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Your style word and what it says

Carol

(website)

Veteran

One of my three style words is classic, and recently I realized I don't know why I like it. I'm more artistic, boundary-pushing in personality.

But I thought, and as I thought more, it became fascinating. Classic is the closest style to old money, wealth...so did I want to be better than others? Did I want to feel richer? That's kind of uninspired.

Then I realized classic is a style associated with education as well. You do not have to have a formal education to wear it well, but you will do better if you love culture, life and learning. A pair of loafers and khakis will take you to the library, but also give you the flexibility to join a soccer game for five minutes on the way home. (They also demonstrate that this style is less about female sexuality, it's about adventure.)

Classic style suggests a thirst to be welcome in all places. You know which fork to use, but if you don't, you will learn and remember well. When travelling, a classic woman repeats the same 5 or 10 phrases of the country's language in her head until she has them down pat. If at a sporting event she doesn't understand, she will ask the stranger next to her to explain what happened instead of gazing at her phone. A classic woman is never forced to go the opera, concert or gallery. If it wasn't her idea, it might as well have been, because she will gather some background context for the event.

Are you a classic woman? If not, what is your style, and what does it say about you?

33 replies

Latest reply was from Carol

Irina

Veteran

I’m trying hard not to be a classic women
I don’t know if classic style was ever my own or I was trained to like it.

But I guess I am, in the recent sporting event (a baseball game watched from a corporate box), I asked my son before attending about the rules. And I’m never forced to go to the opera, concert or gallery, I would be very, very happy to go to any and do as often as I can. LOL
I’m an urban woman, I live in a big, cosmopolitan city. My style is minimal and simple.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I can’t say I would interpret “classic” the same way you do, Carol. You paint a vivid picture but one that seems to imply things in “classic” that hint at classism, although maybe I’m reading you wrong.

I see “classic” as a neutral term implying timelessness, consistency, quality, and tradition. I am not necessarily a classic dresser, but I do appreciate and collect some classic pieces to integrate into outfits that reflect my goals. I have some classic in my style, but I would not choose classic as a word that defines my style. I do dress with an eye to fitting into a given occasion or scenario, and I’m good at leaning into more classic style when I need to (this hasn’t been a big concern in recent years).

I’m never forced to go to any sports event, concert, gallery, or anything else, but I don’t personally see that has anything to do with whether I identify as “classic” or not!

Carol

(website)

Veteran

Irina--minimal and simple style...the new "classic!" I love that you figured out the game before going.

Janet--I suppose you could look at it as classism...I was trying to convey an attitude of entrepreneurialism and a thirst for knowledge, which should be available to everyone, not just the upper class.

I do like your alternate definition of classic--timeless, etc. It is that, too.

Dee

Veteran

I have quite a lot of classic items in my wardrobe and I agree with Janet’s definition of it as more of a neutral term that suggests a certain timeless elegance.
Why do I want dress this way? I just feel that this style’s refined tailored proportions tend to flatter my particular body type the best but I also enjoy mixing these classic pieces with trendier items in order to make them feel a little more of a modern classic. I tend to be pretty pragmatic in my life so I do appreciate the timeless quality of these wardrobe items.

Carol

(website)

Veteran

Note--My loafers were bought secondhand four years ago, and they are a higher-quality Payless brand. My one button-down shirt was $5 on clearance at Macys. I cannot afford nearly the quality and amount of clothes that many women on this site can. And yet I still own the term classic, and like to think it can be an attitude for anyone.

Maybe if we're defining "classic" as timeless, quality pieces, that is more classist than my idea of a woman excited by the world around her...because not all women can afford a wardrobe built out of high quality pieces.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Interesting! "Classic" is definitely an element of my own style, much as I have sometimes wished it could be otherwise. But classic pieces like button front shirts and blazers happen to suit me and feel easy to wear (while many other cuts or styles feel forced or unnatural or unflattering). And then, as Janet says, they integrate so well with other elements and form a coherent backdrop to trendier, more avant guard, or otherwise more distinctive items.

Plus, they can be easier to source in my size and price range. So there is that!

While my style incorporates a large dose of classic, it's also modern. I'll wear the button front shirt and blazer but I'll wear it with sneakers, or I'll pattern mix, or I'll add an oversized top. I'll wear the shirt dress but I'll wear it with short hair and a current shoe or boot, rather than a pageboy and pumps. (Though I think a person could do the latter in a modern way as well!)

There's a strong preppy element to my own version of classic. Not because I'm a prep (far from it!) but because preppy embodies that "mixing it up" of old and new that appeals to me, and is often a bit boyish, which aligns with other elements of my appearance and style persona.

