via Haskell @ Home
It's taken me two decades, but now I feel like I have developed my own personal style. I've gone in and out of phases and tried out different trends, but I always seem to come back to the same kinds of pieces that I feel truly comfortable in: neutral colors, feminine silhouettes, sparkly headbands and a lot of jewelry.
I think figuring out your basic style is both important and practical. Knowing what you like and having a closet full of clothes that work together makes getting ready for the day much quicker and presents people with an initial impression of who you are and how you carry yourself.
This is particularly relevant in today's digitally-driven world where "personal branding" is the buzz phrase (if you will) of the moment.
Here's how to streamline your style:
Look in your closet right now and ask yourself...
What do you wear the most? The least?
Move these to the front of your closet.
What do you feel the best in? What makes you feel uncomfortable?
Pull out any pieces you haven't worn in over a year or anything unflattering/uncomfortable.
What looks great on you?
For me, it's anything A-line or nipped in at the waist. Show off your best features! Just because a piece looks amazing on a hanger doesn't mean it will fit right.
Think about your style icons...
Often times people get caught up in labeling their style as "preppy" or "boho." If you asked me to sum up my style in one word, it would take me a long time to come up with an answer. Instead, I think of people whose styles I love and try to emulate.
Olivia Palmero. Blair Waldorf (shameless). Audrey Hepburn.
Consider your routine...
Make sure your clothes are versatile and appropriate for everyday wear. I have about 6 little black dresses that I wear constantly and can dress up or down with accessories. One of my big regret buys is a sparkly tweed dress that looked really great and fit in perfectly with my style, but hasn't been worn because it's too formal for everyday (and not formal enough for a cocktail party, ugh).
Personal basics...
People say everyone should invest in high quality "basics"- jeans, a coat, a little black dress, a white blouse- but I disagree. Invest your funds in items that you wear most. For me, that's cashmere sweaters, structured coats and ballet flats. But for some of my friends, investing in great jeans or perfect tee shirts or high end riding boots makes the most sense. Quality is important here because these pieces will hold up well over time and anchor your style.
When adding to your collection, consider:
Comfort
If a piece of clothing itches, pulls or is in any way uncomfortable, you probably won't wear it. Your style should both make you feel and look comfortable.
Fit
The only thing you should have to alter in an article of clothing is the hem. If something doesn't fit in the shoulders or body, it probably is the wrong size. And if something doesn't fit now, don't buy it. Dress for your current figure!
Color
When it comes to less-expensive pieces, go neutral. Bright colors don't hold up well over time if they aren't high quality.
Trends
While I usually stick to more classic, traditional pieces I do try out trends here and there (hi color blocking), but for the most part, choosing timeless over trendy is the way to go.
And a note on sales...
Just because something is 40% off sale price (a classic J.Crew/Madewell sale), doesn't mean it's free or that you will wear it a lot. It's always better to buy fewer, pricier pieces you'll wear a lot than a large quantity of clothes you'll only wear a handful of times. The best wardrobes are filled with clothes that fall into a similar theme and mix well together.
Happy styling!
xoxo