how to find your personal style
Many individuals tend to perceive a focus on one’s attire and personal style as shallow, which can lead to feelings of unease. However, Hara Estroff Marano argues that such a viewpoint stems from confusing fashion with style. Fashion resides within the realm of clothing, while style is embodied by the individual wearing them. Furthermore, my own experiences have demonstrated that the mindful process of defining and cultivating a personal style can significantly shape our self-image and beliefs.
Personal style is the unique manner in which you express your identity through your attire. It’s about embracing who you are and feeling at ease in your own skin. In terms of sustainability, comprehending your personal style can assist you in maintaining focus, reducing susceptibility to fleeting trends and marketing ploys. Consequently, it enables you to construct a versatile wardrobe with fewer pieces that will prove beneficial over time.
Having emphasized the significance of establishing your personal style, I’d like to present five tools that have proven instrumental in aiding my clients and myself in crafting their distinctive styles.
Define your lifestyle and what are you dressing for
Your personal style is intrinsically tied to your lifestyle and individual preferences. It’s important to consider your daily activities: Where do you usually go? Do you work remotely or at an office? (This question has gained more relevance in the wake of COVID-19). Are you a parent who spends afternoons with your children? What hobbies do you engage in, and so forth? Your wardrobe and personal style should reflect your current lifestyle. A closet filled with items that align with an aspirational lifestyle or a style that doesn’t match your present lifestyle serves little purpose.
There might be instances where a disconnect exists between your current lifestyle and the style you aspire to have. In such cases, I recommend blending the two. You can achieve this by employing accessories, a color palette, or specific pieces from your desired style. For instance, if you’re working from home but prefer a more traditional style, consider integrating chic, structured items into your everyday attire, such as an oversized blouse or tailored pants with a stretchy waistband. Opt for everyday pieces in neutral tones. Additionally, you can accessorize with items like oxfords or a sleek leather belt.
Find out what your wardrobe favourites are
Like any wardrobe-building process, the first step is to declutter your closet. An overly filled closet can hinder your ability to identify the pieces you genuinely utilize, thereby obstructing the evolution of your personal style. Every quarter, at the cusp of a new season, sift through your wardrobe and discard items that are no longer relevant. The same should be done for pieces that don’t resonate with your personal style. After organizing your closet, try out this exercise
Select 6-8 of your most-loved and frequently worn tops from your wardrobe, such as T-shirts, knitwear, and blouses.
Pick 3-4 of your favorite bottoms that you wear often, including trousers, dresses, and skirts.
Examine the chosen items and try to discern any commonality among them: Do they share a color scheme? Is there a uniformity in their form? Do they offer a particular level of comfort? How do they make you feel when you wear them?
Compile a list of these shared attributes. This exercise will aid in gaining a clearer understanding of the distinct characteristics of your personal style.
Know what flatters your body
Stay true to your style
Cultivating a personal style requires focus and decision-making. For me, the most difficult aspect is maintaining fidelity to that style. Whenever you’re drawn to an item, question whether it complements your personal style. If it doesn’t, resist the urge to purchase it. We’re continually bombarded with trends and attractive items on social media, so it’s crucial to discern what will truly enhance your wardrobe. Some pieces may look great on others but don’t necessarily suit you. Defining your style and sticking to it simplifies the daily task of choosing outfits and guides more informed shopping decisions.
In summary, developing your personal style is a journey. Like all journeys, it takes time. I embarked on mine three years ago, and it’s only recently that my wardrobe genuinely mirrors my style. My advice is to be patient with yourself. Moreover, once you’ve pinpointed your personal style, avoid the temptation to overhaul your entire wardrobe at once.
FAQ: “Five Tips to Help You Find Your Personal Style”
1. What is personal style, and why is it important? Personal style is a way of expressing oneself through fashion choices, encompassing clothing, accessories, and hairstyles. It’s important because it reflects your personality, boosts confidence, and helps you stand out in a crowd.
2. How can I start to discover my personal style? Begin by creating a mood board of fashion looks you admire on platforms like Pinterest or Instagram. Pay attention to common themes, colors, and silhouettes that resonate with you. This visual collection can serve as inspiration for defining your style.
3. Are there any specific questions I should ask myself to find my personal style? Yes, consider asking yourself what clothes make you feel the most confident, which pieces in your wardrobe you wear the most, and what colors or patterns you’re drawn to. Reflecting on your lifestyle and the message you want to convey through your clothing can also guide your style choices.
4. Can my personal style fit into a specific fashion category, or can it be a mix? Your personal style can definitely be a mix! It doesn’t have to fit neatly into one category like bohemian, classic, or edgy. Many people find that their style is a blend of several influences, making it unique to them.
5. How do I deal with feeling overwhelmed by fashion trends while trying to find my personal style? Focus on what genuinely appeals to you rather than trying to keep up with every trend. Remember, personal style is about expressing who you are, not about wearing what everyone else is. Invest in timeless pieces that you love and feel good in, which can be mixed with trendier items as you choose.
