Want to know what it takes to be a fashionista?
What does it mean to be “stylish”? Does it mean that you always have to wear the latest trends, the best designer clothes, or make a fashion statement? What if your style is more toned down than what you see on The Sartorialist? Does this mean you’re not really as “fashionable” as you thought you were? Not at all!
Being stylish doesn’t mean any of the above, but we can say that stylish people tend to have certain habits that the others don’t possess. Here’s what we’ve learned from hanging around stylish people (and living in LA).
1. Own What You Wear
If you want to make an outfit work, you gotta own it, girl! Highly fashionable people bank on their confidence more than the brand or price of the clothes they wear. They make sure that whatever piece of clothing they have on, they will put their own style into it and wear the hell out of it.
2. No Fear Shopping
Highly fashionable people aren’t afraid of shopping in different stores, no matter how expensive or cheap they are. Whether they’re at the Salvation Army or Barney’s, they can find the best, most stylish pieces that express their individual style. That’s because fashionistas don’t care much about the brand or the labels; as long as they like the item, they’re gonna rock it!
3. Get Inspired
The highly fashionable look for inspiration everywhere — nature, buildings, art, people, etc. For them, the world is full of millions of sources of inspiration that inspire them to try new, different looks. There’s no shame in looking elsewhere for inspiration; it’s a humbling experience for every fashionista.
4. Dress for You
The most stylish people do not just dress because they want the term “fashionable” or “stylish” attached to their name. They do this because they dress for themselves and not for others. Fashion is a form of expression and, in this case, fashionistas make fashion their creative outlet. Always dress for yourself because that’s where you’ll find the confidence you need to rock what you’re wearing.
5. Set Aside Trends
Not all fashion trends are cool anyway. A smart fashionable person knows that trends come and go, while individual style lasts. Of course, there’s no harm in getting a trendy item or two as long as you deem it practical and wearable. Otherwise, it will just collect dust in your closet.
6. Sunday is BFF Fashion Day
Highly fashionable people make social sessions a fashion day. What’s cooler than sipping coffee with your best gals, grabbing brunch and recapping everything that took place during the week — all done while wearing your favorite vintage printed tee and distressed boyfriend jeans? It’s empowering and plain fun.
7. Fashion Hacks
The most stylish people know every fashion hack there is to know. They basically invented them! For instance, the half-tuck is a great way to finish off a simple shirt and pants look. As some would point out, less is more.
8. Work the Heels
Any stylish woman knows how to pull off a killer pair of heels. Kitten? Platform? Doesn’t matter as long as you’re ready to kill it on the streets with them and the right outfit.
9. Take Risks
The highly fashionable are always trying something new. They’re not afraid to take risks, mix and match patterns and textures, and create unheard of outfits. Who cares if it’s not trendy or something that many people will like? As long as you love it, can own it and work it, then just wear what you want!
10. Make A Statement
Fashionistas know when it’s time to go big and be loud. Don’t be afraid to wear high impact pieces that really make a statement about your style. There’s no need to go bold everyday, but doing it once in a while does wonders for your personal style and confidence.
11. Accessorize
Every fashionista knows that no outfit is complete without an accessory… so choose accordingly.
12. Bring A Fashion Emergency Kit
A stylist emergency kit should be in your purse at all times! Everyone knows that. Your kit should have some safety pins, band-aids, a Tide pen, double-stick tape, and, for real emergencies, a small sewing kit as well.
13. Be Proud
Last, but definitely not least, be proud of your personal style whoever you are and wherever you go. Stick to your fashion roots and don’t change it one bit regardless of what’s trending or haters say. Your personal style is one that you own, rock and love.
Stylish women are always proud of their fashion choices and look.