While some people dismiss style as frivolous or something to be snobbed at, it’s actually an important aspect of one’s identity. It’s the voice that speaks without words, a way to make an impactful first impression, and a powerful representation of oneself.
Style is a set of characteristics that distinguishes an individual or an object, such as a certain genre of music or fashion, an artist’s artistic technique, or a writer’s writing style. It may also refer to a particular period or group of artists, as in “gypsy style,” or the manner in which something is done, as in “doing it in Ciceronian style.” Institutions and firms often have a distinctive style, such as a university’s “house style” for its publications or an architecture firm’s distinct building design.
The word “style” derives from the Latin stilus, which means “manner of writing.” It can therefore refer to a specific type of artistic or musical expression and its historical development, as well as an author’s or speaker’s manner of communication.
In literature, style is a crucial component of an author’s work that sets it apart from others and helps readers connect with the text. It is what enables authors to express their unique voices, and it is a vital tool that allows writers of different genres to convey their ideas in interesting and captivating ways.
The style of an art form reflects the cultural climate and the social conditions in which it develops. For example, the romantic euphoria of the Enlightenment encouraged an expansion of form and technique, while the political turmoil of the early 20th century led to a return to simple lines and a rejection of expressiveness. The emergence of modernist styles in the early 1900s, in contrast, was characterized by the search for balance between the technical achievements of the artist and the purpose of the art.
While there are many definitions of style, most agree that it is a combination of factors that affect the appearance of an author’s work and its effect on the reader. It encompasses elements such as vocabulary, tone, and sentence structure. It is also influenced by the medium in which the author works, such as print or film.
Developing your own personal style takes time and trial and error. Trying out trends and experimenting with your look will help you find what makes you feel most comfortable and confident. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—it’s all part of the process!
Whether it’s your wardrobe, personality, or presentation skills, improving your style can have a positive impact on all areas of your life. It will lead to a more fulfilled career, healthy relationships, and a stronger sense of self. So instead of taking that BuzzFeed quiz that claims to tell you in 5 seconds if you’re a boho babe or a corporate powerhouse, take the time to build a true style. You’ll thank yourself later.