Are you constantly looking for clothes that have that little something extra? A difference from their original version, seen and reworked? In short, do you want to be original when you dress and are you looking for pieces that will give you that little something extra that will make you stand out?
But what exactly does being original mean? We often talk about it as if it were obvious, but what does it really mean? It's a seemingly simple question, but ask it to several people and you'll get a different answer every time. In this article, we'll try to find a logical and universal way to define originality in fashion.
What is originality?
First of all, originality is neither black nor white; it's variations of gray that are specific to each person, but for all of them, it has a certain importance in everyday life. Why do we seek this originality? Why is it good to be original?
We should not confuse "originality" with "marginality." Originality is perceived more positively because it is what differentiates us and makes us stand out from a group, while marginality, perceived more negatively, is what separates us from that same group.
The need for integration for men is no longer in doubt; we all feel this innate need to be socially accepted into a group. However, the desire to assert oneself individually within this group (without compromising integration) is just as strong for men because it is synonymous with success.
This dichotomy unconsciously dictates our approach: fitting in while standing out from the crowd, that's the gist. We want to stand out in what we consume, in the activities we do, and in what we show others. And this is of course true for fashion, because clothes are visible to everyone, everywhere we go.
Who defines originality?
One person's standards aren't necessarily another person's standards, and that's the problem. Regarding clothing, your originality can be perceived as banal by those who are very knowledgeable about fashion and at the same time marginal by those who aren't.
In general, many people seek a cool and classy style, like sportswear for example, but not too many. They want to stand out from the crowd with a touch of originality and to be versatile with a look that works in all settings. It's hard to find, isn't it?
What is considered tasteful originality is always originality that deviates slightly from the norms valid in the environment in which one finds oneself. Therefore, one must be able to read this environment and always be a little more original than it in order to be both integrated and distinguished. This is the miracle solution to achieve sartorial popularity. 😇
What we need to understand is that originality depends on the environment in which we find ourselves. The problem is that the ability to read one's environment is not innate, and it is difficult to know how to stand out just enough. Is it too much or not enough?
What are the different types of originality?
How can we find a way to rationally and universally explain and evaluate originality? A logical answer that allows everyone to grasp the basics without even really knowing anything about it. To help you, you will find in the excellent video produced by the blog Bonne Gueule , a small reading grid that lists the different types of originality:
- Micro Originality --> The difference is almost invisible even to the most fashion-conscious.
- Mini Originality --> The difference is subtle enough to be visible to enthusiasts but not obvious to others.
- Macro Originality --> The difference in design significantly changes every garment we wear and becomes obvious to everyone.
- Mega Originality --> The difference is obvious and the goal is to show it to everyone.
In short, the more subtle it is, the less risk there is of being marginalized, but the less chance there is of being recognized as original. Conversely, the more blatant it is, the more pronounced our originality is, but the more we also risk creating misunderstanding or even rejection, and therefore being excluded from the group.
With these benchmarks, you can now analyze your environment and gauge its originality, then adapt your style. It's important to remember that doing less doesn't always mean "doing better," and the opposite is also true: a very original piece can be pleasing or repulsive.
Also read: the history of the jumpsuit
Conclusion
The goal of this article was to define the notion of originality as clearly and easily as possible. Many people seek it, or on the contrary, many fear it, so a little point didn't seem superfluous. At Ludis, we have chosen classic designs for our men's playsuits , but originality is found in the garment itself, so: Mini originality or Macro originality? It's up to you to tell us what you think! 😉
Please let us know in the comments how you think your originality is.
See you soon !
Mathias & Lucas 🐍