The "modern" modifier turns classic inside out and on its head. The seams are visible, or the plaid is loud, or the bright green "goes" with the bright pink or orange. Too much classic and I feel prim, twee, uptight. Not enough classic and I feel awkward and unrecognizable to myself. I know the balance when I feel it.

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

What an interesting interpretation Carol! I was intrigued by your contrasting your artistic and boundary pushing personality with the sense of competence and social awareness that you see implied in a classic style.
That said, I do not think my style is particularly classic and, in response to your scenarios I say: not so much! If I attend an event that is interesting to me I will learn about it, if I am somehow forced to attend I will not. I do not care if I am welcome everywhere, and am an intense but very selective learner of social mores. I would much rather be considered artistic or even strange than classic! But that is all a reflection of my introverted and perhaps eccentric nature as much as anything and not a criticism of anyone who is more classic as you describe.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I realize that I didn't really address myself to the question. To the extent that my style is classic I think it reflects my practicality above all.

P.S. you'd have to force me to go to a sporting event. And I would daydream instead of watch, if I went.

Sally

Veteran

My mother had a thing about me dressing in a classic style. She saw it as a suit or something similar and a bobbed haircut. I think classic means timeless to some extent but I think what is considered classic changes. Certain styles of jeans seems to be classic now. I guess it means something you can wear to certain occasions without standing out as 'different' or 'eclectic' but people can wear classic pieces in a way that is quirky or eclectic. LIke Suz, if there is any classic in my style, it comes from a practical aspect, but I like to add a bit of toughness and urban vibe.

Jenni NZ

Veteran

I don’t think I am classic and don’t feel comfortable with your definition of such a woman? I don’t actually have a style word, although I suppose the first word of my style moniker might qualify- that is, sassy. It is almost winter here though and these are the months of the year when I wear comfortable and warm the most so don’t feel particularly sassy!
Certainly button down shirts and blazers are not me.
My mother tried to dress us in what was in fashion at least until mid teens when we (my younger sister and myself) wanted to choose for ourselves. So although she was conservative, perhaps not so much in the clothing she put us in.

Bijou

Veteran

Classic is not part of my style and I feel wrong in very classic outfits. I appreciate how useful classic and timeless clothing can be, so I tend to buy classics with a twist! I aspire for my style to be glamorous and fun and to that end, not everything has to be practical - some of my most valued wardrobe items were bought simply because I love them.

Dee

Veteran

At times there seems to be a certain apprehension for some about even using the term "classic" as a descriptor for their style. It appears to have some unfavorable connations associated with it that perhaps implies classism, or being too traditional, even matronly or boring but I do think it can be an essential base for supporting many other styles too.

Anonymous

I'm drawn to some classic pieces (lbds especially) for simplicity, but a full on classic outfit doesn't work for my looks or personality.

My main word is Streamlined (others are Feminine, Exotic, Harmonious). That goes along with classic because I think of classic style as uncluttered and not voluminous.

Carol

(website)

Veteran

Suz--I also love a preppy classic style, and I love your technique of blending it with other pieces, which does seem fresher. I also am not a lover of sports, and though I try to know what's going on at a game, I often drift off into my own world.

Jaime--It is interesting to think of yourself as "artistic and eccentric," and certainly makes sense to just focus on events, etc. you are interested in. I suppose it depends what you're talking about for me. If I'm invited to a local punk show, I probably won't research the band. But an opera I'm unfamiliar with...I just might.

Sally--yes, interesting the idea of blending in. I once learned David Bowie had a loud, imaginative clothing style, but one day he surprised everyone by going through a phase of wearing classic suits you might see on a Motown singer. It almost becomes "loud" when someone like him does that. And I see your point about blending elements--becomes more your own style.

Jenni--I too like to wear comfortable clothes when it's cold, and not so much blazers, trench coats, etc.

Bijou--that is interesting you buy some impractical pieces, and I think of TV shows and movies where I've seen great stuff like that. Would love to see your photos next time you post.

Dee--I think you're right--classic style does have those connotations, and it's a wonder I'm not consciously mixing it with other pieces, like others do. Maybe I do subconsciously. I think classic can imply a sort of "Levis and Converse" as well as loafers and trousers.

suntiger--You're right, it is an uncluttered style. I don't think of it as minimal, which is something else. But uncluttered for sure. I love your other style words, especially harmonious. I like Dakota Johnson's style, which I would describe as semi-classic and harmonious.

