Fashion and fads may be the drivers of many wardrobes and dressing styles, but today’s world provides a lot of space for individuality – that particular expression of your personality that translates as your own style. The way you wear your clothes, your accessories and personal effects, your speech mannerisms – all are elements of a style of your own. For most of us, this is nothing but a modification of present fashionable standards to suit ourselves. But for some, it is a completely unique presentation of their assets and attributes.

However, you don’t have to become a glaringly ‘different’ rebel in order to have a personal style that is distinct, yet pleasing and acceptable to most people. In fact, personal style can be a combination of some perfectly ordinary things that all add up to something special only because of your ability to carry them off.

So what makes for a personal style?

• Perfume is definitely a signature trait for some people. Choose one that doesn’t give you (or anyone else!) a headache, and seems to feel appropriate for most occasions. Once you have such a blend, don’t hesitate to splash on a bit every now and then. Scents are very evocative, and conjure up the image of a person with a mere whiff.
• Accessories are a vital ingredient. This doesn’t mean stocking up on all the trendiest recommended accompaniments to your wardrobe. It often means carrying a few treasured things that become associated with you for every one you meet – a special pair of glasses, an unusual bunch of keys, a particularly attractive bag – your personal style in this regard can fly in the face of fashion and still look good. However, do retire these cherished pieces eventually!
• Colours speak for your personality in a way few other things can. Early on, you may have discovered whether cool blues and greens suit your skin tone and shape, or deep reds and maroons. Use colours to enhance your appeal, don’t settle for dramatic black every time just because it is a fashion classic. Also, sometimes your favourite colour may not look so good in the mirror. So if you find you don’t look great in mauve, yet love the colour, indulge your fancy for it in some other way – mauve coloured pen and ink, sheets, plates – anything but too much mauve in your wardrobe.
• Footwear is an essential style element. Often, people pay a lot of attention to getting the right clothes but either have ancient, out-of-sorts shoes and slippers that spoil the look, or buy such trendy and stylishly uncomfortable footwear that they kill themselves with every step! Go for the golden mean everytime you are buying footwear – buy for both comfort and style. OK, so square toed shoes were in fashion. But do you personally care for them? This is where you can assert your individual preference.
• Manners complete your personal style. How do you come across to the people you meet? Warm, genuine and poised, or stiff, reserved and anxious. How we greet others, the space we give them to express their opinions and share their feelings, the confidence we show in the most routine of transactions – all these things leave a lasting impression on people. Politeness pays, most of all when it seems heartfelt and sincere.

Here’s wishing you make the most memorable impressions with your personal style!

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