On Style

For the last couple of months, style has been at the forefront of my mind. I think of style as a reflection of who you are. It is one way you show can show up as your most authentic person.

Naturally, it can be challenging to determine the difference between a preference and a trend. For example. This time last year, the clean girl aesthetic was trending. Think of it as the epitome of a “no make up make up look”. It was composed of characteristics of people who were effortless with their beauty and style. Now, quiet luxury is a trend. It’s characterized by a simple structure, expensive fabrics, and neutral tones. The goal is to look rich without the major labels. People are aspiring for the elegance of “old money”. The whole thing is contradictory at least and problematic at most.

I naturally am drawn to muted tones and neutrals. I like a minimal style and in some ways I always have. I was never one to truly accessorize or play with bold colors or prints.

Last year, when packing for a week-long Europe trip, I struggled to find clothes in my own closet. I purged a lot of items that no longer served me, but I didn’t go the extra step to find clothes that did.

Since then, I’ve made an effort to change that. First, I started with a game of word association. I thought about the words people have used to describe me and the words I want to use to describe my style. I came up with sophisticated, sleek, and vibrant/ inviting. Then, I went to Pinterest and found looks that reflected what I pictured. Next, I created an idea of what I needed and only purchased items that fit within that board. This step narrowed down my Pinterest board into actions, by focusing on specific pieces. I also used Nuuly (a clothing rental subscription) to supplement my current wardrobe. It also allowed me to choose items out of my comfort zone to experiment with.

This year when packing for a week-long Europe trip, I didn’t have too many gaps in my closet. I am still working on what to wear when going out, but I had a solid feeling about my daytime outfits.

My goal is to discover what makes me feel comfortable and confident, not to fit into a trend.

Of course, style extends beyond clothes. I also thought about my artistic style and even branding for this I want the things that I create to feel inviting, warm, elegant, and abstract, with a little bit of whimsy. It’s not too far off from my personal style, which makes sense considering it’s a way to express myself. I heard someone say, style can also be limited especially with art. Some artists feel bound by their brand, specific colors, and medium, preventing innovation in their work. I would someone to look at my work and say, that looks like something Lauren created! But I also want to experiment and have fun. For me, the true purpose of creating is to have fun.

What are ways you show up as your authentic self? Maybe it’s not through clothing. I understand clothes can just be functional and that’s okay. Where do you add your own personal touches throughout your life?