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I promised a phenomenal Personal Style Icon (PSI) for June, and was even more inclined to find just the right person because today is my birthday. So I went on a search for someone who did something spectacular with his or her clothing choices and wardrobe. I wanted someone who was either very quirky or avant-garde in dress and character -- someone to blow your mind. Instead, I found someone who constantly blows mine. I located a PSI who does something I proclaimed hard to do, or even impossible -- that is, to be in all the latest trends, and still be an individual. I know in the past I have said a person who keeps up with all the newest hotness in fashion becomes another sheep in a flock of people who all dress identically, but this month’s icon shatters this for me. The PSI sets the precedent that being trend-conscious and dedicated doesn’t by any means equal boring or monotonous.
Roumayne Clarke has the distinct ability to wear all the latest trends everyone wants and tries to wear, while looking better than most and in every way separate from the crowd. Though she admits to not being as up on things lately, as in her pre-motherhood days, she still is very trendy in my opinion. She is the epitome of ‘fashion forward’ with a sexy style that is undeniably sophisticated, yet fun. Roumayne can be seen sporting anything from rocker to rugged, all the while being totally herself. From a light and seductive maxi-dress to a chic business suit, Roumayne excels in every aspect of fashion and dressing. I spot Roumayne around town from time to time during the week in fierce heels and work wear, all of which are extremely trendy, yet very work appropriate. What is truly spectacular to me is that because Roumayne’s clothing choices are so trendy they are readily available to many other young ladies. Somehow though, everyone else I see in similar or identical styles just seems to be blasé or over-done. No one else I have seen attempting to keep up with her trends achieves her individual style and un-duplicable fierceness -- from her edgy super-sexy short haircut to the very high, very sexy shoes she wears. Roumayne is truly a Personal Style Icon. So one wonders how she is capable of spanning such widespread fashion styles, and wear popular trends while maintaining individuality. It all boils down to the one thing I always harp on being the most vital thing in everyone arsenal – that is an ironclad level of self-confidence and a love for whatever you wear.
Now, when asked, Roumayne admits to a love for unconventional styles, asymmetrical cuts, and eye-catching style. This tells me that when selecting from the latest trends to wear, her choices are specifically thought out decisions. Truthfully, on closer inspection of her wardrobe, this statement proves true -- these oddities and new age designs are dotted throughout her wardrobe, but she has a way of making even the out-of-place look absolutely right. That’s a characteristic I always longed to have, but am yet to master. Unfortunately, I am among those who wear odd things and people say, “Oh, that’s different”. (Fortunately I am a designer, so therefore slightly excused for being a strange dresser). Roumayne’s ability to push the envelope, stay trendy, and always be an individual is her greatest fashion asset. Though her first love, Fashion, now takes a backseat to her new love of her child, no one can knock her for having her priorities in order.
I know I usually rattle on and on about my PSI choice, but this week I am humbled by the lesson taught to me. It is only fitting that I was given this one on my birthday. A year older now, I learnt today that nothing, especially in fashion, is set in stone, and that if a person has enough confidence, self –awareness and individuality, then no amount of super-trendy clothes can conceal their personal style. Also, that even “trendy” can be extremely individual once you hold true to yourself.
Please suggest anyone you know who you think qualifies to be a Personal Style Icon. Send any suggestions to fashion2thestreet@gmail.com |