Sprezzatura State Of Style

Lately I’ve been thinking about personal style and what makes it unique. As much as we try to follow trends, it’s all about those tiny tweaks we apply that make even the simplest outfit our own. The biggest challenge is to make it look extremely effortless, almost careless but very put-together at the same time. Actually, my friend Josie calls it sprezzatura. It’s an Italian word used to describe that 'something special' we do to our outfit so it becomes an extension of our body. Italians call it the rehearsed spontaneity and the well-practiced naturalness.

So today, I asked a few of my dear friends to share a handful of tips on how to achieve sprezzatura in no time. The only thing to remember is not to use all those tweaks at once and make the ones you love stick.

First up (above) roll up those sleeves in a messy way just on it’s own, over blazers or even together with cardis.

Experiment with a full, half or slouchy shirt tuck. See which one suits your frame most and stick with it.

Don’t forget to apply the same rolling rule to pants. Let your ankles shine in those ballerina flats.

Play down the formality of pencil skirts, chiffon skirts and suits with simple tees or tennis shoes.

Forget about the traditional way of belt tying and get creative. A great tying technique can make an outfit look incredible.

And last but not least, if you are brave enough, accessorize to perfection with a pair of geek-chic glasses or a fun little anklet, but only if it feels right. And remember less it always more.

What do you think of those tips? Would you use any of them?

(Thank you to Josie, Amber, Sofia and Jill. Photos by Megg and Sidewalk Ready, and via Mrs. French, TSB, Catbird, Fash for Fashion, you are my fave)