When it comes to fashion, there are no right or wrong answers. Everyone’s signature style is different, with their own unique styles. But it’s not always so cut and dry. While some people fit neatly into certain categories of fashion, others can be chameleons. Some of my personal style icons incorporate looks from 2 or more of these signature styles, depending on the situation.
A style that looks fantastic on one individual might not feel right for you, so don’t feel disheartened if you don’t feel comfortable in that strappy halter top or that tight leather catsuit. For some, it takes years to find their look. Perhaps in your school years, you took pains to emulate the popular students or celebrities you saw in magazines. But as you get older you learn to live by your own standards and do what feels right for you. No worrying about what other people think.
If you’re unsure what your own style is, perhaps you fall into one of the six key style categories outlined below. Of course, these are to be taken with a pinch of salt as there is no guarantee you fall perfectly in one or another. There’s a good chance your style has aspects of every single category, or maybe you have your own inimitable look that has never been emulated. To help you define what makes you you, take a look at the following style types and try to spot yourself.
Sporty
You can spot the sporty type a mile off. They will usually be dressed head to toe in activewear, regardless of whether they are working out or not. You’ll see them donning tracksuit bottoms for a trip to the supermarket and persistently carrying a water bottle to stay hydrated. If you’re in this category you are probably no stranger to a vigorous gym session or a casual 10k run on a Saturday morning, but it’s not a necessity. Plenty of people adopt the sporty look just so they can display the Under Armour and Nike labels, and wouldn’t dream of getting a sweat on. If your wardrobe is full to the brim with tank tops, yoga pants, sweatshirts, and a million different pairs of trainers, there are no prizes for guessing which style type you are.
Business
Maybe you are all work and no play, always dressing to impress. There are plenty of high-flying career women who always make an impact in workwear such as pencil skirts, blazers, and khakis. A polished business signature style typically will incorporate business casual looks as well. This look tells people you mean business. You are always prepared to fight your way to the top in all aspects of life.
Bohemian
Are you are more of a free spirit? Do you feel one with the earth and forever in a state of peace and tranquility? The bohemian look borrows from the hippie aesthetic from the 1960s and is still very much en vogue. You’ll often be seen dressed in neutral, earthy colors and flowy, natural fabrics like cotton, silk, denim, and hemp. Bohemians tend to eschew expensive regalia, but may instead adorn themselves with less flashy memorial jewelry and hand-crafted accessories from around the world.
Casual
Life is too short to be uncomfortable. Why squeeze yourself into a tight dress or a pair of impractical shoes? It’s much more pleasant to sprawl in your comfortable armchair with a tracksuit or fluffy pajamas. The casual style icon doesn’t care what people think of her and will be found in a perpetual state of carefree comfort. Think jeans, sweaters, trainers, and oversized hoodies.
Feminine
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to feel feminine, so if you prefer a more classically pretty look, you may fall into this category. You no doubt wear plenty of light pastel colors, floral patterns, bows, and lace. You love getting dolled up and will jump on any excuse to wear a gorgeous summer dress or an attention-grabbing evening number.
Punk
Are you a rule-breaker with a rebellious streak? If so, you fit right into the classic punk aesthetic. Although your hair is probably bright and colorful, your clothes are mostly black and other dark colors. The punk style has been a great look for several decades. Signature pieces like fishnet tights, leather jackets, rock band buttons, and studs have never gone out of fashion.
It should come as no surprise to learn that the six signature style we’ve reviewed here are not the be-all and end-all when it comes to fashion but a lot of people fall quite neatly into these categories. Perhaps you prefer to mix and match. Or even take the best features from each, or maybe you have your own unique style. Whatever your dress sense, it’s OK to be yourself and don’t let anyone tell you any different.