You Are Style: A Conversation

Last week's post began an exploration into what style is today and how this relates to each of us. If we think of style as a trait we posses innately instead of something that must be acquired, we have the chance to see ourselves, and those around us in a whole new light. Retrieving the idea of style from the jaws of consumerism and taking it into our hands, hearts and minds is a way to have a positive effect on both our own self-image and the larger cultural landscape.

As readers, your response to this idea was great! Your thoughts are exactly the wellspring I was referring to as a source that can stimulate reconnection with authentic style. Your input helps to clarify why we present ourselves in the ways that we do and what this means. By sharing advice, ("if I don't love it, I don't wear it"/ "own your own mind") critiquing the premise ("isn't all style superficial?") and pondering how the search for style makes us feel, we are reinvesting in the relevancy of our individual perceptions and the right to love what makes us different.

So you are style- what does this mean to you? We here at The Huffington Post want to know more. What are the shapes and colors of your style? Why do you choose to dress in the way that you do? How do you find what you wear? What is your favorite accessory, piece of clothing/jewelry etc. that you own and why is it special to you? When have you felt the most stylish in your life? How is the manifestation of your physical style related to what you believe, what you love and what you desire? What are your words, your pictures and your passions?

Authentic style, in the broadest sense of the "You Are Style" idea is the story of each of our lives. Obviously, life isn't about things, it's about experiences. Our experiences are more than just a sum of parts, but some of what informs experience is the knowing of "things." Through our observation, creation and use of material objects we amplify and stimulate our stories. Objects and how we express our ideas with them can encourage curiosity, creativity and experimentation. The pictures, stories, dreams and ideas of your personal style can help inform us all...so let's begin the conversation!

Email your "You Are Style" submissions to: [e-mail].

Selected submissions will be posted on a weekly basis.

Comments

[Agentlady007]

I love your article -Kira.

[akzidenzgrotesk]

just a few years ago, i would have totally disagreed with this premise. but that was because back then, i was trying to project something, to make myself into something i wanted to be (or thought i did), but wasn't yet. or i was trying to be what someone else wanted me to be. that's why it never worked, and why i looked, frankly, ridiculous most of the time.

but now, i finally feel free. sure, it has something to do with the fact that now i have an income capable of supporting my tastes (i don't buy a lot, but what i do buy is quality and generally on the more expensive side). but it also has to do with the fact that i'm finally ok with who i am. i have an identity, and it's ok if it's not in fashion right now, because it works for me and if it works, then it doesn't matter if it's on trend or not. luckily for me though (or unluckily, depending on how you look at it), the upcoming seasons looks to be right up my alley, what with all the textures (leather! cashmere! tweed! extraneous hardware!) and deep, dark, intense colors. i guess i should stock up this winter in case next winter suffers another severe case of the super-girly.

[saraswati11]

Style is innate. I spend more on garments and accesories that are classic and well made; mix it up with a "cheap chic" item (or 2) in current colors or silhouettes. The most important thing is to feel comfortable and good, find items that suit your individual body type, then incorporate current colors with your favorite wardrobe staples. Cosmetics are important to pull off the current "look". Update regularly by looking current with color and application. Find a hair stylist that keeps you looking smart-not a fashion victim. If you change your hair color, change the tones in your cosmetics to compliment your new color scheme. If you go natural (like grey), keep those silver locks shiny and complexion bright. Fashionable and stylish can be trendy, but trendy is not neccesarily stylish and fashionable. Let your heart sing!

[stayinsouth1981]

I am soooo boring. I wear the same stuff I wore 20 years ago. Liz Claiborne was made for me. I guess I look like I should be topside of a sailboat? Boring..

[Tamoomoo]

Well, I just turned 30. I'm going through a wardrobe change. Out with the trendy stuff that is poorly made and only lasts a season, in with the well-crafted timeless classics made from natural fibers (they hold up better than synthetics). I think I am finally turning into an adult. My most recent purchase was a navy cashmere cardigan from J Crew. I love it. And the quality will last me a lifetime.

[bitchslappin]

Style is pretty simple. If it doesn't look good on you then don't wear it.

Stop the tyranny of the fashion mavens who try to sell you stuff that only looks good on anorexics.

Stop the tyranny of those who push Perceived Obsolescence. A pair of great looking italian black leather pumps are stylish whether they were made yesterday or ten years ago.

Stop the tyranny of the clique. Wear what you want to wear, and wear it with pride.

Stop the tyranny of the brand. Why should you advertise for Hilfiger or Vuitton or Gucci? If it sports someone else's name in a BIG way, don't buy it.

And remember, Vintage never goes out of style . . .

[OtayPanky]

That's right.

I am style.

I AM style.

I am STYLE.

And don't you EVER forget it.

OtayPanky
Life Coach Extraordinaire

[usonia]

I'd like to design and make my own clothes. Not for the market, just for me. I hate shopping with a passion. I also wish I could cobble and make my own shoes.

[Questinia]

Me too, especially the cobbling.