I have been thinking lately of what we might mean by the word style. I sometimes get comments on all my platforms saying that anyone can be stylish if they wear expensive clothes. In a comment like that style and monetary value is conflated and I suppose it might come down to how we define “style”. There are two ways to think about the definition I suppose. One way is very prescriptive in that it involves rules about what you should or should not wear. It also implicates trends. It is also usually dictated by someone other than ourselves. This seems to be the definition that may then be more dependent on cost and class. It is probably more related to marketing and status rather than a creative act.
In the many beautiful and expressive comments in response to my last post, The Language of Clothes, it is clear there is another definition of style; one that is most liberating and in our control. This is the definition of style that suggests it is the very personal way we say who we are through what we chose to wear and how we put the pieces together. This is the definition of style that to me is personally empowering. It is not dependent on the cost of a garment or the name of the brand or designer. It comes from inside.
As you know my tastes run the gamut from high to low. I have mentioned here before that my mother came from privilege; a highly educated and wealthy family that can trace back to signers of the Declaration of Independence. My father is from an immigrant. working class and public servant heritage with no college in the picture. So for me, I contain both these classes in my DNA and can move easily between them. As a public servant for much of my career, I did not have the budget to indulge my designer taste and so found ways to express who I was or aspired to be in my style that met it. Because of this ability to cross class, I do not apologize for the privilege I now have of designers allowing me to wear their clothes or the rare moments when I personally decide to buy something that I think is a lifetime treasure. I also do not apologize for putting together an outfit for a shoot that is from a thrift store nor do I have any shame about wearing consignment or second-hand clothes. Because for me style is not about money.
I use the two pictures above as an example. One outfit cost $2,700. The other outfit $95.00. Can you tell which is which? The interesting thing is for me I feel exactly the same when I am wearing them and I feel they equally convey something about me and who I wish to be. There is an element of the Accidental Icon in both that is recognizable. That to me is style.
Let’s weigh in here. What are your thoughts about the definition of style and the relationship to cost?
Style is what you create [even from a thrift store, which is where a lot of my clothes come from]
cost is what the account calculates.
Budget determines where you can shop
Well stated.
Style is a sense of yourself that you convey through “ the language of clothes”. When I look at someone who I think has a great sense of style , they exude a sense of self and confidence that go way beyond the clothing. I
don’t think that being able
to pull this off requires a certain dollar amount. There are plenty of people who spend a fortune on clothing yet don’t have any sense of style whatsoever -those uniformed trend followers who have to be outfitted in a certain brand and end up looking stale and cliche. I’m much more excited to see some mixing of new and old, expensive and cheap . Much more interesting, creative and fun.
The black is the more expensive outfit.
Yes you are right.
Style is what you give to others in the form of confidence first, clothing second. You can wear the most expensive clothing and have no confidence in yourself and it will tarnish that clothing…yet wear the clothing from a thrift store, scavenged from someone’s garage sale and with confidence and pride in yourself…you’ll look like a million bucks! It all starts with you❤️
I love both looks and love the message more! Style is definitely not about money…..though money may make it easier to “buy” style.
??????Well said, style is in the person who wear it, not in the clothes!
Love what you love whichever makes you fabulous price is price cheap or not it is ok
Another thing, I’d say the right look is the expensive one. Am I right?
I like the black dress & hope it’s the $95 one. I resent the extremely high cost of clothes & consider finding something wonderful in a thrift store to be a kind of triumph.
The more honed one’s sense of style, and the more refined one’s eye, the more likely one can spot (and put together) the treasures found in the off-price and secondhand settings! The thrill is in the hunt.
[1] The black outfit on the right I believe to be the expensive one. [2] Your words, exactly. They convey what I think, only better.
I think personal style is about knowing how to put yourself together in a way that makes you comfortable in your own skin (or your outer skin of clothing). Having style is somewhat about not looking outdated, but timeless. At least that’s my goal. I want to look stylish and a bit edgy, but not like I’m trying too hard to look young. I do tell my hairdresser that she’s in charge of making sure that I don’t look stupid. LOL!
Love this!
The line you wrote “It comes from inside”, basically sums up style for me. Style is what anyone shows or conveys to the world of who they are inside of what they want to aspire to be.
Agree that money doesn’t determine style. Money and fashion are both “made up” in life. Whereas what is inside of us and what we show people is as real as it gets. When I say “made up”… if money and fashion had a different meaning or function then that would be what we believed about them.
Clothing and all the accessories are a “reflection” of how we feel inside; what we what to express; what we want to feel; what we may not want to show or reveal; what we want to wrap ourselves up with or unwrap ourselves too; and sometimes style may be about who we wish to be as many times I’ve seen (and I am only referring to females here since I am female) a young woman wear a ball gown + tiara, wanting to look like and feel like what they believe is a beautiful princess or a young woman wearing full camo clothing + boots wishing to feel tougher and stronger than they may actually feel inside.
