Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Claudia:

I always say that finding your own style takes a bit of research.  But what do I mean? Well, begin by observing the fashion around you. Start to look around and notice who's wearing stuff you like—from friends, to people on the street or at school, to celebrities.  It's OK to ask people where they got an item you like—they'll love it!  Go to the public library and look at the teen, celebrity, and fashion magazines there to see which of the new styles strikes you.  If you buy a magazine, you can cut pictures out and make a board or a scrapbook of your favorite looks, which is really fun.  And especially, go shopping and try stuff on to see what looks good on you and what doesn't. Be adventurous!  Try the mall, but also try vintage stores and thrift stores, where you can find one-of-a-kind items and bargains.  These are great places to develop a personal style.

One thing that's hard to do is to sort through the concept of “style” and “fashion” before you know what's out there.  Once you investigate, fashion will begin making a little more sense to you. But you will get a sense of what will work on your body, what colors are good on you, and what you like to wear if you just go out there and do your research.

Here's to your future fashionable self!

Sincerely, Fashion Girl