https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Mon, 04 May 2026 00:43:54 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-249469 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 02:50:22 +0000 Maya 249469@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Very thoughtful responses, which I haven't been honoring very well :(</p> <p>Yes, location is definitely a factor. I work in the same building as Intermix's corporate office, and the girls that work there are always light years ahead of the curve. In fact, I changed my mind on the furry vest when I saw one of them wearing one on the elevator. Sometimes I feel as though I'd have more in common with their office than with mine (actually, I'm positive I would--I'm a fish out of water ).</p> <p>Truly, I feel like I have seen it all over and over and over again. It's hard for me to really be taken aback by someone's style because nothing is truly new or innovative. It's HARD to be innovative, especially now when anything goes. </p> <p>That's not to say no one lives up to my standards or no one is stylish enough. Style ≠ edge. You can be very stylish and not very edgy, and vice versa. </p> <p>Michelle, I'm glad you mentioned that example, because it was exactly what I was thinking. There are others too, but that one was the most recent and fresh in my mind. Your outfit was outstanding, but it was as far from edgy as it gets--so I was very surprised to see it being described that way. Again, not being edgy isn't a bad thing in my mind. It doesn't detract from the value of the look in any way. It's just a way of describing it that I didn't see. I mean even by the loosest standards, there was nothing about that outfit that wasn't 100% classic and clean--exactly your style. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-249446 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 02:25:09 +0000 Marley 249446@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow! Just read this thread! Love the discussion. I agree with those who say it is all relative - as well as personal. When I go back to visit my family in the midwest, I sometimes stick out like a sore thumb for wearing something that here on the west coast would not even get a second look. I like the fact that everyone can have their own "edgy" look - regardless of their style. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-248840 Thu, 11 Nov 2010 02:45:42 +0000 JewelryGirl 248840@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>LOL - just read the 2nd page of replies now - yeah what Angie said! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-248838 Thu, 11 Nov 2010 02:44:47 +0000 JewelryGirl 248838@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think it can vary by individual also. I wear animal print (leopard) pretty frequently so when I pair it with my studded cognac JCrew belt, cargo pants, and cognac heeled brogue's that felt a little "edgy" to me. However, for someone that doesn't wear animal print often a simple skinny belt may feel "edgy" to that person with jeans &amp; a t or sweater. Make sense? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-248835 Thu, 11 Nov 2010 02:43:37 +0000 Lisa 248835@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh boy I'm not sure how to answer. I suppose edge for me means one eye catching piece that elevates the outfit to crisp, clean and sharp. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-248827 Thu, 11 Nov 2010 02:33:07 +0000 Jenava 248827@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>For my personal style, edge means contrast. But it has to be the right kind of contrast, in the right context, with the right elements. I'm still working this out. I did a post a while back about how the idea of contrast was really starting to resonate with me. I can no longer be satisfied with all modern classic in my outfit, as I would have been several years back. I need to add a distressed denim jacket, or a hoody, or a super high, high heel, or whatever. I think it depends on how you want people to perceive you. Dressing is communiating, and I want people to understand me. For me, part of that is playing in to what I know my audience thinks is unexpected. So, yeah, personal style and context both play roles in what I define as "edgy" both for myself and others. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-248748 Thu, 11 Nov 2010 01:03:28 +0000 Angie 248748@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Edge is PERSONAL - just as personal as your own style. It's contextual, relative and evolving. So I understand it *exactly* the same way as Julie, Cathy and Anna do. </p> <p>What is edgy for me, might not be edgy for Audi.</p> <p>What is edgy for Jennifer Aniston, might not be edgy for SJP. </p> <p>What is edgy for Marianna, might not be edgy for Anna. </p> <p>What's edgy for Nora Jones, might not be edgy for Gwen Stefani. </p> <p>What is edgy for Michelle, might not be edgy for Louise. </p> <p>Hope this illustrates that the goal posts are different for almost everyone. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-248673 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 22:38:33 +0000 MsMary 248673@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>He was the one with the quote.</p> <p>Although I will say he always seemed to be nicely dressed for the occasion, a la Angie's "Mad Men" post of this afternoon! