Define your own style . . . it’s far more important than chasing fashion trends

“Style is very personal. It has nothing to do with fashion. Fashion is over quickly. Style is forever… It’s about something else that comes from within you.” – Ralph Lauren

I am quoting my “go to” designer here as his message, I believe, rings true to a very important (and historical) topic that affects us all. After all, one thing we all have in common from birth to death – we wear clothing! (If you do not, that is a topic for which I am not prepared to write.)

It may seem, dear Readers, that I diverge from my health and fitness focus, but please hear me out. Let’s face it, we want to remain healthy, fit, and well but we also want to look as good as we feel. As there is no shortage of shopping venues, shopping for clothing can seem overwhelming at times. Whether you mostly wear casual, career, uniform garments and everything in between, there are some points to consider when you find your style.

The word “fit” as we are using it here can describe both our physical selves as well as how our clothing looks and feels on our bodies. I find that proper fit is the No. 1 most important aspect of how we present ourselves to the world. Proper fit begins with our undergarments in order for us to look and feel our best. Actually, proper fitting undergarments can help you breathe correctly as well as improving your posture which is important in balance and coordination.

When you find your individual style, which can vary greatly from person to person, your shopping becomes easier, less frequent, and more satisfying when you do not have a closet full of garments you do not wear. (Think of the free time you will have for working out!) It is fun to experiment with fashion during the teen and young adult years but you have probably honed your individual style as you have aged. If not, it is never too late to find your style. Look around your home, your clothing probably mirrors your décor as well. Personal style will lift your spirits and give you the incentive to continue to enjoy your apparel in a fit and healthy body.

Oftentimes the clothing style we adopt hearkens back to our youth and those we studied and watched whose style attracted us to it. For me, the styles of the late ‘30s through early ‘50s – which included my stylish mother who was my first impression – may be true for most of us. As an adult I have mimicked the tailored pants, skirts, and jackets she wore which I consider classic.

My second-grade teacher, Mrs. Lloyd, was a fashion mentor as well. Mrs. Lloyd wore beautiful, tailored suites with “sensible shoes” and I was always eager for the morning bell to ring so that I could see the “outfit of the day!” As a movie buff of the 1940s movies, I was mesmerized by the stunning style of Barbara Stanwyck and Joan Crawford. You can never go wrong with neutral colors and a tailored fit!

And, truly, it is possible to find your style in many different shopping opportunities – this does not need to break the bank and there is availability to fit every budget. From online shopping, discount big box stores, to boutique and thrift shopping there are practical and cost-effective ways to style yourself and feel confident in this healthy body you have worked hard to achieve! As Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel reminded us, “fashion fades; only style remains the same.”

Sharon McMahon, CNWC

The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.