6. How important is comfort in determining personal style? Comfort is extremely important. If you don’t feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, it can affect your confidence and how you present yourself. Your personal style should include clothing that feels good on your body and suits your lifestyle.
7. Should my personal style remain consistent, or can it evolve over time? Your personal style can definitely evolve over time! As you grow and your lifestyle changes, so might your taste in fashion. It’s natural for your style to develop as you discover new interests, inspirations, and experiences.
8. How can I incorporate my personal style into a professional or formal setting? Look for ways to subtly incorporate elements of your personal style through accessories, color choices, or the cut of your clothing. Even in professional settings, there’s room to express individuality while maintaining appropriateness for the workplace.
9. Is it expensive to develop a personal style? Not necessarily. Developing a personal style is more about making thoughtful choices than spending a lot of money. Start with what you already own, and gradually add pieces that align with your style. Shopping secondhand or at discount stores can also help build your wardrobe on a budget.
10. What’s the role of experimentation in finding my personal style? Experimentation is key to finding what truly resonates with you. Don’t be afraid to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Over time, you’ll learn what works best for you and refine your personal style.
These FAQs aim to guide readers through the process of discovering and refining their personal style, offering practical tips and encouraging self-expression through fashion choices.
FAQ: How to Find Your Personal Style
How Do You Know What Your Personal Style Is?
Discovering your personal style is an exciting journey of self-expression and exploration. Here are some steps to help you understand and define your personal style:
Self-Reflection:
- Think about what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Consider your lifestyle, daily activities, and how you want to present yourself to the world.
Inspiration Gathering:
- Create a mood board or digital collection of outfits, fashion icons, and styles that resonate with you. Platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and fashion magazines are great sources of inspiration.
Closet Audit:
- Go through your wardrobe and identify your favorite pieces. Look for patterns in colors, cuts, and styles that you gravitate towards. Consider why certain items make you feel good.
Experimentation:
- Try on different styles and outfits to see what resonates with you. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and experiment with new looks.
Identify Key Pieces:
- Determine which clothing items and accessories are essential to your style. These are the foundation pieces that you can build your wardrobe around.
Consider Your Body Shape:
- Understanding your body shape can help you choose clothing that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident.
Personality Reflection:
- Your style should reflect your personality. Think about whether you prefer bold statement pieces, classic and timeless looks, or laid-back and casual outfits.
Lifestyle Assessment:
- Consider your daily routine and activities. Your style should be practical and suitable for your lifestyle, whether you’re at the office, running errands, or attending social events.
Feedback from Others:
- Ask friends and family for their input. They might offer insights into what styles suit you best based on their observations.
Stay True to Yourself:
- Ultimately, your personal style is about expressing who you are. Trust your instincts and embrace what feels right for you.
How Do I Find a Style That Fits My Personality?
Finding a style that aligns with your personality involves understanding your preferences, experimenting with different looks, and embracing what makes you unique. Here’s how to find a style that fits your personality:
Know Yourself:
- Reflect on your personality traits. Are you more introverted or extroverted? Do you prefer bold and adventurous styles or understated and elegant looks?
Define Your Fashion Goals:
- Think about what you want your style to communicate. Do you want to appear professional, creative, relaxed, or edgy? Your goals will guide your style choices.
Find Style Icons:
- Identify celebrities, influencers, or public figures whose style you admire. Analyze what elements of their style appeal to you and why.
Experiment with Different Styles:
- Don’t limit yourself to one type of fashion. Try various styles to see which ones resonate with your personality. Mix and match pieces until you find combinations that feel right.
Pay Attention to Details:
- Small details like accessories, shoes, and even makeup can significantly impact your overall look. Choose details that reflect your personality and enhance your outfits.
Comfort and Confidence:
- Choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, it will naturally reflect your personality.
Express Your Interests:
- Incorporate elements related to your hobbies and interests into your style. For example, if you love art, you might gravitate towards bold prints and unique patterns.
Be Practical:
- Ensure your style suits your daily activities and environment. Practicality is key to maintaining a cohesive and functional wardrobe.
Create a Signature Look:
- Develop a signature look or key pieces that define your style. This could be a specific type of jacket, statement jewelry, or a particular color palette.
Trust Your Instincts:
- Ultimately, your style is a personal expression. Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to break fashion rules. What matters most is that your style reflects who you are.
Summary:
How Do You Know What Your Personal Style Is?:
- Reflect on what makes you feel confident.
- Gather inspiration from various sources.
- Audit your closet and identify favorite pieces.
- Experiment with different styles.
- Identify key wardrobe pieces.
- Consider your body shape.
- Reflect on your personality.
- Assess your lifestyle needs.
- Seek feedback from others.
- Stay true to yourself.
How Do I Find a Style That Fits My Personality?:
- Know your personality traits.
- Define your fashion goals.
- Find style icons for inspiration.
- Experiment with various styles.
- Pay attention to details.
- Choose clothing that offers comfort and confidence.
- Express your interests through your style.
- Ensure practicality for daily activities.
