Stylish vs. Fashionable
“Being stylish and fashionable are two entirely different things,” Apfel said.
About six months ago, I first encountered this quote by Iris Apfel on Instagram Reels. The caption states, “Who agrees,” followed by a #wisdomwednesday; after listening to the quote a few times over, I eventually saved it to my favorites and honestly forgot about it. But today, it serves us all as food for thought.
Apfel is, an American businesswoman, interior designer, and fashion icon renowned for her eclectic style and oversized glasses. Born in 1921; she co-founded the textile firm Old World Weavers and contributed to numerous design projects, including restoration work in the White House for nine presidents. Apfel’s bold, unconventional fashion scenes, characterized by vibrant colors and layered accessories, have made her a beloved figure in the fashion world.
Noam Galai/Getty Images for Central Park Tower
“You can easily buy your way into being fashionable. Style, I think, is in your DNA. It implies originality and courage,”
But What Does This Mean?
Being fashionable often means adhering to the latest “thing” in the fashion world and wearing clothes and accessories that are popular “in the now.” It implies a certain level of conformity, as designers, fashion shows, and the media typically dictate fashion trends. For those looking to be fashionable, it is as easy as purchasing micro-trends catering to the revolving door of disposable fashion. If you can keep up with trends, you can be fashionable.
Style, on the other hand, is more personal and unique. It’s about how individuals express themselves through clothing and accessories, accentuating their personality, tastes, and values. Style involves creativity, individuality, and confidence, typically pushing the boundaries of current fashion trends. Apfel suggests that style is “in your DNA,” meaning it's a natural expression of who you are, not something that can be bought or copied easily. It requires originality, adhering to instincts, and the courage to present oneself authentically, regardless of prevailing trends.
So, Why Is It Important to Be Stylish?
Our world is dominated by consumerism and fast fashion, prioritizing group style and micro-trends based on “fitting in.” However, the power of prioritizing personal style over simply being fashionable can display a noticeable change in a person's identity and the way others perceive them.
It's worth remembering that clothing is the first impression you give someone before you speak, so what do your clothes say about you if the girl next to you is wearing the same Zara top? By taping into the idea of “style,” you mix your educated interest in fashion with your taste, which no one can duplicate.
However, beyond the emotional and mental aspects, choosing “stylish” over “fashionable” has significant physical and environmental effects. Emphasizing style promotes sustainability by encouraging the purchase of quality and timeless pieces, reducing waste, and mitigating the fashion industry's environmental footprint. Consumerism, particularly in the context of fast fashion, contributes to ecological degradation and ethical concerns. The rapid production cycle of fast fashion results in the overuse of natural resources, excessive waste, and pollution. By prioritizing style over fashion, consumers can make more mindful choices that support sustainable practices and ethical labor, challenging the harmful effects of consumerism.
With That Being Said…
Iris Apfel is no hypocrite when discussing personal style; she is a lasting icon in the fashion world who lives by her philosophy. No one will ever hear the description of thick, black, round glasses and big cocktail jewelry without thinking of her. Apfel’s distinctive style has made her a cultural icon, instantly recognizable and synonymous with eclectic style.
Her consistency in embracing her individuality showcases how a strong personal style can leave a lasting impression and communicate one’s unique character and story.
“And the worst that can happen is you can fail, and you don't die from that.”
However, let’s be mindful of the ideals discussed. Just because an individual may feel they lean more toward one end of the spectrum doesn’t mean the opportunity to be “stylish” is out of reach. No person, no matter how “unfashionable” they may think they are, is excluded from having style. Everyone has their preferences, and the essence of style is to tap into your creativity and express yourself authentically.
So, I will leave you with this: the next time you're shopping and come across a piece of clothing, trust your instincts and tastes to guide you toward choices that truly reflect who you are, not what fast-fashion brands expect you to buy.