by Max Law from MaxMayo.com
"Chic" – not the word "Chick" or a word in any way related to girls or young women – is an important fashion element that influences a person's appearance and personal style.
"Chic" – not the word "Chick" or a word in any way related to girls or young women – is an important fashion element that influences a person's appearance and personal style.
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| Black, Simple and Chic |
In Malaysia, you may be more familiar with terms like Street Style, Punk, Lala / Ah-Beng-style, Gothic, Preppy, Casual, Trendy etc when describing a person's style, but hardly the word "chic". We're never really know about "chic", as it's not a Malaysian value in our local culture.
"Chic" is a word borrowed from French, which means Elegant, Stylish & Fashionable (from the Dictionary). Being chic is different from being trendy, as being chic simply focuses on what suits you and flatters you, rather than wearing the most popular style out there today. French people are experts in being chic and that explains why "Parisian Chic" is so well-received among the fashionista and Francophiles.
"Chic" is a word borrowed from French, which means Elegant, Stylish & Fashionable (from the Dictionary). Being chic is different from being trendy, as being chic simply focuses on what suits you and flatters you, rather than wearing the most popular style out there today. French people are experts in being chic and that explains why "Parisian Chic" is so well-received among the fashionista and Francophiles.
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| "Parisian Chich" by Ines de la Fressange |
While people may interpret "what is chic" differently, but here's a list of the common traits displayed by chic styles according from my point of view:
1. Always look dressed-up (even a little)
Being chic means you look elegant & stylish, even when you just rolled out of bed and rushing to work, or when you're just dropping by the nearby kopitiam. You can be cincai (sloppy), but don't overly cincai. At least shows up in a nice t-shirt & styled hair.
2. Simple & Subtle
They are always simple in overall coordination and subtle in colors. Maybe a black pants and a white shirt, and a pop of color, but never complicated. It's about quality, not quantity.
Most of the times, you can always spots staples like basic white shirt, dark blue jeans, navy blazer, nautical stripes etc repeating.
Accessories are good to have but keep it to minimal, or just wear 1 or 2 pieces of bold accessories. For men, you may consider investing in at least a signature timepiece.
3. Well-fitted
Fitting is important, and ill-fitted attire make you looks sluggish. Size matters.
Just like other types of skill or art, being chic requires learning (as what I've been doing) it is an art that you can practice regardless of your location and settings. When you can be effortlessly chic, you've certainly mastered one of the most valued skill in the fashion & life.
I hope you enjoyed this post and have a chic day. Share your thoughts here! :)
I hope you enjoyed this post and have a chic day. Share your thoughts here! :)
Photos sources: Pinterest and YesStyle
Checkout Max at MaxMayo.com and follow him on twitter @maxmayo for more updates and fashion tips!
"Seize the day, Caper Diem"
