Style Solution - Dressing in a Fashion Uniform
What's a fashion uniform anyway?
When we talk about uniforms, we're apt to be thinking about what's worn by people on duty, such as members of the military, police officers, or airline pilots. However, a fashion "uniform" is a different beast altogether. A fashion uniform is a standard way of dressing that can be unique to each individual woman.
What might a uniform consist of?
There are lots of options, but a wear-to-work uniform that could serve a petite woman well because it would make her look taller, would be a navy jacket and navy pants.
This could be dressed up a bit with a ruffled blouse or dressed down with a plain tank top.
Why would a woman want to dress in a "uniform"?
There are some advantages to adopting a uniform, which include:
- Dressing can be less expensive because a woman needs only a few pieces to create a fashion uniform.
- Dressing becomes easier because there's no angst about which outfit to wear.
- It's faster to dress because a woman knows exactly what she's going to wear
- A woman can establish a recognizable look that characterizes her own fashion style.
- Women don't have to worry about fashion trends because classic clothing makes the best fashion uniform.
- A woman can dress up her fashion uniform with accessories if you want a change of pace.
What are some of the drawbacks of dressing in a fashion uniform?
- Dressing in a uniform can become somewhat boring.
- If you select pricey pieces, dressing in a uniform can be every bit as expensive as keeping up with trendy fashion.
- Dressing in a fashion uniform may feel too restrictive at times.
- With the limited wardrobe that comes with adopting a fashion uniform, you may not be prepared for out-of-the-ordinary circumstances or special events.
Do any celebrities dress in a fashion uniform?
Yes, they certainly do! Even some fashion designers dress in fashion uniforms. Vera Wang, a designer known for her gorgeous bridal gowns, says that her uniform is made up of leggings and a boy's tank top. Once her uniform is in place, she adds a stylish element, such as a tunic or a "crazy belt." Fashion designer and Project Runway judge Michael Kors chooses to wear a uniform consisting of a t-shirt and a blazer, and he often adds aviator sunglasses.
Kris Jenner, mother of the Kardashian clan, favors a dark monochromatic uniform, and she likes to dress in head-to-toe black clothing. Country singer Johnny Cash used to do the same, dressing all in black; in fact, he became known as "the man in black." Designer Donna Karan launched her career by basing her fashion designs on what she personally liked to wear, which were easy pieces, such as body suits and wrap skirts.
Which groups of women could benefit most from wearing a fashion uniform?
Although wearing a fashion uniform clearly isn't for everybody, it has special appeal for the following groups of women:
- busy moms--they can simply life by adopting a fashion uniform
- women who love accessories--when clothing isn't the favorite part of a woman's wardrobe, it may be time to adopt a fashion uniform
- petite women who always need clothing alterations even when they purchase clothing in the petites' department--it makes both financial and fashion sense for these women to invest in only a few key pieces and have them fitted to perfection
- older women who have classic fashion personalities--it's very easy to develop a fashion uniform from classic clothing pieces
