Style is a funny thing in that it's kind of undefinable. You either have it or you don't, and to be honest, I'm not sure if it can be learned. One of the few common denominators among the most stylish people I know (who range from tattooed rockabilly punks to uber-preps who feel most at home at their country estate in CT) is that they tend to have at least one style "signature" - a key silhouette, accessory, color or item that creates a thread of consistency through their look from day to day.
I've often discussed how I love a fashion multiple, and it's generally in those multiples that I inadvertently find my own style signatures. Ironically enough, I've got not just one, but essentially all on today.
- Simplicity in style and cut. As you can see, I'm wearing super classic pieces above, including a crazy cheap pair of dark rinse, skinny Charlotte Russe jeans that give any high-end pair a run for its money.
- Color. I love NOTHING like I love a pop of color. Exhibit A: the gray and chartreuse scarf (via Old Navy.) Exhibit B: the Balenciaga Giant Day in Electric Turquoise
- Oh right...Balenciaga. Another style signature of mine - I have three and I'm currently eyeballing a fourth for Spring '11 in Mimosa, a bright, poppy yellow (Surprised? Probably not, assuming you read the bullet above.) I love many things about Balenciaga bags, but most notably, the ultra soft leathers, easy but edgy styles, and unique colors, which are (#themoreyouknow) never repeated.
- Jewelry. If I leave the house without it, I feel absolutely naked. Generally speaking, I go for one statement piece (in this case, the stacked Alexis Bittar, Disaya and Kenneth Jay Lane bangles) at a time, and balance that with smaller, more delicate pieces.
- Lastly, but never an afterthought (in fact, I often start there), shoes. Today's beautiful weather allowed me to break out the very spring-y, very dangerous Valentino Rockstud Pump, which inspired my colleague John to exclaim, "Those are fucking terrifying! But in a nice way." In other words, mission accomplished.
What are your style signatures? Do tell in the comments.
Photo snapped by Felicia "desperately seeking Filippa K" Sullivan