- Create a signature look.
- Trust your instincts.
By following these steps, you can discover and develop a personal style that truly fits your personality and makes you feel confident and authentic.
Why Can’t I Find My Personal Style?
Finding your personal style can sometimes be a challenging process. Here are some common reasons why you might be struggling and how to overcome them:
Information Overload:
- The vast amount of fashion advice and trends can be overwhelming. It’s easy to get lost in the noise and feel confused about what truly suits you.
- Solution: Focus on a few key sources of inspiration that resonate with you. Create a curated mood board of styles and outfits you love.
Lack of Self-Confidence:
- Doubting your fashion choices or worrying about others’ opinions can hinder your ability to find your style.
- Solution: Trust your instincts and wear what makes you feel confident. Remember that personal style is about expressing yourself, not pleasing others.
Not Understanding Your Body Shape:
- Struggling to find clothes that fit well and flatter your body can make it difficult to identify your style.
- Solution: Learn about your body shape and experiment with different cuts and silhouettes to see what looks best on you.
Trying to Follow Trends Too Closely:
- Constantly chasing the latest trends can lead to a disconnected and inconsistent wardrobe.
- Solution: Focus on timeless pieces and integrate trends selectively that fit with your overall style.
Limited Wardrobe:
- Having a limited selection of clothing can make it hard to experiment and discover what you like.
- Solution: Gradually expand your wardrobe with versatile pieces. Thrift stores and budget-friendly brands can be great for trying new styles without a huge investment.
Lifestyle Mismatch:
- Your lifestyle and wardrobe might not align, making it hard to dress in a way that feels both practical and stylish.
- Solution: Consider your daily activities and choose styles that suit your lifestyle while still reflecting your personality.
Lack of Time or Patience:
- Finding your style takes time and experimentation. If you’re impatient, you might not give yourself enough opportunities to explore.
- Solution: Be patient and enjoy the process. Try new outfits regularly and take note of what makes you feel good.
Fear of Experimentation:
- Sticking to the same safe choices out of fear of making mistakes can prevent you from finding your true style.
- Solution: Allow yourself to make fashion “mistakes.” Every experiment is a step closer to discovering what works for you.
How Do I Recognize My Style?
Recognizing your personal style is about understanding what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and expressive. Here are some steps to help you recognize your style:
Self-Assessment:
- Reflect on your fashion preferences and what draws you to certain styles. What colors, patterns, and fabrics do you naturally gravitate towards?
Wardrobe Analysis:
- Take a close look at your current wardrobe. Identify the pieces you wear most often and feel best in. These items can provide insights into your style preferences.
Identify Common Themes:
- Look for common themes among your favorite outfits. Are there specific colors, silhouettes, or accessories that consistently appear? These themes can help define your style.
Explore Different Styles:
- Experiment with various fashion styles to see what resonates with you. Try on different outfits, mix and match items, and pay attention to how each look makes you feel.
Embrace Your Lifestyle:
- Your personal style should align with your daily activities and lifestyle. Consider practicality alongside aesthetics when choosing your outfits.
Document Your Outfits:
- Take photos of your outfits to see which ones you feel best in. Over time, you’ll start to notice patterns and preferences emerging.
Seek Inspiration:
- Follow fashion influencers, browse fashion magazines, and use platforms like Pinterest to gather inspiration. Notice which looks you’re consistently drawn to.
Trust Your Instincts:
- Your intuition is a valuable guide. Trust your gut feelings about what looks good and feels right for you, even if it goes against current trends.
Feedback from Others:
- Ask friends and family for their honest opinions on your outfits. Sometimes an outside perspective can highlight elements of your style you may not have noticed.
Create a Style Statement:
- Summarize your style in a few words or a short sentence. This statement can guide your fashion choices and keep your style cohesive.
Summary:
Why Can’t I Find My Personal Style?:
- Information overload: Focus on key sources of inspiration.
- Lack of self-confidence: Trust your instincts and wear what makes you feel good.
- Not understanding your body shape: Learn what flatters your figure.
- Following trends too closely: Integrate trends that fit your overall style.
- Limited wardrobe: Gradually add versatile pieces.
- Lifestyle mismatch: Align your wardrobe with your daily activities.
- Lack of time or patience: Enjoy the process and be patient.
- Fear of experimentation: Allow yourself to try new things and make mistakes.
How Do I Recognize My Style?:
- Self-assessment: Reflect on your fashion preferences.
- Wardrobe analysis: Identify your favorite and most-worn pieces.
- Identify common themes: Look for recurring elements in your outfits.
- Explore different styles: Experiment with various looks.
- Embrace your lifestyle: Choose styles that suit your daily activities.
- Document your outfits: Take photos to track your preferences.
- Seek inspiration: Follow influencers and browse fashion resources.
- Trust your instincts: Follow your gut feelings about what works for you.
- Feedback from others: Ask for opinions from friends and family.
- Create a style statement: Summarize your style in a few words.
By following these steps, you can overcome obstacles in finding your personal style and recognize what truly represents you.