All of this is how I define style. ♥️
I’m so grateful for this post because I have to be careful of my spending. You show us that that doesn’t have to hold us back when we are designing our style.
My theater background provided me with a great source for creative style expression. I learned much from costume designers working on a tight budget and realized that I wasn’t afraid to wear daring looks onstage. Venturing out onto the street was an entirely different matter.
I work on being fearless when it comes to wearing my personal style. It’s easy for me to resist creative dressing by telling myself that it’s inappropriate for my age, location, or that people won’t like me if I make a fashion statement. Developing self confidence costs nothing and playing with personal style is a wonderful way to reinforce that.
I absolutely agree with your philosophy about clothing, Lyn, and love the way you have always stated that style is not about money, but about the way you put things together.
I have always mixed clothes too, spending for special occasions and buying from second-hand shops too, although we don’t have the same scope here in Ireland. I also have things I have worn for years, but keep an eye open to whatever is new. My friend and co-writer, Anne, and I often swap things too and look out for bargains for each other.
I was delighted to see you with the Beacon’s Closet bag recently, as I stayed in Park Slope in Brooklyn a few years ago, and spent a whole afternoon in there!
We have been following your blog and other social media for several years, and love your take on fashion & the fashion world and attitude to life in general.
You were also one of my role models a few years back when I decided to ‘go grey’!
We are now working on a motivational blog in advance of publishing a book next year (I am already an established fiction author) and we are featuring inspirational people from all walks of life.
We would love to include a feature on you, but just checking the correct way to go about this with you?
As always, enjoyed this current piece and look forward to the next!
“Because for me style is not about money.”
Exactly! It’s about Where/When/Who.
Where are you going?
When? Morning ? Noon? Night? and most of all . . .
Who do you want to be today?
So True, Lyn. I also believe that personal style comes from attitude; how we portray ourselves in our clothes. I shop primarily at consignment shops; sometimes Goodwill and always can put together an outfit that represents me. So glad I found you. What an inspiration.
I agree with your sentiments.
In a society where self-worth is assigned to the amassing of wealth (too often, by the most nefarious means possible) and the veneration of the insidiously-behaved who are wealthy, individual expression is distorted when one does not conform to the publicity-spins of social media. Sadly, the same is true for independent thought.
Style is art: Each individual has certain potentials to create and express their uniqueness. Part of the creative process is utilizing the tools and mediums with which you make your art. Some tools and materials can be expensive while others can be found for free. The masterpiece is not dependent upon the cost of the materials used to create it. (However, that big, blue canvas hanging in the entrance of the Museum of Modern Art is a perfect example of how spin-doctoring gives value to nothingness for and by those with money.) Whether one does or doesn’t express their uniqueness depends upon how much self-love you have. (Self-love includes confidence, care, cultivation of your talents, and the ability to continuously educate yourself.)
Style is being comfortable in your choices for self expression. This has absolutely nothing to do with cost. Confidence is your greatest, style accessory.
Style is knowing what compliments your self-expression with your reality: Too often, we see people purchase expensive clothing that does not suit their bodies and they look horrible in them — “the clothes are wearing them.” They are less interested in how they look than in others knowing how much they spent — which creates a vicious cycle of non-fulfillment and setting yourself up for negative judgment by peers and frenemies. Think Edina from AbFab.
Style is like class — either one has it or one doesn’t. Those who truly have style and class are not corrupted by spin-doctored, publicity stimuli designed to coerce the “sheeple.”
Quite a few gems in this narrative.
Wait! Which is which? I love that both are so you.
Black dress is the expensive one.
You are right on the money (so to speak).Also some pieces that look so stylish on someone will not do at all on someone else. I hope every woman would have enough confidence to really follow her own style. It comes sometimes later in life ( as for me) Same for home decor : I remember some students flats or studios that were so stylish with second hand or DYI furniture and artifacts and I see interiors on A.D. that cost a lot of money and completely lack of style!!!!
I agree with you 100% that style and taste have absolutely nothing to do with money. That is pretty evident by watching award shows where celebrities with unlimited budgets consistently display poor taste. I also like that you make no apologies. I sometimes feel guilty about the amount of time I spend shopping and playing in my closet and deliberating over every item I put on. It sometimes seems so frivolous to put so much emphasis on one’s clothing when there is so much else going on in the world. However, I do really feel that it is an expression of myself — for the same reason, I would never hire an interior decorator — I prefer to have everything in my environment picked out by myself and not someone who is paid to have better taste.
They are both great outfits – but if the one on the left is Hermes, then it’s the expensive one.
Nope got that dress at Zara for 25.00 on sale.
I agree with your attitude about style. And, I’ll bet the outfit on the right cost $95, which is FAR MORE attractive than the outfit on the left! Love your style, your courage!
