With New York fashion week just around the corner and September Issues hitting stands, I have been mulling over what trends I will be following for this FW14 season. I started thinking more in-depth about how I wanted to shop for this season.  

I traveled through the fashion capitals of the world this summer, learning about street style in London, haute couture in Paris, ready-to-wear in Milan and the craftsmanship in Florence; it was amazing!  I realized that so many of the great designers and artists that flooded the cities streets had something unique that had nothing to do with a trend.  Each designer had a style that was unique to his or her person and brand.  Their muses and inspirations came from those who were strikingly original and unique.

These muses included the European women that roamed the streets, looking as though putting their outfit together that morning was effortless.  Confidence and grace filled the air as they walked passed me.  

It was then that I realized they did not think twice about the most recent trend and if it didn’t match with their personal style.  Their wardrobe was not filled with fast fashions that would quickly fade, but rather pieces that fit them well and revealed something about them daily.  It made me think differently about how I would shop for this Fall.  Instead of buying ten sweaters that are on trend, I would buy three pieces that represent me.  

It sounds a bit in-depth to think about your clothing so analytically, but imagine the confidence you would feel if the things that encompassed your closet were more about you.  We as fashion lovers sometimes get wrapped up in having what a famous model is wearing versus what actually fits and expresses us properly.  I am not discrediting loving things that are on trend by any means.  I am instead saying don’t just buy up everything on the latest Vogue trend report, take the time to find what represents you and what you feel most comfortable. Flip through the pages of your favorite magazines or browse through articles that inspire you personally.  Taking pride in what you wear is important.

The pieces that you invest in are the ones that will last.  You are not only making an investment in your closet, but also yourself! Looking great and feeling great typically go hand in hand.  So, I encourage you this season to shop for the items that will give you confidence and express you.