In part one of the Soul Style Series, I gave you a brief overview of each of the 8 different soul styles. This week, in part two, we’re going to dig a little deeper into the first four…
THE YIN & YANG OF SOUL STYLE
We’re all drawn to certain items, places or aesthetics because of our unique personalities, and it’s the same for the clothing that we’re drawn to. Whether it be individual pieces we’re obsessed with or our overall wardrobe vibe, our choices are closely connected to who we are on the inside. We all have a soul style, and getting to know yours makes dressing for your own individual soul style second nature.
There are 8 different soul style archetypes; 4 of them have a more feminine energy (yin), and the other 4 a more masculine energy (yang). There are 2 types of energy inside every single human on the planet; the “yin” or feminine energy & the “yang” which is the masculine energy.
The yin & yang energies have not a thing to do with gender, they have more to do with personality traits & our ways of being in the world. Yin energy is more right-brained & thus associated with creativity, color, movement, romance, emotions & expression. Yang energy is left-brained & leans more towards logic, reasoning, power & ambition.
Typically you resonate more strongly with either your masculine or feminine energy. Some people have more of a balance between the 2, however that’s not as common as having an affinity for one or the other. I’m pretty sure if you think about it, you’re going to be able to tell which of the energies is more dominant inside of you.
When you figure out our own soul style (there’ll be a quiz at the end of the series to help you nail it down), usually there are 2 of the styles that you will most strongly resonate with & typically one is a yin energy and the other a yang energy. Keep in mind though that we’re humans & thus not meant to be neatly labeled & put into boxes. So even when you have your soul style all figured out that doesn’t mean there won’t be aspects of other styles that you’re attracted to & absolutely can wear. For example, I’m totally the poster child for the bohemian & rebellious/rock & roll soul style, BUT I lean heavily into the natural/relaxed style, especially when I’m at home or just hangin’ out.
Knowing your soul style is simply a fun creative way to focus your wardrobe, save yourself time when you’re getting dressed & money when you’re shopping…it’s not a lifetime commitment.
THE YIN SOUL STYLES
Sensual, elaborate, sexy; body-conscious & flowy style; curvaceous & ultrafeminine; luxurious fabrics like satin & silk, loves all the shiny things…sequins, diamonds, jewels, glitter, metallics; bright or deep jewel tones; loves opulence & the sensual feel of fabrics; lavish embroidery & embellishments are common; lingerie is super important, love to show a glimpse of a beautiful bra under a blouse; almost always wears heels, feels more powerful & glamorous when wearing them; often love to entertain, homes are often decorated in an elaborate manner with lots of cream & gold, often attracted to Renaissance style i.e. Beyonce, Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe
Romantic, laid-back, unconventional; individual & expressive; loose fitting & ethereal; natural fabrics, lace, crochet, suede, leather; neutral tones with pops of bright colors like turquoise or red, style elements from 60’s or 70’s; warm, earthy, flowy; often includes lots of layering; mixed print designs or embroidery, fringe, tassels or bead embellishments on clothing & accessories; footwear includes gladiator sandals, wooden chunky heels or platforms, cowboy boots; jewelry is often made from natural elements like wood or crystals, lots of layered necklaces and/or bracelets; home decor is often eclectic including lots of pattern, textures & colors, but also neutrals like brown & white i.e. Drew Barrymore, Kate Winslet, Lily Tomlin
Whimsical, quirky, fun; style with lots of colors & fun prints; loves beautiful fabrics such as hand-painted or printed silks and lace; suede, denim, corduroy, fur and animal prints; creatives often include boho or vintage elements in their style; overall distinctive & unique sometimes off-beat look; ruffles, velvet, tulle & a lot of layers; drawn to patterns like polka dot, paisley, tie-dye & bold florals; often artists who are highly creative & place high value on self-expression; not afraid to stand out in regard to their style; small, delicate jewelry especially with charms that jingle when they move or conversely, chunky colorful bold pieces that really make a statement; bold statement accessories like scarves, belts & hats; home is filled with character with an eclectic mix of color & styles, often drawn to Victorian homes or warehouses, colorful throw pillows & blankets, lots of area rugs i.e. Rihanna, Helena Bonham Carter
Poised, refined, well put together; tend to look dressed up even when casual (well-fitting dark denim paired with a blazer & pumps); elegant & look amazing in suits; prefer timeless to trendy, everything worn is tasteful, minimal & chic; cardigans, well-cut blouses & pants, pencil skirts; typically drawn to pastels & soft neutrals, if there is a splash of color it would coordinate well with the rest of the outfit; kitten to mid-heel refined pumps or tasteful loafers or flats; jewelry is minimal often a single strand of pearls or delicate chain necklace, a thin bangle & delicate watch; home decor is tasteful & neutral nothing over the top, furniture all placed symmetrically i.e. Halle Berry, Kate Middleton, Audrey Hepburn
Be sure to stop by next Tuesday when we’ll be deep divin’ into the yang (masculine) soul styles…see you then!
THE LINK UPS
Check out the weekly link ups I participate in for even more good reads & style ideas…
