The Value of Television

There is a longstanding debate about the value, or lack thereof, of TV. I am here to tell you that in addition to sheer entertainment, you can find an abundance of fashion and style value from television.

For instance, do you ever see an actor on TV and recognize their outfit as one of your own? I must admit I get a little excited when I see a top or dress from my closet on an actress. I may or may not yell at the screen - I own that!

I’m not sure why this excites me so much. Maybe it's validation or because clothes and television are two of my favorite things (I can actually FEEL you judging) – don’t worry, I read an occasional book (and lots of magazines).

As long as you are in judgement mode, let’s go all the way. I often see my clothes donned by my favorite ladies on The Young & the Restless. Yes, I was raised on “stories” and far be it from me to break family tradition. Nikki and Victor forever!

Not that’s out of the way. Is there a character on TV whose style you admire? Someone who epitomizes how you want to look or dress? For me it’s Jessica Pearson on Suits (elegant), Mindy Lahiri on The Mindy Project (creative), and Gwen Stefani on the Voice (dramatic).

Because these people play characters, Gwen Stefani notwithstanding, they have a team of wardrobe assistants who pick their clothes to create a cohesive image and style personality in congruence with their character.

If you think about it, we do this as well. What we choose to wear each day represents one or a combination of seven style personalities to the world. Whether it is sporty, traditional, elegant, alluring, romantic, dramatic or creative, our clothes telegraph our personality to the world. (Bet you can’t guess what mine is…hint – it starts with a D). Each of these style personalities have attributes – I bet you can find yourself in there somewhere.

Want to evolve or refine your style personality? Begin to analyze others you admire. It’s a fun exercise when you are engrossed in your favorite program. Think of it like a game. What is their style personality? Can you recognize the designer or brand of clothing they are wearing? Is the item appropriate for the character? Would it be suitable for you?

Emulating the style you see on TV is as easy as turning on your computer or favorite mobile device. See something you like? Go to Worn on TV to find matches to all your favorite characters clothes. They break things down by character (both make and female) and by episode… brilliant. They showcase exact matches of items, but also similar and often more affordable options.

Some personalities like Gwen Stefani understand how much style plays into their overall appeal and identification. If you follow her (and your other favorites) on Instagram, she often provides links to the outfits she wears on TV and at events.

If you need more convincing to kick up your feet and turn on the telly, you can also decorate your home with items found on your favorite shows. Take advantage of the talents of people who decorate for a living. See a beautiful room? Need inspiration? Go to Chasing Props and see where the pro’s curate items to accompany the style personality of the characters. If nothing else, it could be a fabulous dinner party conversation…”did you know this is the same vase that was in Monica and Rachel’s apartment on Friends? Hilarious discussion is sure to ensue.

All of this to say, value is in the eye of the beholder. However, I challenge you to watch television differently and do as I do: find value through style and design inspiration of others as a way to refine your own. Pass the remote.