Style: defined as, “a manner of doing something” or a “distinctive appearance” according to Google. One simple word, but one not-so-simple meaning. Style has nothing to do with copying trends or dressing to fit in. Style and fashion have everything to do with expression. My name is Jen Petrova. I’m a sophomore at Claremont McKenna College, and I define style as an individual’s artistic expression of their personality, a story of their life and a wearable form of confidence that makes them feel flawless.
And my style? My style has no distinctive appearance; it is a mixture of everything and anything that catches my eye, dresses me for the occasion and makes me feel like I run the world. Whether it is wearing monochromatic pieces, mixing and matching patterns and colors, using basics, throwing on a staple piece (i.e. chelsea booties) or adding a unique piece to any outfit (i.e red purse and a handmade dainty bracelet), my outfit choices are based on what I’m feeling at that exact moment of time.
Now for some style suggestions from this style guru. Don’t feel pressured to always follow fashion. BE fashion. How limiting and unoriginal is it to only follow the latest trends? Don’t get me wrong, I love experimenting with trends, but it is important to remember that the “in” trend isn’t the end all be all. There is no end all be all when it comes to all things fashion and beauty related; this is all just a form of artistic self expression. While some people may think it is important to physically and visually fit in, I think it is important to be yourself (as cliche as that sounds). Yves Saint Laurent said it best, “fashions fade, style is eternal.” Nobody is going to remember what the trend of the season is in a couple of years, but everyone will always remember what you stood for, who you are and what you represent based on your own unique style and appearance.
My name is Jen Petrova and to me, fashion is a way of life. A life full of the ability to express yourself in a manner that gives room for interpretation and appreciation.
