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Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Expanding your personal style by trying new trends

Elizabeth

I recently received an email from Sephora featuring a variety of products, including makeup by Kat Von D and TEMPTU temporary tattoos, under the heading "Trend: Rocker Chic." Now, I know "rocker chic" has been trending for a while now, but I haven't given it a try since my style usually falls somewhere between boring and conservative. However, ever since receiving this email I can't get temporary tattoos for adults out of my mind! And I've been mulling over giving the rocker chic look a try. Perhaps I could blend a classic look with the rocker look as in this photo from the Sartorialist (although I couldn't achieve the same tattoo look with the temporary tattoos):
http://www.thesartorialist.com.....570Web.jpg
What do you think? Am I crazy? Have you ever tried out a trend that is outside of your typical style?

General

18 replies

Latest reply was from biscuitsmom

Elly

Veteran

Hmm . . . temporary tattoos can be fun, but I think they are generally better for costume parties or to try out what it feels like to have ppl look at your ink (their reactions) before you get one.

I love the photo you posted. One way to get a similar look would be with a tattoo shirt or a pair of tights or sleeves. They are usually mesh and give the look of having a full sleeve of tattoos without the commitment. http://www.bewild.com/gifubotashs.html

There are also tattoo print shrugs like these:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISA.....602_263622

I think there are a tons of great ways to play with the rocker trend and mix it into you classic style. Moto jackets, leather cuffs, and boots with a bit of a tougher edge would all look great with a sheath. If you have a favorite band a fitted band T would look good under a conservative blazer.

Have fun!

JewelryGirl

Yes, I have & do from time to time. You can usually pull an element of the style in without going overboard. I love Kat Von D & remember her back from her days on Miami Ink! Even a simple studded belt or bracelet will help you feel a little more of the rocker chic look. Blacks, oxydized silver, things of that nature...

MNsara

Veteran

For me, just wearing things that are on trend is outside of my typical style - so I guess these days I am mostly out of what had become my typical style.

That said, I think the contrast of such a classic clothing style with the tattoos underneath would be fun (for you) to try! They're only temporary, so what could be more perfect for trying out a trend. . .

When it comes to permanent ink, a lot more thought needs to be involved! And the others have mentioned alternate ways to add rocker chic that are less of a commitment.

P.S. Did you notice the subject is standing in front of 'Costume National'? Is there any significance to that?

Elizabeth

Elly - I agree temporary tattoos are generally costume-y. I'm not planning to incorporate them into my everyday look or anything, but I think it could be fun if I am aiming for a specific 'look.' I also love the moto jacket idea. My discretionary funds are limited at the moment, but I am keeping my eye out at my favorite thrift/consignment stores.

JewelryGirl - I also remember Kat Von D from Miami Ink. I used to be such a TLC junkie!

MNsara - I am with you - if I am trying out *any* trend I am going beyond my comfort zone. Before Angie, I never even new what the trends were! I am definitely not considering permanent ink, but I think the temporary tattoos might be a cool "accessory" for the right occasion (maybe a concert?). I didn't notice Costume National in the background and I don't know if there is any significance to that.

I think overall, I'll be looking for rocker chic inspired items to add to my wardrobe - black (I don't even own a black dress!), moto jacket, bold makeup/nail polish, etc. I don't see this as influencing my work style much, but more as a source of inspiration for a "going out" look.

RandomThoughts (Andrea)

Veteran

As far as adding rocker "chic" I dunno, but some rocker chick, I have some suggestions on elements easily used elsewhere in your wardrobe:

Black wash skinnies
Flat, lace up boots (better yet, cheap combat boots from Army/Navy)
Graphic tee
Leather jacket from a 2nd hand shop

I don't think you're crazy at all - it's great to go outside your norm! I love it! I wear some goofy outfits sometimes. I'd rather try and miss than always play it safe.

Kate

Veteran

Elizabeth - I'm a big fan of trying the trends on in stores, or even ordering shoes that I'm curious about from a store with free shipping and returns (zappos, endless, etc). It helps me know what I feel comfortable in, shows me what looks I can't pull off, and is completely free. I would try on some moto jackets, studded boots/booties, etc before buying anything.

In terms of the temp tattoos, they tend to be easy to identify as fake for anyone who has spent time around tattoos and I would imagine are looked down on by people with a legitimate rocker (chic or not) lifestyle. I would try wearing more rocker clothes instead. Another thing to consider is that a lot of rock/punk fashion comes from second hand stores, and often involves some DIY. I suggest browsing some thrift stores to see if you can find any cheap and edgy clothes and accessories.

Edit: If you're even remotely interested in nail polish, a black or any dark/vampy color packs a lot of punch. Apparently OPI by Sephora's fall collection in called Rocker Chic, so you could check those out for inspiration: http://www.chicprofile.com/201.....tches.html

Jenava

(website)

Veteran

Hm, like the idea of rocker nail polish...or maybe you could try putting some streaks of blue in your hair? I've been debating purple streaks (but I wouldn't bleach first - I'd just put it over my natural hair color so it was subtle)

RandomThoughts (Andrea)

Veteran

Kate - I agree about the temp tattoos. I wouldn't do it.

Henna is another story and generally seen as a little more "legit" if you want to give that a go, however.

