are giving the impression of being easy.
Actually fashion is a way to express yourself.Mostly you can judge a person's nature and to some extent you can judge a person from his/her fashion.Fashion shows what kind of person you are.
Fashion,if done in a good manner,also increases your beauty.Actually,these days beauty depends on fashion.Fashion is a way to measure how beautiful some body is. And in the modern society an old fashioned guy is not liked by many people.Fashion is done in many ways.First there are fashionable clothes.
It is said these days that fashion in clothes changes overnight.And it is also a joke that if one has bought a clothing today,he/she must wear it today because it is possible by tomorrow it can go out of fashion.Fashion is also seen in hair.And fashion in hair is also an old age tradition.Some people like long hair and some like their head without hair.Hair styling is a different kind of fashion. Fashion also exists in cosmetics.
- It is also seen in shoes.Fashion is even seen in your way of talking.And how to walk is also a fashion.Actually fashion has become a part of our life.Nobody can remain untouched without fashion.You must have some kind of fashion show your existence in the society.You may be a rich person or poor,you must have some kind of fashion.
Now,from where it comes? And I think it is well known fact that it comes from the show business,The Film Industry.Mostly people follow the celebrities for fashion. What most popular Actress/Actor wore in a film,it becomes a fashion overnight.Actually,fashion is an industry these days.
- Millions of people earn their livelihood from fashion worldwide.So we can say fashion is very important in this world rather it was important at all the times.And I would say,we can't think about the world without fashion.It runs in the blood of people these days.And it is showing its importance by the passage of time.And I think too much can be written in fashion.But I am finishing here,because it has gone already too long.
- As civilized human beings, clothing is a requirement in order to be decent and presentable to the public. So unless you are a nudist, you may have difficulty deciding what to wear in the morning and discovering your own personal style. Some people on the other hand simply don't see fashion as something important and pick out random articles of clothing, disregarding the message they are sending to the public. The fact is clothing does more than just conceals your body, it has to ability to accentuate your figure, minimize your flaws, give you the image of either professionalism or slovenliness, convey your individuality, and make you feel your best.
Since the vast majority of people have no choice but to clothe themselves, there is no excuse for people to wear unflattering clothes. People come in all shapes and sizes and there are an assortment of clothing styles that are capable of both accentuating your best assets and concealing your flaws. This alone makes fashion a very important thing. If women were to accept their body types and learn how to dress them by wearing flattering clothing, they may never have to ask their husbands the dreaded question "Do I look fat in this?" again.
- Fashion is also a reflection of yourself and what kind of person you are. Even though you may have an excellent career, people may be wary of your ability if you look unkempt. It's only human nature for people to judge others by their appearance, and ones attire is a vital component of that. Fashion is important because it allows people to project the image that they want others to see. Although people may object and tell others "not to judge a book by its cover," first impressions are everything.
If you do not look the part when you are going into a job interview, you risk your employers giving the job to someone they feel would be more qualified. Your wardrobe may not only have an impact on your professional life, but your personal life as well. If you are in the dating scene, you want to look your best and a part of that is by dressing appropriately. If you are a women who wear miniskirts and low-cut shirts, you may attract the wrong kind of men because you are giving the impression of being easy.
- Not only is fashion a powerful way of manipulating the public's opinion of you,--it also allows your convey your individuality. If you went to a private school where you were forced to wear uniforms, you may realize how boring it is to dress just like everyone else. There are an assortment of stores that sell different styles of clothing from preppy, punk, goth, and skater.
- You can show the world what type of music you listen to by wearing the shirt you got at a concert, your sense of humor by wearing a tee with a witty saying, or your stance on political issues by wearing it on your attire. Fashion is not all about trends. We should not be mindless zombies that believe what Vogue says we have to wear. Fashion is about looking our best while still incorporating our own unique style and individuality while choosing clothing that flatters our body.
- Dressing in fashion -----will open many doors in your life: professionally and socially.
If you dress with baggy pants and a T-shirt you will find a job as a busboy in a cheap restaurant, or a cleaning boy or girl in a small store, with wages that won't even help you pay the rent.
We live in a world where the way you dress says so much about you and your aptitudes, might not be true, might be you are damn smart, with an IQ of over 100, but if you dress like a slob, you won't land a job that goes with your knowledge, and it goes the same way around, if you dress fashionably, even if your IQ is not that high, you will land a job in a higher position socially.
