Style Archetypes Part 2

by Maria Olaguera

In my last post we looked at the first three of the seven archetypes outlined by Andrea Pflaumer in her book, Shopping for the Real You:

  • Dramatic
  • Natural
  • High-Spirited
  • Classic
  • Romantic
  • Youthful
  • Angelic

Here are the next three:

Classic

The classic style is characterized by:

  • Finely tailored shapes
  • Traditional patterns: argyles, pinstripes, small polka dots, paisleys, small logos
  • Refined fabrics with some stiffness and duller finishes: cotton poplin, worsted wool, wool flannel, gabardine, smooth leather, jersey, cashmere, silk shantung
  • Fine pleats, shawl collars
  • Simplicity, elegance, timelessness

Think: Boston and D.C. / Olivia Pope in Scandal; Grace in Grace and Frankie

Examples: 

Romantic

The romantic type leans towards:

  • Velvet, satin and fur
  • Dark lace, rich florals, feather
  • Bodyhugging, tighter weaves
  • Pencil skirts and bouffant styles
  • Off the shoulder, deep V and sweetheart necklines
  • Draped collars and fabrics
  • Ruffles
  • Cinched waists
  • Feathered mules, d'Orsay pumps, ankle straps
  • Cascades of diamonds, bold gemstones

Think: Paris, Seville, San Francisco / Suzanne Sugarbaker in Designing Women; Joan Holloway in Mad Men

Examples:

Youthful

The Youthful type is characterized by:

  • Rounded collars, empire waists, gathered shoulders
  • Small ruffles, puckering, bows, tied waistbands
  • Polka dots, checks, flowers, small plaids
  • Cable, popcorn, Fair Isle sweaters
  • Statement/fan t-shirts
  • Polished cotton, seersucker, gingham, eyelet, taffeta, macramé, lace
  • Small amounts of reflective material such as patent leather
  • Endearing accessories, amusing earrings, jangly or delicately embellished jewelry
  • Round toes, Mary Janes

Think: Disneyland, English country cottage / Louisa Clark in Me Before You

Examples:

Next post: The Angelic type, plus some possible combinations of all seven

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