Too much commitment to personal style often results in timidity and fear of new wardrobe endeavors.
By LAUREN PADILLA
Longmeadow High
Designers and editors always stress the importance of personal style. Like Yves Saint Laurent once said, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” However, just when does commitment to a signature look start to become a hindrance? Is there such thing as too much loyalty to one’s distinctive style?
For most people, developing personal taste takes years. Many never truly settle on a definitive “look”—their style is constantly evolving. Nonetheless, there are still a large number who do eventually find their own little niche. Whether it is bobbed hair and sunglasses à la Anna Wintour, or pearls and sheaths like Jackie O’, some do discover personal style.
Still, remaining loyal to a particular look is one thing, but allowing it to dictate all other aspects of one’s wardrobe is something else. I’ve had people tell me that there is no reason to change what works. I suppose so, but I can’t help but imagine that at some point, it becomes monotonous.
After all, experimentation is a vital part of fashion’s appeal. One day I’ll channel Donatella Versace; the next week, I’ll arrive looking like I’ve stepped off the set of “The Notebook”. It all depends on how I feel that day. Of course, there are some boundaries that unite all my wardrobe choices, yet they merely serve as guidelines; they do not control me.
Too much commitment to personal style often results in timidity and fear of new wardrobe endeavors. When a “look” becomes more important than the person actually wearing the clothes, we lose sight of who the person really is.
When people cling too tenaciously to a specific style, trying anything novel turns into a challenge. They feel as if they have a certain standard or look to live up to, and that experimentation with anything new would provoke some sort of scandal. At that point, personal style is no longer an extension of self, but a mask under which to hide.
A signature look can be wonderfully beneficial. Look at what French twists and little black dresses did for Audrey Hepburn. To this day, people still associate her with sleeveless sheaths and diamonds tiaras. However, Audrey always wore the clothes; they didn’t wear her. Individual style is all about balance. Creating one’s daily ensemble should involve careful consideration of signature taste, as well as one’s emotions at that specific moment. Fashion should be entertaining and interesting….Personal style should do nothing more than enhance that excitement.