Star

Veteran

Have you ever checked out the blog Stunning Style. She, April, shows interesting dressing forumulas of classic with a twist of either edge or boho or romantic or drama, after identifying your twist. I kind of like this approach now. I was always more edgy and quirky but finding at this point in my life I am preferring classic with a twist of edge. Classic items do not imply that they have to be expensive to me. Classic implies timeless so one can find a less expensive black turtleneck vs an expensive one, etc. I only thrift 2nd hand clothing mostly and pay extremely low prices yet my dressing is looking more classic these days. In my teens and twenties I definitely did not want to fit in and classic dressing did not appeal. I still don't have a need to fit in although now prefer more classic items so not sure there is a connection between the two.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I think a certain kind of classic dresser aims to look as if she dresses expensively (although in fact, the items may be inexpensive). If you're a 20-something new on the job and you want to look as if you would like to get ahead, classic clothing is more likely to take you there. (In most professions.)

Dee, I think you're right that the connotations are often negative. Maybe especially here on a fashion forum. But I own the term as part of my own style. I can't get away from it so I might as well embrace it!

I think it's the idea that some classic dressers aren't being intentional, are going through the motions, just wearing a uniform, accounts for some of the negative associations. Or the idea they are trying to "get ahead" or "look rich." Or the impressions that classic looks too uptight and not with it. Un-cool. We resist that.

But it anyone is a champion of classic style (if it suits the wearer) and a model of how to wear classic clothing in a modern way, Angie's it. She has a whole lot of blog posts in the archives on this subject. For instance:

https://youlookfab.com/2013/06.....ern-style/

https://youlookfab.com/2012/08.....n-forward/

https://youlookfab.com/2012/01.....obe-items/

https://youlookfab.com/2010/12.....am-trendy/

slim cat

Veteran

I kinda feel that jeans and tee ( with topper ) might take me easier to library, grocery shopping, park, etc.. I do research things and places I'm going to see and like to know something in advance. Somehow it doesn't feel any "classic" to me - just practical, on-a-go, and being prepared to day challenges.
Going out for special occasion ( opera, theater, wedding ) haven't happened to me in a while - but black pants with blouse and jacket would be something I'd wear. For all the other occasions I'm happy being a gamine type with preference for a lot of movement - walking, bus and light rail riding, going to parks and running my daily errands in my favorite jeans and graphic tees .

rachylou

Veteran

I’m Quirky for sure. I like a little whimsy, something off to make things entertaining. I really look terrible trying to do classic style; it’s the Big Frump when I do - but here’s the thing, I love classic items. I’m not a rebel, just an eccentric.

I think classic style has all to do with classical, classical Athenian, principles of harmony and beauty. It’s a very philosophical thing to my mind. Albeit, I’m not sure how that got us to the white shirt, black pencil skirt, and black pumps, lol

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I enjoyed this thread! It was stimulating - and Carol, your musings are very interesting

I'm nodding along with all of you! You are eloquent,

Thank you Suz, for what I think of as a compliment

Personally, I am a proud wearer of modern classics. They suit me. They are practical, and work well on my body type. Often, I don' wear them in neutrals, which makes them playful. PLAYFUL is one of my five style words, actually!

Hello button down shirts, striped knitwear, white pearls, shirt dresses, loafers, fashion sneakers, denim jackets, lace tops, Converse, white eyelet, trench coats, satchels - MY THING! Classic. Always faves.

I don't wear classic bottoms though. They don't feel right when I wear them.

The Cat

Veteran

To me, it feels VERY easy and natural to choose classic items, classic lines, classic fabrics, classic patterns, etc. It is SO easy and natural that I don't have to remind myself to do that--consequently, I have realized that I don't need to have "classic" as one of my style words.

Instead, I have to remind myself that I love relaxed elegance, that my personality is also fun and creative, and that if everything in my outfit is classic, it tends to feel stiff, boring or frumpy. So MY key words are "relaxed elegance" / "casual chic"--plus "playful" or "gamine". Lately, I have sometimes added "fun", "cute" or "soft", after having found inspiration for my personal classic twists at stunningstyle.com. (This website, which would probably be of interest to many here, has also been recommended earlier in this thread, by another forum member, Star.)

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Angie, it absolutely is a compliment! You have taught me not to fear or be ashamed of my own classic leanings and how to make classic look and feel fresh! Thanks!

Sal

Veteran

I don’t think of myself as a classic - mostly because I am a bit casual in style- but I often lean to classic pieces.

And I will be honest and say the old money, landed gentry English style is appealing to me through a life time of royal family watching and reading novels. I am drawn to it which is a little bit ridiculous but it’s also buying good quality things, wearing them even if a bit worn, and ignoring logos and trends.

But that’s only one aspect of classic dressing!

