The Staple Item

Every outfit has a theme. Something that inspired it. Something where the focus is on that particular thing. Something that brings the whole look together. Something that completes the image. It can sometimes be something small, other times it's right in your face. It is the something that without it the look just would not work or just would not look right.

When I try to conceptualise an outfit or a look I first think of what I want to achieve. Then the occasion. While some things are great at one place, they may not work, or will have to be toned down to work elsewhere. There are of course outfits that only work all together. Others can be adapted or dressed down/up. Others are rather universal and it is that one item that just works with everything.

This item can be small or large. A necklace to a coat, a hat to a belt. What makes it special is the focus it brings to the outfit. Sometimes the whole outfit is visually stunning and therefore it is the idea that makes it fantastic. I don't like copying looks or style. I look at an image or style and try to make it my own. If I see someone wearing a particular thing or even doing something unusual with something normal (like using a tie as a belt) I may utilise the idea but personalise it.

I think a look is only as good as the idea and the effort put behind it. Not every look has to be time consuming and elaborate. However there are times when you can tell if time has been invested into it. This includes everything from hair, make-up (if applicable), accessories and gadgets (more a cyber/steampunk thing).

DIY items are also great, if done well. My jacket, a leather biker one, is all Punked up and similar to the one pictured above. Sometimes even the simplest things can look great. I cut the sleeves off a top and it looks 10 times better.



Time and effort can often pay dividends.










Draw inspiration from anywhere. Whilst there is a fine line between costume and clothes there is artistic licence within the alternate subculture. It is up to you. Just be sure of you. Why not create a story or background to your image inspiration. I love the Warhammer 40'000 universe as well as lots of Sci-Fi. I draw my cyber and industrial ideas from that. I couldn't list all of them hear but anything that inspires you can be a focal point for an outfit. Mood boards are a great way to bring ideas together.

Just have fun with the look and just be happy and confident in yourself. If you are happy in it, go for it. Be yourself :)