It’s normal to confuse style with fashion, although they are related, they are two different things in this and other contexts.
Style, this is a word we use a lot to refer to a huge variety of things, within fashion, music, art, architecture and many others. But defining exactly what it is, and conceptualizing this word is a somewhat complex task, as it can be many things and have a subjective meaning for each person.
When talking about style in the world of fashion, it is common to try to attribute it to following trends, wearing clothes considered stylish and expensive. Is it really that? If you stop to think about it in depth, you will most likely come to the conclusion that style is an expression of your own personality through clothing, rather than anything else. Although this can often be related to fashion trends.
The explanation for why it is so difficult to conceptualize what style is is that it is a subjective idea. However, despite being something personal, within this fashion universe it is possible to find some parameters that determine what is and is not stylish, in addition to the clothing styles themselves.
Therefore, in this article you will better understand the concept and definition and the difference between style and fashion, in addition to the definition of the main styles used in fashion.
Style definition
Before talking more about style within fashion, it is important to know the definition of this word. To begin with, it has its origins in the Latin term styles, which is derived from the Greek language. This word can be used in different contexts, to refer to the design, shape or appearance of a thing.
In the field of art, this word can be used to define an artistic movement, such as the baroque style, for example. In this way, the characteristics of a work or author are used to unify or distinguish other works and authors. The same happens in architecture and decoration, when you have, for example, a French-style building that has the same pattern of characteristics within French architecture.
In music, style is a specific character that the musician attributes to his work. Then, when this character is generalized in other works by other artists, the style becomes a musical genre. And more than that, it can also refer to a set of characteristics that references a cultural manifestation, such as the hippie style, for example.
In the world of fashion, style is seen as a dominant form of expression in a given time and place. Therefore, its concept is so linked to trends. For example, an individual who dresses in clothes that are trending in current fashion is considered stylish.
But that’s exactly what causes so much controversy about what style is and what it isn’t. Because if that’s all it is, what is called a trend would make everyone dress exactly the same as each other. On the other hand, style is defined as individuality and exclusivity when expressing yourself through the way you dress.
Difference between fashion and style
And it is precisely at this point that the difference between style and fashion comes into play, although many people tend to think they are the same thing. In addition to being two distinct words, their concepts are also different, even though they can often be related.
Moda
Starting with the word fashion, also of Latin origin modus and which means “manner” and “behavior”. In the current concept of fashion, it is more related to the market and supply. Therefore, it is a reference point that is constantly changing. Proof of this is that each season new trends emerge, created to meet the greatest number of consumers.
Therefore, due to the enormous concern about “being fashionable”, people end up becoming hostage to trends and consumerism. And it is precisely at this point that people tend to confuse fashion with style. While fashion in general tends to be versatile and disposable, style is something more stable and says more about the person than about trends.
Therefore, it is possible to define fashion as a reflection of social behavior. Therefore, when saying that someone “is fashionable”, the reference is that they wear clothes that are currently trending, even if these pieces do not exactly match their personality.
Style
For many, style is the way a person shows their authenticity and personality, through their clothes, the way they act, behave, speak and express themselves. So, in this sense, style is nothing more than a person’s identity, displayed in their clothes, accessories, hair style, etc., proving that it is a subjective concept.
Therefore, style is more linked to a person’s power of choice and individual tastes than what is trending on the catwalks. Although these trends can still influence your tastes, your individual style is not just based on this, but rather a reflection of your own personality.
However, this doesn’t mean that style is a static thing that never changes or evolves. Just like the seasons, people also go through changes in their lives, which modify their behavior, taste, goals, references and even age.
So, knowing this, it is understood that a person who adopts a unique style conveys an image of credibility and self-confidence. Therefore, having style does not just mean wearing trendy clothes, but rather wearing pieces that reflect your essence and personality. And sometimes that means wearing trendy clothes, why not?
Types of styles
And finally, discover the main characteristics of some of the most used styles in fashion. Remembering that there is no rule and you can very well have one or several styles or even combine several into one, yours. Check out:
Classic
The classic or traditional style is one that values more conservative and discreet clothing items, almost always in the same color palette. The biggest advantage is that most of the pieces are timeless and can be worn in any season. The highlight is straight cuts and tailoring, cotton, linen and satin fabrics, and more neutral colors, such as white, beige and gray. The pieces that cannot be missing in this style are dress shirts, minimalist blouses, tailored pants and skirts, blazers and suits.
Casual Chic
Casual chic’s main characteristic is versatility. In this style, productions call for key pieces, which can be used on various occasions, such as work and a happy hour with friends after work. Therefore, Casual Chic manages to combine classic pieces, such as a dress shirt and a blazer, with more modern pieces, such as jeans or leather pants. The color palette in turn emphasizes neutral tones that are easier to combine.
Modern
The modern and urban style combines the useful with the pleasant, trendy pieces that reflect the personality of the modern woman. Therefore, the key pieces of this style reflect the avant-garde of fashion, with dress shirts, personalized blouses, jeans and leather. It includes printed pieces, bright colors and different textures.
Basic
The minimalist basic style values functional, assertive and, above all, timeless clothing. Therefore, the basics call for versatile pieces that work well with everything, such as a white shirt, jeans, blazer and of course, a jacket. In other words, pieces that produce several different looks with the same item in common.
Romantic
The romantic style exudes grace and femininity through delicate, floral, printed and pastel-colored pieces. Light, loose and fluid pieces cannot be missing, mostly dresses and skirts. As well as high-waisted pants and shorts, blouses with prominent collars and sleeves and a defined waist. Lace, ribbons and ruffles are the charm of this style.
Sexy
As the name suggests, the sexy style exudes sensuality in pieces that enhance a woman’s body. Short clothes, neckline, prints, pencil skirt and of course, high heels are used to highlight a woman’s self-confidence and glamour. As is the bright and eye-catching color palette.
Anyway, what did you think of this article? By the way, take the opportunity to also check out E-girl, what is it? Origin of the style, Tik Toc and how to adhere to it.
Sources: Conceito El Cabriton Cruzeiro do Sul Principessa Escola de Estilo
Images: Feira Shop Femingos Efe2 Blog Estilozzo Look That Wakes Up, Beautiful School of Style Pinterest The Woman
