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Is there even a difference? “They’re both the same!”
No, they’re not. Even though both terms are used synonymously in everyday life, there are fundamental differences between the meaning of style and fashion. The latter term is derived from the Old French noun “façon” which means appearance, design or manner and is itself derived from the Latin “factionem” which means making, doing or preparing. Thus, fashion is by definition a way of making things. If you now look up the Cambridge Dictionary to find out what style means, you will find a very similar explanation: “a way of doing something, especially one that is typical of a person, group of people, place, or period”.
So, both terms imply that something is actively being done. From this perspective, it’s understandable when fashion designers and stylists argue with linguists who insist that fashion and style are the same thing. Etymologically the terms might come from similar origins, but do you automatically have style when you dress fashionably? Most would agree it’s not so simple.
What is fashion?
Fashion is dynamic in its essence. If something is fashionable, it’s usually for a short time, as a matter of principle. If a fashion trend has spread to the masses and been adapted by too many people, it’s over. Clothing that’s new – that is, modern – is usually considered fashionable. Initially, only the pioneers of the fashion scene support the new look. But as soon as a fashion trend is really noticed, spread by the media and emulated by the mainstream, the fashion pioneers have already rejected it and are already searching for the next look. Once a trend has been set, it doesn’t take long for the next one to follow. This cat-and-mouse game is not a new phenomenon. In previous centuries, the well-off bourgeoisie tried to always wear the most fashion-forward clothes, while the lower classes struggled to adopt the look in order to rise in social perception.
Hundreds of years later, we live in a world that is moving at a completely different pace. The traditional seasonality for fashion is ancient history when today groups like Zara bring 24 collections a year into the shops. H&M prides itself on having on average a new garment in its range every day. This fast pace of life demands that anyone who wants to be fashionable should have many resources. Indeed, it costs you time and energy to always be up to date. And speaking of “Costs” – it’s crazy expensive! Those who want to follow every trend need a lot of cash to finance the steady growth of the wardrobe. Especially the newest pieces, which initiate/lead a new fashion trend, can often only be afforded by very few people. If you have an affinity for fashion and only a small budget, there is usually nothing left to do but wait until the cheaper labels imitate the hype with look-alike products. Then it’s your turn! But does that alone make you look stylish?
And what is style anyway?
You’re style! Because style is only what you make it. Style has nothing to do with trends, window displays or money, but solely with yourself. Good style is inseparably linked to you and your identity. When you know who you are, you only have to listen to your inner voice to know what suits you. It’s all about your feeling for your own preferences and having the courage to realize them confidently – even if you sometimes swim against the current. That makes you stand out from “fashion victims”. As the American stylist Rachel Zoe once said:
“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.”
Not having your own style is like not having your own handwriting! Constantly adapting fashion trends and copying looks kills any individuality.
Of course, there is nothing wrong with little inspirations here and there. Everyone gets inspired in some way (whether consciously or unconsciously). It’s all about developing your own style and expressing yourself. For example, if you like to wear hats, then wear hats! Make it your trademark. And have the courage to experiment and wear your hat not only with black boots but also with white sneakers. You can also integrate current hat trends into your style, because trying out the latest fashions is not a bad thing in principle. But anyone who suddenly wears a hat just because the singer Usher attracted attention with his hat at a music event is simply a copycat.
Vision of the Other You
Brand logos are a good way to convey a certain type of style. This does not mean, however, that the whole look has to be recognisable as a certain brand every time. And whoever wears the same thing every time starts to appear boring. Of course, nobody is forced to follow the motto “dress to impress”. But if you want to make an impression, you should experiment and reinvent yourself from time to time. Most people do this during the first days of work in a new company, dates with a new crush or perhaps a family dinner where relatives you haven’t seen for a long time come together.
Our perception of each other is not only influenced by our clothes, but also by accessories. For example, an expensive watch flashing out from under a shirt can be interpreted as a symbol of financial prosperity. In order not to leave our external perception to chance, a smart choice of glasses is also recommended. Since this accessory sits in the middle of the face, it’s difficult to overlook. That’s why it would be better if your sunglasses at the company’s summer party didn’t look like you were about to snorkel in a bucket of sangria with a bare torso. Conversely, you don’t want to look like the plain jane with thick geek glasses at a party with a new circle of friends.
A good way to always have the right pair of prescription glasses, sunglasses or both combined is the double pack from VOOY. This new brand offers prescription glasses and sunglasses in 2-piece packs where you have endless combination possibilities. So take a look in our assortment and equip yourself with the eyewear models that fit your style and represent you correctly in all situations!