- People treat you the way they see you, racism is not only about gender or race, is about fashion and looks as well, you dress well, you'll be treated well, you dress sloppy... chances are you won't get beyond the door of a good company or a good restaurant to dine, even a date with that "hot" person, regardless if you have the money.
Fashion is important, it sends the message that you care for yourself, that you are updated, but most of all that you are presentable. Your looks say whether you are responsible or not, that's how important fashion is!
It's all in the looks. - Lastly, fashion is important to make people feel their best. When you wear clothes that fit you properly and really mirror your taste, it can add a boost of confidence. When you feel good in what you are wearing, you may find yourself in a better mood and in turn people will begin to view you differently. Overall, it's amazing what some fabric and do for our self-esteem!
The Importance of Fashion Trends
Fashion trends come and go, but a good fashion sense stays with you forever. Different people have different tastes in fashion, and while you may not always agree with them, they own up to their fashion sense with confidence. This is what makes a big difference between a fashion sense and fashion trend. Fashion trends dictate that we wear whatever is in season otherwise we could be rudely stared at or whispered about in public, or worse, we can be cited as examples of what a fashion faux pas is.
While to some extent we are compelled to follow the norms in fashion, it doesn’t necessarily follow that we lose our own sense of style in the process. Celebrities for instance, know that they are being judged by more than half the world’s population by what they wear on what occasion, and for this reason alone, they turn to famous designers to dress them up in the latest threads in fashion.
However, you will also notice that most of them incorporate their own sense of style into these fashion trends, and they are quite successful at it, too. The Latest Fashion Trends Nevertheless, it gives you some sort of security and peace of mind even knowing that what you are wearing is within the agreeable style of fashion for a particular season.
Perhaps there is something to be said about the false sense of security that this kind of approval provides. But on the other hand, it is actually not so much as seeking approval as the current trend really IS appealing to the public. After all, fashion trends are there not only to dictate to us what to wear but more so to show us different comfortable styles that we can choose from if we fancy wearing them.
Fashion trends take a lot of factors into consideration such as the weather, season, comfort, and lifestyle. So in reality, fashion trends are there to help people decide which one suits them best and which ones they can go without. Create Your Style If you go with the latest trends and use your imagination or creativity to make it your own style, you might find that there’s more to your wardrobe than only one look.
You can also incorporate your mood into what you’re going to wear. You can exude playfulness or show your sexy side on some occasions and then be a little conservative on other days. Remember that fashion trends are more of guidelines on what you can wear for whatever occasion. For instance, if you’re stumped for ideas on what to wear to a formal event thrown by your company or you don’t know what to wear to a luau, fashion trends can help you solve this mystery. You can even ask fashion gurus who write in fashion magazines about advices on proper attires for every occasion.
After all, you wouldn’t want to be caught dead wearing flip-flops to your cousin’s wedding reception or jeans to a beach party, do you?
Difference Between Fashion and Style
"Fashions Fade, Style is Eternal!" - Yves St Laurent
There are many people who always look good and there are others who simply become slaves to fashion and they very often look a mess.
The difference between fashion and style is neatly summed up by the quote at the top of this page. We all have positive and negative physical attributes and we all should be stressing the positive and hiding the negative ones as best we can.
Don't Follow the Crowd
Fashion is therefore not just about what you wear, it is the about the image and style you project to others.
Most people want to conform, it's the basis of human nature and are brainwashed into wearing the latest new fashions as they don't have any idea on how to create their own individual personal style.
The strength of marketing is very persuasive and billions of dollars are spend annually and its very influential in getting people to buy. The fact is some fashions simply don't work for certain individuals.
For example, if short skirts are in fashion and you don't have the legs for it, then you should avoid short skirts - period.
Looking Fashionable and Stylish
To look fashionable and stylish buy things that make you look good in the eyes of others and stress your best assets.
This is the difference between a person who has style, they always look good because they only wear fashions that look good and show their assets off as best they can.
There are certain classic looks that always look good and these should be the basis of your wardrobe. The Law of Supply and Demand in shops sometimes makes it difficult to steer clear of fashion trends.
Shop Around
New collections that are constantly launched in stores are all influenced by the same mass trends is backed up by huge advertising makes buying something original and something that suits you difficult sometimes so you must shop around, but there are items you will look good in you just have to find them.
