To celebrate the 2022 Afterpay Australian Fashion Week, Model & Mode Magazine went on the ground at Sydney Fashion Week to capture some of the most notable street style photos outside the shows. Check out the photos below courtesy of Dave Choo.
Author: Alex
Five Ways To Be Fashionable On A Budget
By Erica Paredes
So, the latest issue of the biggest fashion magazine is talking about the best concealer since sliced bread. You are excited beyond belief about it and make a mad dash to the counter and shell out thousands of dollars for it. But, when you try it for the first time, you realise you don’t like it and kick yourself for spending so much money on something that will probably still be on your vanity table six years from now, and still full. Of course, we never learn our lesson until it’s way too late and the same thing happens upon hearing about the next wonder product.
Make your life easier and your wallet full. Here are a few tips on how to be a budget beauty shopper:
Try the product before committing
If it’s the foundation, test on your jawline if it’s the right shade (it should disappear), check if you like the consistency, if you’re ok with it having SPF, and all that. For eye shadows and blush, check if it has strong pigment. Sometimes a color can look striking when it’s sitting in its container, but when you try it you find that you have to apply 3 to 4 times just to see a wash of color on your eyelids. Even worse, they sometimes fade off well before the day is over. Better yet, ask the people behind the counter if you can get a sample of the products you are interested in. Some of them may be able to give you trial-sized versions that you can test out for a week before you make a decision.
Make a list – and stick to it!
It’s like when you go to the grocery, you should never go without a list because you end up buying things you don’t need. Impulse buying is one of the worst ways to burn up your funds. More often than not, you come home and look at all your packages and don’t know what to do with half your purchases. Either that or you use it once or twice and forget about it. If it’s just loose powder and a new blush that you need, stick to that and don’t even look at the new lipsticks and eye shadows. Making a list of what you do need will give your trip to the mall some purpose and you will leave happy, fulfilled, and with still enough money to buy dinner.
Read between the lines
Don’t get carried away with product slogans that claim to perform miracles. You may just be disappointed when you buy a cream that claims to be a wrinkle eraser and you find yourself two months later, still with wrinkles. Read the labels carefully. The word ‘reduce’ is not the same as ‘eliminate’. Remember, this is make-up, not plastic surgery.
More expensive doesn’t mean better
Different products work for different people so don’t feel the need to buy the most expensive eye cream just because your best friend swears by it. Even makeup artists don’t agree with all products out on the market. What one loves, another may despise so if that $3 tube of lipstick works for you, then why not take advantage of its low price?
Ask for expert advice
Schedule an appointment for a consultation with a beauty expert so you can determine what products will be right for your skin and what colors will look right on you. If you must pay for the session, remember that it will be cheaper than buying everything and relying on a hit or miss process of elimination.
When to spend
So, now that I’ve officially made you unwilling to spend for anything, I am flipping it over because there are times when spending is acceptable, if not necessary:
If you have sensitive skin
Some products are made especially for people with ultra-sensitive skin and sometimes they cost a bit more. It is better to buy these products at a higher price than scrimping and ending up with a face full of rashes. Buy a quality item that you know you will use and is good for your skin. Usually, you don’t use too much at a time anyway so you won’t have to buy too often.
If it makes you feel smashing
There are some ‘wonder’ products out there, but all of these are subjective. If there is a certain bronzer that really lights up your face or mascara that gives you lashes for miles, then, by all means, buy it! Anything that will get that much time on your face is definitely worth spending for. We all have that one favorite product that we swear by. For me, it’s Shu Uemura’s Cleansing Oils. It’s a bit expensive but cleanses and moisturizes my face in a snap. I don’t even need any other products in my bathroom anymore. Think of what your must-have item is, and give yourself a break. Let that be your luxury item whenever you go make-up shopping.
Source: The Australian Filipina
Meet The Model Behind The Cover Of The May 2022 Issue Of Model & Mode Magazine: Arundhati Banerjee
Arundhati Banerjee’s journey from a South Australian Women of the Year – Emerging Leader, performing artist, pageant winner, humanitarian services to winning the title of “Australian Supermodel of the Year – Commercial category” has been rewarding and fulfilling.
