How do you show your artistic expression when you get dressed?

Good question, right?

Just the other day, I made an impromptu trip to the local art museum (which is free on Sundays thanks to PNC Bank), and there, this question was posted in a new fashion-focused exhibit entitled, “Bodies@Work: The Art of Ruben and Isabel Toledo.”

I hadn’t even perused the creative artistic display yet but I felt compelled to answer the question. So on the crisp white sticky note provided by the staff, I wrote,

With cool hair and pieces of my culture

Then I firmly placed my response on the already crowded white board.

Yes, that was my everyday art – that was how I injected my self-expression into how I dressed. And it was a great reminder that style is personal – it always will be.

But why?

Style Is Your Voice

To me, clothing is a form of self-expression – there are hints about who you are in what you wear.

-Marc Jacobs

And I completely agree.

Whether you realize it or not, your personality, cultural heritage and outlook on life are HUGE contributing factors to your style. They are the threads that make up who you are and they cannot be completely alienated from what you wear.

For example, let’s take a look at Janelle Monae.  Her style is so much more than a monochromatic black and white uniform. It’s an ode to her parents, who were a part of the services industry, as well as a testament to her defiance of the norm. Not to mention her boldness and courage for standing up for what is right.

In her own words, Janelle Monae says that “[her] wardrobe is walking art with a message.” An inspirational example of how we as women can slay from within.

Bringing Back Overalls

With that being said, here’s a full breakdown of how I’ve adapted this style perspective in my outfits.

(1) First and foremost, I’m a 90s baby, which is the basis of my obsession with leather, chokers and overalls. I always have at least one of each in my wardrobe.

(2) I am Caribbean, which you may have already known if you’ve been reading for a while lol. But anyway, part of what that means is that I have no problem embracing bright colors and prints, like my latest purple hairstyle and bright floral print blouse in the photo below.

(3) I’m an INFJ, which is just a fancy Myers-Briggs personality test result that confirms I’m a creative gal who loves a plan but at times, I’m very capable of spontaneity. So if you analyze this overalls outfit again, you’ll see that I have two pops of black to tie the look together. Yet I also tie my scarf in an unconventional way plus introduce a new color to the palette with my two-toned heels.

3 Simple Ways To Add Fun To Your Outfit

Such a uniquely fun outfit, don’t you think?

Here are 3 simple ways you can do the same!

#1 – Reference a fashion period.

Maybe it’s the year you were born or maybe you’re obsessed with the 60’s? Forget about the trends and purchase pieces from a particular year or fashion period that truly resonates with you.

Don’t know where to start? Click here to view an infographic that provides a snapshot of 100 years of women’s fashion.

#2 – Pull from your culture.

Were you raised in an African household? Are you an immigrant from South America or the Caribbean? Don’t be afraid to let your culture be a part of how you dress! Find accessories and hairstyles that are indigenous to where you’re from.

#3 – Stay true to your personal DNA.

Don’t wear something just because Rihanna, Kim K  or Beyoncé does. Trust me, I respect their style choices, especially RiRi (proud #RihannaNavy here) but I also value my beauty and I want to make sure it’s me shining through whatever I wear. What would it feel like for you to have that type of freedom? Don’t take my word for it! Take a personality test like this, and infuse your wardrobe with it.

Thank you so much for reading!

P.S. Since I’m a curious soul, would you mind letting me know in the comments where you’re from and the results of your personality test? If you do, I’ll give you some personalized style ideas!