Approaching Personal Style as a Philosophy
Words by Wonder Lisungi, Stylist
Everyone has their own personal style, in a sense. It is your signature. It speaks volumes about who you are, what you value, and how you perceive the world. Your style is not just about the clothes you wear or the accessories you choose–it reflects your personality, experiences, and aspirations. It becomes your first impression, the introduction before you even introduce yourself, setting the tone for engaging with the world around you.
So, how do you approach your style as a philosophy?
Let’s start by defining style. André Leon Talley states: ‘Wearing clothes should be a personal narrative of emotion. I always respond to fashion in an emotional way’. Talley’s words emphasise the essence of self-expression. Our attire is a means of storytelling, a reflection of our emotions in the moment. Our clothes speak volumes about our inner state, no matter how seemingly insignificant. It is crucial to liberate ourselves from constricting ideologies about what we ‘should’ wear. This is not a performance but about embracing comfort and authenticity in our choices.
The act of dressing oneself can be seen as a performance in the sense that we often dress to convey certain messages or identities to the outside world. However, within that performance lies the opportunity for authentic expression.
Consider this: when someone selects an outfit that truly resonates with them, it is no longer about conforming to societal norms or expectations but rather about authentically expressing who they are and how they feel. In this way, personal style becomes a medium through which individuals communicate who they are.
When it comes to developing a personal style, podcasts and commentators are a fun way to learn about new trends, niche accessories, and means of self-expression. Rhian Phin and the Cutting Room Floor Podcast offer more than just surface-level trend analysis. The Cutting Room Floor, a podcast covering diverse topics from photography to modelling, dedicate its episodes to dissecting the work done by industry professionals. Meanwhile, Phin’s social media presence brings a scholarly approach to fashion, contemplating the politics of haul videos and the influence of online discussion on our wardrobe choices.
Whilst these influencing podcasts and commentators are a great source of inspiration, it is easy to live vicariously through these fashionistas, perhaps even experiencing longing or FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). FOMO is real. However, while these influencers provide inspiration, it is essential to remember that personal style is a conscientious process - like all forms of self-growth - and can somewhat be uncomfortable. Yes, there is that initial thrill when you buy a piece from a thrift or high-end store but avoid falling into the trap of over-consumption. Your personal style journey is unique, and what you like does not always equate to personal style. For example, you might admire a certain influencer's bold and eclectic style, but trying to copy it may not feel right for you. It's not simply about imitating trends or someone else's looks but about discovering and embracing what truly reflects your own identity. Likewise, colours or silhouettes that work for others might not suit you as well. Style is about embodying the most stylish version of yourself, not just following the latest fashion trends. Take your time and embrace the process of building your own story. Additionally, it is normal to feel as though you are copying someone when drawing inspiration. However, it is important to recognise that influences are present to guide and inspire.
‘Honour your past self’ is a phrase worth pondering when engaging with the idea of your style as a philosophy. We often get caught up in this idea of making dramatic 180-degree changes, all in the name of ‘glowing up’ and becoming our best selves. Still, we forget that we are more of an experience and an essence than a set of descriptive words or aesthetics. Let us take a step back and think about it. Every single past version of ourselves contributes to who we are currently, offering valuable lessons and mementoes that we carry into the present day. Rather than aiming for a sudden 'glow up,' perhaps we should consider the concept of 'upgrading,' where each step forward builds upon the last, fostering continuous growth and improvement.By recognising and celebrating the elements of your aesthetic journey that have shaped the person you are today, you are able to honour your past self through style. It's about integrating parts from your previous style phases, paying tribute to those moments or influences that really meant something to you.
So, incorporate those past elements into your current style, linking your personal story with who you are right now. Embrace the phases and experiments crucial in finding your own sense of style. Reflect on the journey, knowing that while some earlier choices might make you cringe now, they all brought you to where you are today. And just as you've evolved in the past, recognise that your style will keep evolving. It's all about accepting the process of trial and error as a natural part of growing and discovering yourself.
Use your style as a tool to take the time to find yourself. What’s the rush?