Style vs. Taste: Dressing with Confidence

The fashion world can be a whirlwind of trends, runway shows, and must-have pieces. But beneath the glitz and glam lies a fundamental question: what's the difference between style and taste? Understanding these two concepts can empower you to curate a wardrobe that reflects you, not just fleeting trends.

Taste: The Foundation of Style

Picasso famously declared ‘taste, a dreadful thing! The enemy of creativity’ the idea that one taste is superior to another.  That taste is the killer of creativity and where would we be without creativity?  That said Picasso didn’t have social media to look at.  I wonder what he would make of it?!

Taste is your personal compass in the fashion sea. It's what you're naturally drawn to, the colors, textures, and silhouettes that resonate with you. It can be influenced by a variety of factors, from your upbringing to your cultural background.  It’s slippery and elusive - mostly tribal.  It’s been debated and rationalized for centuries from the ancient greeks to modern day, a signifier of class, education and human evolution.  Think Kate Moss, think Joan Collin’s both deemed as people with taste but very different.  

It is easy to feel confused and overwhelmed.  We are drown to symmetry and a desire to fit in and belong, however there is a tipping point in this which turns to blandness.

 With Farrow & Ball pigeon walls, a garden of white flowers and a Max Mara coat.  Not that I  have anything against any of them.  Look at it this way wouldn’t the world be a boring place if everyone’s taste was the same.  To quote Diana Vreeland  the legendary Vogue editor in chief ‘too much good taste is boring’

• Developing Your Taste: Pay attention to what catches your eye in magazines, stores, or even on people on the street. Experiment! Try on different styles and see how they make you feel.
• Your taste can change embrace it.

Style: Your Signature

Style is how you take your taste and translate it into your everyday wardrobe. It's your unique way of expressing yourself through clothing. Here's where your personality comes in:

• Classic or Edgy? Do you gravitate towards timeless pieces or statement looks?
• Bold or Minimalist? Do you prefer a riot of color or a clean, monochromatic palette?
• Comfort or Chic? How do you balance feeling good with looking put-together?

Style Beyond Trends

Trends are fun, but they shouldn't dictate your style. Here's how to find and fall in love with your unique style:

• Invest in Quality Basics: A capsule wardrobe of well-fitting staples forms the foundation for countless outfits.Think classic white shirt, a perfect pair of jeans, a sharp blazer.
• Accessorize with Intention: Jewelry, scarves, and bags add personality and polish.
• Embrace What Flatters You: It's not about following rigid size standards, but understanding what cuts and silhouettes make you feel confident.
• Avoid Wardrobe Malfunctions

Confidence is Key

Ultimately, style is about owning your look and feeling comfortable in your own skin. Don't be afraid to experiment,break the rules, and have fun with fashion. When you wear clothes that make you feel confident, you'll naturally look and feel beautiful.

Remember:

• Taste is your foundation, style is your personal expression.
• Develop your taste by exploring and experimenting.
• Build your style around quality basics that flatter your body type.
• Trends are fleeting, confidence is forever.

So, flaunt what makes you you, there are no rules if you like it wear it.  

op 7 FAQs About Cultivating Your Signature Style

1. What's the difference between taste and style?

Taste is your inherent preference for certain colors, textures, and silhouettes. It's influenced by background, culture, and personal experiences. Style, on the other hand, is how you express your taste through your clothing choices. It's your unique way of dressing that reflects your personality.

2. Why is it important to understand the difference?

Understanding taste vs. style helps you navigate trends and curate a wardrobe that feels authentically you. Following fleeting trends can leave you with a closet full of clothes you don't love.

3. How can I develop my taste?

• Explore: Flip through magazines, browse online stores, and observe people whose style you admire. Notice what colors and styles consistently draw you in.
• Experiment: Try on different pieces and see how they make you feel. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone!

4. Is it okay for my taste to evolve?

Absolutely! Your taste can change over time as you're exposed to new influences and experiences. Embrace that evolution and let your style reflect your growth.

5. How do I translate my taste into personal style?

Consider your personality. Do you prefer classic elegance, edgy statements, bold colors, or minimalist chic? Think about how you want to feel when you get dressed - comfortable, confident, or empowered?

6. Should I completely ignore trends?

Trends are fun! But don't let them dictate your style. Use them as inspiration, but adapt them to suit your taste and what flatters you.

7. What are the key elements of a stylish wardrobe?

• Quality Basics: Invest in well-fitting staples like a classic white shirt, perfect jeans, and a sharp blazer. These form the foundation for countless outfits.
• Statement Pieces: Add personality with unique jewelry, scarves, or bags.
• Confidence: The most important accessory is confidence! When you feel good in what you wear, it shows.