Some musings on Angie's blog topic yesterday...
Balance: This is a huge one for me. I seek balance in my life in many ways, and likewise in my style I seek a level of sophistication, balanced with a casual vibe and a bit of edge. I chose classic pieces but need to style them in a balanced way with items that show more of my individual personality. I don’t do “cute” but don’t want to be too strict either. Like Angie, the High/Low concept is a big part of every aspect of my life. Our home, travel, style – all exhibit a mix of budget choices and occasional splurges. My wardrobe reflects this as well.
Flattery and occasion-appropriateness: I want to look my best, it's part of my desire to put my best foot forward and make a good impression. Even as a teenager I could style myself in a very professional manner and was often mistaken for being older than I was in work settings. Now I choose cuts, styles, and colors that flatter me, even if they are not trendy, but I do want to stay current. I will do a bit of sexy, but don’t like to go too far in either direction on the spectrum between alluring and repelling. These days I’m about fluid tailored fits, not much oversized or bodycon.
Practicality and comfort: I have always been a practical person by nature, but I am gradually becoming even more practical as I get older. I don’t buy for a fantasy lifestyle these days. My heels are getting lower; I’m less inclined to wear shoes I can’t walk a few miles in. Jeans and casual pants are essentials. In the summer, casual washable dresses are my thing because of the heat and humidity in my area. I won’t tolerate discomfort from my clothes or shoes!
Personality: I am an introvert who has learned to play extrovert for periods of time. I'm an INFP or at least that's how I tested last time I recall. I was downright shy as a child but in a sense I have been constantly, gradually emerging from a shell for my entire adult life. I can stand on a stage and talk to a huge crowd of people, or even hold court for a group at a party for a while, but it is truly a type of performance for me – I then need to go home and retreat for days to regain quiet and center myself. I’m neither bold, nor a wallflower. I don’t necessarily want to be the first person you see when you walk into a crowded room, but I also don’t want to be invisible. I love my family and friends but I also very much value my solo adventure time.
I’m creative but also organized and analytical. I thrive on structure in my life and in my dressing habits. I don’t like my environment to be cluttered or messy – I’m a neat freak -- and that applies to my outfits too. I like elements of RATE, but don’t want too much of it at one time. I love a modern but not stark aesthetic – even our home décor reflects this: we have sleek modern pieces in a contemporary style home, accented with an eclectic mix of unique detailed pieces and some sentimental antiques. I’m very detail-oriented, in my life, art, and dressing. I accessorize mindfully and bring my artist’s eye to all aspects of my life.
I listen to my instincts – something I have learned to do over many years, after much of my early life bending to other people’s wishes and whims. I am more likely than ever to march to the beat of my own drum. I’m reserved by nature but not cold, and I like dressing in a way that reflects that. I’m part artist, part rock’n’roll DJ, part outdoorsy camping girl, part urban explorer. I am motivated by beauty, exploration, nature, art, travel, and music.
Whew, that was long.