Sally

Veteran

Do you mean modern English aristocratic style Sal? Like tweeds handed down?
My family on my father's side is from Dunedin and completely Scottish in ancestry. I noticed my aunt nearly always wore a kilt made of the family tartan. When my aunt died, I noticed my cousin wearing it and thought wow it doesn't really age and it must be really good quality. That is a type of classic dressing. I could see myself wearing it with a denim jacket and doc martens and managing to look appropriate at quite a few places.

Sal

Veteran

Sally - I think so. Simple knit jumpers, barbour jackets, tweeds, chelsea boots - just wearing what you have even when it has the patina of age. But I am thinking of the families I worked with in the 1990s - it might have changed now.

lyn67

Veteran

I tried so hard, but putting down my own personal style in some only few keywords I find it very restricting or, I don't have the knowledge to properly articulate it.

To me classic dressing means dressing to flatter your body in the good old manners of the golden rules/ratio which I have a strong internal need and a good eye myself for it -but I admire and love so many other styles....

I am a creative soul in my depth still have to dress mainly for an office so from this combination of needs comes out my classic items have to be current at least or always put in some edge/twist. Aditionally, years passed and following my company's approach I went down from bussiness casual to smartest (as I could go) but more casual now- and think I have figured my style for this part of my life quite well. Still have work to do on figuring out what to wear AND FEEL FAB for other different functions in my spare time.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Suz, that is high praise - thanks!

We can also talk about what is classic - and what is not until the cows come home. For example, a black moto jacket - classic or edgy? I vote hard edge for sure - but an iconic classic for sure.

Jenn

(website)

Veteran

I love what you've written, Carol. It's a beautiful ode to what "classic" means in your personal style and the power that clothing has to help us embody the traits we aspire to.

"Classic" isn't one of my style words, but in the spirit of your original question, let me tell you what "bohemian" says to me.

Bohemian is a style associated with free spirits, with artists and renegades and cultural misfits. It's Gertrude Stein's Parisian salons, the Beats' Greenwich Village, and Andy Warhol's Studio 54. Embracing bohemianism means letting go of societal norms in favor of self-expression. To be bohemian is to be free of expectations.

A bohemian woman believes practicality is what you make of it. Her long skirt isn't impractical for hiking because getting the hem muddy doesn't bother her. She doesn't worry about her shoes because she can always take them off. The scarf she put on because she thought it was pretty gets pressed into service as a hair tie. She finds a hat at the charity shop and puts it on right away. She embraces new experiences with the zeal of a child, ready to jump in at any moment and happy to make mistakes because messiness is part of life.

A bohemian woman wears what makes her happy and what makes her feel alive, whether that's jeans and a paint-stained button-down or a tiered sundress and a cowboy hat. If you don't like it, if you think it's inappropriate, she knows that's on you and it's not something she's particularly concerned about. She is who she is and she's comfortable with that.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Jenn, what a wonderful response -- much more truly responsive than my own, I fear. I think that word "classic" can be such a red flag we tend to see it and go wildly off track, forgetting or misunderstanding the original poster's intention!

Ok. So...classic is one of my style adjectives, paired with modern -- but my style word in the sense that I think you're using it here, Carol, is "garçonne." I'm not sure I can do it as much justice as Jenn as done the word bohemian or you have done classic, but here goes:

The garçonne's style is androgynous and playful—a little bit masculine, a little bit feminine, with a big dose of irreverence or sass thrown in.She favours men's style tailoring—button front shirts, high waisted wide leg or slim cropped trousers, drop waisted or otherwise waist-surrendering dresses, pleated skirts, pearls, geometric shapes and patterns, and a bit of sparkle. The style, which originated in the 1920s with art deco and Coco Chanel was a response and a reflection of the social changes that resulted from the first world war. But it's proved equally popular in subsequent generations, evolving with the times to incorporate new elements but always remaining recognizable.

The garçonne's clothing and footwear are built for independence, freedom of movement, practicality, and ease. She wears her hair short (or in some other practical style). She layers. She strides in her flats and low-heeled shoes. She likes the textures of cotton, linen, silk, and wool, but will also wear practical man-made fibres. Some garçonnes are sporty; others aren't into sports, but they're always big walkers and they are attracted to clothing influenced by sports, like sneakers or aviator glasses or polo tops. If you invite a garçonne to a formal event, she's as likely to show up in a tux as in a beaded dress. In a local pub, you'll spot her in jeans, Chelsea boots, and a Breton top (maybe with a beret). In the gallery, she'll be the one in wide leg trousers with beautiful spectator oxfords. Wherever she goes, she'll be on the move.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

It’s interesting for me to read these eloquent descriptions, because as much as I love words, I really don’t work to define my style with them. I always feel like the words are a little limiting or too specific to a certain vibe or goal when perhaps mine are a little more nebulous? Anyway, fun to read in any case.

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