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 and in keeping with their own tastes.
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 (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 and .
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 (20 per cent).
When it comes to what influences what they wear on any given day, the is the biggest factor (57 per cent), followed by comfort (54 per cent), and that day’s activities (49 per cent).
Carried out through OnePoll, 44 per cent think the UK is ‘very’ or ‘somewhat’ stylish, with (36 per cent) the most fashionable city in Britain and Northern Ireland.
However, the most stylish country is (48 per cent) – second place went to (34 per cent), with the UK third (13 per cent).
A spokesperson for FIAT said: “It’s no surprise that 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.
“Just like our , 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.”;
