How-to with Hope: Signature Style
The other day, a friend of mine asked me which eyeliner I use for my everyday cat eye. As I was telling her that Almay’s black liquid eyeliner has has been my go to for years, I realized just how long I have been doing winged liner-- practically on a daily basis. Two years ago, when I spontaneously gave myself bangs, I decided that with the the new do I might as well commit to a new look! Thus my bangs and cat eye signature style was born.
A signature style (s.s.) is, essentially, the style that one commits to as their everyday look. It includes the identifiers of their appearance that are signature to them. A signature style includes a distinctive feature or compilation of features that make up a look that is unique to the wearer and no one else.
From Cara Delevingne’s trouser suits to Anna Wintour's blunt bob with bangs, the signature styles of our favorite fashion icons are more tangible that we think. Here are five ways you can create your own signature style:
Five Ways to Create Your Signature Style
1. Hairstyle
Easily the most notable marker of a s.s., the hairstyle is a firm way to establish a long term, identifiable look. While chopping off your hair or going platinum blonde is daring, a more simple way to pull off this signature look is with texture or bangs.
Texture: If you have naturally curly hair (or don’t), embrace the texture! From tight ringlets, to loose waves, to pin straight hair, your hair’s natural texture can be used as a marker of your s.s. Uplay your curls with a curl defining spray, or welcome your straight style with a creative trim to enhance your face shape.
Bangs: My favorite examples of bangs as a s.s. are from two of my favorite bloggers and YouTubers: Megan Ellaby and Jenny Cipoletti from Margo and Me. Both of these beautiful babes make the most of their fringe as integral parts of their styles.
2. Makeup
If you’re not ready to make the leap for a signature hairstyle, a staple makeup routine is a must try. Personally, my favorite way to do this is with lipstick or eye makeup.
Lipstick: That perfect red, coral or nude lipstick can elevate your everyday look. If you don’t already have that spot on shade, try Nar’s “Dragon Girl”, used by T-Swift herself, or one of NYX matte cream lipsticks. That, or take a note from Lorde and wear a dark plum or black lip.
Eyes: Part of my s.s., black or brown winged liner is an easy way to add some consistency to your appearance. While Amy Winehouse iconicized the look, Adele and Lana Del Rey revitalized it.
3. Nails
If your like me, picking out a nail color that looks good with your skin tone and goes well with your style is hard. I can’t tell you how many neutral blues I’ve tried and while I love the statement of a dark color, like Essie’s Wicked, it doesn’t feel as appropriate for my spring and summer wardrobe.
A s.s. nail color can act as an anchor accessory for your look. Just find that color that you gel with (get it...gel with) and go for it! Plus, it isn’t all exclusive as you can switch up between shades, say from emerald green to jade.
4. Wardrobe
Is there an item in your wardrobe that you gravitate towards more than others? Do you find yourself wanting to buy every pair of suede ankle boots you come across, or can’t seem to get enough of straight leg jeans? While I don’t suggest breaking your bank account to support this s.s., I do encourage embracing your favorite cuts and styles!
Finding your style niche is a soul search to discover what you feel most like yourself in. Then, grow your collection of the item/items to include several variations that you can execute consistently throughout your wardrobe.
These items don’t have to be basics either! A collection of statement coats or patterned trousers can both be markers of a signature style, especially when consistently paired with graphic tees or pointed toe flats. The s.s. is not limited!
The best example of someone who has nailed their signature style is blogger and vintage curator Nicole Alyse. From her classic mini dresses and fishnet tights combo, to her beanie and converse skater look, Alyse’s style is her trademark.
5. Accessories
Glasses, barrettes, hats, earrings, scarfs….you name it! While most people think of accessories as the most interchangeable items of one’s style, they can actually be simple, but effective identifiers of the signature style.
If you need corrective vision, skip the contacts and invest in a few pairs of glasses to switch between. Scarfs can be used both as hair accessories, or tied around your belt loops or bag straps for a fun pop of color and pattern. If you love gold jewelry, designate a handful of rings or bracelets to be part of your everyday look. The possibilities are endless.
If you think that having a signature style is limiting, think again! There are countless ways to add some key identifiers to your look, and they are far from boring. Getting tired of your signature style? What better way to shock the heck out of your friends and family than to switch it up! Owning a signature style is personal and unique to you, and should feel like more of an expression of your personality than a boring routine.