As the world turns (so to speak) preaching and teaching us that "all men are created equal", one thing remains true, that although we might be made the same, that doesn't necessarily mean we must LOOK the same. Here's where our friend, style, steps in and lends a hand.

My take on style is that it's used to represent, enhance and/or hide the traits and personal characteristics we want to impress on the world around us. We hope to somehow use our appearance to help influence how we want to be percieved by others. The press, media and designers are feverishly working to provide the apparell and accessories you choose to create your custom look. All hoping to set a trend for others to follow. Now throw in a hundred (100) different sources selling the same idea and ask yourself...who's defining who? Them or you?

"Are you setting a trend, or following it?"

Since we're products of our environment, what have we drawn from experience that we've found to be useful and positive sources of inspiration? What are you're favorite colors? Next, you'll need to collaborate with a professional and see what colors match your flesh tones and features and take it from there. Find out the stylish and comfortable qualities you look for in clothing? Are you using your wardrobe to enhance your features or hide them? Do you feel confident about the way you look? Can you think of any ways to improve your image, or do you even care? If you don't, why are you reading this to begin with?

Whoever said..."It's not the clothes that make the man". Obviously didn't live in Beverly Hills. But on the other hand, indeed, the man makes the clothes. The BASICS:

1. SEX SELLS!
2. YOU WEAR THE CLOTHES, THE CLOTHES DON'T WEAR YOU!
3. SEX SELLS!

To make sure you don't get caught in this trap, find the designer/s that suit your style needs best. Usually, we all try to avoid generalizations, but in this case, try and narrow down your search into categories and find out where you go to find the things you need to create who you are. Personally, I'm partial to All-American style and look to designers like Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers, LaCoste, Gap, A&F...Basically, If it makes you feel good about yourself, that's usually a good place to start.

Take a look back and think of people who defied social convention and created their own individual style and influenced a style in itself. (Marlon Brando, for example, one of the top trend setters for the classic t-shirt he wore in Streetcar Named Desire)

Great...now just copy them exactly and you, my friend, just created a custom style all your own!

We knew you could do it all along.