Personal style has always been a creative act for me. When I was in elementary school, I made a raincoat out of Wonder Bread wrappers put together with red electrical tape. My mother refused to let me out of the house wearing it. For her, the first definition of style that you describe was the ONLY way to dress. If she could only afford one beautiful piece of clothing, that’s what she would buy. She is a beautiful woman and is of a generation where her looks were truly her currency. Only later in life could she really rock her intelligence.
I am an artist and putting garments on my body is an expressive of my creative life. I too can easily move between wearing clothes that are costly and those that are cheap, those that are wildly “stylish” and those that are truly utilitarian. What matters to me is that I feel like myself in what I am wearing, that I feel good and ready to be seen.
I rebelled for many years against the normative beauty of my mother and her generation. I found ways to show that I am smart and attractive, both of which, I believe, tell the truth about who I am. It was a hard road to come to terms with my place as a woman in this world. As I approach my 65th birthday this week, I am beyond grateful for how comfortable I am with my body, my mind, my spirit, my art – and my closet!
I feel the same! what a blessing to come to this realization.
I love your style. Which is the $95 outfit?
The leather jacket and dress
I absolutely agree with your assessment. As a salesperson in an upscale boutique, I can tell you that money does not translate into style. I also volunteer at Dress for Success in Columbus, Ohio and have done presentations to our clients in which I bought everything at thrift stores and resale stores. I don’t tell them until the end and they are always amazed. It takes an “eye” to create your style. It can’t be imitated if it is you! I try to help women discover their style so they can go forward and show who they truly are.
Love this way of helping other women be happy with who they are.
Many comments express my opinion of style: personal, creative & expensive garments not required. My go to uniform for many occasions is comfortable jeans that fit well, a white tee or other solid color turtle neck, black blazer, flats or low heels, simple or snazzy accessories depending on where I’m going. Someone almost always will tell me “you look so stylish”. I’m glad I’m beyond being a slave to fashion. If the clothing is uncomfortable & fussy to put on it’s not in my closet.
I love your outfits. Which is which? Cost wise.
The black dress is more expensive.
I believe style, as you do, is a state of mind and self expression. There is confidence in style. Style as soul. Fashion doesn’t; alot of it is stiff. I go into high end department stores to see what quality is these days, but rarely purchase anything. Who wants to look like a mannequin? I prefer second hand and thrift shopping. It’s a much more creative experience.
I think we are inevitably affected by style as defined by designers high- and low-end, whether or not we admit it. It is so ubiquitous we don’t even know we are adopting it and adapting to it. That said, style is so manageable. We can splurge when possible and when we cannot, there’s the world of knock-offs and items close enough to provide the sense of “yeah!” I like to see what is out there whether it’s Barneys New York or Zara’s. I know what works and doesn’t work for me regardless the cost. At the end of the day, style comes from my self-understanding not the price tag, not the label.
You describe what I think is the reality so well.
I agree that style is not about money. For me it is how I feel in clothes, do they make me look good and work for what the day brings. If shoes pinch, if I have to pull a dress down or trousers/pants/skirts up etc. then I have to divert attention to my clothes instead of the people around me and it shows.
I don’t think style has anything to do with cost. It’s a matter of one’s own personality, lifestyle, ( I have to include this) age. If you enjoy looking your best at any age, you are on the right road to good style. Neatness, and quality of the garments you wear also tie into good style.
Clothes make the woman or man as the saying goes.
But It’s NOT the cost but the way the clothes make you feel as you said…I can’t tell which is more exspensive …
But the other side of the coin – my mother always told me to buy the best quality clothing I could afford as it would last and would be classic and to save up for them. I met my husband in the 1970’s and one of his favorite suits was a three piece green shiny polyester suit – I was still in college and he was working for a major corporation in NYC .
We went to an Italian tailor in the city and he got 4 new suits .. he kept the green one for a long time but only wore it on St. Patrick’s Day ..
I have always felt that was a good move on his part and was glad he listened to me as you have 17 seconds to make a first impression and he had just started his job when I met him.
I still pick out his clothes after 46 years of marriage ….
Love your column !
Love this story!
I agree and admire your courage. So many times we as women are judged by labels.
Personally I have come of age where I can afford a better quality pieces nothing extravagant but it is my attitude and flair that makes my second hand clothes mixed with a nice pair of shoes feel confident.
Yes I agree. I am not a fan of black and white thinking or either/or. Sometimes I do spend money on an expensive piece because of the timeless nature and the quality of the garment.
I love this question!
Style springs from within and so there is no relationship to cost. You are limited by what you can afford, of course, but I believe you can have style even on a tight budget.My style wouldn’t change if I had a lot more money because style stems from who I am.
I am an artist and started shopping thrift stores in the very early 80s in college in Boston and mostly ignored trends, due to economic pressure and personal choice.
