Style

Fashion is a fickle business. Though, it has to be. If trends didn’t change, would we, or would we be locked in the same look like animated characters? Consider this: who are you dressing for if you follow fashion? It certainly isn’t yourself.

All too often, if you’re on trend, you’re attempting to fit into someone else’s ideal aesthetic. While it might suit you, for now, those threads are on borrowed time from the moment they leave the factory. Flash trends are ever-present, even when it comes to accessorising. Skinny shades are in, but a couple more cycles around the sun, and I’m willing to bet you’ll have broken or binned those.

If fashion is fickle, style is substance. Don’t conflate the two, as there’s a fundamental difference. Style reflects yourself. To be considered stylish, at least in my opinion, your attire must correlate with your identity. An aesthetic says so much about you before you even open your mouth. It helps to make sure you’re on the same page.

Fundamentally, style is timeless, regardless of genre. Skate, punk or suave if your outfit reflects your interests, you’ll wear it better. I can safely say my mum’s partner looks better in a Land Rover t-shirt than any of the check shirts he’s been held hostage inside. Comfort isn’t just about fabrics and fit; it’s a feeling, a complete lack of self-consciousness.

What’s to say my stepdad isn’t stylish? In my mind, style has no parameters. Despite what you may imagine, it’s conceptual. Fashion is flawed because it assumes only a handful of looks would suit us all this summer. Meanwhile, style couldn’t care less. Just wear what makes you smile.