Fashion vs. Style - What’s The Difference?

For decades now, people around the world have used the terms “fashion” and “style” interchangeably, not knowing that there is, in fact, a distinct difference between them. “Oh, I LOVE your fashion!” is a statement we often hear, but this statement doesn’t make a whole lot of sense, and we’ll explain why.

When we think of the fashion industry as a whole, we think of clothing and accessories, models and runways, and perhaps cities like Paris and Milan for the most part, right? So where does style come into play, and what the heck is the difference between fashion and style?

Fashion

Elie Saab Haute Couture - Spring/Summer ‘24

Fashion is the uber-trendy and constantly shifting realm of apparel and accessories we see modeled on catwalks and curated in print campaigns. Fashion items are created by designers who have developed hype and clout around their names via the items they’ve produced. They typically become famous due to consistency in design (having a signature look or a signature feature) and exclusivity - creating items that have a limited number to be sold, for instance.

Its basis truly is competition; who has the latest designer items, the most of their items, and the most expensive of their items is of the highest regard in the industry. Due to this exclusivity, fashion industry clientele largely base their value in this area on external factors like having the latest pieces from top designers, and what onlookers think of them as a result.

Typically, every half year calls for a new wardrobe that can be selected from these designers’ spring/summer and fall/winter collections (for the corresponding year in which we are, or will be, of course). Since the industry is hyper-focused on trends, subscribers must keep up with the latest and greatest in the industry to be taken at all seriously. It is a very from-the-outside-in approach to apparel, but often a very beautiful one.

Style

Style is wholly about individuality and self-expression. Creativity essentially is the epitome of style, and looking like you’re not part of the pack. So, when someone is able to find their style, it’s as though they're able to express their personality without needing to verbalize anything.

Though an individual’s style may be ever evolving, it doesn’t necessitate constant purchases. One may be able to reimagine their wardrobe and wear their belongings in different ways that speak to one’s style at that time. But, if shopping makes your heart sing, do it! It doesn’t preclude self-expression if you like to update your wardrobe.

Style is personal and enduring. It isn’t about other people, it’s about oneself and looking inward. In other words, this is the from-the-inside-out approach to apparel. Reflecting upon how you can express yourself and your feelings that day or during a specific time in your life and then translating that into what you wear is the basis of personal style. Although it’s fluid, it’s also timeless because it’s solely about you!

Fashion Meets Style

If you find the idea of developing your personal style daunting, then following fashion designers and their collections is one way to ensure you’re purchasing cohesive looks. Bearing in mind that this option comes with a hefty expense. Designer items’ prices can be daunting.

With that said, maybe you fall under neither category. Perhaps you feel like you’re somewhere between being a full-on fashion junkie and slaying your own style. Maybe you love designer items but aren’t sure how to incorporate them into your personal style. Don’t worry! We’re going to tackle how to seamlessly meld fashion and style in a future post, so keep your eyes on the blog and on our Instagram stories to know when a new post is up!

As always, we love having you here and we look forward to writing to you soon. In the meantime, leave a comment about which camp you’re in, or if you’re somewhere in the middle!

Talk to you soon <3

Margarite & Alexandra