As someone who has been known to change outfits an average of 37 times before leaving the house, I can only imagine how liberating and wonderful it must feel to have a signature style and allow every look to revolve around it. Having fuss-free, versatile items that work together results in a truly economical way of shopping and curates your "forever" wardrobe.
Many of you often ask us about how to craft a personal style, and that's because it's somewhat harder than it sounds. To me, a uniform or trademark outfit is the epitome of nailing it, but when attempting to pinpoint your own, it can be helpful to look to those who have already achieved such fashion greatness.
There are a few women who come to mind when I think about these "power uniforms." I'm not talking about power dressing in its first, shoulder pad–poking form; instead, I'm referring to its quieter, more modern guise. Concocting formulas that are instantly "you" holds potent authority whether you work as a receptionist or head up an American fashion magazine empire (hi, Anna Wintour).
Being recognisable and comfortable in your choices will lead to greater confidence and greater success when it comes to spending money on your wardrobe. After all, I doubt that Carine Roitfeld (pictured below) has ever bothered straying into pleated midi skirt territory when she's so tied to pencil silhouettes.
No matter the trends or shifting sands of fashion retail, if you can find the essential elements that make you look your best, you can truly start to build a comprehensive, conscious collection of clothes and accessories. It doesn't mean you have to avoid something unexpected and of-the-moment, but you'll look at these It items as a cherry on top rather than the main event.
So without further ado, let's look at the women who have this power uniform idea wrapped up with a bow.
Carine Roitfeld: Pencil Skirt + Heels + Sunglasses
Style Notes: Just because the formula is tried and tested doesn't mean something fun (like pink satin shoes) can't come into the fold.
Style Notes: For quite a few years now, Carine has been really behind the visor-sunglasses trend, and it's really starting to catch on.
Style Notes: Strappy heels are often part of her look, making the more tailored pieces really feel sassier than they might.
Style Notes: Carine mixes and matches her accessories depending on the season. An all-black clothing base always works well for this.
Shop Carine's uniform:
Shiona Turini: Crop Top + Full Skirt + Jacket
Style Notes: Wearing one bright colour is the most striking way to make any outfit stand out.
Style Notes: Heels (and statement ones at that) are Shiona's addition for balancing out the volume you'll find in pleated skirts.
Style Notes: Tailored jackets are a chic way to wear crop tops like a grown-up.
Style Notes: You can experiment with hemlines when you're working around a tonal colour palette.
Shop Shiona's uniform:
Anna Wintour: Printed Dress + Matching Coat and Boots
Style Notes: Wintour is usually pictured in a gemstone multistrand necklace and black sunnies.
Style Notes: Same coat, same boots, different day, different dress.
Style Notes: Has she inspired you to get a burgundy leather trench yet?
Style Notes: Perhaps the most fabulous look will do it. Anna Wintour has been wearing these staples on repeat this year, making a really compelling case for cost-per-wear investments.
Shop Anna's uniform:
Bianca Jagger: White Suit + Mismatched Accessories
Style Notes: In the '70s, Bianca Jagger put the white suit on the map.
Style Notes: The all-white look is one she's carried through her entire life, changing up silhouettes and styling.
Related: It Can Take Time to Find the Perfect Trench Coat—We've Just Found 22
Style Notes: She often uses mismatched accessories to offset the formality of a white tux.
Style Notes: I love that she's modernised the concept so much, adding sneakers and making the smart look more comfortable.
Shop Bianca's uniform:
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