#2Developing Your Aesthetic Vocabulary
When I was in college, I took a lot of graphic design classes (which always sounds so cool and fun but literally some of these classes were so old school, I once spent 4 hours studying the width of various font types).
One thing I had to do in every one of my design classes was formally present my work. To the professor. To my classmates. To guest instructors. We were constantly forced to show what we created AND EXPLAIN IT.
It wasn't enough just to design something cool.
We had to explain the process behind our work and justify every ✅ single ✅ decision ✅ we made along the way.
I used to hate this exercise but I'm so grateful for it now because it helped me develop what I call my "Aesthetic Vocabulary." Basically, you have to be able to articulate in words what you want to create visually. Why? Because it helps ensure that the design is based on a clear understanding of the idea or concept.
If you want to change the way you dress, you need to develop YOUR aesthetic vocabulary. It will help you shop with less stress, create outfits more effortlessly, and have more fun.
Step 1
Go to your closet or go through your phone and look at the clothes/outfits you like. I want you to use two criteria:
- Identify things you ACTUALLY WEAR
- Identify things that make you feel the way you want to feel (This is important — some people might want to feel really put together and polished, while others really want to feel casual and laid back. Try not to put any judgement on yourself for what you wear and like.)
Step 2
Next, I want you to make a list of observations. Describe the clothes you selected, looking for things like:
- Color(s)
- Patterns
- Textures
- Shape (what does it look like on the hanger)
- Fit (how tight or loose is it)
- Material
- Coverage/length
- Era
- Vibe
Step 3
Once you have your list, I want you to come up with a title/name for this style. It doesn't have to include every word, but it should help you remember what you're trying to create. This is your new aesthetic!
If you're struggling, show your clothes to someone else and ask them how THEY would describe them.
Here are some of the titles I've used for myself in different seasons of life:
- Feminine Flowy Comfort
- Sporty Chic
- Ann Taylor meets Toddler Mom
I know it seems silly but there's something so powerful about creating a name for the aesthetic you're trying to establish. Put it in your phone with your style icon (previous email) and use these as a guide to shopping and getting dressed.
Don't let yourself fall into a trap here thinking that you're not cool enough to "have an aesthetic." You absolutely are!
That's all for today! Next week we'll talk about hair, makeup, and grooming. :)
Thanks for reading!
Rebecca
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