How to Define Your Personal Style: A Simple Guide

Have you ever wished for a wardrobe that truly reflects who you are? Personal style goes beyond following trends – it’s about expressing your identity through your clothing choices. Finding your unique style might seem daunting, but the good news is that it’s already inside you, waiting to be discovered! This step-by-step guide will help you identify your personal style so you can feel confident and excited every time you get dressed.

Why Personal Style Matters

• Boosts Confidence: When you wear clothes that feel authentic, it shines through and boosts your confidence.
• Simplifies Your Life: A wardrobe that suits you means less time staring at your closet and more time enjoying your day.
• Expresses Yourself: Your style tells a story about who you are without needing to say a word.
• Saves Money: Knowing what you love means fewer impulse purchases and more thoughtful choices.

Step 1: Take a Close Look at Your Closet

Your current wardrobe holds valuable clues about your personal style. Take some time to reflect on your clothes and ask yourself:

• Sentimental Pieces: Which items make you smile when you see them? Even if you don’t wear them often, what makes them special?
• Go-To Items: What do you reach for without thinking? These are likely the pieces that make you feel most comfortable and confident.
• “Not Quite Right” Items: Are there certain colors, fits, or fabrics that you always feel uncomfortable in? These can help you avoid similar purchases in the future.

Step 2: Find Fashion Inspiration

Inspiration can come from many sources. Create a style mood board on Pinterest or gather a folder on your phone with images that resonate with you:

• Celebrities & Icons: Are there celebrities or public figures whose style always inspires you?
• Movies & TV: Which characters’ wardrobes do you love? Note the colors, eras, or vibes that stand out.
• Everyday Inspiration: Sometimes, street style, nature, or artwork can spark your imagination. Keep track of what draws you in.

Step 3: Define Your Style Language

Now that you have some visual references, it’s time to translate them into words. Fashion stylist Kate Igoe suggests using a “3 Style Words” method to capture the essence of your style. These words aren’t trends but feelings or themes that define your wardrobe.

For example, your style words could be:

• Classic, Elegant, Polished
• Bold, Colorful, Playful
• Minimal, Edgy, Modern
• Cozy, Vintage, Romantic

For me, after years of experimenting, I found that my words were “modern, expressive, bold.” This helped me understand why I love structured pieces with unexpected pops of color.

Step 4: Experiment with Confidence

Don’t be afraid to try new combinations. Mix and match pieces from your closet based on your inspiration. Pay attention to how different outfits make you feel. Defining your style is an ongoing process, and sometimes it’s about finding what works through trial and error.

Step 5: Embrace Your Essentials

After exploring your style direction, identify your “uniform.” This isn’t about wearing the same outfit every day (unless you want to) but identifying pieces you always gravitate toward. For example, my go-to outfit is jeans, a graphic tee, and a blazer, which I can adjust with accessories or swaps based on the occasion.

Step 6: Shop with Intention

When shopping, always ask yourself if a piece fits with your style words. It’s easy to get distracted by trends, but sticking to your core style will ensure your wardrobe remains cohesive. Sometimes, trendy pieces work, but more often, sticking to basics and classic choices will be your best bet.

Step 7: Allow Room for Evolution

Your style will evolve naturally over time. New experiences, like a career change, a move, or a new hobby, may inspire a fresh wardrobe direction. Regularly check in with yourself to see if your clothing still feels like “you.”

Expert Tips for Defining Your Style

• Quality Over Quantity: It’s tempting to buy inexpensive, trendy pieces, but investing in fewer, higher-quality items will benefit you in the long run. Think about the cost-per-wear of each item.
• Tailoring is Key: A tailor can transform even affordable clothes into pieces that fit you perfectly. A quick hem or a nip at the waist can make a huge difference.
• Start Small: Defining your entire wardrobe can be overwhelming. Focus first on your everyday style—the pieces you wear most often—and build from there.
• Use Your Inspiration: Keep referring back to your inspiration images to ensure your purchases align with the style you’re aiming for.
• Comfort is Crucial: Style is about self-expression, but it should still feel comfortable. Don’t force yourself into uncomfortable trends just because they’re popular.
• Accessories are Game-Changers: Sometimes the right accessory can elevate your look instantly. Experiment with jewelry, bags, scarves, or hats to express your personality.
• Break the “Rules”: Fashion rules are meant to be broken! Ultimately, wear what makes you feel confident and amazing, no matter what anyone says.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Journey

Discovering your personal style is a continuous journey of self-expression. Focus on clothing that makes you feel great, and over time, your unique style will naturally come to the forefront. When your wardrobe truly reflects who you are, getting dressed will always be an opportunity to shine.