Style Inspiration Through the Generations
Yes we all know about the come back of flares, high waists, and tie dye… this is not about that.
This is about style. Unlike trends that come and go, style has everything to do with comfortability, body type, self-expression, and yes, fashion. And while many of the fashion choices of our mothers and grandmothers may stay frozen in time along with whatever used to be cute about Baby It’s Cold Outside, there are certainly tips and tricks that have proven tried and true over the years. And I, for one, have begun to pay closer attention to their stylistic leanings that have stood the test of time.
Here are three style inspirations I learned from my matriarchs.
Make a statement with monochrome
Whether it’s her salmon jeans and pink sweater or her “avocado” pants and snakeskin blouse, my grandma knows how to rock a monochromatic look. This is an amazing style hack because it removes the guess-work out of the morning routine. A monochrome outfit is effortlessly stylish and presents itself as planned. As a low-maintenance gal, I am all for an easier morning routine. And while I have long-favored an all black ensemble, my grandma opts for bold colors, inspiring me to take the monochrome hack to the next level.
My thing is coordinated. The colors need to be coordinated. And of course, the other thing is to pick what looks good on you. Even if its not necessarily the fad of the day.
Dessa (my grandmother)
2. Have fun with accessories
Hats, belts, bangles, oh my! My mom knows how to have fun with accessories. I am a one thing at a time accessorizer (usually earrings), but my mom never holds back from piling anything on that strikes her fancy. She is a fun-loving person and her bedazzled style is just one way she invites those around her to join in the fun. I am not quite there yet myself (something about wearing multiple types of jewelry makes me feel self-conscious), but my mom’s bold and confident habit of accessorizing as she pleases (and looking fabulous while doing so) gives me the courage to push myself a little in the accessories department.
To me, it’s head to toe. Some people look to one thing to be a statement in their outfit, the shoes or the bag, but I believe in going 100%. Even when I go to the gym, my cap will match my running shoes and my jacket. Athletic wear is the top selling clothing type, so why not make it intentional. Take your look all the way no matter where you are going or what you’re doing - from head to toe!
Tasha (my mother)
3. Never underestimate the power of layers
On this one we are all in agreement, a well planned layer can be a fashion statement and the key to a good experience. Climate is unpredictable no matter where you live. We have all experienced an occasion where a simple cardigan came in clutch and saved the day. But as crucial as the outer layer can be, it can often become an after thought. But for us, the outer layer should be a part of the equation from the start. A flowy wrap in the summer or a bold jacket in fall can elevate something simple to something statement.
Who says that just because you’re in a hot climate or a cold climate that you cannot be fashionable? The outer layer can be the crescendo of an ensemble. They say it’s all about first impressions, and often the outer layer is what folks see first. You have to ask yourself, what are you trying to convey?
Tasha
There are of course many ways these two beautiful women inspire me. From the inside out, I hope to capture a bit of their beauty and charisma in my wardrobe and in my life. What style inspiration have you picked up from your matriarchs? If you haven’t already, ask your mom or grandma what style tips they swear by; you might be pleasantly surprised by what you learn. As for me? I’ll be working up my courage to rock all the bling.
