Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Own Style

"Know, first, who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly." - Epictetus

Hi guys! Today I thought I would share with you my guide to find your very own style. I know it can be hard to figure out what looks best on you. What to wear to feel your very best, and of course what to wear that makes you most comfortable. Therefore, I’m going to go in depth about the subject, because finding your own unique style is very important. Before you go and buy something you like at first glance, think to yourself first “Is this really my style?” or “Am I actually going to wear something like this?”. I know with all the crazy trends it’s easy to get lost in thinking you would wear items when in reality they are not for you. This has happened to me various times, so I’m guilty, and fully aware of this. For example, there is no denying jean skirts are back in style. I remember a couple years ago it was almost like they were banned in society. For me, jean skirts just don’t fit my body right. I’ve tried to pull them off numerous times, but each time I end up regretting my purchase because they never end up looking good on me. My first advice would have to be this, think before you purchase. I like to think about three different occasions I could and would wear the item to before I purchase it and this has helped me a great deal. 

Before you find your own style, you must find yourself, discover who you are and how you want to express yourself. Figure out your taste. Your interests, inspirations, aspirations, desires, etc. the way you dress reflects these aspects, so take the features you want to express and show them to the world! Style and fashion different. Although they are similar in some ways, fashion is about an image that’s popular and trending. Style is about expressing who you are through clothes, regardless of what’s popular. I always say that fashion gives you inspiration, but style is what you make out of that inspiration. Seeking inspiration is a crucial first step, it helps you decide what you like vs what you don't like.  

Start off by going through your entire closet. Pull out your favorite and least favorite pieces and put them in separate piles. Go through each pile and ask yourself why this is your favorite or least favorite item. Whether it’s because of comfort, size, or just the fact you never reach for it are all notable when it comes to finding your style. After you’ve sorted through your entire closet, the next step is to give away anything you haven’t touched in a year. If you have gone an entire season without reaching for it, chances are come next season you will ignore it again. This calls for donating these items as soon as possible. This will not only make room for you to choose pieces you will grab constantly, but gives to those in need of clothing that you aren’t even using yourself.   

Money isn't the answer to everything. I know a lot of you think just because you're on a budget means you can't have a decent wardrobe. But, it's all about shopping smarter. I've done plenty of budget friendly clothing posts that prove you can get a cute outfit for a good price. Only splurge on staple pieces, like a leather jacket, or a good handbag. The rest you can find at reasonable stores like Forever21. If you're looking for more high quality items at a lower price, visit a Marshalls, TJ Maxx, SAKS Off Fifth or Nordstrom Rack. These stores have designer pieces at affordable prices. So, when you are looking for those staple pieces, be sure to check these stores before going into a full priced Nordstrom or Saks, I promise you won't be disappointed!

Next time you go shopping, bring your inspiration with you. Revisit your Pinterest inspiration board first, or pull it up on your phone while your shopping. This will help you remember what you like, and specific themes to recreate the looks you love. Make lists of items you have in your closet, and lists of items you wish you had. This will also help with those impulse purchases, if you are about to buy something you feel you might have or don't necessarily need, check the list first and stop yourself. If you only shop to build the holes in your closet, you will have a better selection and save money simultaneously.  

Your wardrobe should represent your creativity, and be personalized to your lifestyle. You want to echo your personality. Think about your job, the line of work you wish to go into. If you are aspiring to be in fashion, add more on trend pieces. If your work environment is casual, you may want to add more casual pieces in. I like to think about all the situations I'm in during a given week. Write them down if anything, whether you frequently attend dinners, work parties, parties in general, the gym, special occasions and the list goes on. Revisit your list when you shop for clothes, I know buying a beautiful gown can be tempting but trust me, hold back if you haven't worn a gown since senior prom. the key is always to find items that can mix and match, and crossover from different categories. A higher quality soft white t-shirt can be worn to the gym, or with a blazer and jeans to work, or tucked into a skirt with heels for a party.

Another huge piece of advice I have for you is to stock up on your accessories! They are so important and hands down easiest way to pull any look together. You can easily make a white t-shirt and jeans an awesome outfit by adding some layered necklaces, a nice pair of earrings and maybe a pop of color in your shoe. This is one of my ultimate tricks to spicing up any outfit. I love to wear a basic white t-shirt, a pair of boyfriend jeans, and go crazy with accessorizing. For example, pearls if you like a more girly preppy feel, or stacked rings and chokers if you like something more edgy. Even an embroidered or bright bag could amp your look up. If you’re one to dress for comfort, simply note that and focus on accessorizing your favorite comfortable outfit. Remember, it's all about being yourself! Fashion will always be changing, but if you stick to what makes you feel the best, that's what true style is all about! Overall, own your style. Be proud of it, and most importantly embrace fashion as a way to express who you are and who you want to be.