If only I had heard this Versace quote a long time ago, I would have likely saved myself the money and the time I took shopping for what I thought was “so cool”.  More importantly, I may have gained more confidence for dressing for dressing for myself rather than trying to dress for others or wear a certain brand name. You see- to me, there is no one size fits all to style. Yes, there are certain fabrics, colors, patterns and cuts that can “flatter” our positive attributes, but in the end you have to feel good in what you are wearing, and be true to who you are.

I think as women, we can naturally lean toward the latest fashion trends, or think we  have to label ourselves by what magazines say we are by just checking boxes that says- “preppy,” “girly” or my favorite the “bohemian,” style. I know I can fall into that trap of putting myself into one of those fashion boxes, but then I have to be realistic about what works for my body, my lifestyle and most importantly what I feel good wearing.

For example, I know that I look and feel better in boot-cut jeans, and more classic tailored pieces versus boxy or oversize silhouettes with bold prints. It just “wears me” instead me “wearing it”.

So when I shop, I can automatically look for what I know works for me while steering clear of things such as oversize sweaters or bright prints. This doesn’t mean I don’t like many of these items – it just means that I don’t like them for me.

Now you may be thinking, this sounds pretty boring or this sounds like more of the “preppy” box you are talking about.  Well, yes and no. Just because I like more classic styles, doesn’t mean I still can’t experiment with trends or step out of my “box.”

Currently, I am into adding pops of red so if I want to incorporate it into my closet, I would add it through accessories.

Then, if I find a flowy top I can’t live without, I can keep the rest of my attire structured to balance out my look, and still be myself.

So if you think being in style is about the brands, what the magazines say or the latest fashion bloggers suggest, think again. Style is beyond fashion. It’s finding what works for you and owning it!