” ‘Chic-ology’ is impossible to define.  It is the psychology of fashion, meant to be interpreted by each of us in individual terms.  The face and form we present to the world are signs of our inner conflict and tranquility.  It’s not exactly a new idea that looking well makes you feel well.  

Perhaps the best way to analyze “chic” is to say what it is and what it is not.  Somewhere in the middle will be the indefinable truth as it applies to you.  More than in any other theoretical study, chic-ology must be individually interpreted.  

Chic begins with the good taste.

Chic is organization plus inspirations.

Chic is a statement of who you are and what you stand for.

Chic is a picture of you that says more than a thousand words.

Chic is bearing – the way you walk move and sit.

Chic is the image you convey to others.

Chic is doing something for clothes rather than expecting them to do something for you.

Chic is appreciation of fabrics, textures, colors.

Chic is attention to the smallest detail.

Chic is selectivity and the understanding that what may be great for someone else is not necessarily for you.

Chic is not blind acceptance of fashion fad.

Chic does not depend on money.

Chic is classical styling with personal embellishments.

Chic may be looking different from everyone else or looking the same as everyone else.

Chic is personal mood.

Chic is personal identity, immediately distinguishable.

Chic is a comprehension of clothes, atmosphere, and surroundings.

Chic is a custom-made look concocted from the assembly line of fashion.

Chic is Instinct plus Impulse plus Individuality.”

Source:

Wife Dressing: The Fine Art of Being a Well-Dressed Wife by Anne Fogarty, 1959