Arundhati, also fondly known as Ari, is a teenager pursuing a second-year Bachelor of Creative Industries (Theatre and Performing Arts) from Flinders University with a vision to work and contribute to the performing arts industry.
Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Arundhati to discuss her recent win at the Australian SuperModel of the Year competition, and here’s what went down:
How was your journey to winning ASOTY?
It was a gratifying experience to be part of the entire process and live the sisterhood ethos integral to ASOTY. The mentorship program that involved sessions on the fashion industry, wellness and mental health, networking, collaboration, the significance of personal branding with social currency, sustainable fashion, and sisterhood was an experience that I personally enjoyed. To me, winning was a part of the journey, and I feel truly humbled to receive the title of Australian Supermodel of the Year – Commercial category.
What has been your greatest triumph to date?
I believe life is about experiences, be it success or failure, and it cannot define an individual. Every milestone, whether big or little, had its struggle and sense of accomplishment for me. I still have a long way to go and a lot of work to do.
What has been your greatest lesson, and how have you used that lesson in your life?
The greatest lesson that I have learned is that success and failure are two sides of the coin, and they should always look like stepping-stones to move ahead. So, I don’t let success go to my head or failure dampen my spirits. I would say humility is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Photo Credit: Tide and Tribe Photography / Outfit: Glassons and Princess Molly / Location: Glenelg
If you could travel back in time and alter one historical event, where would you go, and what would you attempt to change?
I would not alter any of the past events of my life as it has shaped who I am today. But I would like to mention that one should only look at their past if they are going to build from it.
What do you think you came into this life to learn, and what do you think you came here to teach?
I consider every day as a new chapter with its ups and downs. I have always tried to be around positive people who have believed in my dreams, encouraged my ideas, supported my ambitions, and brought out the best in me. I resonate with those same values to people and organisations who need that support from me.
What projects are you working on right now?
Currently, I am focused on working on my career ahead in acting and honing my skills by attending workshops, events, reading literature, and the like.
What would you still like to attempt in your career?
My goal since childhood has been in creative industries, and hence from a young age, I have been learning several dance forms and performing. I would focus on furthering my skills, network, and work on projects that I find fulfilling in the coming years. However, I am aware that the road ahead will not be easy and requires great determination, hard work, and perseverance.
What advice would you give to those hoping to follow in your footsteps?
I am too young to offer any advice but can certainly share my thoughts. It has always been important to follow where my passion lies, there is nothing wrong if sometimes you need to alter or change your path, and it is never too late in life as every day is a new beginning.
Photo Credit: Tide and Tribe Photography / Outfit: Glassons and Princess Molly / Location: Glenelg
7 Essential Tips for Choosing Stylish Accessories
By Chi de Jesus
Hello there, fashionistas! We’re pretty much in the last month of summer and fall’s just around the corner! While you’re putting together your wardrobe for those special occasions based on your body type, here’s one important fashion element that you can also think about to either spruce or glamourise your ensemble – ACCESSORIES.
This means your jewellery, handbags, shoes, eyewear, and even your hair blings. So, let me jump on the bandwagon by saying that “the devil is in the details” because it is. What you put together makes people want to come nearer and see you. What they see up close makes them want to leave you IF – they’re not well thought of or they’re just … too much.
So, here are some points to ponder as you go through your collection of fashion blings through the years:
Streamline the look
After putting together your ensemble, use your accessories to complement its design – a thin neckpiece for that gorgeous neckline, a nice bangle for those sleeves, an interesting handbag for a pop of colour.
Accessorise to transform the simple chic
To update simple silhouettes or straight-lined designs, add interesting pieces to make them look more fab. A simple wife beater and denim look would look really exciting with open-toe high heels, layered neckpieces or bangles, and possibly cool sunnies.
