What is a signature look?
First of all, it’s worth pointing out that a signature look doesn’t necessarily mean wearing the exact same outfit over and over again. Similarly, a signature look doesn’t have to be bold and expressive, it can be understated and casual, it’s your signature look.
A signature look is personal. It is up to you how you want to define it. Do you want to create a look around a couple of specific items, or have a looser style implementing a few items for variety, or even somewhere in between?
Why create a signature look?
Creating a signature look can help you look into your personal clothing preferences and select items that you love, or just dilute your look. This will help you refine your style and start the journey of creating your signature look.
The Pareto principle (known as the 80/20 rule) states that 80% of effects come from 20% of causes. This also applies to how we dress; on average we wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time. Even if you are more balanced in the way you dress, creating a signature look will help you get that balance right.
Once you have found a look that you love, you can develop your wardrobe around that, creating a versatile pick and mix system, which will help to make those hectic mornings a lot easier!
How to create your own unique signature look for work.
Now to the important bit, how you create your own unique signature look for the workplace. Here’s our top tips:
1. Consider your job.
Before anything else, it is important that you remember the job you have! Are there any restrictions that your workplace has on what you can wear?
2. Be ruthless.
Get rid of anything that’s not “you”. If you haven’t worn something in the last year, what are the chances of you wearing it again?
3. Put your go-to pieces together.
Those really comfy jeans that are go with everything, that top that never needs ironing or those classic red shoes that bring some sass to any outfit. Use these items as the heart of your signature look, by adding pieces that you can mix and match. Just remember, don’t force a look if it’s not you.
4. Be comfortable!
It should go without saying, but it’s easy to get carried away with items that look cute, but after 3 hours at work are far from cute!
5. Consider multiple use items.
For example, a dress could be worn as a skirt by introducing a jumper over the top, or in a tabard style with a shirt underneath.
6. Capture the good times.
When you find that outfit which is “on point”, capture it. Take a cheeky selfie, or jot it down somewhere. You’ll regret it next week if you can’t remember which items you put together!
7. Stay true to your look.
Once you’ve discovered your unique signature work wear look, be sure to stick to it. Try not to impulse buy clothing without considering how it fits in. Impulse buying items that don’t compliment your look will leave you with unloved garments that are never worn.
8. Stock up on those items you love.
Don’t be afraid of buying more than one of the same item, if you love it, grab it whilst you can! Is it available in more than one colour? Try out different colours for different seasons whilst maintaining your signature look.
What will be in your signature work wear look?
