Personal Style Key to Fashion Success

By Karen Lawson
Fashion Design School Review Columnist

What makes a successful fashion ensemble on the red carpet, or at your next soiree? Although you won’t have to run the gauntlet of the paparazzi and fashion gurus, you want to look your best. Factors like your personality, lifestyle, body type, and complexion contribute to your unique fashion style.

Fashion critics may not know you exist, but you want to do your best to avoid fashion disasters. If you’ve ever found a dress that you thought was perfect, tried it on, and it looked awful, you’re not alone. How do fashion designers and stylists achieve just the right look for their clients? A combination of professional training, design experience, and knowing their clients’ preferences can help provide the design talent and inspiration needed to put together winning fashion ensembles.

Be Your Own Fashion Expert

Choosing an outfit for a special occasion can depend on the type of occasion, who will attend, and your role (host, guest, or honoree). You’ll also want to think about more than current fashion trends before selecting your outfit. Consider colors that flatter your skin and hair, and styles that accentuate your best features. Fabric pattern and texture influence a garment’s ornamentation. as too much visual interest can create a clashing effect. Your jewelry and accessories should compliment your outfit to enhance your look. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you can consult fashion savvy family and friends for advice.

From Fashionista to Fashion Professions

If you enjoy putting together outfits and helping others with their fashion dilemmas, a career in fashion design, illustration, or marketing may appeal to you. Fashion design school includes courses in drawing, design, color, and form. You’ll learn about textiles, garment design and construction, and fashion marketing. A fashion design degree can lead to many opportunities from fashion design to retail opportunities. You may combine both by designing fashion for your own boutique or online business.

About the Author

Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include topics in post secondary education and the arts. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Posted on June 25, 2007 at 01:51 PM