Let's get ready to rumble!!! Style vs Fashion

So my huge challenge here is to try and do this without writing a 10+ page essay.
Let's start here:
Style: a mode of fashion, as in dress, especially good or approved fashion; elegance; smartness.
Fashion: a prevailing custom or style of dress, etiquette, socializing, etc.: the latest fashion in dresses.

 So what does this mean for you when you are building out your wardrobe? What's the difference? What should you be paying attention to?

 Style, is typically associated with a timeless, pervasive look that stands the test of time. A man with great style doesn't pay particular attention to what is on the edge of fashion, but rather can achieve that effortless and timeless look. This is most commonly seen in a man that has developed his own taste, and his own sense of self. This isn't about wearing the finest suits, or only wearing a certain color. This has to do with catering your look to your life, and wearing it well. The most recognizable style icons are men who have their own flair, but pull it off seamlessly- think Bond, Steve McQueen, or more recently look at Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and the emergence of stars like Justin Timberlake. Pull together your look, and use things that stand the test of time- well fitted shirts, jackets, pants. Items that aren't overly flashy, but complimentary.

Fashion, on the other hand is the most up to date and edgy. Think about skinny lapels and skinny ties of the past couple years, and now the wide lapels on jackets. This is the skinny pants, or the large rimmed glasses. These things all come and go with time, sometimes trends work their way back in or out. These are the things that will get noticed almost all the time (for good and bad). If you want to be on top of things at all times, fashion is a huge piece of it. In this case look at the likes of Dwayne Wade, Joseph Gordon Levitt, and pop stars. Fashion is trendy, quickly changing, and therefore quickly out of favor.

 So, the important question- which should you pay more attention to? The honest answer here is hat both have their place, and I think utilizing fashion in creating your style can have incredible results. However, you need to find your style, and while you figure that out (and start up a wardrobe)- stick to classic styles rather than fashion trends. Use fashion in small doses in order to help elevate your look and find that style. Here's a great example- right now loud, bright socks are in fashion and bright pocket squares. These are great ways to add some fashion to a classic style. You don't have to grab every trend in order to be on point- in fact I would argue that most people attempting high style just look silly. Use fashion ideas to bring out your personal style- a long and everlasting look that compliments your life. Just understand that as you build your own personal wardrobe, if you want longevity get style not fashionable.