New York City’s Ariel Adkins combines inspiration and imagination to create a personal style drawing on extraordinary art and everyday awareness. She’s agreed to share her secrets…
I’m a believer that imitation is, truly, the sincerest form of flattery, but I don’t agree with the opinion that flattery will get you nowhere. As an artist, art lover, connoisseur, fan, historian, and would-be collector, I’ve taken it upon myself to flatter art in the most visible way that I know how: by wearing it. Oscar Wilde said “One must either be a work of art or wear a work of art,” but why choose one or the other? I believe it is possible to dress like a work of art while creating your own masterpiece: your unique style. By looking for inspiration and channeling it through my wardrobe, I’ve gained confidence, have found a natural way to express myself, and have discovered many kindred spirits along the way. Here are five ways to cultivate your own sartorial masterpiece, using both imitation and flattery.
First, you must look at everything. Inspiration, both artistic and sartorial, can come from anywhere. In order to keep your visual interests piqued, you have to be a consumer of what surrounds you: the more you see, the greater the wealth of inspiration you’ll have from which to draw. Second, you must not limit yourself to what you already know about your personal style. Be open to trying new things, experimenting with colors and shapes that speak to you from outside of your closet. Third, you must be willing to dedicate time and energy to cultivating your eye. Some masterpieces can be made overnight, but discovering what burns underwater for you will inevitably take time. Finally, you must not be afraid to stand out in a crowd. Develop a way of describing what inspires you; because, inevitably, people will ask about what you are wearing. Flatter yourself above all, and heed the words of Epictetus: “Know, first, who you are, and then adorn yourself accordingly.” // Ariel Adkins
Ariel Adkins at Keith Haring: 1978-1982, Brooklyn Museum, 2012
