Relaxed Style

Style Personality Series

Happy day, reader dear!

As I mentioned in the introductory post to this series, NO ONE is just one personality style! Each of these (Arche)Types is an extreme, or caricature, if you will. Every woman (and man) is unique, and so should style be. You may love the colors of one style, the fabrics of a second, and the lines and accessories of a third. Combining the elements makes your style uniquely you!

I started with Classic Style , but please remember: When it comes to style, personality trumps all. That’s because style is your personality expressed through what you wear on your body. Everyone has a personality, so EVERYONE has a style, even if they aren’t aware of what it is… Or what it should be for them! Many people dress in a default pattern without even taking the time to think, “Is this me?” “Is this what I want to say to the world?” A default isn’t a uniform. A default is a mindless pattern, in this case, of dressing. There’s nothing wrong with a consciously chosen uniform, or You-niform! Today, we’ll handle someone more relaxed…

The Relaxed woman is all about comfort. It could be that she loves the outdoors and wants to be able to move, or has a highly kinaesthetic (sensory) nature. Or both! Along with comfort, convenience is her watchword. Ms. Relaxed will be low maintenance or no maintenance, and may appear to neglect her appearance (She has more important things to do!) which can come across as sloppy. Some might describe her as Crunchy or Granola; she would call herself practical. If she works at an office, Ms. Relaxed feels constricted in a suit, and is the first to kick off her heels at the end of the day! (Her shoes are likely to be off her feet under her desk, too…)

Ms. Relaxed gravitates toward the colors of nature: Blues, Greens, Tans, Browns, Greys, Rusts… Neon shades (unless for outdoor safety) are not her jam. She prefers her fabrics soft and textured. Think nubbly knits, fleeces, and corduroy. You won’t find Ms. Relaxed in constricting silhouettes. Everything she wears will be easy to move in. Tags, and waistbands that itch, and elastic or shoes that pinch will make her crazy. Stretch jeans were made for this woman!

Ms. Relaxed may wear no jewelry at all, but if she does, the shapes will be soft and organic: leaves, feathers, slightly rounded and irregular shapes, leather, brushed finishes, and raw or natural stones. No harsh angles or geometric pieces for her! If she wears a watch, it’s likely to be a sport model.

Her shoes will be comfortable and practical; nothing will pinch or restrict. She could break into a jog in any of her shoes! She prefers suedes and matte finishes, in browns, greys and olives. The toe is likely to be rounded or almond shaped. Black patent leather pointy toed pumps aren’t going to make it into her closet! If they are there, they were bought for a wedding or a funeral. Her bag will be hands-free.

Shopping is tricky for Ms. Relaxed. On-line shopping may be her preference, because she doesn’t want to waste time at the mall (She’d rather be out hiking.), but because feel and texture are so important to her, on-line shopping may leave her with piles of unworn clothes or returns to be made. She may be happier shopping camping and outdoors stores for shoes and clothing; bonus if the label says “Technical” Think stores like REI and Cabela’s. She may look for brands like Patagonia, North Face, Columbia, Kavu, Jambu, and similar brands.

If “Less is more.” is Ms. Relaxed’s motto, it is especially true in the grooming department. Colored lip balm qualifies as made-up, she might add mascara and powder for a special event. Her hair may be very short and finger comb friendly, or long and pulled into a ponytail. You won’t find her battling her texture, or damaging her locks with curling or straight irons.

So… What elements of the Relaxed Style speak to you? Any? Which make you cringe? Or do you just need more structure, or drama, or softness? This is a great time to start noting your likes as dislikes as the series rolls out. Do let me know your thoughts in the comments below! I love to hear from you!

Stylishly yours,