Elizabeth

Thanks for all of the suggestions!

RandomThought - I love to hear that you love experimenting! I tend to play it "safe," but lately I've really been questioning that. I see so many different looks here and on other fashion blogs that it makes me want to experiment more. While I don't see myself changing my work look much (I work in a lab so jeans + tshirts is pretty standard), the weekends are a perfect time for me to experiment. Plus, since I live in Portland (OR) where there is a good amount of variety in how people dress, even if I feel a bit weird trying something new, strangers probably won't even notice (although I'm sure my friends will).

Kate - I hadn't thought about the temp tattoos looking fake. There is a ton of legit ink in Portland so I'm sure people would see it as fake. And thanks for the heads up on the OPI/Sephora collection. I absolutely love those colors!

Sally

Veteran

I do that look a lot because it is easy for a sloppy weekend look in the city. Hair that is completely unbrushed, leggings, black tunic, leather jacket and boots. As someone said those are all clothes that can be worn in other ways. I wouldn't get a tattoo though because I can't be bothered but there are plenty of people who do. It would have to be something you were really comfortable with or else you would feel self conscious. .
When I was in my 20s there used to be fake nose rings and I used to wear that and thought it was cool(and real looking) until my 3 year old niece said 'you look hilarious" But it was a fun thing to do.

RoseandJoan

Veteran

I agree with Kate, temp tattoos will not look genuine and may appear try hard which I guess is the antithesis of the party all night, sleep all day rocker look, however adding an element of rock to your overall look could be fantastic.

I should add that I love rock music and have seven tattoos but my look is very feminine. I'm eagerly awaiting the launch of Gypsy Devi's silk scarves
http://www.gypsydevi.co.uk/

Elizabeth

Ooo... I love the Gypsy Devi scarves!

Elly

Veteran

The whole "poser" thing is why I wasn't thrilled with the idea of the temp tattoos. I have fooled others (with tattoos) with temps before, even people I know well. I usually don't expose my upper arms and I put the tattoo there and every one thought that I had this tattoo that I kept hidden. I also got questions about my ink and being honest to a fault had to explain that they were fakes. It wasn't a big hit after that, except for with the people that appreciated it for the "costume" aspect (we were at a party and I was dressed as Joan Jett and really went all out-- I am a sucker for getting to play someone else).

There are so many beautiful t-shirts and scarves out there the feature tattoo style artwork if you appreciate that and I think such pieces will be generally better received. Of course, if you are only going to wear the temps to a dark bar and don't care what people you will probably never see again think-- go ahead and play rock chick for the night!

Maya

Veteran

I really think your style should reflect your personality, especially when it's as strong of a statement as rocker chic is. I don't know you well enough to know what your personality is like, but I think if you're going to go rocker chic, you need the attitude and lifestyle to pull it off. I don't mean that in a completely literal [foul mouthed, guitar wielding] way, but you need some element of it for it to work. That's one aspect of style that is difficult to judge online by a group of people who do not know you. When I meet someone who has this style and doesn't have the personality to pull it off, it just seems fake. Like a disguise.

Temporary tattoos are pretty cheesy to me, I must admit. Nothing screams "trying too hard" quite as loud as a temporary tattoo.

Ana

(website)

Veteran

I think you shouldn't be afraid to try things. Some might not work out for you, but that's okay and it's part of the fun and the learning process. If you really want to try temporary tattoos, I say go for it and see what happens. After a period of time, you'll get better at seeing patterns in what you are attracted to, and figure out what really works for you and your lifestyle, and what you're comfortable with. Those patterns will form the basis of how you define your style.

I consider part of my style to be "trendiness," i.e., I like to try lots of the latest trends and can get tired of a certain look quickly (although lately I haven't had the funds to be very trendy, hee). But my style is also classic, so I will figure out how to work a trendy item into my classic wardrobe. I had to try a lot of different things before I really figured all that out (and not all of them worked, either).

Jump in and have fun!

Marley

Veteran

No! You are not crazy! You are young and pretty - and you should try any style that you have the slightest interest in - cuz you can get away with it at your age! I think that's the only way to really discover what you like and don't like, what works for you and what doesn't work for you . . . etc. etc. Don't hold back! Since you yourself described your style as somewhere between "boring and conservative" it is time to take the plunge! Sometimes you'll find that what you've plunged into is a complete disaster - just laugh it off, dry yourself off and try a different style and plunge in again! And most importantly, have fun! Do not find yourself a year from now still describing your style as "boring and conservative" and wondering if you should try something else. Just do it! (Hey, that reminds me of an ad campaign!)

Michelle

(website)

Veteran

Just wanted to join the cheering squad urging you to give Rocker Chic a whirl, since it appeals to you. If you knew my style you'd understand why "rocker look" advice from me would be absolutely hilarious, but I can speak to the fact that pushing yourself out of your fashion comfort zone is both liberating and fun.
ENJOY!

biscuitsmom

Veteran

Ive really been trying to push myself out of my 'boring' comfort zone and would definitely encourage you to do the same! The only way to truly know if a style or trend works for you is to try it! So go ahead and have fun experimenting....I'd hold off on serious monetary purchases until you know you really like the style, but pick up a few cheaper, fun pieces and play with them!