Have a focal point
Accessorising can be fun but too much fun will make you look like a treasure chest threw up on you. You can possibly wear 3-4 pieces but make sure to find that one accessory that will be the accent of your look. A subdued colour ensemble could get that necessary pop with an asymmetric bag or even a signature piece of jewellery.
Create a colour story
Build on 2-3 colours to make your look cohesive and well- thought of. Wearing gold with silver is not so taboo anymore but make sure that it’s consistent – you can now throw in rose gold, leather and feather as long as it doesn’t unintentionally clash with your outfit.
Choosing the colours of your accessories can either come off as a complementary feature of the whole ensemble or an eyesore unless that’s what you’re aiming for. The first step, review your colour wheel.
Size matters
As body type directs you to what type of clothes you may wear, so does accessorizing – with an addition of your height. Women with larger body frames can deal with larger accessories. Ideally, women with a smaller frame should be more careful in choosing accessories that can “eat them up.”
Quality, Quality, Quality
Your accessories can be your “bat signal” or “magic lasso” so make sure that you be mindful of the quality of your accessories. Even wigs can be tricky. Cheap ones may not look like your natural hair colour so make sure that it’s at least within an acceptable shade and texture. Otherwise, it would look like a dead animal on your head.
Your shoes will always be your saving grace
If there’s anything that you would have to save for, it’ll be shoes. The right fit and design make you stand tall in so many ways. Just don’t forget your standards – closed-toes for a more classic look, open-toe for sleeveless and shoulder revealing tops, platforms for picnics, flats for the beach, and long shopping trips. There will always be something that will match the standard black, nude, and gold/silver so always keep one handy.
Accessorising is fun and it’s important that whatever you put on can strike a conversation to make meeting you more interesting. Just don’t forget that “cohesion is key;” there is just one look in one go, it’s like having a lot of things to say without meaning anything that’s why “cohesion is key.” Also, having so much fun putting things on can make you look too busy or “trying hard” so learn how to edit.
Source: The Australian Filipina
Woman Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Fabulous Pavli Ostrolucká
Being creative and creating something new was always very important to Pavli Ostrolucká. Ever since she was a child, she wrote short stories, and she had a dream of becoming a bestseller novelist. But eventually, she fell for interior design, and now the fashion world. She started her Instagram account because it’s her escape to the creative world. She graduated from Medical school and worked as a Pediatrician in a general hospital. Creating for her blog allows her to express her creative self. But it’s not only about fashion; she enjoys styling outfits as much as taking photos or organizing visual feeds. Last but not least, it’s amazing to be a part of the community. She has met many people there who inspire her to be better.
Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Pavli to discuss her journey as a fashionista, and here’s what went down:
Where do you usually shop? Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?
I usually shop online. Even “basic “fashion stores like Zara or Mango are 5 hours far from my city, so fewer shopping options forced me to search for more and try different styles. Generally, I don’t mind paying more for the quality. Quality materials feel better, look better and last longer, but of course, you can find gems in fast-fashion stores too. I love to browse Zalando or The Frankie shop when it comes to designer clothes. Moreover, The Frankie shop’s edits are so inspiring!
What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?
Invest in boots. A good pair of boots not only keep you warm but can elevate any look. Knee-high boots on heels, rubber boots, and combat boots for an edgy street style look are some of my favourites. The same goes for coats. A good fit and cozy material are essential.
Where do you look for creative inspiration?
The inspiration is all around you. There are direct ways to get inspired quickly – fashion magazines, Pinterest, or fashion influencers on Instagram. Pinterest is one of the best inventions; I love creating mood boards. But the inspiration can come from anywhere, and I often look beyond fashion, art, streets, culture, nature, architecture. I’m constantly searching for new locations that work as a good photo backdrop and could inspire an outfit or the whole mood.
Is it hard to stay fashionable?
In my opinion, more important is to stay authentic. “Fashion is what you buy. Style is what you do with it. “Finding your personal style allows you to express yourself and to feel more confident. On the other hand, new trends are pushing me out of my comfort zone, and that’s the creative part I enjoy the most. It is hard to learn not to make impulsive decisions and buy clothes you won’t wear or need.
