Unlocking Your Inner Fashion Icon
Have you ever wondered how some people always seem to dress effortlessly well? How do they know which pieces to choose, which colors to pair? How do they find items that flatter their body type and reflect their unique character? If you're looking for the answers to these questions, we've got you covered. Here are 20 tips to revamp your wardrobe and find your personal style.
1. Research Trends
The easiest thing to do when you're first trying out what fits your fashion aesthetic or not is to research current trends. Maybe low-rise jeans are back in style, or certain types of footwear. Whatever it is, a quick search on the internet will give you a place to start.
Charlota Blunarova on Unsplash
2. Experiment
After you've done some research, your next step is to experiment. You don't have to commit to certain pieces just yet—reserve that wallet damage for later, once you've rounded up your must-haves—but go crazy. Try styles you used to like; try styles you aren't sure you like yet. The more you play around, the easier it'll get to narrow down what gets an absolute yes or a resounding no.
3. Understand Your Color Palette
Understanding your color palette is also important. If you can, get a color analysis done to see which shades and tones match you best. This will help explain why certain hues don't seem to suit you, and why others might.
4. Pick Out Your Must-Haves
Whether it's your favorite pair of pants or a certain style or pattern, dig out your must-haves from your closet. Find the pieces you can't live without. Once you have them, style around these items. This will make it easier than starting completely from scratch.
5. Mimic Your Style Icons
Do you follow any fashion influencers on social media? Or maybe you have a celebrity you admire for not only their talent but their style? Narrow down the ones you really want to mimic, then find similar pieces to assemble some outfits together.
6. Consider Your Favorite Brands
Another place to look is your favorite clothing brands. What makes them stand out to you over other stores and boutiques? Is it the designs, the colors, the versatile pieces? Have a scroll through these sites and take notes about what's so uniquely eye-catching, and while you're at it, take inspiration from the models, too.
7. Create Mood Boards
As you continue your research and experimental stage, screenshot and save your favorite looks, then create some mood boards. These could be based on certain trends, styles, or colors. Plus, you can always go back to these mood boards when you need outfit ideas.
8. Find What Works for Your Body Type
While we'll always encourage stepping outside the norm and wearing what you want, there may be types of styles that work better for some body types over others. Make sure to experiment with pairing different pieces together to find out which outfits flatter your figure most.
9. Prioritize Comfort
Beauty is pain, but don't squeeze into something if you're not going to feel comfortable rocking it. And when we say comfort, we mean it both literally and figuratively—you want to ensure every clothing piece in your outfit is in a size that fits your body type, and is in a style you genuinely love.
10. Ask for Advice
When in doubt, ask your friends and family for advice and feedback. You can even look to them for inspiration, and pick out the reasons why their style works for them. If you need more help, reach out to a professional stylist to direct your questions to.
11. Don't Buy Things Just Because They're Popular
Sometimes, you may be tempted to buy things just because they're in trend and you see others wearing them. But if these items don't suit your style, don't waste your money. A question you might want to ask yourself before buying anything is: Do you really want it, or do you just want others to see that you have it?
12. Accessorize Wisely
Accessories matter, too, and they can truly make or break an outfit. When styling with metallics, choose a color that complements your skin tone—silver typically suits those who lean more warm, and gold with those who lean more fair. And remember: less is more.
13. Get Pieces Tailored If Necessary
Sometimes, it's not that a style doesn't suit you, it's just that it's not the right size for your shape. Whenever necessary, get your clothing items customized and tailored. Even small adjustments, like length, can instantly change the look of the piece and how they flatter your figure.
14. Understand How to Pair Colors
If you're terrible at pairing colors together, don't fret—look to the web for inspiration. Some combinations, like pastels and black and white, are tried and trues, but don't be afraid to branch out if you want to try something different.
Apostolos Vamvouras on Unsplash
15. Simplify Your Wardrobe
We've mentioned picking out your favorite pieces from your closet and styling around them, but while you're doing that, clean up your wardrobe and get rid of items that are outdated or you don't vibe with anymore. This will help clear up space and make it easier to find your core basics.
16. Play Around with Textures & Fabrics
Don't overlook playing around with various textures, which can also give off different looks and styles. Try pairing corduroy with denim, or silk with suede. Experiment as much as you can to find what suits your aesthetic best.
Divazus Fabric Store on Unsplash
17. Three-Word Method
How would you want to define your personal style? How do you want others to describe your style? Pick three words—like bold, colorful, and vintage—and use them to narrow your search down, finding pieces that fit that specific style.
18. Don't Be Afraid to Play Around
We've probably mentioned this already, but it's worth repeating—don't be afraid to mix and match and try different styles. The great thing about fashion is that you don't need to box yourself in and follow certain trends if you don't want to. Have fun with it!
19. Remember to Dress for Yourself, Not for Others
Another important thing to keep in mind when finding your personal style is to dress for yourself, not for others. Even if the colors or clothing items you like are "out there" and uncommon, if wearing these pieces makes you happy, then go for it!
20. Change It Up Regularly
Finding your personal style doesn't mean that the adventure stops right when you've found it. Your style can change depending on the season or your mood; it doesn't have to be a one-size-fits-all. When you're starting to outgrow your current pieces, simply repeat the process we've listed here and rock a new outfit.
