Putting a name to your style

Dusty

The thread on Classic style got me thinking. I don't think I could name my style if asked. I'm pretty sure it's not classic (I just can't stay looking all sleek for very long) and I don't think it's bohemian, but other than that, no idea.

How important is it to have a name for your style? What's your style and how did you find the name for it?

15 years ago

Body Type

15 replies

Latest reply was from Kyrania

Michelle

(website)

Veteran

I pilfered the name for my style directly from Angie's list of style personas;: I don't think "modern classic" could possibly be more accurate for me. As a listing/labelling nerd I like having such an easy descriptor for my style, but it's not crucial to have one.

15 years ago

Scarlet

Veteran

After extensive consultation with the Lucky Manual of Style (or whatever it's called) I am American Classic mixed with Gamine and a Euro Chic wanna-be.

15 years ago

Maya

Veteran

I take my labels from whatever inspires me directly (ie I have to actually utilize it, not just admire it). European, urban, and trendy looks all do that for me, so that is how I describe my style. Ok, I know European is a VERY general statement, but there are some very distinct differences between American and Euro style. My style isn't very classically American at all. It's a perfectly cool style, just not for me.

15 years ago

Rosie

Veteran

Ugh. Dusty, this is a huge problem for me. Part of it is that what I WANT to wear isn't always what I can buy or fit into. So, a lot of the time I feel like what I am wearing doesn't really give the look I want.

15 years ago

Vix

Veteran

I don't think it's super-important to have a label, but it can be kind of fun.

I got semi-intrigued with trying to put a name to my (ever-evolving!) style when I started reading comments/reviews about the "Style Statement" workbook a few years ago. Some invisipals really liked the process and said it helped them hone in on what to buy.

The authors claim that the book's exercises let you emerge with a 2-word statement that will "guide the spirit, look and feel of your life. The first word represents your foundation, your 80%. The second word, your 20%, is what motivates and distinguishes you.”

Of course I didn't buy the book because I knew I was too lazy to do any of that!

But because I *had* done a fair amount of been thinking about how to synthesize some of my stylistic leanings in my decor and clothing choices I cheated and did a Cliff Notes version.

I came up with two statements, not one (what can I say, I'm a Gemini)...."Minimalist Magpie" and "Contrarian Classicist."

Sometimes I find myself trying to classify an item as one or the other and if it seems like it fits in both I know I REALLY have a winner, ha!

15 years ago

Sarah Baker

(website)

Active Member

Three words: thrift store chic.

15 years ago

londonkiwi (now back in NZ)

Veteran

I have been pondering this since Angie's thread too and can't really come up with a good answer or at least one that fits into a box. I know things that I am not - I don't think I would label myself trendy or minimalist or particularly urban.

I think that I have more elements of European style than American, which makes sense because I have never lived in America, but have lived in both France and the UK.

Other than that I don't know where I am. I do have clothes that I like though.

15 years ago

Anonymous

I have no name for my style, but my friends do: The Anne-iform. Whatever THAT means.

15 years ago

londonkiwi (now back in NZ)

Veteran

hehe Anne, that is funny!

15 years ago

Rosie

Veteran

Vix, I have that book and it is really interesting. On my list is to actually DO IT. I've filled out one or two sections but have a lot more to go. I do think it is an insightful process. I also think the results perhaps describe much more than just style of dress.

15 years ago

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

I always like the word 'eclectic', because I do like to mix different styles.

15 years ago

Lynne

Veteran

Londonkiwi (great name!), can you put a name to your style in anything else, such as decor perhaps? I would call myself feminine and soft - and if you saw my house you 'd probably describe it that way, too! Not sure that you need to know your style, but I find it helpful with accessories: if its feminine and fluid its probably going to work... like everything else in life, its not an absolute. I recently gave away a white denim jacket that just never got worn....I am always in cardigans or my softer jackets...I think it was because the stiffness and structure just didn't 'fit' ME, even though the jacket itself was lovely.

15 years ago

Vix

Veteran

Anne -- You should ask them! Might be good for your ego and/or a laugh.

Rosie -- Ha -- but you've filled out more than I would in your shoes! I am constantly re-gifting blank journals.

Maybe this thread will inspire you to keep plowing through it? If so, hope you'll report back.

15 years ago

Lisa

Veteran

I have no idea what my style is, partly because I'm still trying to figure out what the differences are among the various styles. I can identify a classic or trendy look easily but after that it gets too blurred. I used to think I dressed in a classic style, but after reading YLF now I realize it was just a boring style. So on to new purchases, redefining and hopefully labeling myself at some point for some consistency in the future.

15 years ago

Kyrania

Active Member

Hmmm...I could tell you what Inspires my clothing choices but I do not think I could put a name to it. In which section should I post photos for feedback...I'd be interested in hearing/reading how others describe my style.

15 years ago

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