HALF of Brits ‘struggle’ with their style – despite spending £43.8 billion a year collectively on clothes, shoes, and accessories.
According to a study of 2,000 adults, locating items considered to be fashionable is a challenge – especially items which are both catwalk-worthy and in keeping with their own tastes.
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Reasons for the difficulties include lack of confidence to try new things (36 per cent), not knowing where to start (28 per cent), and not having time to keep up with latest trends (24 per cent).
While 11 per cent blame social media and the pressure which comes with it to be stylish.
The research was commissioned by FIAT which has partnered with fashion stylist Sofia Lazzari to reveal their top style tips for spring and summer.
It forms part of the car maker’s ‘La Dolce Vita’ campaign which has seen experts in Italian culture share their advice for living the ‘sweet life.’
Sofia said: “What we wear impacts how we feel about ourselves and how others see us too – so it’s perhaps no wonder UK adults spend so much on clothing.
“Our clothes choices are a chance to express who we are or who we want to be – and can reveal a great deal about us.
“Which explains why so many of those polled feel pressure to wear the ‘right’ things – a pressure which comes from many places.”
The study also found 53 per cent don’t think they’re stylish, although 42 per cent believe they are – the remaining five per cent simply don’t know.
Most (64 per cent) have what they consider to be their own style – rather than simply following the latest trends.
More than a third (34 per cent) believe their look reflects their personality and for 17 per cent, it’s a way of connecting with other likeminded people.
As many as 10 per cent even claim others ‘often’ ask them for fashion tips.
But developing a sense of style doesn’t happen overnight – on average, those polled believe 27 years of age is the point at which we finally find our way in this respect.
Top sources of outfit inspiration include simply seeing what others are wearing (26 per cent), clothes store shop displays (23 per cent), and Instagram (20 per cent).
When it comes to what influences what they wear on any given day, the weather is the biggest factor (57 per cent), followed by comfort (54 per cent), and that day’s activities (49 per cent).
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Carried out through OnePoll, 44 per cent think the UK is ‘very’ or ‘somewhat’ stylish, with London (36 per cent) the most fashionable city in Britain and Northern Ireland.
However, the most stylish country is Italy (48 per cent) – second place went to France (34 per cent), with the UK third (13 per cent).
A spokesperson for FIAT said: “It’s no surprise that Italy was named the most stylish country – Italian culture and way of life is effortless and authentic.
“While some in Britain may struggle with their style, ultimately, the spirit of fashion is that it should showcase your individuality and at FIAT, we celebrate that same spirit.
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“Just like our cars, including the iconic Fiat 500 and the soon to be launched Grande Panda, we embrace bold colours, timeless design and inspired detailing.
“We’ve done this for decades because we believe ultimately fashion is about showcasing individuality, authenticity, and having fun with style.
“Whether it’s through what you wear or what you drive, true style is based on feeling confident, and unmistakably yourself.”
SOFIA LAZZARI’S TOP SEVEN STYLE TIPS:
1. EMBRACE PASTEL TONES AND BRIGHTER COLOURS
As we come into Spring, start incorporating lighter colours into your wardrobe – powder pink, buttery yellows and soft lavenders can bring a fresh and refined elegance.
2. INCORPORATE SHEER FABRICS
To add some ethereal quality or texture to your outfit, consider layering sheer fabrics such as mesh, organza or lace – this can easily help you create more depth, a technique often used in Italian fashion to suggest allure without over exposure.
3. OPT FOR SCULPTURAL MINIMALISM
Classic Italian style is always built on quality tailoring and form – – pieces that are more structured ooze minimalism and will allow you to be able to achieve a timeless wardrobe.
4. THE ART OF TAILORING
Italian sophistication touches on many different style elements, two being strength and elegance – a simple way to incorporate this into your wardrobe is to embrace more masculine tailoring.
For men and women, invest in well fitted button ups or smart blazers with shoulders to bring in more structure to your outfit.
5. ADD FLORAL ELEMENTS
Floral motifs are making a significant comeback, appearing in tapestry-style prints and fabric appliques this summer.
They’re a simple way to add romantic and Italian-inspired charm to your outfit – consider floral motifs for special occasions like weddings and outdoor gatherings.
6. INCORPORATE UTILITY ELEMENTS
Utility-inspired pieces in khaki and olive tones can add a modern twist to classic Italian ensembles – it’s the perfect blend of Italian flair on British style and integrates functionality with a fashionable twist.
7. FOCUS ON QUALITY ACCESSORIES
Staple accessories to add that finishing touch to any outfit such as watches, rings, heirloom jewellery, structured bags or generally higher quality accessories will elevate your look and help tie it all together – opt for consistency where possible, aiming for all gold or all silver, and adding a touch of other colours if needed.