I totally agree, some fashions can obviously look great on some, while others it just doesn’t fit their personal style. There’s nothing wrong with that! Style is being able to tell the difference between the fashions that work for you and those that don’t, and playing up your strengths. Great post!

Angie, your caring influence via fashion gives us confidence and grace, known as style. The reason I love YLF so much is that I never cease to learn and apply your wonderful insights that you share so unselfishly with us. And, (a note to your younger clients) I’m 59! Whether it’s pants’ length or layering tips, when these elements are integrated, people react positively to us, and that is confidence building.

“Know first who you are, and then adorn yourself accordingly.” Epictetus (c. 55 – c.135)

Deep. And true indeed.

I didn’t know I’d get a dose of philosophy on my daily trip to YLF.

I love the quote:
“Ettiquette is for those without manners, in the same way as fashion is for those without style.” -Coco Chanel

I think that good dressing is a way of expressing who we are and who we can be… but very often we dress badly because we dress according to how we think we are (fat and unattractive) or would like to be (thinner, taller, richer, whatever).

I have always been obsessed with style. When I talk about it, I sound like I’m obsessed with clothes which seems shallow. You have expressed what I feel and I appreciate the link to the Psychology Today article. I’ll be more articulate now. I love your blog, BTW.

Thank you for posting this article Angie. This clarifies the difference between style and fashion for me. With all the fashion and fashionistas in the media and malls it is easy to be confused, at least for me. I also like hearing that by presenting myself in a stylish manner I am not just being self absorbed but am really giving credit to myself as an individual.

yes!

I always think of fashion was what we wear, and style is how we wear it.

Wardrobe Oxygen wrote an article on style, I think it’s also worth a peek:
http://wardrobeoxygen.com/2008.....style.html

Now we can understand why so many nominees have melt-downs on What Not To Wear. They are going through a thorough re-examination of what’s important to them, how they see themselves, and how they want others to see them. It can be difficult, but I think we all have experienced the good feelings, even euphoria, that comes with having gone through a a difficult identity crisis, especially if we come out the other end with some new clothes that match our new vision of a ourselves.

you’re never fully dressed without a smile.

Good one, Lindsay, and good one Angie. This post and the accompanying articles should be required reading for husbands and similar companions — perhaps as part of an annual re-certification process!

Whoa dude I have some issues!! I really might be a fashion chameleon without one specific look. I’m also older, 37, and feel that some of my choices are not as appropriate as they could be, due to my size. BUT, I do make a big effort to at least try to dress within my age range, even though I can still wear the junior lines. I’ve decided not to edit too harshly till I turn 40. I’m not ready.

Thank you for sharing such a great article. So true.

Interesting topic. I have noticed with friends and family about the way that they dress–some won’t wear red because they either don’t like it, feel too risque, or feel they do not look good in it. Or perhaps it is a certain type of top or… And it is interesting in that they are often right. Some of the way they hold themselves, or “show”-that isn’t the right word, “wear” the clothes actually affects how they look. Even if the color looks good with their hair and skin colors. It is their own perception of the fashion, or color or pattern that affects their personal style. Did that come across like I wanted it to?

Totally agree and cannot tell you how invaluable learning about fashion and your blog has been to me. Thanks for everything.

Totally agree as well, and you mention psychology & fashion which I have always believed are closely linked together. I think most people may feel fashion has a flat, superficial aspect but I’ve always believed it has a tremendous psychological effect too. Clothes can create an allure, and that allure can be a great confidence booster making you feel good about yourself etc. That YSL quote is legendary, he just passed away… RIP YSL.

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[...] a stylist with a background in psychology, I’ve thought a lot about what I would like my personal style to say about me. After all, anyone [...]