Dressed to Express

What’s Your Aesthetic? Philly street style with Christin Johnson.

There’s nothing more Philly than seeing someone strutting down Broad Street in an outfit that’s doing everything. No filter, no PR team — just pure personal style. That moment of double-take magic? That’s exactly what What’s Your Aesthetic? is all about.

When people hear the word aesthetic, it can sound a little abstract — but really, it’s simple. Your aesthetic is the look and feel of your personal style: the colors you reach for, the pieces you remix, the vibe you carry when you walk into a room. It’s not about labels or chasing trends. It’s about showing up as yourself.

That’s why street style is so important, because it’s everyday people turning sidewalks into runways, mixing thrift finds with heirlooms, sneakers with sequins, and making it all work. Style lives everywhere: all around Center City and at neighborhood block parties. In vintage shops, church pews, and public transportation. This column is about capturing that magic and the unique ways we each define our own aesthetic.

Why Street Style? Why Now?

As someone who’s spent years styling women (especially those often left out of traditional fashion spaces), I know where to go for the latest looks and innovations — and it’s not Vogue. The real inspiration is walking down the street.

Philly has style in its bones. We remix eras, mix price points, and dress with intention. Whether it’s a borrowed jacket, a skirt from Target, custom couture, or sneakers passed down from a cousin — every outfit tells a story. Too often, those stories go untold.

Let’s change that. Let’s celebrate our local fashion scene, and the visually-rich, culturally-rooted experience of pulling a look together and making it our own.

Street style is an act of reclaiming space, it’s a way for people to say: This is who I am, and this is how I show up. There’s nothing more inspiring than someone turning heads with confidence in what they’re wearing. I’m here for all of it, and glad you can join me.

I know firsthand how much fashion can impact quality of life. As a plus-size, pear-shaped Black woman, I’ve learned to dress my body lovingly and strategically, with both joy and design. I want others to feel the same. Together, we can find freedom in our fit and power in our presentation.

🦅👗Fit Check, Philly! 📸👀

If you’ve got a distinct aesthetic, a unique look, or a great story behind your style — reach out!  From designers to directors, from creatives to cab drivers, we all have wildly different lives, loves, dreams, and desires leading us through our days.

This city, too, is full of history and drama, bursting with energy that each and every one of us reflects in our own way. I see you! Don’t be surprised if I stop you and ask: “What’s your aesthetic?” What will you say?

Style Mood Chart: What’s Your Aesthetic?

Fashion is like picking a playlist. Your aesthetic is just the vibe you’re serving in that moment. Here are a few to get you started:

• Bold – Bright colors, sharp shapes, “I walked in and everybody noticed.”
• Classic – Crisp cuts, timeless neutrals, pieces that never go out of style.
• Romantic – Flowy fabrics, soft hues, lace, florals, and dreamy details.
• Sporty – Sneakers, jerseys, athleisure, mixing comfort with cool.
• Eclectic – Thrift-store treasures, unexpected combos, a little bit of everything.
• Glam – Sequins, metallics, statement jewelry, shine on and sparkle bright.
• Minimalist – Clean lines, solid colors, less is more (but it’s flawless).

👉 Find your comfort zone, and explore your boundaries. Mix and match to find a signature look, or switch it up daily depending on your mood. Your aesthetic is your story to tell.

Show us your style! ✨ Tag @w_y_a_215 with your favorite look (or nominate a stylish friend) and you may be featured in a future column. 📧 Local designers, stylists, and fashionistas, let’s connect: Ms.ayrejohnson@gmail.com. Follow me on Tik Tok and YouTube for the latest videos, and please leave your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.