Blouse: Romwe c/o Bag: Furla Shoes: Dupes, Charlotte Olympia Jeans: Express
Have you ever taken an online quiz? I recently went on a quiz taking frenzy with topics such as what Friends character are you to who do you most relate to on Sex in the City. Carefully choosing my answers, I longingly starred at the screen wondering my results. In our human nature lies a desire for self knowledge. We crave to learn who we are at the core and on the surface.
P.S I got Emma (Rachel’s daughter) for the Friends results. I mean are you kidding me?! And Carrie for the Sex in the City results. That makes a little more sense, but I digress.
I believe we often want to simply our complicated nature by taking personality quizzes and other questionnaires to better understand this person who stares back at us in the mirror everyday. This straightforward concept can even translate to our wardrobe choices. Some days we know what to wear with ease and conviction, while other days leave us feeling confused as to what type of style we desire in the first place. I might not be able to help you understand your sole purpose in life, but I can give you a few tips in finding a personal style that fits your needs and lifestyle. These uncomplicated suggestions will help you discover what style choices might best describe you!
1. Write Down Your Usual Activities and Hobbies
This is the most practical step you can take in building a wardrobe that is the most suitable for your lifestyle. Sure, you may want to prance about your apartment in a long sequins ball gown everyday; however, if you run a dog shelter that might not be the best choice. You need to get real about your day to day life. If you are a Yoga instructor, you may want your closet to be full of leggings. But do you often brunch with girlfriends on Sundays? Maybe it’s time to add some dresses. By writing a compiled list of all of your hobbies, you will have a more realistic picture of what your style can and should be.
2. Decide What Types of Clothing Are Realisitic
Now that you know what activities take up most of your time, it is time to make another list of clothing pieces that make the most sense to wear during these hobbies. If you are a corporate lady, you will obviously need a variety of pencil skirts, suits, dress pants, and blouses. Figure out what specific pieces you will need and then you will be ready for the next step.
3. Figure Out What Fabrics To Choose
Once you have painted a realistic picture of what you do on a daily basis and what items you need, you can now start to get specific about the kinds of fabrics that make the most sense for you. If you have a more casual profession, you can pick cottons, denim, and knit. But if you will be attending a lot of meetings, you will need fabrics like silk, satin, and chiffon. Pay attention to what material the items of clothing you gravitate toward are made out of. You may start to notice a trend of what fabrics you like the most. Then keep a mental or physical note of those materials that will work best for your lifestyle. I personally love a great tweed!
4. Get the Colors Right
I went through a phase when I was younger when I was obsessed with the color wheel. I got several books that discussed what colors you should wear based off of your skin tone, hair, and eye coloring. I would only buy items that fit in my designated color range. I think I was 13 at the time. Although there is truth to this common concept, I do not think you need to abide by the color law. Coloring simply comes down to the season of the year, your profession, and your skin tone. If you are a business babe, you will obviously need more neutrals. If you teach Kindergarten, you can have a more colorful ensemble. Head to Lowes and grab a bunch of color swatches and get to know some new colors. Keep them in your purse and vow that you will try out some new pieces in the shades you chose. See what looks good on you and what matches up with the current season and weather. Skip the shades that don’t suit you.
5. Gain Inspiration
Finally, you can start to create a vision of what your personal style is. Now that you know your lifestyle activities, wardrobe needs, fabric options, and color ranges, you can start to look up some styled outfits in magazines or Pinterest. Is your overall vibe romantic and feminine? Athletic and casual? Or chic and professional? Once you have done the background work, you will be able to walk into a store and say, “That doesn’t fit my style or lifestyle.” Or “This top fits my fashion sense completely!” Remember it takes practice. Don’t give up too quickly. After some trial and error you will find your personal style.
What would you say your personal style is? I consider my style to be feminine, flirty, and romantic. I would love to read your thoughts below! Thanks for reading. Stop back soon.