In the previous posts, we’ve discussed uniforms, personal uniforms, and the different types of personal uniforms. If you’re interested in creating your own personal uniform, review these common fashion styles to identify which ones reflect you best.
Each ‘style’ mentioned in this post can have many sub-styles and isn’t one-size fits all.
Any body shape (apple, pear, hourglass, rectangle) and weight can wear any style.
Nearly any adult age can wear any style.
A brief note
This post is intended to cover some of the most common styles and is not meant to capture every style that exists.
For more styles and specificity of styles, I highly recommend checking out The Style Thesaurus by Hannah Kane! She categories styles by time, utility, music & dance, play, conformists, subcultures & countercultures, statement, and sex & gender. Her book covers some of the common styles that I’ve listed in this post, as well as ones such as Cottagecore, Heritage, and Goth. Please note that the book link above is an affiliate and if you choose to purchase, I may receive a commission.
Common fashion styles
Casual
Relaxed, informal look while still expressing individuality through choice of clothing and accessories
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T-shirts
Jeans
Sneakers
Loose-fitting garments, such as hoodies or sweatshirts
Classic
Timeliness pieces that reflect a sense of sophistication and polished aesthetic
Crisp white shirts
Tailored jackets and trousers
Neutral tones such as black, white, navy, and camel
Leather shoes and structured handbags
Chic
Effortlessly stylish and put-together appearance that blends contemporary trends with timeless elegance
Tailored blazers
Slim-fitting or baggy trousers
Stylish blouses
Statement pieces like trendy sunglasses, handbags, and shoes
Elegant
Timeless pieces, combining poise with understated glamour, resulting in an appearance that is both regal and tasteful
Flowing evening gowns
Tailored suits
Well-cut dresses
Fabrics like silk, lace, and velvet are commonly featured, adding a touch of opulence
Accessories are often minimal yet impactful, with delicate jewelry, stylish clutches, and classic heels
Retro
Embraces fashion history, typically between the 1920s and 1980s, to express unique style through curated pieces that evoke nostalgia
High-waisted skirts
A-line dresses
Retro blouses
Fabrics like lace, silk, tweed, and denim
Patterned dresses, polka dots, and florals
Accessories like cat-eye glasses, brooches, and vintage handbags
Nostalgic elements such as bold prints, tea-length skirts, and tailored suits
Artsy
Vibrant and eclectic style that celebrates individuality and involves mixing patterns, textures, and colors to create visually striking ensembles
Unique and unconventional items
Statement jackets
Layering is a common practice, often combining vintage finds with contemporary pieces
Fashion hair colors
Bold jewelry, artistic scarves, and standout footwear
Romantic
Dreamy and feminine aesthetic, emphasizing softness and grace
Flowing dresses with lace details, floral prints, and pastel colors
Delicate fabrics like chiffon and silk
Sweetheart or off-the-shoulder necklines
Ruffles, bows, and intricate embroidery
Accessories such as pearls, dainty jewelry, and elegant hats
Minimal
Simplicity, focusing on clean lines, neutral colors, and essential silhouettes
Well-tailored basics such as crisp white shirts, tailored trousers, and streamlined dresses
Monochromatic color palettes, often in neutral tones like black, white, gray, or beige
Preference for quality over quantity is evident, with a focus on versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched
Accessories are understated, favoring simple jewelry and classic, functional items
Professional
Smart, confident appearance, emphasizing attire that aligns with workplace expectations and fosters a polished, competent image
Tailored blazers
Crisp button-down shirts
Well-fitted trousers or pencil skirts
Neutral colors like black, navy, and gray prevail
Sheath dresses or pantsuits
Suits paired with collared shirts and ties
Attention to fit and subtle accessories such as watches or modest jewelry
Bohemian
Free-spirited and eclectic aesthetic emphasizing comfort and movement
Flowing maxi dresses
Loose-fitting tunics
Bell-bottom pants
Earthy tones, vibrant prints, and eclectic patterns
Fringed vests, crochet shawls, and oversized cardigans adding texture
Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are favored.
Wide-brimmed hats, beaded jewelry, and suede boots
Girly
Sweet and feminine charm, focusing on playful and dainty elements
Flirty dresses, skirts with ruffles
Tops adorned with bows or lace details
Soft and pastel colors, such as pinks and florals
Fabrics like chiffon and tulle
Ballet flats, Mary Jane shoes, and accessories like headbands or bows
Edgy
Bold and rebellious aesthetic conveying a sense of toughness, often incorporating unconventional elements
Leather jackets
Distressed denim
Graphic tees
Monochromatic color schemes, particularly blacks and grays
Unique cuts, asymmetrical hems, and statement accessories
Studded boots, chunky jewelry, and edgy eyewear
Tattoos and piercings may complement the overall aesthetic
Grunge
Rugged and effortlessly cool aesthetic inspired by the 1990s alternative music scene with a laid-back rebellious vibe
Distressed flannel shirts
Oversized band t-shirts
Ripped denim
Earthy tones, dark hues, and plaids
Layering is key, with chunky cardigans or slouchy sweaters
Combat boots, Doc Martens
Beanie hats
Chokers
Messy hair
Sporty
Combines athletic gear with casual wear, promoting an on-the-go and active lifestyle with a stylish edge
Hoodies
Sweatpants
Performance-oriented activewear like leggings and moisture-wicking tops
Logo-emblazoned athletic brands and sneakers
Tracksuits
Baseball caps
Sporty jackets
Bold and vibrant hues, enhancing the dynamic look
Accessories like gym bags and athletic watches
Streetwear
Dynamic and urban fashion movement originated from 1990s hip hop, inspired by youth culture and often influenced by music, art, and contemporary trends
Graphic t-shirts
Oversized hoodies
Distressed denim
Sneakers, particularly from popular brands
Logos, bold prints, and statement accessories
Bucket hats or snapback caps
Athleisure elements, such as sweatpants or bomber jackets
Preppy
Polished and collegiate aesthetic, inspired by traditional East Coast American fashion, reflecting a clean and tailored look
Well-fitted khakis
Crisp button-down shirts
Cable-knit sweaters
Polo shirts
Blazers
Pleated skirts
Classic patterns like stripes, plaids, and argyle
Accessories such as loafers, boat shoes, and pearl jewelry
Bright and pastel tones
Country / Workwear
Rugged and practical aesthetic, inspired by rural and industrial influences, reflecting functionality and resilience
Durable denim jeans
Plaid flannel shirts
Sturdy work boots
Overalls
Leather jackets
Chambray shirts
Earthy tones like browns and greens
Wide-brimmed hats, belts with bold buckles, and durable canvas jackets
Sexy
Embracing one's body, using clothing to evoke a bold and seductive charm that exudes confidence and empowerment
Bodycon dresses
Form-fitting skirts
Plunging necklines
Accentuating curves
High slits, low backs, and sheer fabrics
Crop tops
Figure-hugging jumpsuits
Tailored pieces that emphasize silhouette
Bold colors and striking patterns
Statement heels, strappy sandals, and lingerie-inspired details
Military
Draws inspiration from utilitarian and structured designs of military attire, creating a strong and commanding look that effortlessly blends functionality with fashion
Camouflage prints
Cargo pants
Combat boots
Trench coats
Military jackets
Bomber jackets
Epaulettes and bold buttons
Aviator sunglasses
Flight caps
Earthy tones like green, khaki, and brown
What styles do people wear around the world?
Participate in a wardrobe data project and select up to three fashion styles that you currently wear.
Coming up next:
How to define and describe your personal style
Unlock a clutter-free closet!
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