Last Saturday, July 17, 2010, the Philippine Daily Inquirer 2bU section published my article! That’s a big YAY for me (I even had my household help run off to the streets right outside my house to secure me a copy). Unfortunately, the article was trimmed down in half–not that it’s a bad thing, of course as I think I do have this tendency to go off in a tangent and my God, I can talk on and on and on and possibly bore you to death (I’m already doing that, aren’t I?). Since only the crucial parts were maintained, I ended up sounding like a snooty know-it-all, not that I’m not in real life, and you know, the point is moot so let’s just leave it be. Anyway, in hopes of redeeming myself (my previous article had DERP DERP, stupid comments, and stupid comments make me less of a know-it-all, right?), I’ve decided to post the entire thing I wrote.
The original title was: Celebrity Style on a “Campus Budget” / A Frugal Fashionista’s Rule(s) of Thumb when it comes to Celebrity Style
The fashion industry cannot be without celebrities—each brand is dependent on a celebrity to endorse their products (it could be through direct advertisements or indirect patronage), dependent on a celebrity who can assert the brand’s message and identity, and dependent on a celebrity who can knowingly or unknowingly create a need for various trends.
Celebrities are powerful—the breadth of their influence, unimaginable. This is why people like me are mildly obsessed with the clothes celebrities wear and likewise, the trends they set—it’s not to say they are the be all and end all of things but there’s no denying that they provide reliable basis and inspiration when it comes to dressing up.
But the thing one constantly overlooks with celebrities in general is that, they earn thousands upon thousands per movie/music gig or endorsement deals—so obviously, because they have more money, they are most likely willing to invest in pricey clothes. But if you are like me and money in excess is a very rare occurrence, then you’ll have to make do with your given resources.
Armed with a minimal amount of cash, and your current wardrobe, here are some ways in which you too, can dress like your favourite celebrity:
#1 Good Basics
On red carpets, on fancy galas, and on screen, it is common to see celebrities donning high fashion, expensive garments. However, off-duty, they try to assimilate this tiny bit of real-world normalcy by doing random, everyday errands, and dressing up in a casual manner. However, unlike normal individuals, they just can’t throw on a pair of ratty velour sweats, instead, they have to take into consideration the number of paps hiding behind the bushes and dress a little bit safely. This is perhaps why, good basics are God’s gift to every celebrity—and it need not be expensive, it just has to fit right. I think one’s wardrobe should include a torso elongating v-neck tee and a fit ribbed racer-back tank top in white, black, and grey.
#2 Statement Pieces
Statement pieces give personality to one’s outfit—because they are often bold and unforgettable, there is only a limited number of times one can utilize them. A statement piece can be anything—either a top or a bottom or a bag or a pair of shoes or an accessory—so as long as it gives the wear that “unique” edge. This is why, at least one statement piece should be incorporated to every outfit. Check for pieces with unique prints and extraordinary cuts or shapes.
#3 Accessories
Just like how the Oscars acknowledge supporting actors and actresses, accessories should also be acknowledged for its contribution in a celebrity’s outfit—no matter how minimal. Accessories act as the outfit’s support, further strengthening the look the celebrity or the person wants to establish. Keep looking for quirky pieces that are of quality: hats, bags, shoes, and metal hardware. The important thing to remember about managing accessories is that you have to go to either extremes; be simple and minimal, or pile them up together to create a maximalist look—certainly nothing in between.
#4 Heels
Most women invest in shoes—no matter the demographics and whatsoever constraints. Ninety-nine point nine percent of celebrities invest in sexy heels, in different colors, and in different styles and textures. Heels give women additional leverage, they also happen to give women a good, respectable stance. Of course, you don’t have to wear heels all the time but it’s important to own at least three. Just ease up on using them or you’ll be forever confronted by unsightly bunions.
#5 Confidence
If you are not confident with how you look then there is no point to dressing up. It’s not to say that you must be assured of your style or look, but rather, you have to make sure that the outfit you’re wearing is not only appropriate for the occasion but one that allows you to exude confidence. Of course, it’s understandable that all women have their bad days—mostly because of harried choices and sometimes because the clothes they’re wearing are ill fitting. Nothing that can’t be remedied though! The important thought is that Fashion is all about empowering women and self-expression, if it does not achieve it’s goal then it is not fashion.
Photo Credits: Jewelries from Les Roux | Clothes from What a Girl Wants| Photography by: Tricia Gosingtian| Styling by Krystle Uy .
Random Notes: Check my outfit feature over at www.mrdeyn.blogspot.com.
