How To Find (& Rock!) Your Own, Unique Style In 5 Simple Steps
Slay every single day.
Dom Hill on Unsplash Finding your own sense of style is something that you may never be able to do with certainty, but there are ways to make finding your unique sense of style easier.
My biggest struggle with this is that there's a difference between the fashion style I love, and the style I think I can rock. I see pictures on Instagram, fall in love with an outfit, buy all the pieces and then end up looking like a Mrs. Potato Head with acne and a side of depression.
We've all been there, right?
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So, I often settle for a cardigan that's 3 sizes too big that hides the parts of my body that I'm afraid to show. In the end, I go out with my friends and envy their outfits, their bodies, their hair and their makeup, wishing that I had their confidence.
Before I even start talking about your style, I just want to say that, in case you don’t hear it from anyone else, you can rock ANYTHING. Honestly. If someone tells you that you can’t, get rid of them. You don’t need that negativity in your life. If you feel good, you’re stylish already. Don’t let anyone take that away from you. I started focusing on how I feel when I wear something and now only wear what makes me feel good, and it makes ALL the difference.
Your own sense of style is the way you express yourself to the world. Before someone hears your name, or even knows who you are, they see your clothes. And, as we know, first impressions can really be everything!
1. Create a look board.
Every year, I do my sister's hair and makeup for homecoming. She sends me pictures, and I send her ideas. And then I put together a little photo collage of what the look is going to be. This can be a really fun and creative way to get your ideas out and make it easier to see the things you're aiming for when you get to the point that you're ready to shop.
Another really easy way to do this with minimal effort is to browse Pinterest. Make yourself a style board. Write all your ideas down. Focus on color schemes you like, outfits you enjoy and styles you’d love to experiment with.
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2. Purge the closet.
I know, I know, you've had that shirt since high school. But you never wear it! Toss it. One great way to get rid of old clothes is by taking them to consignment shops where you may end up getting money back from the clothes that were just collecting dust.
Or, if you don't care about the money, donate them to a thrift store or a shelter! This can be a great way to make a positive influence with the clothes that you don't want.
3. Hit the thrift store!
As a college student, I like to try to be thrifty where I can. I absolutely love consignment and thrift shops for this reason, and the nice thing is that you can replace a larger chunk of your closet for the same amount of money.
AND you'll have a huge range of options and ideas that you can experiment with instead of looking at the size XS black bodysuit everyone else bought at Forever 21 for $30.
4. FIll in anything specific you need!
If you're looking for a specific clothing item, you'd be best served by shopping at a mall or online! This will make it much easier to find exactly what you want without having to search through every smaller store in town.
5. Play with your new style!
Add accessories, change your hair, try out a pocket square, a scarf or get your ears pierced. Just try things on and see how they feel. Remember, the most important thing is how your style makes you feel. If you get bored, switch your look up again.
BE BOLD. You’re allowed to change your mind and rock your style unapologetically.
Beth El Fattal is a writer who covers astrology, pop culture and relationships topics.