How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?
I don’t really struggle with it. Staying true to yourself is the best way how to be unique and have loyal followers. When I work with brands, I have to like the product before recommending it to my audience. It is that simple.
Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?
Lots of patterns, microwear or sheer dress, but my personal favourite is a structured blazer styled with Bermudas or skirt. There’s a lot of positive and sexy vibes to come the next season.
What do you think about the state of fashion today?
I think we should change our approach to fashion consumption. It’s well known the fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters. It produces greenhouse gas emissions and causes water pollution, not to mention often alarming working conditions in textile factories that supply fast-fashion brands. As fashion consumers, we are responsible for change. Some studies show that people don’t wear up to 88% of their wardrobe. How to start the change? Stop making shopping hauls, think about your purchase a day or two before buying it, and choose quality over quantity.
What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?
If you buy clothes only for one season, does it mean you have a different style every season? My advice is to focus on building a capsule wardrobe for S/S and A/W seasons instead. When the garment is considered “last season, “let’s style it in a new fresh way, not get rid of it. I love my clothes and always try to buy pieces I can’t wait to wear the next season.
What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?
It’s hard to succeed in a fashion world where’s a lot of competition but the most important in my opinion is to do things with passion. I’d only say set your goals clearly and enjoy yourself.
The fashion industry has changed so much in the past few years, what’s the best advice you would give for staying ahead of the curve?
I’m not a trendsetter and don’t feel like the right person to give advice on how to stay ahead. As previously said, making things with passion and hard work always pays off. Watching fashion shows and staying in touch with “big “influencers really helps. But it’s all right not to be the first; above all, be you; it’s your power.
6 Gorgeous Makeup Trends to Try In 2022
By Chi de Jesus
“Beauty” is a billion-dollar industry that never goes into recession. Pandemic or not, this industry continues to be relevant by inventing and re-inventing to keep being relevant. As the beauty industry evolves with the needs of its market, forecasts, predictions, and recommendations are the most anticipated information one has to find out to get into the groove.
After scouring through different sources – Tiktok, Pinterest, YouTube, and online beauty magazines here’s some info that will give you a bit of an idea on what level of beauty everyone can be in 2022.
For the overall look, 2022 looks more natural, effortless, and fresh for the day look working with minimal concealer and barely-there foundation or tinted moisturizer which makes use of the terms “soft glam” and “chil.” For more glam situations, “luminous” is the keyword – focusing on the lips, eyeshadow, and highlights. Think shimmer with a sprinkle of glitter to enhance those dewy highlights.
Don’t be shocked though with the introduction of mood make-up. The last 2 years may have concealed our inner turmoils but 2022 divulges what you feel through make-up depicting self-expression. Burst of colours will be “in” for those moody times working neon and ditching the pastels. To edge it up a bit, say goodbye to blending! Lines, blotches, and strikes with the occasional futuristic embellishments accentuate this “back-to-the-80’s” look for when you’d want to roar, kill and devour … glamorously, of course.
For those arched wonders, brows still continue the upward trend with a feathered brushed-up look made famous by Tiktok followers. They are called “soap brows” inspired by the 1940’s-50’2 when make-up artists discovered that soap could be a better alternative to keep the brows in place creating a lifted or laminated look.
Given the mask situation in 2020 and 2021, drama was focused on the eyes with bold colours and sultry designs. This year, this trend continues with coloured eyeliners, bejewelled eyes, pastel matte eyeshadows, and “dopamine-fuelled eyes” using neon orange and other reflective colours. Though fab lashes are still in, a refreshing take on the winged liner will be in-trend – welcome “kitten eyeliner” which provides a more youthful look. This takes the place of uber elongated cat eyes. If you’re wondering what it looks like, the best example I always give is Gal Gadot’s diminutive flick of a liner – cute, savvy, and tasteful.
