Style is an energy and confidence that is expressed through clothing, footwear and accessories. It can be a positive force in our lives, but it can also be a source of stress. Here are 20 truths about style that help me to keep perspective, be more accepting, prioritize what is important, and stay in charge of my own style. 

  1. Style is a celebration of individuality. There’s no one way to be stylish.
  2. Style emanates from within. Pay attention to how you feel in an outfit.
  3. Style is about your preferences. Your favourite colours, silhouettes and combinations are always in style.
  4. Style is everyday. It should be manageable and practical.
  5. Style is not a competition. Compare, but don’t despair.
  6. Style is authenticity. Be yourself, rather than an inauthentic version of someone else.
  7. Style is now. Dress the body and lifestyle you have today.
  8. Style is a journey, not a destination. Be patient and enjoy the evolution.
  9. Style is personal. Listen to yourself most of all. Other people have opinions, but you know best.
  10. Style is not about pleasing everyone. Choose a small group of people whose opinions matter to you.
  11. Style is your decision. Don’t let it boss you around.
  12. Style is social. It unites people. It creates helpful and entertaining communities like YLF.
  13. Style is within your means. Don’t focus on what you don’t have.
  14. Style is not obsession. There is much, much more to life than physical appearance.
  15. Style is not trends. A look is only dated when you are done wearing it. Not when an influencer, designer or fashion magazine says so.
  16. Style is uplifting. Your style can inspire others.
  17. Style is subjective. Judge the outfit, and not the person wearing it.
  18. Style is not fashion. The world of fashion is fickle and sometimes ridiculous. Don’t take it too seriously.
  19. Style is sustainable. As far as possible, make sustainable and ethical choices when choosing your wardrobe.
  20. Style is fun. Relax into it. Let it be your creative expression. Have fun and laugh a lot.

Recently I have been summarizing the aspects of style that are most important to me personally with the acronym SIMPAT: Sustainable, Individual, Manageable, Practical, Authentic and Therapeutic.