Monday Musings, 26: "The Story of My Style"

Throughout middle school and high school, I was a quiet kid. I wasn't one to seek attention, and nothing really stood out about me except for one thing: my style.

It all started with growing up with my older brother and watching him put together outfits that made people turn their heads. His style was more Hip-Hop and urban. Jerseys, long tees, fitted hats, sneakers, jeans, the whole nine yards. To receive the same type of attention from my classmates and friends, I felt that I had to replicate his style. What followed next was years of wearing his jerseys, jewelry, and fitted hats (the sneakers were too big, unfortunately). Like I imagined, I started to become more noticeable everywhere I went. I was still a quiet kid, but my presence and appearance dramatically changed. I was no longer just a normal kid. I was somebody.

Once I got to college, I was no longer able or interested in wearing my brother's clothes (I went away to college). As I met new people and immersed myself in new experiences and inspirations, my style changed. When I wasn't wearing hoodies, tees, and sweats to go to class, I dressed in some of the most flamboyant clothing I've ever owned. Think colors and screen-printed shirts. I made sure that I was seen wherever I went, especially at college parties.

Fast forward to 2016, and my style has changed once again. This time, I'm more confident in my style than ever before. The flamboyance of my style has been subdued, but it's nevertheless still eye-catching. My style is a mix of preppiness, minimalism, old fashioned, casual, and athleisure. It's built on creativity and timelessness. I dress for myself more than I dress for others. When I dress well, I feel good, and I'm therefore able to transfer those feelings to my work and to the people I communicate with on a daily basis.

Overall, I'm more interested in style than I am in fashion. Fashion is the trend. Style is what you dictate. Fashion is the rules set by the greats and the magazines. Style is your permission to break the rules. The most important thing about style is being confident in whatever you're wearing. You have to own your style. Make it unique to you. Break the rules, wear what you want, and screw what anyone else thinks.