Imitation is the behavior of one who observes and replicates another. “Those who do not want to imitate anything, produce nothing.” By all means, the world of fashion has been imitated by someone or something in some way or another. The key to fashion is expressing you. Finding what inspires you can help create a style that fits best with your true self. Even “the originals” of fashion have taken an idea of the world and turned it into their own. All you need is inspiration and that can be found anywhere. Art, films, travel, music or scenery can be a source of inspiration for one to adapt to and own as their self identity.
Having your own style consists of identifying who you want to be. You must first ask yourself “What inspires you?” Looking out into the world will help you to figure this out. Look to live up to things such as art, artists, movies and actresses and adapt them to your own character. Noticing details in your everyday life can be your source of inspiration. Fashion is very similar to things of the world like art, music, travel and film because it is a way of expressing your ideas, passions and culture. For example, high-end fashion designer Gucci based its entire spring 2006 ad campaign on Michelle Pfeiffer’s super chic look in the hit movie Scarface. Gucci’s inspiration was a film. The designers at Gucci were inspired by this notable film, making it into their own creation to promote their collection.
Music is also another form of inspiration. Your favorite rock star or musician’s style can be an influence for your own sense of style. Madonna and Diana Ross are both musical legends and fashion icons. Diana Ross always had her own individual style. She was always sexy and glamorous yet very sophisticated. People became inspired by Diana Ross’ unique style. She started a lot of trends due to her curves and femininity which gave inspiration to the ones who adored her. Diana’s stylish days with The Supremes even influenced the haute couture fashion designer, Coco Chanel with her classy and well-known two-piece suits. Madonna has also inspired the world in some way with winning the Fashion Icon award at the Elle Style Awards back in 2007. Madonna’s ever-changing style throughout her music career has introduced the world to re-inventing oneself. She has had so many different looks from her lacy underwear to a sex-goddess which inspires people to be a style chameleon. Changing up your look is another way to express yourself. Being inspired by such things helps create who you are and what image you want to convey to the world.
Fashion designers have also sought out artistic inspiration. “Every designer has been influenced by art, and art has been influenced by style,” Fashion Director of Elle Magazine, Nina Garcia. Art and fashion goes hand in hand. Designers are inspired by different forms of art, turning it into a fashion of their own. Yves Saint Laurent’s Mondrian collection was inspired by Dutch painter Piet Mondrian. Laurent’s artistic inspiration made his collection one of the most recognizable art/fashion intersections. YSL looks to other artist as well for expression of his designs. Marc Jacobs also seeks out to artists to bring new visions to his fashion designs. Art and fashion has become a standard that other designers look to for inspirations because what you wear is art.
As you can see, inspiration for style can be found almost anywhere. Once you have embraced your sources of inspiration, study it and then create as your own style. Expressing your sense of style will help build your confidence in creating your best self. Fashion comes from all over and with style you can tell the world your story. Imitation is the key, and those who do not do so create products of nothing. Find your inspiration, imitate and become fashion!