Being Stylish and not a Fashion Victim
There is nothing wrong with following trends as long as their right for you and your look. The difference between being a fashion victim and fashionable and stylish essentially depends on to which extent you follow personal taste.
Obviously, basic rules of fashion should be adhered to but you should generally buy what makes you look good and feel good.
Developing Your own Style
We are not all good at everything and this for many people includes looking stylish so if you are not sure what suits you ask your friends or family for an honest opinion and they may be able to point you in the right direction.
Today in our image conscious society there is a huge market in image consulting where people appoint a professional to give them a sense of style.
As people rightly or wrongly judge us by the way we look projecting a positive image is essential to find the partner of our dreams or get that vital job promotion.
Getting a fashionable stylish image can literally change your life so putting some effort in this area will see your life change for the better.
Moreover
To HAVE style would be to have the ability to correctly match clothing, make up and hair.
Making sure that colours don't clash and the clothes that you wear are appropriate to the occasion and to the body that is wearing them. HAVING style can also include having class. The simple phrase.. MY style.. Is to me a person's way of expressing their character or the social group that they wish to be part of, as in some people dress in the style of lets say, an Emo or a Goth, Mosher, grunge or sadly in this country a Chav. Sometimes a person will come along with their very own individual style. These people often become leaders in the world of fashion, as in designers themselves. Should this person be famous, like a rock star or an actor, it will often start a new style.
Fashion, when spoken in broad terms means the popular themes or clothing of the moment. You can put the meaning of fashion to each of the above styles. Using Fashion rather than style, when talking about oneself, can be an announcement of personal success.
As in:
" I wear the latest fashion, I bought this yesterday and threw away last seasons design"
The best ever, is the person that can mix both Fashion and Style. Style is what you wear and how you wear it. Like stargazer said style is personal and artful it's something you stick to,where fashion is merely a choice and a trend that comes and goes. A good way to balance them out is by haveing 80% of your wardrobe being your personal style and 20% being fashion.
There are many people who always look good and there are others who simply become slaves to fashion and they very often look a mess.
The difference between fashion and style is neatly summed up by the quote at the top of this page. We all have positive and negative physical attributes and we all should be stressing the positive and hiding the negative ones as best we can.
Don't Follow the Crowd
Fashion is therefore not just about what you wear, it is the about the image and style you project to others.
Most people want to conform, it's the basis of human nature and are brainwashed into wearing the latest new fashions as they don't have any idea on how to create their own individual personal style.
The strength of marketing is very persuasive and billions of dollars are spend annually and its very influential in getting people to buy. The fact is some fashions simply don't work for certain individuals.
For example, if short skirts are in fashion and you don't have the legs for it, then you should avoid short skirts - period.
Looking Fashionable and Stylish
To look fashionable and stylish buy things that make you look good in the eyes of others and stress your best assets.
This is the difference between a person who has style, they always look good because they only wear fashions that look good and show their assets off as best they can.
There are certain classic looks that always look good and these should be the basis of your wardrobe. The Law of Supply and Demand in shops sometimes makes it difficult to steer clear of fashion trends.
Shop Around
New collections that are constantly launched in stores are all influenced by the same mass trends is backed up by huge advertising makes buying something original and something that suits you difficult sometimes so you must shop around, but there are items you will look good in you just have to find them.
Being Stylish and not a Fashion Victim
There is nothing wrong with following trends as long as their right for you and your look. The difference between being a fashion victim and fashionable and stylish essentially depends on to which extent you follow personal taste.
Obviously, basic rules of fashion should be adhered to but you should generally buy what makes you look good and feel good.
Developing Your own Style
We are not all good at everything and this for many people includes looking stylish so if you are not sure what suits you ask your friends or family for an honest opinion and they may be able to point you in the right direction.
Today in our image conscious society there is a huge market in image consulting where people appoint a professional to give them a sense of style.
As people rightly or wrongly judge us by the way we look projecting a positive image is essential to find the partner of our dreams or get that vital job promotion.
Getting a fashionable stylish image can literally change your life so putting some effort in this area will see your life change for the better.
Moreover
To HAVE style would be to have the ability to correctly match clothing, make up and hair.
