CLOTHES ARE A FORM OF EXPRESSION
WELCOME to “Everything Fashion”, a new column in H-Metro.
As we begin this journey of exploring fashion and all things fashionable, it is my hope that through this column I will help you understand fashion.
I will also help you in a way that looking your absolute best will not seem like a daunting task, but it will be something you enjoy doing.
So, in this article, let’s start from the very beginning. What is fashion? Where do phrases like style and trends fit into the equation?
According to the Oxford dictionary, fashion used as noun is defined as “a popular or the latest style of clothing, hair, decoration, or behaviour.”
As a verb, it is “a manner of doing something.”
Simplified, the first definition refers to trends, while the latter speaks to style.
This column seeks to help you navigate through both,d ensuring you find your most comfortable style voice while also appreciating the latest trends.
Personally, I feel your personal style is more important and I will explain why I say that.
As mentioned earlier style is your “manner” of doing something, it is a reflection of you.
Let me ask you a question, when you walk out of the house to go to work, to a wedding, to a braai or even to the gym what do your clothes say about you?
Clothes can be a form of expression and can tell your story if you allow them to.
They can say I am bold, fearless, elegant, sassy, creative or reserved. Yes, a simple garment or pairing of garments can do that for you.
You walk into a room and you speak before you even open your mouth.
While trends will change, your style will most likely remain consistent.
Yes, it will be impacted by changing trends, but at its foundation your style will remain the same.
In the same manner that age and experiences may impact you, but at your very core you will remain the same person.
That is why it is important to make sure that whatever you define as you style is comfortable and gives you confidence.
It is important to understand that in the same way that we all have our unique voices and ways of expressing ourselves, there is no one size fits all approach to fashion.
Trends are there to guide us, but your style is in your hands.
In order to define or create your style, it is critical for you to appreciate who you are and what you want to say. Appreciate your character and your beliefs and value.
Be proud of who you are and know you can be just as good as the next person without trying to be them.
I know there is often a lot of pressure to conform to what is perceived to be “in”. The millennials call it FOMO (fear of missing out).
But I have two important words for you; balance and intentionality.
It is possible to follow the latest trends while remaining true to your style, your core — balance.
This entails putting effort and thought into your looks — intentionality.
Now I know when we talk of style and trends there is often a lot of debate about what is and what is not the “best” body type and my simple response is the age-old adage, “beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder.”
It is my hope that you are always the first to behold your own beauty and appreciate it.
Whether you are fuller figured or slim, the one thing I implore you is be healthy. Eat right, exercise, look after the body so that you look great.
We will delve more into the finer intricacies of the fashion world, help you navigate it, understand local, regional aspects of the industry from many perspectives.
However, as we set off on this journey it is my greatest desire that you know that ultimately you determine your voice.
As designers and stylists, and we have an amazing new crop of creative designers and stylists, we can help you find that style voice, but in the end, it has to be one that is comfortable for you and speaks your truth in the work place, church, gym or even in the supermarket.
Happy Styling…