"Haute in the City" Personal Style
“Fashion fades, style is eternal,” has to be one of my favorite fashion quotes of all time. The infamous phrase coined by Yves St. Laurent effortlessly answers the most sought-after fashion dilemma. Let’s face it; we can’t all have an award winning stylist to ensure that our every public appearance is flawless. However, finding your own personal style will ensure that no matter how evolving fashion progresses, you’ll be ready for your close-up.
How do you discover your style? Never fear, your fashion guru is here! Grab a pen and your cutest day planner and prepare for a bit of fashion 101. Chic, sophisticated or even bohemian influences: the choices for personal styles are endless and can be a bit overwhelming.
Style icons are a great start on your journey to developing your style. We often gravitate towards a combination of various fashion influences. It goes without saying that I lean towards the more classic and sophisticated looks that Olivia Pope was known to rock, but a dose of J. Lo adds some needed sauce to any wardrobe. Eventually, you too will notice a pattern in what appeals to you or your style menagerie.
You’ve got to start somewhere! I’ve narrowed down three categories to incorporate into your personal style that are sure to steer you in the right direction when discovering and creating the most stylish and unforgettable you.
The Classic Staple
No wardrobe is complete without the essential foundations that will compliment all the amazing pieces that you unearth as you embark upon your fashion journey. A great-fitting blazer should definitely be on the top of your fashion list. Whether at the office or a casual outing, a blazer can breathe life into your favorite jeans or compliment the perfect dress.
The Perfect Trend
Trends can be tricky. Depending upon the style category that you settle into and decide to call your fashion zone, choosing seasonal trendy pieces can seriously throw off your signature style game.
I tend to go with my gut on trends and only select what I feel truly represents the best version of my style. For example, if the bold color and pattern trends don’t compliment your style, here’s a great opportunity to subtlety introduce the trend into your look via handbags, shoes and accessories.
Signature Style
Take note of what you’re wearing when you receive the most compliments. Which of your current looks make you feel most confident? Play off of those power pieces when defining your style.
Accentuating your positives with a well-defined fashion plan will keep you looking stylish regardless of the revolving fashion trends. Personal style is just that — personal — so yes, add a touch of you! Jackie O. was known for her oversized sunglasses. Statement pieces that are unique to you are a great way to define your style identity.
Practice makes perfect. Finding your personal style isn’t as hard as you think. Chances are you’re probably one pump closer to your signature sense of eternal style than you think.
Photographer: Jimmy Smith
Wardrobe and shoes from B.Barnett
Handbags from Esse Purse Museum
Model: Madelyn Sparks
Shot on location at Treehouse, home of Keith and Kim Moore
Image Shot on Location at the Little Rock Club by Jodie Kelly
Linda Rowe Thomas is an an award-winning fashion designer, author, philanthropist and motivational speaker. Thomas is the founder and creative director of Romás by Linda Rowe Thomas, in downtown Little Rock, the only only designer showroom and production house in the state of Arkansas.
Thomas' fashion career consists of more than 20 years in buying, marketing, management and design. To date, her celebrity clientele has included actresses, Grammy award-winning singers and professional athletes. Her highly sought-after couture label has graced the runways of the Golden Globes, ESPYs, BET and more. Thomas continues to showcase her brand at some of the most prestigious fashion shows in the world, including Mercedes Benz Fashion.
