In a revealing past interview, renowned designer duo Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla spoke with actor Jaya Bachchan, who made a striking declaration: “I don’t believe in fashion; I have never believed in fashion. I believe in style, but I believe in personal style. If it comes naturally to you, it’s fine; if it doesn’t, let it be… I can’t handle wannabes.” This statement emphasizes the importance of authenticity in a world where trends are perpetually shifting.
However, in our current landscape dominated by social media and algorithms, the concept of personal style raises questions about its true essence. To delve deeper into this topic, we turn to Dr. Pavitra Shankar, an Associate Consultant Psychiatrist at Aakash Healthcare in Dwarka, who offers valuable insights into the psychological aspects of style, self-expression, and societal pressures.
In the realm of social media, the distinction between genuine self-expression and performative identity has become increasingly ambiguous. Dr. Shankar points out, “Social media has created a space where self-expression is constantly tied to external validation. People may believe they are presenting their true selves, but often, there is an underlying need for approval that shapes how they dress and present.” This perspective resonates with Bachchan’s disdain for “wannabes,” highlighting how a focus on validation can detract from the authenticity of personal style.
As Dr. Shankar elaborates, “When the focus shifts from comfort and identity to perception, individuals may begin to perform their identity rather than live it.” This shift indicates that what may appear effortless often involves significant curation and consideration.
Although Bachchan asserts that style should “come naturally,” Dr. Shankar suggests that the reality is often more complex. “Style does not develop in isolation,” she explains. “It is influenced by environment, culture, media exposure, and peer behavior. What feels ‘natural’ is often the result of repeated reinforcement over time.”
The key factor in cultivating a true sense of personal style lies in awareness, according to Dr. Shankar. “When individuals consciously choose what resonates with them, rather than blindly adopting trends, that is when personal style becomes more authentic.”
Dr. Shankar also notes that individuality has not disappeared; it simply requires more effort to identify. “The rapid spread of trends creates visual uniformity, but personal expression still exists beneath the surface. It simply requires more confidence to stand apart.” In today’s society, the act of distinguishing oneself can feel like a social gamble, which many individuals instinctively shy away from.
In contrast to the belief that style is an inherent quality, Dr. Shankar argues that it can be cultivated. She states, “Personal style is not an inborn trait. It evolves through self-awareness, experimentation, and comfort with one’s identity. When individuals take the time to understand their preferences and what makes them feel confident, they gradually build a style that reflects who they are—not who they think they should be.”