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me/page/2#post-248672 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 22:38:17 +0000 Michelle 248672@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Julie's definition about pushing the boundaries of personal style is really resonating with me right now. I've received forum comments on some of my outfits that have left me rather puzzled (though always flattered and pleased). Outfits like the one I wore yesterday (black pencil skirt, teal top and grey boyfriend jacket) have been described as having an edge. I'm not disagreeing with that at all, since it's such a subjective adjective, but I was surprised to read it. A skirt, top and blazer sounded to me like a pretty conventional or classic combo, and therefore very much in line with my modern classic style. Clearly it was executed in a way that struck someone as unexpected, and this is great...it was just the last term I expected to see in my comments. :)<br /> Conversely, my zipper floral pin was largely considered to be a fun, edgy accessory by forum ladies who were in on my quest for such items. When I bought it, I decided it would be the perfect piece to spunk up my Chanel-esque jacket, which popular opinion suggests is in need of a modern twist. When I trotted out the outfit, people at my office asked me if the pin had come with the jacket. Obviously it speaks to how well the pieces integrate, but it also illustrates exactly how hard it is to define "edgy." If the zipper pin looked like something that came with the jacket, clearly it wasn't presenting much of a visual surprise or departure from what would be expected on such a garment. Yet the pin embodies all conventional elements of an edgy piece (if a soft floral shape expressed in gleaming zipper teeth doesn't say contrast, I don't know what does). Perhaps the ladies of the forum only felt the pin was edgy because it was going to be a departure from my understated, feminine style. In which case, good on you for saying it that way, because your feedback put that pin in my wardrobe, and it's now one of my favourite pieces. :)<br /> Basically, I suspect there is no truly universal definition of this term...but I love reading the discussion! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248666 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 22:26:31 +0000 Isabel 248666@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>MaryK, was the Justice badass or the one with the quote ? : ) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248662 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 22:23:25 +0000 MsMary 248662@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ah, Justice Potter Stewart!</p> <p>I loved him... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248661 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 22:21:11 +0000 Isabel 248661@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have always thought of it as a little "tough' or badass. But with a really sweet personality, like a man should be. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248656 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 22:16:20 +0000 Beth 248656@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think it's like the 1964 Supreme Court judge who said about obscene materials "I know it when I see it."</p> <p>Of course, that's still subjective and related to context. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248616 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 21:17:22 +0000 cloud9 248616@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I remember there was an episode on WNTW, about a lady moving from Minnesota to New York... and she wanted to be "edgy". Stacy &amp; Clinton looked confused as they go through the clippings of stuff she considered "edgy". Finally they said, "so this is what you mean by edgy (just being more trendy &amp; stylish). "Edgy" means something different to us." From that, my presumption is edgy means something more non-mainstream, in-your-face fashion forward, like studded OTK boots 5 years ago. Thus the term "EDGE", a *sharp* fringe so to speak, but in a much more daring way, not a subtle *bland* edge.</p> <p>I don't think that's how Angie uses it here.. would be interesting to see her definition. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248571 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:42:54 +0000 Dusty 248571@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I wonder if edge is even possible in NY. There's just so many people that I would guess you'd see it all in 30 minutes on the street. Whereas here, moto jackets are edgy because no one wears them (well, except the odd actual biker chick, but those aren't cropped and cute, they're gear), dolman sleeves are edgy, because no one wears them, oxfords and skirts are edgy, because no one does that. For the most part, even those who aren't just complete slobs wear very "safe" stuff; at the mall you'll see more knit tops and bootcut jeans than anything else, at the office, it's skirt suits or trousers and a blouse (and I don't know that I've ever seen anyone with PPL), nothing interesting at all. Heck, leggings on anyone over 12 is pretty edgy here. It's all a perspective thing. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248569 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:40:14 +0000 RoseandJoan 248569@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Edge is soooo subjective. I personally like to think of it as pushing the boundaries of your own personal style, so what is edgy on a modern classic dresser would probably not be considered edgy on a trendy urbanite.</p> <p>Denim on Denim never looked edgy to me, but it did turn a pre existing fashion rule on it's head. To pull it off felt 'clever' or in the know but never edgy.</p> <p>I never knowingly consider adding edge to my style, so it can come as a surprise when something I own is deemed edgy. I do love a trend and trying something new but I'm more likely to be referencing the past than the future.</p> <p>I think for the most part on the forum adding edge could be considered as:<br /> a) adding contrast<br /> b) adding something ahead of the fashion curve<br /> c) adding toughness<br /> Which makes me wonder if edge can ever detract from a style? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248564 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:35:30 +0000 Barbara 248564@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>From dictionary.com:</p> <p>"Edgy: daringly innovative; on the cutting edge."</p> <p>I agree with the daring part, but it's still relative. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248562 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:30:52 +0000 tarzy 248562@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great discussion! I agree that context is very important.</p> <p>To me, edge is about risk. (Which is relative.) </p> <p>For the most part, when I dress, I want to look "chic," or "pretty," or "polished," or "pulled together." I do not want to provoke, or tantalize, or confuse.</p> <p>To me, an edgy dresser is someone who doesn't necessarily care about looking "cute" or "stylish." They use fashion as art, or commentary - to "anger," or "challenge." It could be in a subtle way, or it could be over the top (again, context.) </p> <p>I know I'm not edgy, and I'm fine with that! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248544 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:59:09 +0000 catgirl 248544@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I was going to say exactly what Anna said. Context is huge, and I think in a place like NY, edge probably means something more along the lines of having your own unique style, be it the latest trend or not. I'm thinking of that gal you posted from the Sart in the 70s-ish jeans. </p> <p>Here in Alaska, edge is anything that looks like the big city. On the other hand, you could probably find someone wearing those same 70s jeans, not to be hipster-retro but because it's still the 70s here fashion-wise! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248541 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:57:56 +0000 Barbara 248541@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Good point, annagybe! It's all relative, isn't it? I've lived most of my life in NC, but lived and traveled in Europe for 12 years, so I've seen a HUGE variety of fashion edge.</p> <p>And you are SO right about Tilda. She's got some serious edge. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248540 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:54:59 +0000 annagybe 248540@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Also one must factor in the enviromental norm. You live in the NYC metropolis where edge is completely different as opposed to a small Midwestern town.<br /> I'm originally from a small town, when I go home I stand out like a sore thumb whereas in Seattle I blend in more. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248536 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:51:37 +0000 Barbara 248536@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Maya, edge can veer off into bad style WHEN SOMEONE IS TRYING TOO HARD. It's always so obvious to me. </p> <p>Edge must be effortless! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248535 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:51:17 +0000 annagybe 248535@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Not sure if using celebrities is a good example. But Anna Wintour and Rachel Zoe are very fashionable but I wouldn't consider them edgy. However Tilda Swinton I would consider edgy. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248534 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:48:03 +0000 Maya 248534@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Maybe this goes back to the idea that I don't have the same ideas about what's fashion forward as a lot of others do. To me a dress and oxfords is pretty ordinary and not remarkably original. It's not a bad or boring look by any means--I wear it all the time and love it. It's not really something I do to "add edge" so to speak, though. It's just a cute, arty look that I see on a lot of cute, arty ladies.