I have since raised two daughters alone and never had a lot of extra money. I taught them early on that since style is an expression of self, you can find items that work for you almost anywhere – from expensive boutiques to thrift shops. You carry your style with you always so you can spot something that suits you, whether it’s an expensive department store or a yard sale. My oldest wore a 1950s vintage blush pink party dress that was in fantastic condition to a homecoming dance in high school by choice, and was gorgeous and utterly unique.
The information that has come out recently about the environmental damage wreaked by fast fashion has reinforced my commitment to finding my wardrobe at thrift and consignment shops. I do buy new occasionally, but find that it’s much more interesting to always have an eye open for something that speaks to me. It’s a lot more fun to find a stunning piece this way.
As I have aged and grown more confident, I am having more fun than ever with my style and I realize that I have come to ignore trends and dress to please myself.
I think this raises such an important issue, not only what values do we want to teach our daughters and granddaughters but how do we help and start now to address the environment so they have some quality of life.
Hi. It’s nice to communicate with so famous icon of style. I suppose a black dress from a designer is expensive. In any case, viscose dresses with pleated skirts and bright prints were in vogue as early as during my student years. Now such can be found only on the shelves of second-hand.
They say a sense of style is the kiss of God. Coco Chanel (the other icon of style) once remarked, “If you remember a woman’s face, but don’t remember how she was dressed, then she was dressed perfectly!” Her ideal of style was silently to keep the dignity and not to stand out from the crowd. At first they said that Chanel clothe is practical, convenient, less often – that it is beautiful. Only later came the realization that the main advantage of clothing from Chanel is style. The style of freedom and human dignity for which Koko herself has fought all her life.
Since the times of Chanel, much has changed. Fashion followed the path of individualization and self-expression, turning clothing into a fetish, and brands into an object of worship. Until now, few people understand that brand individuality almost never reflects the personal individuality. This is eloquently shown by the excesses of celebrity outfits on various “red carpet”.
The internet is filled with tips on “Don’t look cheap.” Paradoxically, but you can look cheap, wearing expensive things. Obviously, the question is not the price, but the ability to show one’s individuality, without overstepping the boundary between style and clownery.
I really love the line you laid down: style and clownery.
Style is what makes me me!! I often will mix one designer piece that shouts personality with normal everyday (sometimes Target, Walmart) pants. I love John Fluevog shoes. It’s my one indulgence that shouts “this is ME”.
Style is not about conforming to fashions or following others. It is about expressing yourself and showing what
is important in your life.
I am 67 retired economist, cancer survivor, and I live in Serbia. I like to say that I am Scandi soul in Balkan body.
I like your blog very much and your style too. I also think that style is not about money.
Greetings, Nada
Congratulations on being a survivor, I am sure of more than just cancer. I would love to know more about what you mean by a Scandi soul in a Balkan body.
Style is self expression, it is for those who do not bow down to trends but embraces the things they love and reflect from the inside out.
Last week I wore a dress I had purchased from a thrift store 30 years ago, along with the many (usual) compliments I also felt the pride of having made such a great choice. That dress is one of many enduring pieces I own and it is currently at $0.01 a wearing!
I love that you are calculating how much it is costing per wearing. I also do that over the years.
I don’t know how to dress as an expression of who I am!
Well stay tuned here as myself and many fabulous women who post here can give you some tips.
I love the colors in the outfit on the left. The all black outfit is staunch and harsh looking I don’t care for it, although I’m sure it has it’s place.
Style is easier if money is no object; style on a budget forces creativity.
Well said.
I so agree with you, and it can be so simple. I have a 23-year-old daughter who is tall and beautifully proportioned. She moves into her first paying job soon and will have the opportunity to style herself. I have told her that there are about 8 basic items in a wardrobe (jacket, pants, skirt, dress, shirt, shoes, boots, coat) and she has the opportunity to consider an item and think about what she likes and what flatters her. She’s a little overwhelmed now, but I think she would profit by taking each item, say a skirt, and asking herself, “Do I look good in an A-line skirt? In a trouser skirt? In a longer, flowing skirt? In a mini skirt?” And then she could build from there. I speak from vast, expensive personal experience of my younger self moving from outfit to outfit of whatever was in fashion at the time, thinking that a new outfit would “fix” me, rather than figuring out what flattered me. A crack appeared in this logic when I wore a drop-waisted dress in the 1980s and was asked if I were pregnant. First step in figuring out what flattered me.
Wonderful story!
I think the black dress is expensive one. Why? Looking at fabric , the fabric looks a good quality. Your other look is fab too. My budget is limited but when I buy a good quality fabric I will try to wear it several ways if not I will not buy it.
A realistic and pragmatic approach, I do the same.
It is not possible for me to make a solid call here. While the photos are stylish, they really do not convey the outfits very well. The image on the right is so dark you cannot make out any details. And the devil is always in the details.
I love your style and agree, style can also cost very little, it’s an art finding the right pieces, and I myself am a huge fan of Charity Shops and especially vintage. I also think there is no problem, if you can afford designer pieces, they are an investment and can be mixed and matched with cheaper finds.
