Is the era of personal style over? The internet seems to think so, but it’s also likely—at least in part—to blame.
With many taking inspiration from or mimicking aspects of other’s lives and style they’ve seen online, it’s no wonder. Then, there’s the capsule wardrobe and quiet luxury effect, which may have been a welcome move away from over consumption and trend-fatigue, but can also oversteer into monotony if not injected with aspects of one’s own personality.
The third factor feeding this sense of uniform dressing could be cozzie livs. With budgets for discretionary spending dwindling, it’s natural for consumers to favour styles that are the fashion equivalent of a sure bet.
Creative Consultant and Trend Forecaster, Lucinda Pikkat, recently spoke to this notion as she compared almost identical items from multiple retailers.
“I think one of the main reasons we’re seeing this is the trend cycle in social media…they accelerate that trend adoption. Many brands whether they’re high end or fast fashion, they chase those viral trends to try and stay relevant,” she explains.
She then adds: “I think with the push towards sustainable fashion it’s encouraged brands to focus on more timeless designs that takes people from season to season.”
@lucindapikkat Why are we all dressing the same?! Hats on
♬ original sound – LUCINDA PIKKAT! Xx @Kate Forster #brand #fashion #australianfashion #trend #fashiontrend
Maintaining a personal sense of unique style without breaking the bank, chasing trends or casting aside your capsule wardrobe is possible. A lot of this comes down to developing an aesthetic that isn’t swayed by trends, styling the pieces you own in new ways and shopping from brands that have a unique style.
For the latter, we’ve rounded up some of the best brands we love to shop for unique pieces.
Brands To Shop With Unique Style
Alemais
Alemais’ pieces are almost instantly distinguishable and yet completely unique. From the prints to the silhouettes, they know what they’re about and they do it well.
Zimmermann
An icon of Australian fashion, Zimmermann’s distinct aesthetic has never waivered. You can always find stunning ruffles, sueded silks and standout prints here.
Asta Resort
The Australian resort brand is making waves overseas for its sultry, shimmery and sheer pieces perfect for poolside wearing.
Kourh
Calling itself the “rebellious teenager” of fashion, Kourh’s edgy, statement pieces somehow blur the lines between laid back cool and red-carpet glamour. Opposite ends of the spectrum, and yet completely cohesive.
Wynn Hamlyn
New Zealand brand Wynn Hamlyn is distinguished by expert tailoring with a twist, technical knitwear and stunningly intricate details you won’t see copy-and-pasted elsewhere.
Christopher Esber
Christopher Esber is fast becoming one of the country’s hottest exports. Sculptural and sensual is the brief, but here you’ll always find piece that sit outside the trend box.
This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
