Let’s get one thing straight: style is not the same as fashion. Fashion changes with the seasons, while style is timeless - it’s uniquely yours. Trend-chasers might be after compliments like "so trendy" or "so fashionable," but here's the hard truth: not every trendy outfit will flatter your body, your age, or your lifestyle. In the end, you risk becoming a slave to fashion 😶.
On the flip side, developing your own personal style is completely within your grasp. It’s like having a signature look - when people think of you, they instantly know how you'd dress, even if you're not around. It may sound repetitive, but it’s not. Stick with me on this one 🤓.
Personal style means wearing what you genuinely love and what actually suits you, regardless of what's trending. The first step in discovering your style is understanding who you are and what complements you. It’s easier said than done, but once you crack that code, you’ll feel a sense of freedom. From that point forward, you get to be the best version of yourself - no imitations required! 🤣.
Fred Astaire's Style: Using a Tie Instead of a Belt.
Even small details can set you apart. Take Fred Astaire (1899-1987) - the legendary American actor, singer, and dancer - who made headlines by using a necktie instead of a belt and knotting it off to the side. That may seem extreme, but it's a great example of how a small tweak can become a defining part of your style.
Gianni Agnelli's Iconic Style: The Unbuttoned Shirt Collar and Over-the-Sleeve Watch.
Steve McQueen: The Iconic Harrington Jacket Look.
Consider Gianni Agnelli (1921-2003), the "king" of Sprezzatura, who made a statement by never buttoning the collar of his button-down shirts and wearing his watch over his sleeve. And who can forget Steve McQueen’s iconic Harrington jacket? Both men had an unmistakable style that was all their own.
Personal style doesn’t have to be complicated - it could be as simple as a preference for dark clothes, always wearing sneakers, or never leaving home without your favorite hat. Even a well-groomed beard can be a style signature.
Bruce Pask: Bergdorf Goodman's Fashion Director and His Beloved Denim Jacket.
But having personal style doesn’t mean wearing the same thing day after day. It’s about sticking to a certain type of clothing or look that people associate with you.
Building your personal style is a process - experimenting with colors, proportions, and accessories. It’s not easy. Along the way, you’ll face criticism. But with time and experience, you’ll get better at it. Older guys often have their style dialed in because they’ve stopped caring about trends or other people’s opinions. Don’t rush the process - stay patient and true to yourself.
Alexandre Mattiussi: The Red Beanie That Made Him Famous.
Having a distinct personal style can save you time - and, let's admit, sometimes it can be out of pure laziness! Waking up every morning, you don’t have to spend much time deciding what to wear when the answer is always the same: dress to be yourself. Steve Jobs probably understood this better than anyone with his signature black turtleneck. While it might not be the most exemplary fashion statement, who can say Jobs didn’t have his own unique style?
Take fashion designer Giorgio Armani, for instance, who is always seen in a navy blue t-shirt paired with matching trousers. Or Alexandre Mattiussi, designer of AMI, whose simple monochrome outfits are instantly recognizable - especially when topped off with his standout red beanie. And then there’s Paul Smith, known for his love of long, slightly unconventional navy blue suits. All these icons show that a personal uniform isn’t just about convenience; it’s a reflection of identity.
Sir Paul Smith: The Navy Blue Suit Icon.
In a world that can often feel complex and chaotic, authenticity is something we all long for. Personal style serves as one of the clearest tools to express your truth through your clothing choices. It’s about saying, "Hello, I’m wearing what I love," free from pressure or constraints.
Start your journey to discover your unique style right now. If you truly desire it, don’t fear the phrase “too late.” Embrace the adventure of self-discovery and let your wardrobe reflect who you really are. Remember, it’s never too late to express yourself! 😉
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