It doesn’t matter how much an item/items cost. If it makes you feel good, then it’s money worth spent.
I’m guessing the cheaper outfit you are wearing is the one with the fab sunglasses? It is definitely my favourite.
Yes it is! In my book sunglasses make anything look chic. That and a pair of statement earrings.
The definition of style is different for everyone. When I was young, I read Glamour and In Style ,etc and as I got older, I turned to The NY Times fashion section to see what “everyone” was wearing. But I would always look around at the women in my corner of the world and saw NO ONE dressed like the women in these magazines. In fact, in my late 20’s and into my 30’s I would chuckle at some of the “high fashion” and tried to imagine any of my friends wearing THAT to the grocery store or to pick up their kids after school. It has taken me a long time to get to where I am now insofar as to what is “me” and to be fearless in wearing what I wish when going out — my favorite is combining my sleek black leggings from Kmart with a$400 cashmere v neck sweater and a matching pashmina scarf/shawl, all with my waist length silver blonde hair at the age of 63. Also being a decades long fan of the iconic Stevie Nicks, I have skirts like hers that I just love to wear and to my surprise, I have had young people (both girls and guys) tell me, “I love your style!” Sure, I’ve had women my age roll their eyes at me but I don’t care!!!
As for the relationship of cost to style, we all buy what we can afford. And I quickly learned that an exquisite item on the clearance rack is JUST as lovely as paying the ridiculous full price.
I have also learned that I enjoy putting in the effort to look nice for MYSELF. I don’t want to turn into an aging woman who wears sweatpants everywhere, because that is not me.
My favorite fashion mantra:
My desire to be myself is greater than my need to fit in.
Now that is a mantra I can adopt!
That’s a tough question. I’ll say that the outfit on the left cost more, only because I think I see a leather jacket and Gucci logos on the dress. I love both outfits, and how you style them. I want to learn from you how to look good on a small budget!i
Style is difficult for me. As I have aged, my impulse has been to cover more and more of my body. Arms, knees, neck. And to wear black or very dark colors. It makes me sad to relinquish my younger style which was a mix of bohemian and classical.
Interesting you chose the least expensive outfit. The leather was found in a consignment store for $40. I too share the impulse to cover parts of my body but you can still be clever and creative about it.
Oooooh style has nothing to do with price in my book. I have often lavished money on clothes and come away with a style -less mess! To me style is an internally driven sense of self which, with care, consideration and creativity is then expressed externally. Something I find very hard to do.
Before I had children, I sometimes indulged in designer clothes I found on sale. Recently I have been wearing a knit dress I found on sale for $20 (Canadian), and have had many compliments. For me it’s not a question of designer, but what suits my body and what I like and feel good in.
Agreed!
I think if one knows one’s style and the clothes that make them feel comfortable, chic, and confident, the cost is not relevant. Are there designers whose clothes almost always make me feel good? Yes, definitely. But, knowing what suits my personality and the image I like to present to the world, enables me to replicate a similar look and vibe at other price points. There are many who can wear those same designers and not have their individual personality come through. Style is knowing what suits you and taking the time to stay true to that. You can have your individuality show through in jeans and in formal wear – you just need to zero in on what that individuality is and develop a wardrobe that reflects it. You can’t shine in clothing of any cost if it doesn’t make you feel good.
Style and cost are completely different things.
Interesting that people believe that you need money to have style. Style is uniquely one’s own and has little to do with an abundance of money. I love how you put together your outfits. Thanks for sharing your ideas and thoughts.
My definition of style is individual and no relationship to cost.
I don’t think that is related to cost. Just like you stated, style is about how you feel and that feeling will show is how you walk, your attitude, smile and confidence. I have my own style and I own it when ever I get dressed. Some clothes my be from a thrift or consignment shop. It may come from the Goodwill or a high end department store. I just do me but always feeling good doing it.
This is one of the most intelligent and insightful articles about personal style I have ever read. Bravo.
I have never been able to buy the clothing I wanted so had to dress in a More Dash than Cash, the name of a Vogue column when I was younger. When I had more to spend than now at retirement age I bought well in colours and shapes which lasted. And bought fabric and designed and had clothes made to my specifications by a talented dressmaker. Or tweaked off the peg clothing I’d bought in sales so it looked and fit better. Now I’m trying to buy less, be more green and use what I have adding only touches to make the outfits more interesting.
Very important point. we do need to think seriously about sustainability.
mmm, so hard to decide which outfit is which. I choose the black outfit as the more expensive outfit.
Neither, to me, appears more “expensive the the other”. I too, don’t think money dictates style. It is a personal thing. What makes you feel beautiful when you put it on.
AMEN!
Style, just like class, has nothing to do with cost, but in how you carry yourself. Some people can make anything look good and some would be a wreck in an expensive outfit. You never have to apologize for anything!!!
