Silk Night Ruffle Dress

People who know how to dress and look fabulous any time, any occasion know their own style. They understand that fashion is subservient to style. Many words have been written on the subject of style versus fashion. The challenge for those of us who seek to express the difference is comparing the tangible with the intangible. Fashion is obvious but style is ephemeral. There are numerous expressions offered by many people in an attempt to encapsulate the difference between style and fashion. Perhaps the most succinct of these is attributed to Yves St.Laurent; “Fashion fades, style is eternal”.

A person of style leaves an enduring and positive impression. They are surrounded by an aura of confidence and credibility. They are at ease with themselves and they have the gift of putting others at ease. True style lacks pretension and contrivance. The external persona is a genuine reflection of the inner personality. George Clooney and Helen Mirren are wonderful examples of this. Yes, they are fashionable and good looking but they also exude a sense of style that sets them apart from others. They have created a visual image that reflects their own personal identity so that their elegance and glamour appears effortless and comfortable.

Fashion fits in, style stands out.
Perhaps the true difference between style and fashion is maturity and self knowledge. A genuinely stylish person knows how to dress not only because they understand what suits them but also because they like themselves. They are clear in their own mind who they are and what they represent. This self knowledge and self confidence gives them the courage to be noticed and to be different.