If you live in the Midwest, you know that fashion doesn’t always hold the same power it does in other corners of the country. But that doesn’t mean the fashion girls have to lose the spark that lets them express who they are. Though its know as the land of farmers markets, county fairs, and Target runs disguised as social events, within it all there are endless opportunities for style… if you know how to play the game.
Practicality vs. Personality
You must get clever so that you don’t fall into the aesthetic of blending-in that the Midwest has mastered. Life is a runway, and the trick is learning how to blend your boldness with practicality. So here it is- a few of my favorite ways to keep your personal style alive:
Statement Outwear
- In a place where you’ll wear a coat for half the year, don’t let your outerwear be an afterthought. Make it the main character. Trench coats, wool bombers, leather jackets, a colorful puffer- coats have personalities, so find one that matches yours. Don’t give up on your style when you get to the piece people will see first.
Explore Textures
- Texture is going to be your friend when color feels intimidating. Think chunky knit sweaters, smooth leather boots, soft sherpa layers, or structured denim jackets. Textures add subtle depth, character, and dimension to even the simplest outfit without the commitment of stand out color.
- Learn more about how to incorporate texture into an outfit here: Your Materclass on Texture.
Prioritize Accessorizing
- Accessories always come in to save a lazy outfit. Start with your base, a simple tee and your favorite pair of jeans, then let the details do the talking. It could be as simple as the way you tuck your shirt and add cuffs to your jeans. A statement belt, ruffled socks, statement earrings, a funky bag, the accessory list never ends. These give you a place to layer on your personality and let your creativity shine.
- @Carrie.bankston shares all of her midwest fashion inspo on TikTok and offers great accessorizing tips!
If you’re feeling stuck in the conformity of the midwest and dream of the day you’ll finally make it to New York to live out all your fashion aspirations, I want to remind you that you don’t have to wait! Creativity thrives in contrast; the suburbs might not look like a runway, but it’s time to start practicing!