I can’t believe you’re writing about this, Dr. Slater, because at AICI Conference yesterday I was speaking to a member who thinks style is about class/money, and I disagree. My beliefs about style align very closely with yours. No one is born with style because style is an expression of who we are, and we haven’t become who we are at birth. Some may have a natural inclination towards interesting combinations and find it easy working with fashion and accessories, but style can be learned. Style, to me, is about three things, (1) self-awareness, (2) experimentation (a willingness to fail) and (3) self-confidence (a willingness to show us who you are without regard for what others will think or say). Cool pieces that communicate your style can be acquired at any price point. I have pieces from Barneys and Goodwill and every place in between. Looking at your two photos, I’m guessing the less expensive look is on the left. I love both. Thank you again for coming to Chicago, and for writing such thoughtful pieces on your blog. I love reading them.
Thank you because those are three style rules to live by and definitely the ones I follow.
It is great to hear the background to your life and style. I agree with you style is from within. I did though have the impression that all your looks were current designer labels. Both looks are fab! I’m guessing the one on the left is the more affordable.
Yes. I love clothes and when a designer whether they are well-known or a fashion student or emerging designer asks me to wear something that I really want to wear it does not matter how famous or what the price.
I totally agree with you. I’ve worn an $800 dress from Nordstrom, and I’ve worn a $15 dress from a thrift store. Both made me feel fantastic, and I love the adventure of the hunt in thrift stores. Plus, my husband has found designer clothes, in perfect condition, at Goodwill for a fraction of the cost.
I relish the hunt, I get hours of pleasure even when I come home empty-handed.
You look amazing. It’s not about money. Beauty comes from inside.
Yes it is the woman inside the dress that is the most important thing about a dress, according to Yves St. Laurent.
Style is not about how much money you have. There are many wealthy people who completely lack style. I personally see it as a creative outlet that allows me to feel good and exude confidence.
It is such an old fashioned notion, to say that style and money are one in the same. Personal style has absolutely NOTHING to do with how much money one spends on clothes. It is instinctual. There are many atrocious things that cost an arm and a leg, and many wonderful things that are very inexpensive. There are many people with endless resources who don’t have great taste or the foggiest idea of how to dress. I’ve seen people on the subway who stand out in relatively simple things but they are put together in a way that makes them truly stand out. Maybe it’s the way they tie a scarf. It is all about the way one wears clothes; how they chose to put their clothes together. Those with great style can look more smashing in a white shirt and jeans, than someone in a Chanel suit.
Yes I have seen two women in identical designer outfits, one looks smashing and you barely notice the other. Not about the clothes.
I definitely do not define style by the cost of the attire. I’ve always had to be thrifty and purchase most of my wardrobe from discount stores but try and find something with color or an interesting design. I also make some simple clothing items myself which allows we to add some self expression. At 72 I’ve finally claimed the title of fiber artist who incorporates quilting with assorted mixed media items in an array of vibrant colors and I want my clothing to express the feeling I put in my art. That is not what I’ve presented to the world during my traditional working career but I am now slowly letting the real me come to the fore and be a bit more daring. I believe style is constantly evolving and we should allow ourselves to evolve as well no matter our age.
I think the need to stay on budget is what really encouraged me to be more creative in how I put together looks.
I agree with you 100%. Style doesn’t have to equate spending large sums of money to put together a wardrobe that can make me feel happy and stylish. I’m 67 and retired on a very modest income, and I don’t feel deprived or left out because I can’t afford designer clothes. I shop the thrift stores, consignment shops, and estate sales. I enjoy the hunt and not knowing what I might find. As you pointed out, style doesn’t necessarily have to be about money…or showing off a designer label. I once read somewhere that a smile is the prettiest thing that you can wear. I totally agree.
I totally agree with you about style. Personal style for me is a mix of old & new, thrift store and department store. The fun is in the treasure hunt and th creativity in putting thing together to create my style. Thank you for articulating the way I feel about style so well.
Absolutely it is HOW you wear your clothes and co ordinate accessories. It’s about choosing the right footwear for an outfit and its more than anything all about the persons attitude – wear your clothes with pride and flare whatever the cost ( I shop regularly in Charity Shops) and SMILE. Then you will always look beautiful and gain favourable comments.
People tell me daily how glam and stylish I am but it’s only because I dare to wear and be different.
For me, style is not about the value of the outfit. Whether it’s trendy or not, it’s how it fits me, hot it feels when I put it on, and how it looks on me. I gotta have that “wow it’s nice on me” factor, when I look at the mirror.
I agree. Style is about how you are in relation to the world.
We have a great op shop here in my neighbourhood called ‘Savers’. You will find every label there. I know women who have found Prada there. Another friend only buys clothes from there. That woman is Italian & it’s rare to see her wear something twice.
You must be born with style to have it.
Buona Giornata Accidental Icon.
Some are “born with style.” Others get educated as they gain life experience & learn who they are and what works for them.
