Idiosyncratic Style

Judy Benjamin is a spoiled socialite who mistakenly joins the army when she’s duped by a sly recruiter. Not only is the film is still funny today (I recently watched it for the first time and laughed out loud), but the style of a woman who finds (and betters) herself is a timeless source of inspiration.

Channel a little of her “be more than you ever thought you could be” epiphany into your own journey by injecting your wardrobe with statements of confidence inspired by the misfit soldier herself, Private Benjamin.

Marc Jacobs S10 | Cynthia Steffe F10 | Balmain S10

Try carrying a luxury bag, getting a bold manicure, wearing a sexy slip, throwing on a military inspired jacket or even sporting a G.I. style beret.

Midnight Red - Chanel, Slip - Edith & Ella, Jacket - Gap, Beret - Surplus, Speedy - Louis Vuitton

The quest to find yourself is constantly evolving, so should your style.

Bird watchers have recently found themselves perched beside runways around the world. Most recently feathers flocked at Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Givenchy and Fendi (among many others). Celebrities have taken flight with this trend by showcasing fabulously feathered gowns on the red carpet. It’s your turn to spread your wings and dare to wear some feathers.

Photos from InStyle.com

Perhaps luxurious gowns don’t mesh well the daily grind of a non-celebrity, but that doesn’t have to leave you plucked out of the feather frenzy. The best way to shake your tail feather without breaking the bank is by accessorizing. Try some feather-accented jewelry, handbags and shoes.

Photographer: Greg Tjepkema | Stylist: Kristen O'Reilly | Hair & M/U: Lindsay Wilson

There are a number of feathered accessories available at a variety of prices, but the best way to tickle your fancy with a feather is to do it yourself. Buy a small packet of pretty feathers at your local craft store, glue or sew them to the back of a brooch and pin it to a long necklace (as seen on the model above). You can also re-read The Recycled Style Project: Leather Bangle, but try swapping leather/fabric with your favorite feathers. Also check out the DIY Elizabeth & James Feather Blazer at Fashionista and the DIY Louis Vuitton Feather Bracelet at Nitrolicious.

Feathers can interpret your idiosyncratic style, they can scream luxury, whisper vintage or state your organic nature. Let some feathers do the talking… I dare you!

More feather DIY projects and shopping deals at Idiosyncratic Style on Facebook