Thursday, November 20, 2008

Observation as a Wardrobe Planning Tool

When you are first sussing out your own sense of style, it is really important to develop a discerning eye when it comes to the fashions of others. It is from observing others that you will learn the most about what you like and don't like.

-You'll notice how certain types of clothing flatter certain body types more than others.
-You'll see how some color combinations just "work" and others don't.
-You'll see many creative uses of accessories, some which you'll want to emulate and some you...won't.
-And you can watch the slow evolution of silhouette changes in fashion and modify your own wardrobe accordingly.


Even long after you've figured out your style persona and have built your corresponding wardrobe, observing others can give you fresh ideas.


Here's a great tip for observation: go to the clothing stores that sell the type of clothing that fits your style persona. And watch what the shoppers are wearing. This tactic works best in the higher-end clothing stores and boutiques, since the shoppers there are probably not going to be out and about in their ultra-casual grungies. (Although they might -- quelle horreur!) These shoppers are going to be wearing the types of clothes that you yourself would wear. Observe how they've put outfits together, what type of shoes they have on, the accessories they are wearing. It's great fun, and it's really informative.

See you next time...same blog time...same blog channel....

(For more wardrobe planning goodies, you can visit my wardrobe planning website.)

12 comments:

Unknown said...

I know what types of pants best fit my body type. And what styles make me look bulky. But my sense of style is more defined by my wife. She finds quality items at clearance prices that flatter my frame.

Scott A Bell

The Road Warrior

www.scottalexanderbell.com

Anonymous said...

Thee is quite a bit that goes into choosing clothes. I appreciate the education. Thank You

Robert Kaufer said...

Thanks for the post

Learn How to Be A Do It Yourself Lawyer …
Essential Daily Nutrients For Your Health

Cindy Eyanson said...

Great tip!
Cindy

Cindy Eyanson Online

Susan said...

Observing how others look in similar clothes is a good idea. I find it interesting. As Scott mentions, some pants are slimming and some look bulky. Something as simple as where pleats are placed or the angle of a pocket line can make a major difference.
I often find that my clothes look different in a photo than in a mirror ... isn't that odd?
Sue

Lena Milukh said...

Observing others can give a lot of ideas, but still we need to keep in mind, that whatever is looking good on smb doesn't mean the same look on us.
Improving Communication in Business and Personal Life

body language blog

JohnWShoemaker said...

It's funny. Different parts of cities the people dress differently. Some dress up to go the drugstore. Some are always "slobby" Quelle horreur!

But the idea of observing styles is great!

JohnWShoemaker.com
AnxietyInDogs.com

Anonymous said...

I think I know what types of clothes best fit me, but I don't know for sure. There are certain colors that suit me better than others. If the clothes fit well, the shirt and pants (in the case of a guy) match, and the color looks good with the skin of the wearer, is there anything more to putting together a good ensemble?

Darryl Pace

Anonymous said...

Great tip, Jenn. I know that if I'm looking to upgrade my wardrobe, and I'm a little unsure of the most current fashions, I definitely look around at the other shoppers in the nicer stores.

I find it's also helpful to take a look at what ensembles the the employees or designers have put together for display. I remember once, I liked a displayed outfit so much, I told the salesperson to get my one of everything (shirt, pants, belt, etc.) so I could replicate the whole thing. LOL

Craig

John Ho - Melbourne, Australia said...

Once again, clothing marks a man, it does not make a man.

John Ho
Understanding Personalities Through Numbers for Better Influence & Persuasion

Philip Graves said...

This is really excellent advice. There's a lot of psychological research that points to the fact that we are far better at appreciating the personalities of others, than we are at understanding ourselves. I have no doubt that the same is true with clothes.

There is much to be gained from looking at people around is more objectively and through this developing a good sense of ourselves, I'm sure.

Great post.

Philip Graves
http://www.philipgraves.net

Philip Graves said...

This is really excellent advice. There's a lot of psychological research that points to the fact that we are far better at appreciating the personalities of others, than we are at understanding ourselves. I have no doubt that the same is true with clothes.

There is much to be gained from looking at people around is more objectively and through this developing a good sense of ourselves, I'm sure.

Great post.

Philip Graves
http://www.philipgraves.net