You may have heard the phrase, “Fashion is what you buy; style is what you do with it.” These are words we like to live by. After all, how boring would it be if we all wore the same clothes in the same way? Likewise, style, not fashion, is timeless; while fashion refers to passing trends, style involves your sense of self and staying true to that aesthetic.
Your personal style is how you choose to express yourself. This can be through many different mediums, but today, we’re focusing on clothes. With the world, quite literally, at your fingertips, there are several ways to go about finding your personal style, but here are some of our favorite tips.
Examine Your Closet
Commit to taking everything out of your closet so that no item goes overlooked. Hold up each piece and ask yourself, “Would I buy this today?” If the answer is yes, keep it; if you would pass it up in a store, put it in the donate or sell pile. As you look at each piece, take mental notes about which ones you love and why. Is it the color? Is it the way they fit? Note the common characteristics for future shopping trips. But don’t stop there! Also note what you don’t like about certain pieces.
Find Your Inspiration
There are many ways to find style inspiration, but one of the easiest is via social media. Instagram and TikTok are great resources for styled looks on all different body types. We also suggest scouring your favorite bookstore for coffee-table or photography books focused on street fashion or vintage fashion. You can also look for inspiration around you. Take time to observe what people around you are wearing. You’ll be pleasantly surprised that some of your biggest inspirations may be right in your own backyard!
Make a Pinterest Board
Pinterest boards are the new dream boards! Head over to Pinterest and start pinning outfits or items that you love. The best part about Pinterest is that many pieces now have direct links for where to buy them!
Start Small With a Capsule Wardrobe
Your idea of a capsule wardrobe will look different than those of others. The goal is to find what you consider your basics that you build from. For some, it will be a classic striped tee; for others, it could be a pair of plaid wide-leg trousers. From here, you’ll continue to add more pieces, building up your wardrobe with clothes that fit your style.
Find Your Niche
Finding your personal style has everything to do with finding what you’re drawn to. Once you know what you’re all about, your wardrobe will soon reflect that.
What tips do you have for finding your personal style? Let us know in the comments below!