by Emese Tuza

Created on: August 06, 2008

What do women want? When is a woman fashionable or stylish? If the literally dozens of "fashion" magazines on the store shelves have anything to say about it, they all want us to be fashionable. Why else would we have fashion recycle itself every few years? How come that even horrendous items come back into the fashion scene (skinny jeans...need I say more)? How come women flock to the malls every season to buy the latest and greatest fashion items? Fashion is an ever-moving tide, it ebs and flows along with its followers and designers. However, is being fashionable achievable to all, or would women rather be stylish? Two seemingly synonymous words yet when disected, have such different meanings.

The word "fashionable" conjures up images of skeleton-thin models on a runway; groups on high-school girls frolicking at the local mall; or paparazzi-hounded celebrities dining on caviar. To be fashionable is to keep up with the latest trends. Designers, well-known and up and coming alike, design fashionable pieces for the upcoming season. They dictate what fashion is going to be and what the "IT" girls will be fighting for at the mall. Whether it's a micro mini skirt, or feathers in your hat, fashion always has its faitful followers.

Stylish women don't have to try hard. There are certain classic, stylish pieces that have endured the test of time and will always look great. Among them, a white button down shirt, a trench coat, a black power suit, and a string of pearls. Stylish women add fashion by accessorizing. They spruce up their classic wardrobe with a splash of color - whatever the fashionable color happens to be. They buy a purse, a scarf or ballet flats in that color. Greta Garbo, Carolina Herrera or from more recent times, Gwen Stefani or Madonna could be considered stylish women. Their individual style is often imitated and desired.

Fashionable garments come and go but stylish looks are constant. Would it be better to be fashionable or to be stylish? Women should strive to find a style of their own, a signature look that makes them look radiant and elegant. This look can be jeans with a white t-shirt, a power suit with red pumps, or a little black dress with diamond solitaire earrings. This tried-and-true look will make a woman feel powerful and comfortable, it is a look she can fall back to without trying too hard. In the end, a comfortable, powerful woman is a sexy woman.

Learn more about this author, Emese Tuza.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.