If fashion is just about covering ourselves, why is there so much noise around it? Can a piece of clothing really change the way we feel?
According to the latest in the fashion world, just like a hot bath, a piece of good chocolate or a warm massage, wearing a certain dress or jacket, purse or shoe can make us feel happier with ourselves and make us act nicer towards those around us. Style is changing in accordance with changes in our society.
Fashion is the most personal product we use-as we put on a piece of clothing, its shape can change the appearance of body shape, thereby turning us into a combination of the two, body and clothes. Although we’ve been taught that our clothing projects a certain image of ourselves, I’m starting to realize that the total look is not just the perfect ‘head to toe’ image, but a more complete package: the look we wear plus us.
Following this logic, the new trend is fashion with a ‘soul’; it can be as simple as a unique piece, an art experiment or a tribute to craftsmanship. In short, people are looking for products with a story to tell, something that communicates a precise state of mind and a need to socialize. From the very first time we humans began draping animal fur over a shoulder as a sign of power, painted our faces with vibrant pigments, or tucked colorful feathers in our hair, we have shown a need to express our individuality and a desire to be accepted.
The need for acceptance often plays a large role in how we dress. At home, you likely wear certain items that make it easy for you to ‘fit in’ on campus-flip flops, gym shorts, sorority t-shirts are part of the college look. Since you’re in Florence this year, why not try to incorporate some new Italian style into your wardrobe and explore your individual tastes? Ditch your flip flops (please!) for some equally comfy but infinitely more stylish sandals, ballerina flats, cool sneakers or trendy low-heeled boots. Forgo your university tee in favor of the new kaleidoscope of shapes, materials, colors and amazing details adorning this fall’s most fashionable pieces. Try Middle East folk-chic with a touch of bohemian, futuristic shapes in black and white with a touch of grey, Brit-styles with tartans and kilts, menswear-inspired looks for sophisticated women, or the strong primitive look with various textures, unusual materials and intricate craftsmanship.
Today’s designers are focusing on creating garments that enhance individuality. Step out of your campus uniform and into clothing that makes you feel unique, fabulous-and ready to get out there and socialize with all of the new and exciting people you are going to meet during your semester abroad.
