I'm delighted to be sharing the Stylish Thoughts of Dayle who Instagrams at Artful City Style. Based in Manhattan, New York she shares her unique take on style regularly with her followers. Photos taken by Denton Taylor
What is the secret to great style?
Style is all about personal expression. As opposed to fashion, which is about the clothing, style is about how an individual expresses herself or himself through the clothing choices she or he makes. It is all about knowing yourself and being comfortable in your own skin.
I would say that my style is artistic and dramatic. I like asymmetrical lines and the use of multiple fabrics in a single garment. I am drawn to the shape of clothing and like pieces that have unusual silhouettes. Accessories are the key to my look. Often, I will build an outfit around a scarf or a piece of jewelry. I have never wanted to look like everyone else. Although I am a New Yorker and have a lot of the requisite black in my closet, I love bold colors.
What are your top tips for looking stylish when travelling?
I am famous among my friends for travelling for weeks with only a carry-on. The secret is picking a color scheme and accessorizing, accessorizing, accessorizing. It takes me far longer to pack than if I were taking a lot of clothing because I start with a bed full of clothing and pare down and down until I only have the minimum of pieces that work together. Using accessories, I can create totally different looks.
What is your current obsession?
I tend to have color obsessions. Currently fuchsia and bright yellow top the list.
Do you have a signature piece or style?
Accessories are the key to my look. I could wear the same black dress every day and make it look different. I always wear multiple bangles on my right arm and am particularly fond of earrings that go together but don't match. I like to wear unusual eyeglasses. I love wearing strong colors. I love having pieces that are one of a kind and hand-made.
What's your secret to making yourself stand out?
I have fun putting things together. My style is really my art. When I see a piece of clothing that I like, I immediately think of how I am going to accessorize it. Or if there is an accessory I like, I create a whole outfit around it.
The one piece of advice most women need but don't get?
I really want to tell women not to be afraid of color. So many women stick with black and beige because it is more comfortable, but dressing in color can really bring joy. Even starting with a colorful accessory can be a gateway.
Who are your style icons?
I have to say that Iris Apfel is at the top of my list. I love that she continues to be a style icon at her age. What appeals to me about Iris besides her impeccable taste and her extraordinary way of putting things together is her individuality. She has a signature style. She is the antithesis of the "take one piece of jewelry off before you leave the house" philosophy. Iris combines high fashion and extraordinary personal style.