For the cheeks, subtlety takes a back seat with the bold blush. Reminiscent of the ’90s across the face, sun-kissed look. According to beauty sites, the monochromatic look is gone and the healthy glow takes its place giving more emphasis on being in the “pink of health.”
And finally, to seal the deal with a kiss, dark lip liners are back! So think ombre lips, extended pouts, and even “grunge” burgundy lips of the 90s can be a good reveal when you take off those masks – so make sure it’s long-lasting or super stay. However, in allowable situations, which right now may be a number of occasions, a splash of fabulous gloss provides the more in “high shine” lips. On more special events, “celebratory lipsticks” with specks of glitter and shine may be in order. So, glam up!
Get ready to get out of your comfort zone because 2022 will definitely shake this year to its fabulous core – even if it is making a moody statement. One thing definitely is a 100% in – multifunctional make-up. These are products that do not only colour your life with a lot of “luminosity” but also take care of your skin from the harsh elements of the environment and keep it hydrated because healthy will forever be in.
Source: The Australian Filipina
Woman Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Beautiful Emma Barrett
Emma Barrett is originally from Brighton, UK, but now living in London. She’s a content creator on Instagram who produces pictures and reels showing affordable and wearable fashion. She wasn’t always a content creator – her background is originally in construction. However, she finally found the courage in September 2021 to start taking her Instagram seriously and share her style with others. She loves that content creation has brought her closer to other creators and loves connecting with her followers.
Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Emma to discuss her journey as a fashionista and here’s what went down:
Where do you usually shop? Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?
I buy my outfits from a whole range of different shops. My entire style and platform is about promoting affordable fashion that also looks expensive. My go-to shops are; Vero Moda, Zara, H&M, Weekend, and ASOS. I think the best thing is to look for great staple items – if you spend a little bit more on these items, you will be able to use them to create many different outfits.
What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?
Layering! It’s a bit cliché, but layering is the only way I get through the colder months. I am constantly cold – whether outside or in the office, I always make sure to wrap up. I will always wear tights/ leggings/ thermals/vests underneath my clothes! Once this is paired with a good jumper and coat, no one can tell, and it helps you stay warm and fashionable.
Where do you look for creative inspiration?
I get inspiration from various sources, but my go-to is definitely Instagram and Pinterest. Whenever I don’t know how to style something or am looking for inspiration, I will type in keywords on these platforms and take inspiration from others.
Is it hard to stay fashionable?
Definitely! I think with the way fashion and media are going that it’s very difficult to stay fashionable. I try to go for more staple items that can be interchanged and tend not to go out of style as quickly.
How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?
I think it’s very difficult to balance between these two. I would say that my style is to be wearable and fashionable at the same time. This means that I typically wear more commercial items; however, I try not to buy trends that would have a short shelf life and wear things that feel unique to my style/ are more timeless.
Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?
Stripes are definitely in at the moment – stripe jumpers are a go too, perfect to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring. I’m also hoping to see some longer-length tops come back into fashion (rather than crop tops). My style is constantly evolving as I get older, and I am definitely considering more ‘practical’ pieces for my wardrobe.
What do you think about the state of fashion today?
I think that the fashion industry is more fast-paced than ever. However, I think this has meant that there isn’t necessarily one style that is ‘in.’ I personally am seeing a whole range of different styles and outfits being simultaneously trendy, which I hadn’t previously seen before.
What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?
I’m not sure anyone should necessarily get rid of clothes that are ‘last season. Although we live in a very fast-paced fashion society, we also live in the most accepting of fashion. If you have an item in your wardrobe that is ‘last season’ but you still like it – why not wear it still?! I do! I have items in my wardrobe that I’ve had for ten-plus years and consider staple items. Having a good sort out of your wardrobe for things that you will no longer use is also good, and a great way to get rid of these is donating to charity for a second life.
What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?
Don’t care about what other people think. I was very fashion-shy when I was younger, and I cared a lot about what people thought about me. I think the best thing to do is to try and shift your mindset to being open to exploring new things – it’s okay to change your style too! I’m constantly evolving and ‘improving’ my style, and some people may think that this is not who I am, but it definitely is. Just keep going, and you’ll find the fashion sense that you feel comfortable in.