Making sure that colours don't clash and the clothes that you wear are appropriate to the occasion and to the body that is wearing them. HAVING style can also include having class. The simple phrase.. MY style.. Is to me a person's way of expressing their character or the social group that they wish to be part of, as in some people dress in the style of lets say, an Emo or a Goth, Mosher, grunge or sadly in this country a Chav. Sometimes a person will come along with their very own individual style. These people often become leaders in the world of fashion, as in designers themselves. Should this person be famous, like a rock star or an actor, it will often start a new style.
Fashion, when spoken in broad terms means the popular themes or clothing of the moment. You can put the meaning of fashion to each of the above styles. Using Fashion rather than style, when talking about oneself, can be an announcement of personal success.
As in:
" I wear the latest fashion, I bought this yesterday and threw away last seasons design"
The best ever, is the person that can mix both Fashion and Style. Style is what you wear and how you wear it. Like stargazer said style is personal and artful it's something you stick to,where fashion is merely a choice and a trend that comes and goes. A good way to balance them out is by haveing 80% of your wardrobe being your personal style and 20% being fashion.
Fashion Trends & Personal Style
How to Be You Own Personal Stylist
A trend is defined as the general direction in which something tends to move, and when it comes to fashion, that something is the current or latest style: what's en vogue. Certainly, it's easy enough to be trendy by purchasing the latest looks off the mannequins each season, however this strategy is both prohibitively expensive and does little towards creating your own personal style. Style – and especially personal style – is something which cannot be bought off the rack.
Fashion Trends
Many people make the mistake of thinking that trends are fashion commandments to be slavishly obeyed season after season. On the contrary, trends are merely suggestions of how to develop your individual look - cues in the overall tone of your personal style.
Many people make the mistake of thinking that trends are fashion commandments to be slavishly obeyed season after season. On the contrary, trends are merely suggestions of how to develop your individual look - cues in the overall tone of your personal style.
Personal Style
Fashion Fantasy
Each Spring and Fall, year after year, the fashion industry churns out sartorial fantasy: innovative garments on Amazon models marching down skinny runways and poised uncomfortably in airbrushed photographs on the pages of glossy magazines. While exciting and incredibly entertaining, fashion fantasy rarely has any place in the life of real women.
Fashion Reality
Fashion reality requires a woman to perform an ongoing honest evaluation of her body type, frame, and lifestyle. Fashion intuition is the necessary third ingredient to being a fabulously stylish woman; it's how you incorporate trends into your wardrobe and make them your own.
No trend is for everyone, so you need to be judicious about what garments and accessories, colors and cuts are appropriate for your figure, features, coloring and lifestyle.
Each Spring and Fall, year after year, the fashion industry churns out sartorial fantasy: innovative garments on Amazon models marching down skinny runways and poised uncomfortably in airbrushed photographs on the pages of glossy magazines. While exciting and incredibly entertaining, fashion fantasy rarely has any place in the life of real women.
Fashion Reality
Fashion reality requires a woman to perform an ongoing honest evaluation of her body type, frame, and lifestyle. Fashion intuition is the necessary third ingredient to being a fabulously stylish woman; it's how you incorporate trends into your wardrobe and make them your own.
No trend is for everyone, so you need to be judicious about what garments and accessories, colors and cuts are appropriate for your figure, features, coloring and lifestyle.
Fashions fade, style is eternal!" -
Yves St Laurent
There are many people who always look good and there are others who simply become slaves to fashion and they very often look a mess.
The difference between fashion and style is neatly summed up by the quote at the top of this page. We all have positive and negative physical attributes and we all should be stressing the positive and hiding the negative ones as best we can.
The difference between fashion and style is neatly summed up by the quote at the top of this page. We all have positive and negative physical attributes and we all should be stressing the positive and hiding the negative ones as best we can.
Don't Follow the Crowd
Fashion is therefore not just about what you wear, it is the about the image and style you project to others.
Most people want to conform, it's the basis of human nature and are brainwashed into wearing the latest new fashions as they don't have any idea on how to create their own individual personal style.
The strength of marketing is very persuasive and billions of dollars are spend annually and its very influential in getting people to buy. The fact is some fashions simply don't work for certain individuals.
For example, if short skirts are in fashion and you don't have the legs for it, then you should avoid short skirts - period.
Fashion is therefore not just about what you wear, it is the about the image and style you project to others.
