Self-Discovery
Origins
Taking my time has been hard, and I'm learning that keeping up with fashion is actually quite challenging. Not only are there so many shows, but there's also so much fashion news flashing by. As someone whose only way to engage with the fashion industry is through mainstream media, most of what I end up seeing is influencers on TikTok, the curated circle of Vogue editors I follow on Instagram, emulated styles seen on Pinterest, and the alluring runway photos. However, seeing the endless stream of style trends made me wonder what I could meaningfully contribute when trends are one of the main focuses and drivers of fashion.
My answer? I chose to write about my journey to understanding the many references that have helped and continue to help me develop my personal style. Despite being swayed by trends that didn't fit my personal style, which resulted in wasted money and self-reflection, they play a huge role in fashion and have the ability to shift people's perception of you.
With that in mind, I aim to remove myself from all the noise in order to express feeling through what I choose to put on. To do so, I wanted to write about my style in a way that encompasses some of the references that inspire me and my values.
Yet this task felt impossible; limiting myself to my own perspective didn't seem justifiable. Still trying to find the balance between inspiration and individuality, I find myself moved by the luxury of being able to express myself through the things I wear. But I needed to see what someone else thought. So, I asked my mom, as I think she would know my style best (other than me) and because I know she'd say all the things I didn't really want to hear. I was reluctant to be put into boxes. Anticipating the generalizations she often makes when I've asked her in the past, I sought more insight to understand how my style is viewed by a trusted source. Saying things like "funky," "corporate," "Parisian chic," although seemingly confining, I saw potential insight into my stylistic journey.
As a child, my style was a product of where I grew up. Wearing Jordans and Rocawear to Polo and Timberlands, my style came from my mother, who was from New York where hip-hop influences from the 2000s were heavy on people's style.
As I got older, I had a natural attraction to wearing specific things to school. I started to dress more preppy as I transitioned to high school, and having a very young professional career in commercial modeling and acting, I found myself getting praise for dressing up. And so, my style DNA developed organically, and experimenting with my style came naturally as it aligned with my lifestyle. As I got older, I began to tailor my wardrobe around the things I was doing and wanted to be doing. I looked at people like Luka Sabbat, Alton Mason, and Alexander Roth as style icons. The way they make such experimental pieces look so undone is a styling skill I aspire to have.
In contemplating the influences shaping my personal style, I'm reminded of the profound impact of culture, connectivity, and openness. These elements not only inspire my choices but also guide me towards my envisioned style evolution. Moreover, with sustainability at the forefront of my concerns, I am committed to making significant changes by avoiding support for fast fashion companies. Embracing these principles not only simplifies my approach to dressing, but also reinforces the fundamental purpose of my writing. This niche realm may hold varying degrees of significance for others. It remains deeply meaningful to me. Exploring the narratives behind designers' creations and the values they embody provides a continuous wellspring of inspiration. Additionally, delving into the diverse references that connect the fashion world with society at large offers a rewarding journey of discovery and connection, underscoring the profound impact of fashion on our collective identity.
-Dazjon