Wait-what exactly is personal style? Celebrities own it, stylists design it and editors advise it, but a rounded aesthetic is paradoxically difficult to develop and respect. Between the TikTok-fueled Y2K tidal wave, the persistence of minimalism and the temptation to leave modernity on the runway and dress like a 50s Audrey Hepburn, consistency becomes a constant challenge. But don’t worry: our stylists have fleshed out five important types of aesthetics so that you can decide which style is right for you.
First of all, consider your lifestyle when choosing your Signature Look. Do you prefer a sunny day to an afternoon of window shopping in SoHo? Go straight to The boho-Chic aesthetic. Is shopping in the mountain village or in other institutions on Fifth Avenue rather your speed? Check out the “Uptown Classic” way of dressing. No matter how sensitive you are, there is something in store for you. Literally-we have product recommendations for every sense of style.
1. Boho-Chic
Serena Van Der Woodsen’s Boho-Chic aesthetic is for the no-frills dresser who doesn’t take herself too seriously. The designers under the boho-Chic roof range from New York Hotshots (Ulla Johnson; Altuzarra) to French favorites (Isabel Marant; Chloé). What is shared is The love of print, texture and funky details like beads and fringes. Among the Boho trends of this Season, Space Dye, Paisley, crochet and lush bangs prevail.
2. minimalist
Fans of elongated cuts, spacious silhouettes and a history of light colors should make minimalism their Holy Grail aesthetic. It all started in the mid-2010s, when brands like The Row and Celine focused on well-formed clothes that deserted the affective and caffeinated design codes of the Aughts. Believing that the devil is in the details, every stitch is perfectly placed, be it a t-Shirt or a luxury leather bag — and brings a Sewing approach to the everyday uniform. Enjoy the Minimalist Look, whether you are a host, running errands or having dinner with a friend.
3. Y2K Streetwear
The Y2K trend is undoubtedly the most intoxicating of all types of aesthetics and the lively upstart of the moment that is quickly conquering the hearts of Generation Z. Defined by a more-that is, more approach, The Y2K aesthetic prefers micro-mini-skirts, fishnet tops, baby T-shirts and low-slung pants-tied together by as many hair clips and candy-colored balls as you can wear at once. This is all the Chaos for which the icons of the 00s laid the foundations, with some new twists for the modern Moment. Wear Y2K favorites like Blumarine and The Attico while you’re having brunch downtown.
4. Uptown Classic
If Boho-Chic is the Serena of aesthetics, then Uptown Classic is Blair Waldorf. Prim, neat and polished to the sky, these types of dressers strive for perfection at every step. Impeccable tailoring and conservative lamination prevail, combined with luxurious Accessories that will last for many more years. The anchor pieces of a great classic wardrobe in the Uptown district? A tweed jacket, a neutral shoulder bag and a pair of barely visible Manolo sandals.
5. maximalist
Logomans, fans of faux fur, color blockers, gather: maximalism is Aesthetics for them. Maximalist dressers are an offshoot of the Y2K trend and are not afraid to try their hand at the pretentious and avant-garde world, whether with beetle-eyed Balenciaga sunglasses or a chic Saint Laurent coat. Texture, color and movement in close-up, this Look is intended for the main types of characters who want to see and be seen.