Ever wondered how to create your own style? What are these basics that create a unique style and make us distinctive?
“Fashions fade, style is eternal,” said Yves Saint Laurent, and he was right. So many quotes about style, and they all tell one – you can’t learn style – you need to build it over the years. The key is discovering who you truly are and knowing that style is about attitude and self-expression.
Here are some pieces of advice to help you develop your style and be more vigilant about it.
1. Embrace Your Body Shape
One of the most important (if not the most important) things about getting dressed is understanding your body shape. You need to know which silhouette shows off the best. That is how you start creating your style – by getting to know your body.
If you were wondering how to know what suits you, it is quite easy. Take pictures in front of a mirror and ask your friends and family what they think. You can also find a lot of guides and shape calculators that can help you determine your silhouette or the one that suits you the most.
2. Find Your Signature Pieces
Have you ever asked yourself how to wear all your clothes? Many women have enormous wardrobes full of items, shoes, and accessories they don’t wear. That is because they buy things they don’t need, that don’t suit them, or the clothes they wear for one occasion only. The key is to build your wardrobe around essential pieces and find your signature items.
Creating your style is easier when you have a good foundation. Basic items like a pair of blue jeans and T-shirts in different colors are a must-have. Then, you can add a plaid blazer, trench coat, and button-down as investment pieces. Leather boots and bags that you can style with all your outfits should also find a place in your wardrobe.
Signature pieces are the ones you love and that describe your style. This can be an accessory (remember Anna Wintour’s sunglasses), color, or even hair and makeup (Kate Middleton’s impeccable locks). Find yours, and you will be recognized from a mile off.
3. Be Consistent
Consistency in your style helps create a recognizable and cohesive look.
Developing a signature element is key. It could be a color palette, an accessory, or a type of clothing. It’s the foundation of your style. This doesn’t mean wearing the same outfit every day but rather having a unifying thread that ties your various looks together.
For example, if you love vintage-inspired fashion, incorporating elements like retro prints or classic cuts regularly can help define your style. Consistency makes it easier to shop, dress, and present yourself, as your wardrobe pieces will naturally complement each other.
4. Get Inspired, AKA Becoming Style Stalker
Seeking inspiration from your style icons can definitely help you build your style. You can make mood boards, Pinterest boards, or make collections of photos on Instagram. You will be amazed at how inspiring this can be in creating your capsule look.
Search through photos of the celebrities you admire, fashion influencers, and street-style stars. You can also watch the people around you.
Trust us – your mom’s closet can be a place where you can find many items you can wear. Maybe your grandma’s style is the one you should consider as well!
5. Create a Uniform
Women often wonder how to dress less boringly. Well, even though creating a uniform isn’t helping a lot, it is also an excellent place to start. One of the biggest misconceptions is not buying something you already have. You can’t have enough T-shirts and basic sweaters. Just because you have your formula for dressing doesn’t necessarily mean you look dull.
It would help if you kept it simple so when you buy new items, know exactly what you want and what you can mix and match. Play with makeup and accessories, like a matching purse, to spice up these ‘uniformed’ looks.
6. Invest in Pieces You Like To Wear
Don’t be afraid to invest in pieces you like to wear. For instance, if you have found jeans that suit you perfectly, don’t hesitate to invest in as many pairs as you wish. You will wear them for years, so it will pay off.
7. Know Your Color Palette
You won’t be happy wearing colors that you don’t like. Selecting YOUR color palette is a key step in crafting an individual style.
Consider the tones that resonate with your personality and evoke positive emotions. Whether drawn to vibrant hues or subdued neutrals, your chosen palette should complement your skin tone and enhance your overall look. Experiment with combinations to discover what resonates with you, and don’t hesitate to mix in statement colors for a touch of flair.
A well-curated color palette unifies your wardrobe and serves as a visual expression of your unique aesthetic.
8. Developing Your Unique Style Is a Practice
Many think that personal or unique style is something that people automatically have. However, in reality, that is usually not the case.
For some people, it takes years to learn about their bodies, the style of wardrobe they like, or simply to discover a brand that suits their needs. Before even starting to think about your unique style, there are some questions you need to ask yourself.
9. Learn To Describe Your Style
Is it minimalistic, chic, classy, or maybe basic? These words will help you set a theme for your style and make it easier for you to buy items. They represent an overall of your style.
10. Your Style Can Change
Sure, you can change your style. It is possible that something that you were wearing and loving when you were 21 won’t suit your style when you’re 31 anymore. Perhaps you enjoyed funky or joyful outfits but turned to look rich and classy over the years?
You can overgrow it, which means your style has evolved.
11. Reflect Your Lifestyle
Think about your social engagements, your hobbies, demands of your job when curating your wardrobe.
If you have an active lifestyle, prioritize comfortable and versatile clothing. If your work environment is formal, invest in polished, professional pieces. Your wardrobe should not only look good but also be practical and functional. It must ensure you feel comfortable and confident in any setting.
Such alignment between style and lifestyle creates a harmonious and authentic personal style.
12. Invest in Quality
Investing in quality pieces is essential for building a wardrobe that lasts. High-quality items are typically made from superior materials and constructed with greater attention to detail. While such pieces may cost more, their longevity and timeless appeal make them a worthwhile investment.
13. Find Someone Who Inspires You
Many incredible women have unique styles and know how to show them. Style icons like Coco Chanel, Jackie O, Anna Wintour, Audrie Hepburn, Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, and many other incredible women can serve as inspiration.
14. Experiment With Trends
Fashion trends are a great way to keep your style current and exciting, but they should be approached with a discerning eye. Start by incorporating trendy items in small, manageable doses.
For instance, if bold colors are in, add a vibrant accessory like a handbag or scarf to your outfit rather than going head-to-toe in a new hue. This allows you to stay on trend without overwhelming your personal style.
Do you have your favorite fashion aesthetics type? Identifying that can guide you in your style and fashion journey.
15. Getting a Sense of Style Takes Time
Style is something you build over time. It becomes a part of your personality, and it is normal to evolve and change over time.
“You gotta have style. It helps you get down the stairs. It helps you get up in the morning. It’s a way of life. Without it, you’re nobody. I’m not talking about lots of clothes” – Diana Vreeland.
Diana says it all. Creating your style doesn’t necessarily mean you need to spend a fortune buying new clothes. You can learn how to style clothes you already have and build them up so you can have outfits ready for all occasions.
As we have mentioned, the key things are to know your body, find essential items, and combine them into a uniform look that is anything but boring. Also, many women have style icons. So, don’t hesitate to be inspired and find someone to admire as well.