The top-level domain (TLD), .STYLE, is a domain name extension that is specifically designed for individuals, businesses, and organizations in the fashion, design, or art industry such as designers, stylists, and fashion brands. It offers an online space where style-oriented entities can set up their websites stand out with a .STYLE domain.
A TLD is part of the domain name right after the “dot” and to the extreme right. For example, if the web address is www.example.style, the “example” part is the second-level domain, and “.style,” the top-level domain. Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the organization that manages domain names globally, introduced new top-level domain names, including .STYLE to expand the pool of available domain names, provide more options and aid in better website branding. The new TLDs were launched under the New gTLD Program around 2012 (ICANN, 2019).
As of January 2022, according to NameStat.org, a domain name data and statistics aggregator, there are over 10,000 active .STYLE domain names.
.STYLE TLD can be a significant game-changer in the creative and style-focused industries. For example, a jewelry designer or a hairstylist can use a .STYLE domain name to help potential customers immediately understand what the website is about. A domain name like www.pearljewelries.style or www.elegant hairstyles.style can set clear expectations about the website. It even aids in search engine optimization (SEO), giving your website a higher ranking when someone searches for those specific terms.
.STYLE is managed by Donuts Inc., a major domain name registry that manages hundreds of other TLDs. They maintain high standards to ensure that purchasing, transferring, or managing .STYLE domains remains a reliable and secure process (Donuts Inc., 2022).
Just like any other domain name, to get a .STYLE domain name, one needs to visit a domain name registrar that offers .STYLE domains, such as GoDaddy or NameCheap. Then you can search your preferred .STYLE domain name, and if it’s available, you can purchase it, typically on an annual subscription basis.
It’s noteworthy to know that while .STYLE provides clear branding benefits, one should also consider the audience and location. Despite the widespread use of new TLDs, some people might still find .com or their country-specific TLD more trustworthy.
Sources used:
1. Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)
URL: https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/
1. Donuts Inc.
URL: https://donuts.domains/
1. NameStat.org
URL: https://namestat.org/
