22 Mar Designing & building a style of your own.

Have you ever considered how getting dressed could be viewed as a form of art or design?
My styling studio is shared with my husband’s construction company. This morning, I was sitting at my desk and pondering how styling and putting together looks can be compared to well-thought-out building designs.

That’s My Style empowers women to develop and express a personal style that truly reflects who they are. When you create your style, you own it; that sense of ownership is noticeable to others. Confidence is critical in all aspects of life, including the clothes you wear.

I recently worked with a young professional woman who had no casual clothing options in her wardrobe. She only had structured, form-fitting dresses. After a three-hour personal shopping session, we revamped her entire look from the ground up, starting with core items that are her building blocks.

First, consider the core basics that you own — the key pieces that are essential for creating different outfits. Examples of basics include quality tees, jeans, soft tops, and footwear. The specific key items you need will depend on your lifestyle and your body shape. You need the right items to support your casual, work and social life. I often ask clients what they find the hardest to dress for, which usually identifies a gap in their core wardrobe.

After establishing your core basics or building blocks, it’s about the design principles and overall structure. The cut and lines of a garment will influence where the eye is drawn and can create the illusion of different body proportions. Vertical lines are particularly effective in creating the impression of added height. Strategic panelled seams in a dress can help minimize the waist or create curves for those with athletic body types.

To achieve an effortless everyday look, focus on creating both structure and flow in your outfit. Flow is characterized by curves and soft lines, creating a feminine silhouette. This can be achieved with floral or curved-lined patterns, soft, flowing fabrics like silk and chiffon, and frills and ruffles. You can also use soft layers or scarves to create flowing lines, which can help conceal areas you may feel self-conscious about.

Structure is about hard lines, strong seams, detailing and contrast. Strong elements like stripes, jagged prints or metal hardware. It has a more masculine feel. Structure can be used well in corporate environments to look and feel more knowledgeable and influential.

When styling women, I often focus on combining both elements of structure and flow into their everyday outfits. The two together create an effortless and adaptable look. Picture a pair of structured jeans and a loafer shoe worn back with a soft top with flowing sleeves and then hair pulled back sharply. All elements working together.

Consider the rule of thirds for balance and harmony when putting together an outfit. Cutting your body in half with your clothing choices can make your appearance seem frumpy, flat, and even create the illusion of a more masculine shape. Shifting the main focal point higher on your body, you can enhance your shape and create a more feminine silhouette, resulting in a visually interesting composition. For example, think of pairing high-waisted pants with a tucked-in tee or blouse, automatically lengthening the legs.

Every good design should have a focal point that draws people in and leaves a lasting impression. This focal point could be an oversized accessory, bold shoes, or interesting prints or textures. It serves as the talking point and what people will remember you for. It’s the part of your outfit that speaks volumes about your confidence and personality.

If you want a sleek and minimal look, consider choosing clean lines and block colors. Choose streamlined silhouettes and sculpted jewellery. Minimal style is timeless, reserved, and modern. It’s well thought out and planned.

Comparing getting dressed to practical design principles can help you explore and play with different elements you may have never considered before. What’s holding you back from building your style?