CLOTHING: YOUR STYLE YOUR WAY

 clothing sense

Start with Your Foundation

Before you buy another trendy item, take a look at your closet. What are your go-to pieces? The ones you always feel good in? These are the building blocks of your personal style. For most, these are simple, high-quality items like a well-fitting pair of jeans, a comfortable white T-shirt, or a classic jacket. These foundational pieces are the most valuable items you own, as they can be styled in dozens of ways. 

Step 1: Find Your Inspiration

Think of this as your fashion mood board. Instead of just following trends, look for inspiration that genuinely speaks to you.

• Who do you admire? It could be a celebrity, a friend, a fictional character, or even someone you see on the street. What is it about their style that you love? Is it their use of color, their preference for classic silhouettes, or their bold accessories?

• What are your interests? Are you a minimalist? A lover of vintage? Do you find inspiration in art, nature, or music? Your hobbies and passions can be a great guide to your style. For example, a creative person might gravitate towards unique patterns and textures, while an outdoorsy person might prefer practical, durable fabrics.

• Create a digital mood board. Pinterest is your best friend here. Pin outfits, colors, textures, and even interior design or travel photos that you find aesthetically pleasing. Look for common threads and themes in what you're pinning.

Step 2: Understand Your Body and Lifestyle

The most stylish outfits are the ones that fit you well and make
sense for your life.

• Focus on fit. An expensive, trendy piece that doesn't fit you correctly won't look as good as a well-fitting, basic garment. Pay attention to how clothes feel on your body. Do they flatter your shape? Do you feel comfortable and able to move freely?

• Dress for your reality. Your style should work for your daily life. If you spend most of your time working from home, a closet full of business suits won't be very useful. Instead, focus on creating a wardrobe that makes you feel great whether you're on a Zoom call or running errands.

Step 3: Declutter and Identify Your Core Pieces

It’s hard to find your style in a cluttered closet.

• The "Does it Spark Joy?" Rule. Go through your wardrobe and be ruthless. Get rid of anything that doesn't fit, is damaged, or doesn't make you feel good when you wear it.

• Identify your "forever" pieces. What are the items you wear again and again? The perfect pair of jeans, a comfortable t-shirt, or a go-to jacket. These are the building blocks of your personal style. They represent what you truly love and wear most often.

Step 4: Experiment and Have Fun!

Style is about trial and error. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

• Try new combinations. Pair that vintage t-shirt with a structured skirt. Wear a bold-colored accessory with a neutral outfit.

• Shop with intention. When you do buy new clothes, think about how they will integrate with what you already own. Ask yourself: "Does this piece align with the style I'm trying to create?"

• Confidence is your best accessory. The most important part of great style is how you carry yourself. Once you find clothes that make you feel good, your confidence will shine through and complete the look.

Finding your personal style is a journey of self-discovery. It's a fun and creative way to learn more about yourself and present that person to the world. Don't worry about getting it perfect—just focus on building a wardrobe that makes you feel like the best version of you.