Music is one of the great pleasures of our world. It is the one thing that unites us all. Breaking down the barriers between language and culture. Bridging the gaps that separate us and allowing us to express ourselves in ways that we can’t with words or actions. We are lucky enough to live in a time where music is more accessible than ever before. And not just the ability to listen to it but to practice it too.
In the past it was only the wealthy who could afford to practice music or be in a band. But these days instruments and the technical knowhow to play them are more readily available. To the point that anyone can start a band with relative ease. But, as we all know, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to make a band successful. But one key aspect that is often overlooked by most new bands is their signature look. But how do you find your band’s signature look?
Signature Style
What do we mean by a signature look anyway? To put it simply, a signature look is an outfit scheme that would be instantly recognizable to the general public. Think about Guns N’ Roses. The top hat that Slash wears has become a cultural icon. Or Kiss. Their outlandish makeup and outfits have made them go down in history.
Now we aren’t saying you need to go as extreme as these bands. But even the Beatles’ less outrageous outfits are still extremely memorable. A good band can easily create a signature look out of something simple if they take the time to wear it right. Because that is also a huge part of a signature style. Your stage presence.
A band with no stage presence could wear the most outlandish outfits on the planet and it would fall flat. Whereas a band with great stage presence could perform in a shirt and jeans and be heralded as fashion icons. You need to make sure you are working on your theatrics and making sure they complement your chosen style.
What To Avoid
There are a few things you need to avoid when creating your signature style. You need to consider how practical your outfits are. And, of course, the cost of them too. You don’t want anything that will restrict your movement too much. This will hinder your performance and could end up looking quite awkward. You also want to avoid anything too reflective as well. Under the stage lights this could make it difficult for your audience to see you.
We also recommend avoiding anything designer. There is a high chance your outfits will get damaged or messy while performing. And you want to ensure everything you use is easy to replace or cheap to clean. Ideally everything you use, to start out, should be able to go to any wash and fold laundry service in the country without too much issue.
You will also want to avoid copying another band directly. Unless you are a tribute band. People will find it tacky and uninspired. And you also run the risk of landing yourself in legal trouble as well. People want originality. Not the same stuff repeated.
Experiment
The best part about finding your band’s signature style is the opportunity to experiment with different looks. Spend some time digging through thrift shops and browsing online for different outfits and inspirations. Try on different looks and take them for a test drive during rehearsal.
The important part about finding a signature look is that it is unique to you and your band. It should represent you and the type of music you want to create. It should be a further expression of your art and yourself. So really take the time to figure out what style suits you best.
You should consider speaking to some fashion designers as well. There is something to be said for having bespoke designs made specifically for your band. And this is also a great way to support some local artists and drum up business for them in the future too. Plus, it sounds great in interviews if you can say all your clothes are specially designed.
It should be said that, even with a signature style, you don’t always have to stick to it. While you might become most recognizable for one specific style, it does pay to change it up every now and then. Experimenting with your style never has to end. Enjoy the creative journey.