The fashion industry has changed so much in the past few years; what’s the best advice you would give for staying ahead of the curve?
Research new trends through both Instagram and Pinterest – follow your favourite content creators and see what’s out there! TikTok is also a great way to see different styles through fun trends. It can be hard to necessarily ‘predict’ what trends will be in, but if you see something new that you like – wear it!
What is Streetwear? The 101 on Fashion’s Biggest Buzzword
Before we start, let’s make one thing clear – streetwear is not urban wear. If you’re visualising baggy jeans and white basketball sneakers – you’re thinking of ‘urban wear’.
Not many people agree on what ‘streetwear actually is, but most people agree that streetwear was born in Las Angeles in the late 1970s to early 1980s with heavy influence from the surf and skate cultures. As with all ‘street trends’, the style and definition of streetwear have continually evolved and today we see a style that is influenced by things such as hip hop, the ’80s and ’90s, and even couture fashion. The fashion-conscious generation today is managing to effortlessly blend all three influences together, combining smart cuts and tailoring with classic streetwear pieces.
Due to the combination of designs and styles that would have previously been considered contradictory, streetwear brands have begun to include items that are a lot more refined, but still, keep the authentic relaxed look of original streetwear. This shift in perception and acceptance has meant that high-end companies such as Burberry now include streetwear products in their runway lineup.
The people behind Unparalleled Apparel give their interpretation of the changes we see in the streetwear trend: “It’s like, the owners of the brands start the companies as teens and twenty-somethings and the designs reflect that. But as the owners and consumers grow up more, so do the brands. We see more fitted cuts becoming prominent, fewer materials, button-up shirts appear more in lookbooks. It’s because you can’t just be baggy jeans forever. Someday you have to grow up, at least just a little.”
In saying all of that, possibly the most attractive element of the trend of streetwear is that it is different for every person and encompasses so many ideas and interpretations. “There is so much opinion visually apparent on the street; its restless nature means that it is constantly evolving but in a totally disordered manner that can only be controlled by one’s personal style.”
One thing is for sure, in a world that seems to grow smaller every day; streetwear will be increasingly influenced and interpreted by people, trends, and cultures from all over the world. This is the beauty and the heart of streetwear.
Editorial credit: Mauro Del Signore / Shutterstock.com
Top 10 Fashion Myths You Have to Stop Believing In 2022
Is your wardrobe ready for 2022? In case you haven’t heard yet, flattering our body through the trendiest and stylish clothes is a full time job. It requires a sophisticated sense and a smart discernment to know what fits our style otherwise, you’d be a full-fledged fashion disaster trapped in an awkward and highly-outdated collection!
Inexplicably, fashion has been a reflection of women empowerment and equality. We have Tory Burch, Donatella Versace and Coco Chanel whose names are all hailed in the glittery world of fashion. The truth is, as much as it holds a glamorous and powerful impression, dressing up in trends can sometimes be daunting especially if you are haunted by the enormity of misconceptions that might salvage your way towards dreamy couture and elegance. As the year kicks in, let’s take a fashionable glimpse at the most popular fashion statements that we might be holding on to for years.
1. Black makes you look skinny
Is your diet giving you false hope? Well, your pretty black dress won’t. A black outfit only works by using illusion. Women appear slimmer because of the colour black’s ability to blend into the background – smoothing away flabs and folds.
2. Maxi dresses won’t suit petites
This one absolutely holds no truth. Maxi dresses in summer are great and anyone regardless of height and weight can definitely pull this off so long as you know your body frame and shape. You should know your ideal length and wear it!
3. Denim on denim
Well, time changes. What might look unfashionable years ago may appear trendy in the age where anything can be styled and enhanced. Denim on denim may be a brave fashion statement but really it’s just a matter of elegantly mixing colours and design.
