Are You Wearing The Look, Or Is It Wearing You?

Wearing a look is the easy part — owning it is a whole other story! Michelle Bong explains.

Does being fashionable equate having personal style? The answer, despite the loudest of protestations, is no.

Just people-watch a little more intently at Orchard Road, and you’ll see my point. Chances are high there’s an Asian woman trying to pull off several of the season’s hottest trends simultaneously. Your eyes are assaulted by a sight to behold, for all the wrong reasons – a colourful clash of chunky signature necklaces, oversized shades, white boyfriend shirt, printed leggings, casual scarf and Alexander McQueen booties. And you thought the logo-mania devotees were the worst!

Despite the fact that today’s women are more fashion savvy, some still rely on blind faith and glossy pages to pull off what they believe to be the look. Thing is, anyone can be a clotheshorse and layer on all manner of apparel and accessories. The really hard part is to make fashion work for you, whether you’re a 25-year old marketing executive or the 40-year old working mother of three looking to be with-the-times and flaunt an updated wardrobe.

Your fashion ethos need not be complicated: marry trendy and classic looks – preferably one or two at a time. That’s treading the middle ground, which will stop you from trying too hard or be accused of being a bore. For a start, adopt the 2 Old + 1 New = Fashion Hit formula; that could mean pairing a classic white shirt and your trusty Joseph pants with a statement necklace (which will take you from boardroom to bar). Or rustle up a new outfit combo of  your favourite geometric print little black (or not-so-black) dress, ubiquitous cuff bracelet and Alexander McQueen booties.

If still in doubt, surf the web and look to today’s most well-put-together women for a quick lesson on creating style with substance.  Leading the Fashion’s Finest pack are 20something Sienna Miller, 30something Jennifer Aniston and 40-something Demi Moore. Their paparazzi pictures reveal lots of personal style that translates into clever mix and match wardrobe pieces. We especially love Aniston’s casual yet chic looks, involving everything from tank tops and belted cargo pants to flattering dresses, well-cut jackets and everyday staples such as good-fit jeans.

While each season’s fashion trends should be celebrated, it is vital not to go OTT (over-the-top, darling) with them.

Remember, a little subtlety is in order because let’s face it, with fashion, it’s not about how much you know, but how you use the information!

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