Most people want to conform, it's the basis of human nature and are brainwashed into wearing the latest new fashions as they don't have any idea on how to create their own individual personal style.
The strength of marketing is very persuasive and billions of dollars are spend annually and its very influential in getting people to buy. The fact is some fashions simply don't work for certain individuals.
For example, if short skirts are in fashion and you don't have the legs for it, then you should avoid short skirts - period.
Looking Fashionable and Stylish
To look fashionable and stylish buy things that make you look good in the eyes of others and stress your best assets.
This is the difference between a person who has style, they always look good because they only wear fashions that look good and show their assets off as best they can.
There are certain classic looks that always look good and these should be the basis of your wardrobe. The Law of Supply and Demand in shops sometimes makes it difficult to steer clear of fashion trends.
Shop around
New collections that are constantly launched in stores are all influenced by the same mass trends is backed up by huge advertising makes buying something original and something that suits you difficult sometimes so you must shop around, but there are items you will look good in you just have to find them.
New collections that are constantly launched in stores are all influenced by the same mass trends is backed up by huge advertising makes buying something original and something that suits you difficult sometimes so you must shop around, but there are items you will look good in you just have to find them.
Being Stylish and Not a Fashion Victim
There is nothing wrong with following trends as long as their right for you and your look. The difference between being a fashion victim and fashionable and stylish essentially depends on to which extent you follow personal taste.
Obviously, basic rules of fashion should be adhered to but you should generally buy what makes you look good and feel good.
Developing Your own Style
We are not all good at everything and this for many people includes looking stylish so if you are not sure what suits you ask your friends or family for an honest opinion and they may be able to point you in the right direction.
Today in our image conscious society there is a huge market in image consulting where people appoint a professional to give them a sense of style.
As people rightly or wrongly judge us by the way we look projecting a positive image is essential to find the partner of our dreams or get that vital job promotion.
Getting a fashionable stylish image can literally change your life so putting some effort in this area will see your life change for the better.
The Difference Between Style And Fashion
New York women are among the most fashionable women on the face of the earth. They are also among the least stylish. Confused? If so, you aren’t alone. You’re just among the many people who confuse stylish with fashionable.
To have a personal style is to have a statement you want to make with your clothing. You use your body as a palette and try to make your outfit into a work of art. Thought goes into a personal style. There are three “yous,” you as you see yourself, you as others see you, and you as you want others to see you. The aim of an impeccable personal style should be to bring these three yous as close together as possible. Questions to ask include: does this outfit match the personality I’m trying to convey? Do I have the attitude and mindset to pull it off? Is it showing the right amount of originality, yet is it not so out there as to become a freakshow? A good personal style takes into account the right amount of risk vs. safety for any occasion. A good personal style also takes into account what works for your body, especially your weight, skin tone, height and muscle tone.
Which brings us to fashion. There is a reason why the term “dedicated follower of fashion” exists. Because fashion is following trends that are current. It doesn’t matter if the trend is ugly, if it doesn’t go with your personality, if it’s not flattering to your body shape, if the color that is in season does not go with you at all….all that’s irrelevant when you’re trying to be fashionable. Fashion is about checking your mind in at the door and slavishly keeping up with what other people are wearing. You will rock the ugliest, hard to match handbag if it has the right name splashed on it. You will rock Audrey Hepburn skinny jeans despite having a pear shape. You will put on the latest revealing low cut jeans despite having huge muffin tops. You will wear ballet slippers to work even though you are an adult that works in an office.
For example, look at the dress at the top of the post. That’s an empire dress. It’s a high waisted dress that starts right under the breasts. I don’t know a single straight man that likes those dresses, and if there is one, I’m willing to bet he’s partially in the closet. Men may find women beautiful in spite of such dresses, but I’ve yet to meet a guy attracted to them. They look like maternity dresses and give even the best bodies the most unflattering or at best bland shape. Yet almost every woman in NY had these dresses over the summer, whether they were fat, skinny, short, tall, shapely or thin.
