Style Signature Part 2 - YouLookFab Forum

Thanks so much ladies for all your input into my 'What's Your Style Signature' post! I loved to see what others used as their style signatures and it gave me some great ideas. I've been thinking a lot about this because I want something unique and distinctive about my look,. But - I am very into comfort and practicality being a mom of 2 under 3. So I have long list of restrictions for my style signature:
1) It must not be uncomfortable (so no super high heels or constrictive blazers)
2) It must be something I can wear almost constantly so it really becomes my signature
3) It can't be too intrusive or clunky (statement glasses feel to heavy and are hard to fit to my face; statement jewelry feels too clunky)
4) It has to be something that is on me most of the time (so not handbags or coats which I generally leave off when indoors)
5) It must be truly distinctive and feel like me
6) It can't require too much upkeep or maintenance

My style signature used to be colour - unexpected colour combinations and clean, streamlined shapes. But as my style has evolved into a little more luxe and sophisticated, I am liking a muted palette more.
Here are some ideas i am going to explore:

1) Hair - this one would be a no brainer and I tried it this summer, going a dramatic ombre. But I have fast-growing hair with a lot of greys that need to be covered, so it needs constant re-colouring, and it's curly, so dramatic cuts and colours will dry it out and not work well. I am contemplating doing something different and signature with the colour though, as long as it is not too hard to keep up. Maybe a deep purple? I do like the curl and I feel that this is a signature element, so I will keep this going.

2) Scarves - a few of you said this was your signature item in my original post. I like that they are light, not uncomfortable to wear, generally don't go out of style, and can be pieces of art. I also like that they could have sentimental or beauty value that would mean something to me. I am going to explore this one more. Of course my first instinct is to go out and buy a $250 scarf, but I have a lot of scarves already so I will try to wear what i own and see if I like it.

So those are my musings for now...I'd love to hear how you came by your style signatures and if you've gone through a similar over-analyzed process of if it just happened organically...

10 years ago

Helena

Veteran

Well, I don't have a signature but I do over-analyze everything, so I can relate to you there. I think you have some great ideas and am looking forward to seeing/hearing how it goes!

Roxanna

Thanks so much Toronto girl! I don't know why I'm so obsessed with it, but for some reason I need something to make me stand out. I got some good ideas from #nyfw too so maybe I'll try one of those...I'll keep you posted!

Deborah

H Roxanna, I enjoyed your first post regarding this:) I tend not to over analyse and I am a little 'organic' in my approach. I did comment on your previous post and I can identify things that I consider my signature and I find that it's an easy balance of being purposeful about it but also letting it come naturally.

rachylou

I came by the signature of a puffer out of comical necessity. I run really cold and office a/c doesn't help. Now people freak out when I don't wear one

Anonymous

I love your idea of having a signature that fits your lifestyle and makes you stand out among the crowd. Hair and scarfs are a great way to go. Let us know how it works out for you.

unfrumped

Color might still be a signature for you but with your different palette--perhaps there is a way to make "your" neutrals special, either the colors themselves or the way you wear them--column, or outside-in, or whichever. Or metallics. Saying that because as you figured out, the color is "neutral" in the sense of being independent of the fit or the fabric comfort or style of garment.
Also perhaps some form of juxtaposition that allows comfort + edge--the Sporty Luxe or something. This is just an example, probably needs to be updated, but say wearing signature Converse or hightops or slip-ons or oxfords with whatever comfort-stylish pants you wear.
The scarf as 3rd piece has traction. Also I have collected a few "jewelry scarves"--one is in almost a chainmail material that gets a lot of compliments; other narrow shapes with more typical metallic threads as well. These are like "soft statment necklaces" and I find them easier to wear than big poufy scarves.
Or you might develop a theme--a color, or birds, or plaid.

Lisa

Accessories and hair sound like great core elements for a signature style.

How about a signature print that can easily be found in neutrals? Polkadots, houndstooth, stripes, plaid, checks, or even floral comes to mind. You could include scarves and other accessories in your signature print. For warm weather polkadots are a signature for me. They make me smile and can be easily mixed with other prints for more fun.

trekkiegirl

Your hair is curly? THERE is your signature right there!! Easy If you usually straighten it, leaving it curly can be a challenge, but luckily there are lots of new products coming out for curly-haired gals. Also check out this website it's a great resource.

My signature (punk pony with winged eyeliner and bright lip) was pretty organic, and after the first time I did it - I realized I liked it so much, and it is *soooo easy* that now I turn to it quite often. I don't think I even realized it was my "style signature" until your post though.

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