Hello Lyn, I hear what you are saying.
I like to think that my style is constantly evolving, that I am learning to feel my way into what I wear.
I have a basic style and then I play with it from there.
I too love certain high end labels but can’t necessarily afford them.
I buy investment pieces, recycle and care for what I own.
I am learning to dress for me and, that a “fabulous look” comes from within first and foremost. ?
After reading Vogue and Elle for years, I know the design houses I love the most. I could never afford their clothes. But now, as a senior I have the time to hunt at consignment shops and house sales. I buy only classics–Armani, Dolce Gabbana, Prada, Hermes, Chanel, etc.–that I know I’ll wear for years. I know myself and what I feel comfortable wearing. I can’t afford new items on social security, so the bargains I buy make me feel like I’m wearing the current season from the best houses. My used Prada black suede/satin boots still serve me well after 14 years.
I definitely dress for myself. My style is all my own.
Just guessing from the pictures that the picture with the “leather” jacket was the more expensive but it could have been brought from a good quality thrift shop also. (You do have the eye for nice outfits). I agree price doesn’t an item stylish or fashionable or of good quality. What a person needs to know is how well made is the item and how well you will be taking care of your clothes. The care of the clothing will definitely affect how well it maintains its quality. Both of those outfits are very classy and fashionable and both could be expensive. Wear what feels and looks good on your body is my motto. Don’t lean on someone’s else vision of style, make your own.
I’ve always loved finding a bargain that is also a bit unusual. I don’t have much to spend on “outfits” but find that one item that costs a bit can make anything you wear with it look ten times nicer. Comfort for me is foremost..then panache. I’m trying at this late stage (70) to choose more color and pattern, though for me it’s difficult not to stick with gray and black and white.
I find it difficult to define style, but I think it has to do with being creative. Sometimes I think some of us just are born with a sense of style.I don’t think it has anything to do with money. Ruth
Style, for myself, begins with the confidence to wear what pleases me in terms of cut, color, texture, and material. This may not always coincide with the dictates of fashion as my personal style has evolved, and in truth keeps on evolving, over time. Favorite pieces will always have a place in my wardrobe. Style often differs with “fashion,” which is really what market gurus have deemed to be this week’s “in look,” and can change with lightning speed. The goal with fashion is to sustain the economic viability of clothing manufacturers. This is not to say that this is necessarily wrong, but is reality, for what would we do if manufacturers ceased to exist. Nevertheless, at one time, there were only two seasons, Fall-Winter and Spring-Summer. Now, some industry observers have suggested that there are 52 seasons.
Cost is often associated with the need to honor a designer’s creative talent, the quality of materials used, as well as the standard of construction. There is also the element of exclusivity that is built into the cost of couture garments. However, cost is not a reflection of style. Style can incorporate many price points in the same look. Style is a blend of practicality, according to the dictates of our lifestyle, and personal creativity. As we all know, money does not buy good taste…but then again, how do we define “good taste?!” Good taste may just be what makes us feel good, confident, and above all, happy!
GOOD IDEA!
Need to see more of the featured pieces
I agree whole-heartedly! Style is ownership of who you are. No apologies! No prisoners! The thrift shop gives me that. But every once in a while I’ll see a colour (mint!) or design line (boat neck!) that really speaks to me – and I’ll go into the red that month and skim it off the groceries. Worth it! I encounter a lot of shock and awe from people less than half my age who live in black and grey because they don’t have to “think about coordinating it.” Coordination is life.
Wow, so many comments! This is great!
The thing about big wealth is it leaves less to chance. For example, I could stroll into any brand’s store and simply buy something that resonates with my style. I would consciously choose that piece. But thrifting, it’s a roll of the dice, a hunt. Sometimes the clothes choose me – I’ll wear something huge simply because that’s all that’s available and end up loving it. This aspect helps push my boundaries. With big wealth, I’d buy “my size.” Plus, I like the uniqueness of some thrift finds. Of course in an ideal situation I’d design my own clothes and have someone make them or have the time and space to make them myself.
The thing about style is, no matter the price, you need to feel like a million bucks.
Good topic. Great photo illustration.
Style is not about money. It is about expressing your inner self. Easy to do if you have thrift and consignment stories nearby. No idea which is the thriftier outfit, but like the black the best with the earrings and shoes.
