Fashionista. A word made up to describe women who live and breathe fashion. Typically, when one hears the word “fashionista” only one name come to mind to epitomize this stylish woman: Carrie Bradshaw. That’s right. The fictional character from the TV series “Sex and the City,” as portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker, who took fashion to a whole new level.
However, that term does not begin and end with Carrie. As much as we would like to, not everyone has the ability to buy and wear the things that she is able to wear. A true fashionista is first a fashionista at heart. Ever since she can remember, she was playing in clothes or trying to make them. She adores designer labels, yet revels in vintage clothing stores. She is able to mix and match effortlessly. A true fashionista is not obvious. With that said, I have defined three types of fashionistas: The “Poser” Fashionista, The Budget Fashionista, and The True Fashionista.
To begin, I will define for you the “Poser” Fashionista. This is the girl that everyone thinks is a fashionista because she’s got all the designer labels and EVERYONE knows about it. She’s got Gucci shoes that say “Gucci” across the heel, a Chanel bracelet that says “Chanel” on it, and a monogrammed Louis Vuitton bucket hat, all worn at the same time. She is the girl who throws it in your face that she has money and can afford designer brands. She is what is perceived as a fashionista. But the truth? She’s a poser. She’s a fake! She is the woman who has no personal style and thinks that name dropping the designers she’s wearing will cover that up. She seeks to be accepted into the luxury community by flaunting her wealth, something a true fashionista would never do. Her complete opposite is…
The Budget Fashionista. Simply, the Budget Fashionista is a True Fashionista without all the money. She represents more than half of all fashionistas. She is the woman who reads Vogue, Elle, InStyle and Harper’s Bazaar and revels in all of the marvelous fashions on display. The only difference is she can’t afford the designer labels. Her solution? Translate current trends and classics into looks that she can find at more affordable stores such as Macy’s, H&M; and Kohl’s. She can make a $2 shirt look like it cost $200. But don’t be fooled; when she is able to, she splurges on durable items such as a leather handbag or designer shoes. Her trick is mixing those expensive pieces with her thrift store finds to create a stunning look. She realizes that fashion is more than designer labels. Its about self discovery and presenting herself to the world in the best packaging she can find. And she looks forward to wrapping herself up in clothing everyday.
Now. The True Fashionista. She is the woman who is fortunate enough to be able to afford designer brands, yet smart enough to still appreciate thrift shops and vintage clothing stores. She wears Gucci and Chanel and J.Mendel, but she keeps it secret. She goes to vintage stores and selects items that can be paired with her pricey designer duds. She is who all fashion lovers aspire to be. One famous example? As much as I hate to say it, Rachel Zoe is a perfect example of a True Fashionista. She “dies” when she sees spectacular clothing, whether it be designer or vintage. She has a true understanding that fashion isn’t just frivolous — it’s life changing.
So where do I stand? Currently, I’m a Budget Fashionista. (But then again with the current economy, who wouldn’t be?) I aspire to be a True Fashionista one day but as for now, no way. Fashion for me isn’t serious. I believe that the true key to having style is to not think about being stylish. When we try to be stylish we tend to “over style.” Style is a gift. Either you have it, or you don’t. Can it be taught? Yes. But maintaining style is another lesson to be taught.
So what is my message? If you are a fashionista, stay true to your personal style. Don’t be swayed by something just because it has a particular label attached to it. If you love it, I say buy it. You can always change your mind later.