At the height of the empire dress craze, I saw a lot of women looking frumpy and bell-shaped in the big billowy while walking around in nasty flip-flops. Anytime I saw a guy try to point out how unflattering the whole look was, I’d hear the same indignant response: “You don’t know anything about fashion! This is what they’re wearing on the Paris runways/in Soho/in Hollywood!” as if that alone was a good enough reason, or as if the fact that it’s fashion somehow refuted the accusation that it was ugly. Basically, the fact that everyone else was wearing it was its own justification. None of the NY women would ever try to address the meat of the actual critique, which was that the dresses made even good bodies look bad and bad bodies look worse. Or that the flip-flops looked ratty made the bottoms of their feet black after riding the train and walking around Manhattan. Even worse, they didn’t realize they were ignoring the actual crux of the criticism. Their critical faculties checked out at the words “It’s in fashion now” and proceeded no further. Popularity is its own justification in the minds of the fashionable.
To have a personal style is to have a statement you want to make with your clothing. You use your body as a palette and try to make your outfit into a work of art. Thought goes into a personal style. There are three “yous,” you as you see yourself, you as others see you, and you as you want others to see you. The aim of an impeccable personal style should be to bring these three yous as close together as possible. Questions to ask include: does this outfit match the personality I’m trying to convey? Do I have the attitude and mindset to pull it off? Is it showing the right amount of originality, yet is it not so out there as to become a freakshow? A good personal style takes into account the right amount of risk vs. safety for any occasion. A good personal style also takes into account what works for your body, especially your weight, skin tone, height and muscle tone.
Which brings us to fashion. There is a reason why the term “dedicated follower of fashion” exists. Because fashion is following trends that are current. It doesn’t matter if the trend is ugly, if it doesn’t go with your personality, if it’s not flattering to your body shape, if the color that is in season does not go with you at all….all that’s irrelevant when you’re trying to be fashionable. Fashion is about checking your mind in at the door and slavishly keeping up with what other people are wearing. You will rock the ugliest, hard to match handbag if it has the right name splashed on it. You will rock Audrey Hepburn skinny jeans despite having a pear shape. You will put on the latest revealing low cut jeans despite having huge muffin tops. You will wear ballet slippers to work even though you are an adult that works in an office.
For example, look at the dress at the top of the post. That’s an empire dress. It’s a high waisted dress that starts right under the breasts. I don’t know a single straight man that likes those dresses, and if there is one, I’m willing to bet he’s partially in the closet. Men may find women beautiful in spite of such dresses, but I’ve yet to meet a guy attracted to them. They look like maternity dresses and give even the best bodies the most unflattering or at best bland shape. Yet almost every woman in NY had these dresses over the summer, whether they were fat, skinny, short, tall, shapely or thin.
At the height of the empire dress craze, I saw a lot of women looking frumpy and bell-shaped in the big billowy while walking around in nasty flip-flops. Anytime I saw a guy try to point out how unflattering the whole look was, I’d hear the same indignant response: “You don’t know anything about fashion! This is what they’re wearing on the Paris runways/in Soho/in Hollywood!” as if that alone was a good enough reason, or as if the fact that it’s fashion somehow refuted the accusation that it was ugly. Basically, the fact that everyone else was wearing it was its own justification. None of the NY women would ever try to address the meat of the actual critique, which was that the dresses made even good bodies look bad and bad bodies look worse. Or that the flip-flops looked ratty made the bottoms of their feet black after riding the train and walking around Manhattan. Even worse, they didn’t realize they were ignoring the actual crux of the criticism. Their critical faculties checked out at the words “It’s in fashion now” and proceeded no further. Popularity is its own justification in the minds of the fashionable.
A stylish person cares about what flatters their skin tone, hair color and body type, regardless if it goes against what’s in fashion. To me, it shows a great ability to balance individuality with conformity, a good grasp of their body’s strengths and weaknesses, and most of all, intelligence and a strong sense of self. The image they project is congruent with the image they are trying to project, which is also congruent with how they view themselves. All of which conveys great knowledge of self and social intelligence. A big turn on.
I used to not get the big deal about Jackie O., but after grasping the difference between fashion and style, I realize Jackie O. was not overrated after all, she was stylish. And currently the most stylish celebrity to me is Nicole Kidman. I did an extensive google image search on her to find her in an empire dress or flip-flops and I couldn’t find it. She is always more conscious about being true to her personal style rather than to what’s fashionable. It actually makes her look hotter than she actually is. She knows how to highlight assets, hide flaws and convey taste better than any female celebrity out there I think. Cate Blanchett to me exemplifies this trait too, but not as well as Kidman.
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