I love the thought and introspection inherent in your posts. We so often are swayed by the whims of ‘fashion’; I love that you differentiate fashion from style so eloquently. This particular post reminds me of my school days in SO many ways. We did not have a lot of money by any means, and my aunt made most of my clothes (although she was not a great seamstress). By the age of 12 I was making simple garments for myself, and graduated to more and more complicated truly ‘seamstress’ level sewing by 15. But somehow your post reminds me more broadly of our opportunities of all kinds. Our school had children from all economic backgrounds. Even those of us from the most modest (read POOR) backgrounds were taught by the same teachers, had the same textbooks, access to the same library books, were all held to the same standards (no grading curves), rode the same bus(es), but not everyone took advantage of the opportunities in front of them. Although my family was among the most low income in the school, keeping my eyes and ears open to the opportunities all around me resulted in being valedictorian; in being well dressed from clothes created from the 50 cents a yard bin and not infrequently from the fabric bag that had contained chicken feed. Using the old beat up piano from the school-owned band instruments (until we could afford a used one) won me a piano scholarship. Please understand that this is NOT a brag; rather this is a very humble acknowledgment that by taking advantage of what is available, working hard to see the potential (especially within oneself), and moving forward with aplomb, you CAN achieve your goals regardless, and indeed, in spite of, the humbleness of your circumstances.
I have clients who will only wear designer clothes. I shop low end and discount stores for other clients. It’s style I’m looking for and it can come from anywhere. In my career I’ve seen women rely on the label for confidence, the formula being thus: more expensive=more confidence or presence. They don’t necessarily go hand in hand. Style takes understanding. It’s a wonderful pursuit. It takes time, listening, exploring. It doesn’t take oodles of money. In my humble opinion…
You probably don’t need more comments or input on this topic, but I had an experience yesterday that I’ll share. I was at a colleague’s desk, and she was admiring my ensemble of the day–a creative combination of wide leg jeans (cheap, H&M), a plain black turtleneck, and a beautiful capelet/cowl that I knitted of organic, plant-dyed wool yarn from France (the most expensive piece.) “I so love your style! Every day there is at least one item of your clothing that I would adore having in my own closet.” Another colleague joined in the chorus. Both women are much younger than I am, and so it tickles me that they look to my eclectic style for inspiration. I realized in that moment how all of this started for me in high school, when I started making and embellishing my clothing in creative ways. I only gradually started “collecting” elements of clothing to “play” with–creating artistic ensembles for my own (and others’) interest and pleasure. I don’t shop much anymore; or even make much for myself anymore–because I already really have enough. I do love second hand clothing–one finds absolute gems at a fraction of the cost. I occasionally buy new when something really calls me. But I really need to feel it will add a useful element to my art of dressing.
Linda B: LOVE this post. So poignant in so many ways. Thank you!
You can have all the money in the world, and no style. Most of the most creative and stylish women I know shop primarily secondhand. Your style is an expression of who you are inside the clothes.
At first glance the more expensive outfit is the black due to the wonderful material that I can “feel” only in my mind. In the 70’s – 90’s I use to love to express myself as a rebel through the uncombed hair look having textured unruly Italian hair which drove everyone crazy, including my mother. If I washed, conditioned, brushed it in the shower than shook it dry I felt like an animal. Untamed. Come near me only if you want to look me in the eye and relate. During that time I used not just clothes but how I wore the clothes… jackets slung over one shoulder, jeans always unzipped at the top and top button NEVER buttoned! I always looked on the sale racks and thrift shops and only pulled out and looked at material that felt rich with delight to me… raw silks, linens, woolen blends, 100% cottons, and clothes that exposed back and shoulders and I used my body’s skin as part of the costume. I loved dressing for the public. Then something happened. I got older. I’m in my young 60’s. I don’t use skin as part of the daily ritual of dressing anymore. I’m going for comfort but I’m always in proper length pants, jeans, boots, with cover ups that only hint I have a waist and breasts. I came upon you, Lyn, and felt sparklers go off in my head and have been following you for a year or near. I wonder about your classes, what you were like as a professor before your iconic breakthrough. I went to Catholic school and felt fear, bleeding ulcer got the best of me whereas YOU thrived through your ability to stand and face the strictness of the nuns and allowed your creative ingenuity to burn through… (remembering your story about the religious trinkets as bling). You certainly have done what it takes to overcome the obstacles of our time… not allowing yourself to be snuffed out by the male dominants. On three levels you inspire me to keep alive and YOUNG. I feel young and if I want to jump on a scooter with my ankle boots and long sweater flapping in the breeze to tell her supper is almost ready… then I do it. Kids of all ages are wide eyed. They don’t know what to say but “…come back!!” Smile. But…. alas I need more kick in the butt than I do anything else and more positve self-talk to unweave the robes that society expects of me so I can bite a chunk out of the creative life that I’ve always thought I’d be digesting by now. Love your wit, your style, your chutzpah. Oh and BTW, I took a pic of myself not smiling yesterday and damn didn’t that feel GOOD. Yes, we get to show ourselves to the public as-is. xxoo -Mary Theresa
I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS POST, ESPECIALLY THE NOT SMILING!!
You ROCK!! Absolutely love what you said about not needing to apologize about what you spend and you are equally comfortable rocking the consignment store/thrift store pieces or the designer duds!! As I am exploring my creativity and my blocks I am getting more and more comfortable with my personal. Doesn’t matter what it costs, if it speaks to me I’ll wear it!!!
Yes, it has to call your name!