Sources of Style Inspiration
NEWSLETTER
4/2/20262 min read
Inspiration gets tied to fashion design so frequently. It feels unrealistic, this idea of every step in the sewing process being “inspired”. Sometimes I’m in the depths of creating a piece and I’m feeling very uninspired. Like any other person in any other job, there are many moments where it’s just a grind.
Style is the same way. We idolize these fashion icons that appear so fresh and creative in their outfits every time we see them. But my god, that’s a lot of work.
How are people who work full time jobs, show up for family and friends, are making sure the cats eat their food, but not each other’s food, are scrambling to put together a workout 4 days a week, and trying to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night supposed to also put together an outfit every day that feels inspired??
We call that an unattainable goal, people.
That said, we all have days where we’d like to feel the inspiration, but how exactly are we supposed to make that witchcraft happen? It’s about as easy as someone spontaneously telling you to be funny.
You need a starting point.
Look to other people. Look at their style, their individual pieces of clothing, their overall “vibe”.
You might think that sounds like the opposite of finding your own individual style. After all, I’m always saying that your style is about matching your outside self with your inside self.
Yes, style is individual, but nothing is original. Every person’s style is an amalgamation of ideas you’ve seen around you. The fact that everything is borrowed is part of what makes fashion relatable and intriguing to us.
So if you’re seeking inspiration, start noticing what's already in front of your eyes. Here’s a list of my go-to sources that provide a kick start when I’m staring aimlessly at my closet.
A TV show or movie that’s set in the future or past.
Watching strangers in a public place.
Deep diving into how a historical garment was worn.
Talking to a friend about their style.
Looking at red carpet outfits.
Observing how a young child chooses their outfit.
Look at outfits from any one of these. See what you're drawn to as a whole, but also what details or specific articles of clothing you vibe with. See what get's you excited, maybe even what makes you feel inspired.
