4 Ways To Define Your Personal Style
After years of struggling to find my own unique style, I’ve finally found my wardrobe identity. There was no epiphany or “a-ha” moment, I simply got to a point where I didn’t want to be a carbon copy of my closest friends, no matter how fly they were.
My inspiration stems from tons of research. I’m not delving into Vogue or Harper’s Bazaar because my wallet would laugh at me, but I do find little gems in everything from home décor magazines (I have an affinity for prints) to other fashion bloggers.
Here are 4 tips that may prove helpful to defining your personal style:
1. Create A Lookbook
Photo credit: WhoWhatWear
Fill a large notebook with various sources of inspiration. The obvious would be cut outs of clothes that appeal to you, but don’t stop there. Include pictures that make you happy and colors that bring a smile to your face. Copy quotes from anyone whose style you admire. Research current/past trends and find ways to incorporate them into your daily wardrobe. If it doesn’t work with your personal truth, skip it and move on. Trends change like the wind so don’t beat yourself (and your wallet) up trying to stay on the pulse of fashion.
2. Take Daily Photos
Photo credit: Style Hive
Don’t always rely on mirrors. We’ve all had those moments when the that was cute at home in the full length mirror just didn’t translate on camera. Even if it doesn’t work, make a mental note of what was good, what wasn’t and what you’d change if you wore it again. You’ll notice a huge difference in the way you dress yourself and learn a lot about your shape and proportions.
3. Come Up With A Style Concept
Photo credit: WhoWhatWear
Come up with a rough concept of what you’re into at the moment. Right now I’m really into lace and leather. So I’m immediately drawn to anything that captures that lady-like, demure essence, but add leather to create a look that’s polar opposite. Whatever it is, allow your imagination to roam.
4. Take Your Time
Photo credit: Tiffany Pinero Style
Usually the most stylish people don’t just magically come up with their looks. Often times it’s a result of list-making, hunting and being inspired by different things, colors and patterns. It’s okay to make fashion mistakes so don’t be afraid to redefine your style concept to make it more wearable for you.
How do you define your personal style?
Comments (10)
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chantalmcculligh December 13, 2013 at 7:14 pm
Hot post! You banged the nail on the head with this one. xo
Cait O'Keeffe November 17, 2013 at 9:48 pm
Love this and it’s so true! Don’t be afraid to try anything in fashion, I am all about mixing and matching…
xo!
Caitlin
ariana April 17, 2013 at 8:04 pm
Was just answering the question of how to develop personal style w/our design intern today. I practice graphic design, but your tips can apply to any creative searching for their voice. Def shared the link with her. Preesh the visual aids.
Krystal Franklin April 9, 2013 at 4:42 pm
Loving the dialogue ladies. Each post is to inspire so I’m happy the wheels are turning!
Veronica April 9, 2013 at 4:33 pm
Great tips and I agree! Its not easy defining your own style at first but once you start identifying first what speaks to you it becomes much easier.
p.s. thank you so much for the add to the link love list. I’m also in the process of making little changes to my blog and I’ll be adding you to my link love list as well. You’ve been a fave of mine ever since I discovered your blog a lil over a year ago.
Donneka April 9, 2013 at 3:40 pm
Yesss! Really cute! I’ve really been into lavender lately so maybe I’ll make a style concept thingy with that.
Blake Von D April 9, 2013 at 4:20 pm
I think I might make one with nothing but pictures of Olivia Pope on it. Lol. P.S. No worries! Took care of your typos for you. 😉
Mo a@whoisthatgirlmo April 9, 2013 at 1:34 pm
I’m not sure what my style would be defined as. I think I’m into quite a few different ones all meshed together. IDK. I am digging black and white stripes and patterns and florals. I will figure it out. Great tips!
Mandi April 9, 2013 at 1:13 pm
I’m still trying to figure out my personal style so this post is right on time. I like the idea of a style concept.. right now I’m into polka dots ,stripes and bright colors.
Thanks for the tips!
Mandi
The Sassy Fit Mom