Who influences your style of dress? My style is influenced by such superstars as Gwen Stefani, Rihanna, Nicole Richie, and Mary Kate Olsen. I love the combination of eclectic, bohemian, and chic. It is just who I am. However, do I typically invest in L.A.M.B. pieces or Dior? Nope. I am a gal who loves sales and adores 2-for-1 specials.
Fortunately, our day and age is all about affordable imitation. Instead of hitting Bloomingdale’s for Seven jeans, these days I walk into Forever 21 and spend less than 15 bucks for a pair of low-waisted skinny jeans. My loose, summer bikini cover-ups aren’t Juicy Couture; they are Target brands. While I choose to avoid paying $200 for jeans (especially if I can find these jeans on sale at Kohl’s); I will fork over the same amount for a shopping spree. For $200, I can find two pairs of heels, some tanks, jeans, and possibly a new vest to wear over those tanks.
It is important to realize that as much as you crave the exact pieces that, say, Kim Kardashian wears, you must be realistic about your finances, your lifestyle, and just what makes sense. I enjoy having money left over after I hit the mall. This means that I must keep in mind that imitating celebrity fashion, my own superstar icons, can be done for less. It also means taking a trend and making it your own. Lindsay Lohan is commonly shown wearing leggings as pants. Do you have the body shape to do so? If I decide to wear leggings, I prefer to wear them under a dress or skirt for a casual feel.
So instead of imitating, let’s focus on inspiration and being influenced by our Hollywood trendsetters. Fashion shouldn’t just be guided by who wears what; it is a state of mind and should also be guided by your emotions. Do you pick up that yellow sweater because a tabloid showed Blake Lively wearing it on the streets? Or, did you smile and feel the joy of a bright color when unfolding it from a shelf? Be true to yourself and embrace the various influences surrounding us. Just make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. Imitation may be the best form of flattery—just be sure to look like yourself in the process.