</p> <p>But what do I know? I obviously have no clear ideas on what I do find edgy. I guess when I see something that really is genuinely new and ahead of the curve, that most people--meaning those interested in fashion--wouldn't think to do or wouldn't think works, and yet it does, I consider that edgy. But that can easily and quickly veer off into bad style and it's really subjective where the line exists. The denim on denim craze that took YLF by storm left me scratching my head. Yes, it was unexpected and no, most people wouldn't think to do it--but that didn't make it a good thing in my view (sorry). OTOH, as I mentioned elsehwere, I remember seeing a girl in a strong shoulder jacket long before they went mainstream, and that was edgy to me. It was daring. That's a look most women run away screaming from, and she was not only wearing it but she looked great in it. To me edgy means something that challenges common perceptions/fashion "rules", so I guess in that sense D-O-D could be considered edgy. It's just not a look I liked, nor did the words "cutting edge" ever slip into my mind when I saw it. Then again, a pear=shaped gal wearing skinnies would be considered edgy by that definition, since it challenges the rules--yet I don't find it even remotely edgy. So I'm already finding exceptions to my definition.</p> <p>I guess I at least have some idea of what the agreed upon definition is, though, and that's all I was hoping to understand. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248519 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:28:20 +0000 Barbara 248519@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Edge is achieved when you add your own VIBE to your look and continue to do so on a daily basis. </p> <p>For me that means something unexpected, like Angie's black and white oxfords with a dress. Now THAT is edge!</p> <p>Edge is constant and permanent once you do achieve it. It's that simple. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248513 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 18:22:53 +0000 Maya 248513@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Interesting replies.</p> <p>I guess it's one of those cyclical situations I always have trouble with--something is expected because it's unexpected because it's expected. So for example, ruffles and a moto jacket. This is quite possibly the most done to death look in recent history. It's not really edgy to me at all. It kind of was at first, but in truth I probably wouldn't have consciously noticed it--in large part because I don't consider moto jackets edgy or tough-looking. It's one of those things every woman has had or currently has in their closet--as classic as it gets. It *is* expected to me to tone down a biker jacket. Otherwise you look like you're in a costume.</p> <p>Same with androgynous + feminine. I don't think I ever expected anyone to actually wear an entirely masculine outfit, so feminine details were expected. </p> <p>Some of it just seems like bad style (hi-tops with a skirt, unless your under 20). Or some just don't make sense to me, like boots and bare legs with short shorts. </p> <p>The whole thing ties my brain in knots.</p> <p>To counter that though, I do see the word used in ways that just catch me off guard. I'm reluctant to give a specific example because I don't want to put anyone on the spot, but maybe I'll ask about it next time.</p> <p>Perhaps I don't have a well defined sense of what is edgy to me, or I just have impossible standards. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248315 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 06:19:35 +0000 MsMary 248315@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think Tara has explained it beautifully! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248313 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 06:13:47 +0000 taylor 248313@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think edgy is a vibe , a feeling or an attitude . Your Hair style can add an edgy vibe to an otherwise conservative out fit. Some thing makes you feel edge before you see it...When you do see edge it is more of a overall feeling regarding the outfit . To me one item can do it. </p> <p>I think it is often the unexpected element that takes a style and tweaks it just ever so slightly to make an individual aspect stand out...yet changes the entire overall vibe.</p> <p>Tara and I see this through the same eye's </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248312 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 06:11:28 +0000 MsMaven 248312@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Good question, Maya. I'm enjoying the discussion. I've thought edgy was pushing the boundaries just a bit, but not so far that the ordinary person would think the outfit had passed into the realm of bad taste. I'll try to think of some examples. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/explain-edge-to-me#post-248311 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 06:11:16 +0000 Tara 248311@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Another example...(I'm on a roll here!).</p> <p>Imagine a girl wearing a white t shirt and jeans and sneakers. Pretty unimaginative.<br /> But she has the coolest haircut ever, with an asymmentrical fringe, cut short in the back, black with cherry red streaks through it. She also has a pierced nose and silver earrings all the way up her left ear.</p> <p>She is "edgy" because she sports a hairstyle and looks that are clearly not "mainstream", yet here she is decked out in a totally orindary outfit and makes it look great. The reason it looks great is that it is unexpected given her hairstyle and piercings. She is on the "edge" of the boundary. </p> <p>Get me? Kinda? </p>