I was pondering this question as I scrolled through my FB news feed. There was a post from Burberry about their new Spring/Summer campaign. This is it! Burberry is definitely at the top of my cool list. I can't quite put my finger on what it is exactly, but they just have this cool factor. It's the same sort of cool that I equate with a lot of the models. When you see them in photographs outside of work, many of them have this seemingly effortless style that is just so... cool.
As far as Burberry's overall look is concerned, Christopher Bailey is to thank. He has reinvigorated the brand. It still screams luxury and is timeless, but with an edginess that makes that plaid look brand new. Every season, I can personally say I love everything... shoes, bags, coats, clothing... Then I think, so what? First, I can't afford to wear head-to-toe Burberry. Secondly, if I could, would I really want to? Definitely not. That would be very uncool!
When you think about it, the coolness factor is about personal style. It is about really knowing yourself, what you like, what looks good on you and sticking to that style. It's not about trying every single trend. You definitely need to change things up from season to season, but stick the trends that make sense with your personal style. For example, if you are dying to try animal prints and have a professional/classic look... don't buy the animal print mini dress. Go for the pencil skirt or sheath dress. For this particular style, a classic cut will have much more longevity in your wardrobe. I guarantee that you will wear it for years to come.
Back to Burberry for a minute... Christopher Bailey is the Chief Creative Officer of Burberry. This means that he works very hard to create this "effortlessly cool look". A tremendous amount of time and energy is put into making sure that all aspects of the brand maintain this look. It is not as easy as it seems. So, for the record, no one is cooler than anyone else. It's just that some people are better able to identify their style and stick to it. Anyone can do this, it just takes a bit of time and reflection.
With spring on the horizon, this is the perfect time for some reflection. Try to hone in on what exactly is your own individual "look". When shopping for new clothing, approach it as you would any other major purchase (it doesn't matter if it it is at Forever 21 or Burberry). Evaluate the item in question and make sure that it fits into your style guidelines. Stick to your style, don't deviate with crazy impulse buys and don't buy something just because it looks good on someone else! Keep to the plan and you will also begin to look effortlessly cool!
- Allison
*Photos courtesy of Burberry.
