Discovering Your Individual Style

I believe many of us have experienced those transitional phases in life when we’re suddenly faced with the question, “What should I wear?” Whether it’s graduating from university and stepping into the corporate world or transitioning into motherhood after years of delicate silks and designer handbags, it’s more than just a fashion dilemma. It goes deeper than making a good first impression.

Discovering your personal style is a key to feeling confident in your clothing choices. It means knowing that you not only look good but also feel great. For me, how I dress reflects my personality, and it’s a significant part of how I present myself to the world every day. Moreover, understanding your personal style can simplify your shopping habits and your morning routine, giving you a signature look that is uniquely you.

Based on my experience and the concept of building capsule wardrobes, I’ve learned that the “a-ha” moment in finding your personal style comes over time and through following seven simple steps.

Evaluate Your Wardrobe: Start by reviewing your current wardrobe. Remove items you don’t like, that don’t fit, or don’t align with your desired style. Discard worn-out or stained pieces. If you haven’t worn something in a year, consider parting with it. You’ll be surprised how you won’t miss those pieces.
Identify Your Preferences: Your wardrobe should bring you joy and anticipation. Choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and is suited to your taste, not just trends. Consider your lifestyle, whether you’re a student, freelancer, or working in a corporate office, and adapt your style to suit all aspects of your life.
Seek Inspiration: Look for style icons or wardrobes you admire. Platforms like Pinterest are great for collecting inspiration. As you pin more outfits, you’ll notice a recurring style or silhouette that resonates with you. Save, pin, or print outfit ideas you like and figure out how to replicate them with your existing wardrobe or key pieces you need to add.
Dress for Your Body: Dress to accentuate your strengths. Highlight your figure, whether it’s an hourglass shape, long legs, or a toned back. Find styles and outfits that flatter your body type and make you feel confident.
Label Your Style: Use labels like classic, minimal, bohemian, edgy, or preppy to define your style. More than one label can be used if necessary. Analyze your favorite outfits and identify a common theme that links them together.
Uniform Dressing: Identify your “repeat offender” outfits or signature pieces. Think about combinations you gravitate towards, like a band t-shirt with skinny jeans or a go-to bomber jacket. Create a few fail-safe outfits that you can quickly put together and feel good in.
Don’t worry too much: Don’t take your personal style too seriously. It’s okay for your style to evolve over time as you grow and experience different life stages. Express yourself and wear things that bring you joy, regardless of others’ opinions. Don’t be afraid to infuse your style into more formal or strict dress codes by finding creative ways to express yourself.