The way you dress is often the first impression people get about you. It’s the quickest way for people to know a little about who you are and where you’re going, even what you do for a living. There’s good and bad in this, after all, we are more than the clothes we wear but clothes also have the power to present to the world who we want to be that day.
Are you a #BossLady? Going on date night? Heading to the movies with friends?
What you decide to wear really does say a lot about your personal style. These occasions are opportunities for you to show your individuality and at the core of style, that’s really all it is.
People always say to me, “You always look so put together” and I appreciate that. Partly, I think it’s because of these reasons but also it’s because I’ve made a blueprint of my desired style aesthetic. Slowly I’ve discovered – by lots of trial and error – what looks good on me and what styles I love.
I narrowed down what I’ve done to find my personal style over the years so hopefully these can assist you on your journey as well.
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Who are you?
Things just got real people! But in all seriousness style is an extension of your personality. Are you fun, outgoing, full of life? Or are you more reserved, keep things tight to the vest, and only loosen up once people get to know you?
All this says a lot about the clothes you’re likely to gravitate toward. And the great part is your personal style will forever evolve, just like you. Look deep down and find confidence in who you are right now and discover how you wish to present yourself to the world. Redefining will come with time.
Who inspires you?
We all have a celebrity or friend we wish we could raid their closet. So what is it about this person we love so much? Is it that everything she wears looks like it fits her perfectly (tailoring is key!) or does her classic wardrobe give off a chic vibe you’ve always wanted? Pinpoint what it is about their personal style so you can start tuning it for you.
Be realistic
My style icon is Jennifer Lopez but let’s be honest here, when will I wear low-cut, jewel-studded gowns in my day-to-day? Think about your life in a nutshell and the events you have to dress for. Instead of being super literal, I can take from her style what I think would incorporate well with my life, which is 1. a sultry vibe 2. body confidence 3. strategically placed cut-outs (for nights out) and 3. hints of flowy, feminine fabrics.
What are your goals?
I am a firm believer that you should dress for the job you want, not the one you have so what are your goals in life? Dress accordingly and own it.
Start Pinning
Create a board on Pinterest to see what celebrity or particular style is a repeat offender (you can find mine here). You don’t have to share it with the world (you can make it secret) but really take note what fabrics, types of clothing, and colors you start to see over and over again. Don’t just pin because you think a picture looks pretty (ie: the model is surrounded by flowers or in a cool city.)
Write down the words that come to mind when you’ve finished collecting all your inspirations.
Head to the mall
Now it’s time to head to the mall! Stick to choosing items that align with the words you’ve written down (and your Pinterest board) and choose pieces that maybe you’ve never thought to try on to see how they look. I have a thing for trying on clothes that don’t look that great on the hanger because more often than not those turn out to be gems.
This is also a great exercise to rediscover what looks good on your body type. If you’ve never tried high-waisted jeans, this is your chance. Wide-leg trousers? Pick some up too! Think maxi dresses might look too “girly” on you? Today you’ll find out. Play up the thing people compliment you the most on and showcase that asset – like eye color, legs, back, etc.
Don’t Impulse Buy
Finding your personal style is not about going on a shopping spree so don’t get crazy and dump your entire wardrobe. Instead, look for what’s missing. Are you in desperate need of a classic blazer or jeans that really hug your curves in all the right places? Again, look at your Pinterest board for clues as to what style you should gravitate toward and now that you know what fits you best you have a better idea of what to pick up.
I’d love to hear what you’ve done to find your personal style and what tips you have for anyone trying to build a wardrobe that’s true to who they are?
Thanks for reading!
