The Rules to Creating International Style

By Brian Maynor

 

We all have our favorite fashion centers, but do you really know the tips and tricks to recreate their styles?

Here’s what you need to know to create looks that reflect your international style:

1.    Swedish Minimalism. It’s easy to think of minimalism as boring, but when you pair back all of the flash and pomp and return to the basics you really see how expressive and adventurous it can be. Dressing with clean lines and a limited palette will inevitably pull your focus to cut, fit and fabric. Plus it’s hard to look like a mess when you’re only wearing classic, tasteful and timeless pieces.

2.    Paris Je Ne Sais Quoi. Parisians are synonymous with fashion, and a leader the world over for their apparently effortless sense of style. However, their sophisticated, elegant nonchalance approach may come across as effortless, but it takes planning and precision. Start with the basics and make sure they are perfectly tailored. Then you can add a bit of personality with a few attention-grabbing pieces.

3.    London Innovation. No other city in the world has the range of iconic innovators like Vivian Westwood and Alexander McQueen balanced with the impeccable tailoring of Savile Row, so it’s no wonder London is a hodgepodge of styles. The key to pulling them together is balance. Mixing a monochromatic palette with bold prints or patterns keeps your look fresh as well as blending tailored pieces with relaxed sportswear. Plus you have the inevitable chance of rain, so layers and functionality are always necessary.

4.    Italian Attention to Details. Italians are known for mixing prints, palettes and textures to create one-of-a-kind looks that you would never think work but somehow do. That’s because they look at outfits as a whole rather than individual pieces. This takes not only practice, but also a very specific mindset. Play around with your separates and break apart your sets and reserve judgment on what ‘goes together’ until you have a complete look. You will be amazed where your creativity can take your style.

5.    Anything Goes in Tokyo. Whether it’s bold prints, oversized silhouettes or unexpected layers Tokyo style is all about pushing boundaries and being uniquely individual. This approach to style is not for those who fear attention, and you will experience some pitfalls just like anyone trying something new, but there’s nothing like the feeling of mastering an esoteric look. Let’s face it, Tokyo is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, so it’s all about standing out and being your own spotlight.

6.    New York Versatility. Here in the South we don’t have the range of seasons that other places do, like New York, but we also don’t have the high cost of living and constant go-go-go pace. When you’re trying to balance the elements with the city that never sleeps and the exorbitant cost of living you can’t afford to be frivolous with your wardrobe. Every piece has to work for multiple occasions and withstand the test of time. It’s definitely a more classic approach to style, but that doesn’t mean your style has to be stagnant. Simply focus on staples that mix easily into work, casual and party looks. Neutral colors and layering tricks are also essential.

It’s interesting to see that while the world is becoming more connected and in a since smaller; fashion continues to retain its local influence that is unique and anything but homogeneous. While a lot of style is still derived from function you can certainly adapt your favorite source of inspiration into looks that work for you, no matter where you live.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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