The Secret to Finding Your Signature Style
Take it from four fashionable Canadians who have it figured out.
You’ve heard that having a signature style is essential to being fashion forward—but what does that mean, really? We talked to four friends of FASHION to get the inside scoop on their style philosophies.
Having a curated wardrobe of silhouettes, colours, cuts and styles that feel like you can go a long way, but this isn’t something that happens overnight. To understand your personal style, you need to know yourself. After all, the clothing you wear is your identity! Impulse buying a whole new closet can be risky (and expensive) if you aren’t in tune with your personal tastes.
Take it from these Canadian talents: developing your signature style can be hard, but it’s not impossible. Here’s how they did it—and how you can, too.
Christian Thompson, Style Correspondent and Content Creator
His signature silhouette: “I live for outerwear that makes an entrance—especially floor-length coats with a hint of drama. Think embellished shoulders, sculptural sleeves, a sharply cinched waist or a bold, oversized silhouette.”
How he found it: “The runway, of course, is an endless source of inspiration. But working in fashion, I discover statement coats everywhere—from social media and online publications to vintage stores and sample sales.”
Daniel Pillai, CEO and President of Langton PR
His signature style: “I’d describe my style as radiant, unapologetic and bold. I’m drawn to eyewear with interesting frames and patterns, and I love androgynous metal jewellery pieces.”
How he found it: “I was overweight and limited by clothing options when I was growing up, so my specs and accessories became a powerful way to express myself. They let my personality pop and reminded me that looking and feeling amazing is all about owning your outfit with confidence, no matter what the size tag says.”
Meredith Shaw, Television and Radio Host
Her signature item: “My Rocknot strap. She’s as practical as she is sparkly. I can transform any bag into a crossbody!”
How she found it: “I love any and all sparkly things, and I think my algorithm now knows it! I was served an ad for it on social media and purchased it right away. I’ve since added more straps to my collection.”
Veronica Chu, Makeup Artist and Hairstylist
Her signature colour: “All black. It keeps everything looking cohesive, but it also pushes me to get creative. I love oversized silhouettes and playing with texture, structure and fun elements that add personality and depth.”
How she found it: “I discovered my signature style through function. On-set, I need to be comfortable and move fast, so my base look is always something I can work in. From there, I just add a piece or two, switch up my shoes or accessories and I’m out the door.”
With files from Maddison Hoyt.
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Annika Lautens is the former fashion news and features director of FASHION Magazine. With a resumé that would rival Kirk from "Gilmore Girls", she’s had a wide variety of jobs within the publishing industry, but her favourite topics to explore are fashion sociology and psychology. Annika currently lives in Toronto, and when she’s not interviewing celebrities, you can find her travelling.
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