STYLE: An Expression of The Real You -By Nwabuzor Obianuju Cynthia

Just at the mention of the word STYLE, what definetly comes to mind is your fashion sense or how you can rock an outfit perfectly,or probably pair a fashion item in the best possible way, but as much as this seems to relate or have a sense of truth in it, there’s more to it than what it entails. How about looking at a clearer definition of what style truly means..

Style is expression, It is a form of expressing our inner being outwardly. This includes all of our thoughts, emotions, interests, and values as everything on the outside is merely a reflection of what’s on the inside.In my very own words, I describe style as the expression of the real you that others can’t see. It is a reflection of the real you, it is your sense of identity reflected and expressed through what you wear.

In most cases, style is often mistaken for fashion. Style isn’t fashion and Fashion definitely isn’t style. Fashion is a fad, a trend which shines and fades from time to time and sometimes, it tends to overlap our style too. When following fashion you are basically in a comparison mode, wanting to look and be seen like everyone else.  It is true fashion can be used as a tool to create style but fashion can never be compared to style.

Style in my words is unapologetically individual,it involves risk and that sometimes means getting it wrong which is why the power of confidence  comes to play in this aspect. Style is dressing for yourself, being yourself, expressing yourself in the best possible way and being confident about it. Every great Style Icon always talked about their greatest hits as well as their memorable misses in interviews.Dont panic, misses are fine; it means you have the confidence to experiment. 

Excellent examples of genuine personal Style are Kate Moss, Diane Keaton, Alexa Chung, Katherine Hepburn, Gwen Stefani, Carine Roitfeld, and Victoria Beckham.  These are women whose personalities and Style are so intertwined. They had a true sense of style (this does not mean you have to like their Style, only that they have it).  What they wear on the outside projects who they are on the inside; and that is the true essence of Style.

What is style if you can’t walk with ur head up high and feel confident about the real you? William Battie once said”Style is when they’re running you out of town and you make it look like you’re leading the parade.” Your style is your legacy, it defines you, you have to own up to it and express the real you.

However, Just because style entails expressing the real you, it doesn’t mean you can wear whatever you want while ignoring the message it’s conveying. There is a “language” that is spoken through specific types of clothing, that you must be aware of in order to leave a more positive influence than a negative one.

We all posses a sense of style in us, there’s nothing better than putting on something and saying to yourself “THIS IS SO ME”. When considering style, the question posed in your mind should be, does my clothing ‘match’ my sense of who I really am?  as it is of utmost priority that you feel comfortable and most importantly confident as well…Therefore, as much as you’re gradually building up your sense of style, it won’t hurt to take some inspiration from the ever-changing world of Fashion to keep ourselves current and fresh.

In conclusion, style is evergreen. Trends may come and go but if you have a sense of style that works for you and you feel comfortable and confident in it then you’ll always look good.