4. Sequins all day and night
Due to sequins’ highly-stylish nature, many deemed that it can only be worn at night but as fashion evolves, sequins are, in fact, a great piece to wear anytime of the day since they give a huge eye-catching factor.
5. Tall women should avoid high heels
Fashion icons know that high heels can make legs look great. Women gifted with height should not shy away from wearing heels as these complete a classy glam-up look.
6. Too many bold colours are too much
Like the comeback of vintage styles, mixing bold colours more than once is considered fashionable. Figure your body like a canvass waiting to be painted on. Combining different hues, either bold or bright can launch a posh take on your wardrobe.
7. Open-toed shoes and stockings do not go well together
Some might still argue about this but wearing stockings with open-toed shoes or sandals may appear really inelegant.
8. Horizontal stripes can make you appear bigger
Stripes are actually one of the famous prints that can turn your fashion look in an impressive direction. Choose stripes that are fitted well to your body and the ones that highlight your assets.
9. Your shoes, purse, and belt should match each other
Honestly, who bothers adhering to this fashion rule anymore? The tip is to find these accessories in the same colour family and make them complement your outfit.
10. Wear the real you
This, in fact, is the biggest truth in fashion. While following trends and styles may be fun and exciting, your taste should not be dictated by others’ views of it. Dress according to your personality and be proud of it.
Man Of Style Of The Week: Introducing The Dashing Dennis Walter
Dennis Walter is 36 years of age and the founder of two digital advertising companies, and currently resurrecting a third digital enterprise; jack of all trades with an interest in menswear, cigars, music, chess, race biking, gaming, and the outdoors.
Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Dennis, and here’s what went down:
Where do you usually shop? Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?
I normally shop online only, with 90% of my buys being made specifically for me (MTM or MTO). eBay is a great source for second-hand high-quality items, especially when you know what to look for and if you know your body measurements.
What are your top tips for fashion for the cooler months?
Layer up – it not only adds protective layers to keep you from getting cold, but it´s also a great way to combine colors, textures, and designs.
Where do you look for creative inspiration?
A lot of different resources inspire me, be it books, films, or the accounts on IG I admire – there´s an abundance of guys with a great sense of style out there!
Is it hard to stay fashionable?
Not really – once you find out who you are and what you like to wear, it´s easy to stick to your drum. I´ve never cared much about fashion and prefer to dress exactly like I want – regardless of what´s “in” at the moment. This approach is much more sustainable and obtainable – since you only invest in pieces you will want to wear for the rest of your life.
How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?
It really isn´t a thin line for me at all – since I´m dressing up mostly for myself, I don´t have to “please” anyone. Luckily, there are a lot of brands in my field of clothing that appreciate my aesthetics and are happy to partner up.
Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?
I´ve seen a lot of tonal looks as of late, so outfits centering around a certain color shade (light brown or cream, for example). These do really look great if you´re able to mix and match.
What do you think about the state of fashion today?
It slowly turns to more sustainability and environmental consciousness – which is to applaud. Still, too many fast-fashion retailers are out there, feeding an already saturated mass market with goods of questionable quality and eco-impacts – this needs to stop, and people should seriously consider a “less is more” approach.
What clothes can we rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?
Phew, I definitely wouldn´t know – maybe the pair of ugly fashion sneakers with that blown-up, massively oversized dinghy sole?
What fashion advice would you give an emerging Men of Fashion Blogger?
Use Instagram as your inspiration mood board and consider your evolvement as a journey – you will buy things you will regret, you´ll wear stuff that will look odd two years from now, etc. Embrace this development as a “try.fail.fail better” process – you´ll find out what works best for you and what makes you feel like a million-dollar. Don´t copy trends – be unapologetically you.
The fashion industry has changed so much in the past few years; what’s the best advice you would give for staying ahead of the curve?
I wouldn´t be able to really give sound advice here – but maybe a life principle of mine can be applicable here as well: “be yourself – everybody else is already taken”. This is not to say we can´t change for the better – just make sure you stay true to yourself and don´t let anyone else define your value.
