By C. Perera, JadeTimes News
The Powerful Psychology of Personal Style and How to Find Yours
It's easy to be influenced by trends and enjoy themed dressing, but nothing is more impactful than genuinely looking and feeling like yourself.
Every week, we encounter new trends or TikTok 'aesthetics' to try, but the most stylish individuals stick to what suits them best. Having a distinctive personal style means understanding what works for you and not straying far from it. This not only simplifies daily dressing and reduces shopping stress but also positively affects your mental health.
Fashion psychologist Shakaila Forbes Bell states that using clothing to stand out is about gaining validation, which boosts confidence and influences how others perceive you. She explains, "Our desire to stand out is ingrained because special recognition enhances our self image and increases our likelihood of being rewarded. Creating signature looks provides social benefits and boosts confidence."
Forbes-Bell adds that having a unique, recognizable style reflects an inherent desire to be special, and those who seek this tend to have more emotional stability. "People with a strong desire to be unique are more emotionally stable and satisfied with their lives," she notes.
In practical terms, knowing who you are and how you want to present yourself instills a quiet confidence that is hard to fake. Celebrity stylist Aimee Croysdill, who works with Nicola Coughlan and Marisa Abela, believes in the power of personal style, saying, "It's about creating a visual representation of who you are inside. It gives you confidence it’s like body armor."
Libby Page, market director at Net a Porter, emphasizes that personal style is about feeling like the truest version of yourself. "Once you’ve defined what that is, sticking to it means everything in your wardrobe makes you feel your best."
To develop a personal style that reflects your true self, start by considering who you are as a person, not just your style. Page advises, "Think about what you love doing, the kind of person you are. Personal style relates to the music you love, the restaurants you eat at, the books that inspire you."
Forbes Bell believes that confidence in yourself is key to great personal style. "People with distinctive personal style tend to be more active, social, and extroverted. Open yourself up to new experiences, change your environment, and be more liberal with your style."
Once you're ready to make changes, embrace trial and error. Understanding your proportions, experimenting with different colors and silhouettes will help you know what suits you best. Consistency is crucial. Croysdill states, "A simple, consistent template can be distinctive enough. It doesn't have to be loud it can be quiet in shape and color."
Remember, a uniform doesn’t have to be boring. Aim for an elevated capsule wardrobe with extraordinary everyday pieces. Don't be afraid of repeating silhouettes and outfit formulas. As Croysdill says, "Repetition in fashion shows confidence in knowing what makes you feel good, and there's nothing more attractive than someone comfortable in their own skin."
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