The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people and their characteristics. One popular topic is describing someone with a distinctive style. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Describe a time when you worked with a team can be another interesting topic in IELTS Speaking. However, let’s focus on describing a person with a unique sense of style, as it allows you to showcase your vocabulary and descriptive skills.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about fashion and style. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you think fashion is important?
A: Absolutely. I believe fashion plays a crucial role in our society. It’s not just about looking good; it’s a form of self-expression and can boost one’s confidence. Moreover, fashion often reflects cultural trends and can even make social statements. However, I think it’s important to strike a balance between following trends and maintaining one’s personal style.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a person who has a unique sense of style.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What kind of clothes they wear
- What makes their style unique
- And explain how you feel about their style
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about my friend Sarah, who has an incredibly distinctive sense of style that never fails to catch people’s attention.
Sarah is a freelance graphic designer in her late twenties, and her creative profession is perfectly reflected in her wardrobe choices. She has an uncanny ability to mix vintage pieces with modern elements, creating eye-catching ensembles that are truly one-of-a-kind.
What makes Sarah’s style unique is her fearless approach to combining colors and patterns. She might pair a vibrant 1960s-inspired mini dress with chunky modern boots and a hand-painted denim jacket. Her outfits often feature bold accessories like oversized sunglasses or statement jewelry pieces that she designs herself.
Another striking aspect of Sarah’s style is her commitment to sustainability. She frequently upcycles old clothes, turning them into new, fashion-forward pieces. This not only makes her outfits unique but also aligns with her environmental values.
I find Sarah’s style both inspirational and refreshing. It’s a testament to her creativity and confidence. While I might not have the courage to wear some of her more daring combinations, I admire how she uses fashion as a form of artistic expression. Her style reminds me that fashion can be fun and doesn’t always have to follow conventional rules.
Follow-up Questions
Q: How do you think someone develops a unique sense of style?
A (Band 6-7): I think developing a unique style takes time and experimentation. People might try different looks and gradually figure out what suits them best. Influences from various sources like movies, music, or art can also help shape someone’s personal style.
A (Band 8-9): Developing a unique sense of style is often a journey of self-discovery. It typically involves a process of trial and error, where individuals experiment with various aesthetics and gradually hone their personal preferences. External influences such as cultural trends, artistic movements, or even personal experiences can significantly shape one’s style evolution. Moreover, a willingness to take risks and step outside one’s comfort zone is often crucial in developing a truly distinctive style.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: Do you think the way people dress influences how others perceive them?
A (Band 6-7): Yes, I believe clothing can greatly affect how people are perceived. First impressions are often based on appearance, and clothes are a big part of that. For example, someone in a smart suit might be seen as professional, while someone in casual clothes might be perceived as more relaxed or approachable.
A (Band 8-9): Undoubtedly, our sartorial choices play a significant role in shaping others’ perceptions of us. Clothing serves as a visual shorthand, often communicating information about our personality, social status, and even our values before we even speak. For instance, an individual donning a meticulously tailored suit might be perceived as diligent and detail-oriented, while someone sporting avant-garde fashion might be seen as creative and non-conformist. However, it’s crucial to note that these perceptions can be superficial and may not always accurately reflect an individual’s true nature or capabilities.
Q: How has fashion changed in your country over the past few decades?
A (Band 6-7): Fashion in my country has changed a lot over the past few decades. In the past, traditional clothing was more common, but now Western-style clothes are very popular, especially among young people. There’s also more variety now, with many international brands available.
A (Band 8-9): The evolution of fashion in my country over recent decades has been nothing short of remarkable. We’ve witnessed a dramatic shift from a predominantly traditional aesthetic to a more globalized sartorial landscape. While our traditional attire still holds cultural significance, particularly during festivals or formal events, everyday fashion has become increasingly influenced by Western trends.
This transformation has been catalyzed by factors such as economic liberalization, increased exposure to global media, and the rise of social media platforms. We’ve seen a surge in fast fashion brands entering the market, offering affordable, trend-driven options. Simultaneously, there’s been a growing appreciation for fusion styles that blend traditional elements with contemporary designs, reflecting a desire to maintain cultural roots while embracing modernity.
Describe a famous public figure in your country could also be an interesting topic to explore how public figures influence fashion trends.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Distinctive /dɪˈstɪŋktɪv/ (adj): Characteristic of one person or thing, and so serving to distinguish it from others.
Example: Her distinctive style sets her apart from the crowd. -
Eclectic /ɪˈklektɪk/ (adj): Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.
Example: His wardrobe is an eclectic mix of vintage and modern pieces. -
Avant-garde /ˌavɒ̃ˈɡɑːd/ (adj): New and experimental ideas and methods in art, music, or literature.
Example: Her avant-garde fashion choices often turn heads at events. -
Sartorial /sɑːˈtɔːriəl/ (adj): Relating to tailoring, clothes, or style of dress.
Example: His sartorial elegance was evident in every outfit he wore. -
Fashion-forward /ˈfaʃən ˈfɔːwəd/ (adj): Ahead of current fashion trends.
Example: The designer’s latest collection was praised for being fashion-forward.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing someone’s unique style:
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives to paint a vivid picture.
- Incorporate fashion-specific vocabulary to demonstrate your range.
- Explain not just what the person wears, but why their style is unique and how it reflects their personality.
- Practice describing different styles to improve your fluency and confidence.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a natural conversational tone while showcasing your vocabulary and grammatical range.
Describe a place in your country that has a unique architecture could be another interesting topic to practice your descriptive skills, applying similar techniques used in describing unique fashion styles.