A Youth's Style Discovery

May 17, 2010

I introduced myself to this world of style, and because of that, I now have an extensive imagination when it comes to putting together unique ensembles. Even though I am only seventeen, it is understood that classic style is embraced by many individuals who understand and appreciate the value of taking the time to get dressed. Being a stylish high school student in this day and age is welcomed, but it is a missed opportunity by others who don't take pride in what they wear.

Not long ago, I limited myself to a trendy palette: jeans, T-shirts, and gaudy sneakers. While I introduced myself to style, a friend introduced me to GQ, and then I further got into Esquire along with its Big Black Book editions. Now at this time, I was still clothing myself in streetwear, which made me think to myself, "I'm wasting my money if I just flip through the magazines and not use them as a tool." This is when my style changed—swiftly and drastically. I began to pay close attention to the magazines' expert knowledge and concentrate on style websites (The Sartorialist, Ivy Style, Unabashedly Prep, A Suitable Wardrobe, Street Etiquette, The Impossible Cool, The Brooklyn Circus) that would further inspire me. Discovering this inspiration has kept my style consistent and innovative.

In my opinion, dressing is an art. Classic style is all about timelessness; it is about dressing with purpose, pride and passion. Self-respect is a word that comes to mind when I think of this style. The values classic style represents are endless: self-worth, durability, dignity and history. The wonderful thing about classic style: It doesn't limit your choice to minimal and conservative dressing. There is room to express your creative side.

My style is well-liked by the young and the old. There are a few who have mentioned that I am "too young to fit into that look," but I continue on to dress elegantly and carry myself as so. A few peers have come up to me and expressed their situation: They would love to discover their creative sides, but they are afraid of an opinionated critic. When it comes to getting dressed, I follow my own golden rule: "Never dress to impress, but dress to express." If I could get many of my peers to follow this one simple rule, they would be on the road to comfortable and unique dressing.

My style discovery has changed the way I live; it is more convenient for me. I am able to freely dress the way I want, having a Devil-may-care attitude towards the individuals who decide to criticize my decision to step away from that limited palette. In this day and age, if everyone dressed with classic charm, the world would be a much more beautiful place.

8 comments:

Fabuliss

I can't believe you're only 17. You're obviously an old soul. I love what you say - never dress to impress, but to express.

Wise man...thanks for sharing!

Virgil

This whole entry is so insightful, and it's similar to what I went through - moving from trendy streetwear to a much more durable style.

Your writing and sense of style are amazing... I think you have a bright future ahead.

Necrotike

I came across your site a couple months ago as I was browsing sites on Baudelaire and I must say, I truly admire you for your eloquence and confidence in how you carry yourself (on the www since I obviously have never met you in person!)

You have a great blog and I'm looking forward to reading more.

All the best.

Thomas

Very nice article!

"never dress to impress, but to express."
I will remember that rule
Could be your motto

Tom

Sir,
As another young person I admire your style, wisdom and eloquence. It is good to know there are other people who hold the same values, dress in the same manner and explore the same topics as I do! Keep up the great work!

Sharp Skills

I found myself in the same boat as you. The only difference being that I'm now 22. I started changing my style a few years ago since the street wear became less and less appealing to me. Nicely done.

Marcus

Your insight and poetic writing style are exceptional. Keep it up. You are an inspiration!

Robert I. Bown

Marcus: I truly appreciate this statement...serious motivation. I thank you.

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