In the journey of self discovery for a woman, I find there are always two areas where a woman simply shines: 1) when she knows what colours look good 2) when she knows her style. I've found in talking to many women that either 1) they stick to what they like and know 2) they like to change their style and look often. However, what stays the same, is the notion of creating a look and style that is all your own. In my personal journey, its been about embracing and accepting myself and peeling away layers. I've had an internal notion that I have a soft, delicate look, personality, colouring etc etc - In the past, I've always been somewhat of a rebel, going for bold, in your face colours and styles. What I've come to understand recently, is that when I really embrace who I am and allow myself to find that inner comfort and inner peace, my look is not dramatic, its not earthy-natural or in your face avant garde - when I try to be like this, I'm actually putting on an act, trying to be something I'm not. A huge part of self acceptance is really taking a step back, taking 'off' the mask and embracing the person that God created you to be. For me, this person is not edgy, but classic with a romantic edge. I needed to step back from what I've 'tried' so hard to become (which is the person you think 'others' would like you be) and instead step 'forward' and become the person 'I am'. To me this is a huge revelation because we live in a society that tells us whats in, whats sexy, whats in style etc etc. I find that the most inspiring women, don't listen or follow these trends, they stay true to who they really are. I'm at that point where I'm 'embracing' my soft autumn palette and enjoying my soft classic style. In doing so, I actually feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders - no more trying to be someone I'm not just to impress 'society'. Its almost as if one circle of following trends is coming to an end, but a new one is emerging - I'm calling this circle 'self-acceptance'.
Just for fun, I wanted to share a few collages, one is from Kibbe's 'Metamorphasis' - its a soft classic celebrity collage (I included myself in the collage so you can see how well the soft classic fit is) and the second is me with my soft autumn colours - this new acceptance of softness and classic/romantic style is only the beginning - I feel I am really becoming true and honest with myself - I'm at a good place right now both in mind, body and spirit - I feel 'at home' with my palette my style and my life (what a fantastic feeling this is!!!):
4 comments:
I love this post, Renata! I, too, feel what you have expressed. When I try to be a certain type, it doesn't feel right. I feel almost Classic, but too Natural, with an undertone of Boho. So my solution was to embrace Natural first and soften it with non-extremes of silhouettes and added accessories. I found it best to keep simple, fresh lines and wear only one special item of very unusual and treasureful jewelry or scarf at a time--freedom and romantic adventure all in one. Still don't have everything for my wardrobe, but am really loving what I have now.
Renata, I, too, am a Soft Autumn. I've been a follower of Kibbe since the publication of his book in the 80's. I wrote to him and had an analysis done by mail. Soft Classic! I love how you made a collage of his examples of Soft Classic women. Many are film stars that aren't familiar today-Merle Oberon, Norma Shearer, and Joan Fontaine. When you see them together in the collage, you see the similarities. Although in my 50's now, it's been hard for me to embrace the Soft qualities that I know are really my essence. I read a post by Christine in 12 Blueprints asking where David Kibbe is now. I agree. He would enjoy a great comeback and, hopefully, write a new edition of his remarkable book! What brands of makeup are you wearing? I love the eyes and lips! Keep doing your beautiful work!
Hi Cynthia,
Thank you for writing! I really adore the soft classic style and the more I delve into embracing it, the more I'm learning about how elegant the softness really is! I recently had my colour analysis re-done and it turns out I'm actually a true autumn vs a soft autumn, but I still like to use the soft shades from the true autumn palette! As for makeup, my favourite brands are MAC, Bobbi Brown, NARS, Laura Mercier and some products from Chanel. I think that the best quality makeup is from Laura Mercier and NARS - the consistency and application of their makeup is fantastic! There is one lipstick that you may really like from Chanel - its called jersey rose and is perfect for SA's!!!
Thanks for the lipstick suggestion! You look great in warm autumn. I haven't had a draping done in person, but online analysis is soft autumn. Thanks again on behalf of soft autumns!
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