A new season of American Idol is underway, and although I normally catch the final rounds, I tuned in this past week to see the top 12 women compete.

The women range in age from 16 to  24.  Their talent is pretty amazing-it was the first time the audience had the opportunity to see each contestant perform and vote.  As one would expect,  Simon Cowell’s critiques were harsher than the other judges  This time though something that he said resonated with me in a different way.

At one point Simon said:  “quite frankly I thought it was boring” and “I don’t know who you are”.

It hit home with me in a new way when crafting your image, your personal style and your unique wardrobe.  Admiring someone’s style is a starting point in creating your style.

“Copying” someone’s style is just that a copy.  It is not you.  Just like Simon said, it is boring, something you have heard/seen before.  Does it look good?  Sure but are you really being unique?  Maybe not.   In order to make yourself unique you must discover not  “copy”  style.

We all have a “Simon”, an inner critic.  Make it easy on yourself when creating a unique style.  Start with something that you can identify with.  Start with music!  What music do you love?  Is it “rock and roll” or is it “country”.  Is it loud or soft, lilting or intense?  All of this will help you to become more aware of who you are on the most intimate level.  Watch as the season progresses.  Each contestant that makes it to the top will connect with and discover their inner music style.

Next time you are admiring someone’s style, pick it apart.  Look at it from head to toe.  What exactly is it that you like about the look?  Is it hair, makeup, shoes, accessories, body line, etc.  Use your 5 senses to connect to your true style and don’t settle with copying someone’s look!  Grab onto an icon to begin – connect with your inner style.  Become your own American Idol-step into your style and remember:

“Look Good, Feel Great and Have FUN Doing It!”

Posted by Karen Hughes on March 1st, 2010 in How To, Style