Everyday, some of the first things we do are get out of bed, brush our teeth, and get dressed for the day. Clothing is something we wear every single day, and it's important to consider how we are representing ourselves when getting ready in the morning. There is a stigma that style requires a lot of effort, but I am here to tell you that everyone can easily develop their own personal style. Choosing clothes that accurately represent your best self is crucial to achieving your goals and putting your best foot forward. Here are 11 easy tips to get you started, and push you to be your most authentic self.
1. Get your inspiration on.
Look around you, and let nature, music, art, and other people guide you. Figure out what looks interests you, and make sure to note what colors and styles you like. Then start thinking about what you want your personal style to look like, and how it can reflect your unique self.
2. Explore your options.
Flip through magazines, check out bloggers, and read books by designers. Learn about the heart of fashion and about trends. Then you can think about a specific style that works for your lifestyle and represents your personality. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t shy away from styles you think you can’t “pull off”; try to keep an open mind.
3. Scope out style icons.
Once you’ve taken a step to find a style that works for your lifestyle and represents you, look for icons who represent your ideal look. Follow them on social media to get constant daily inspiration.
4. Try new things, and see what flatters your body type.
If you feel good about a look, go try on outfits of your ideal style. If you try the clothes on and feel comfortable wearing them, buy some new pieces to start building your new style.
5. Shop 'till you drop.
Once you are sure you know your personal style, go out and buy some outfits that are practical, re-wearable, and that you love!
6. Honey Boo Boo, get out of your comfort zone.
Buy one piece that is especially edgy or “out there” to push your own bounds of fashion. Make sure you like the piece and don’t just buy it for shock value.
7. Don’t be a copycat.
Even though you have a variety of people influencing your style, make sure to make it your own. Whether you always wear red nail polish or winged eyeliner, tuck in your shirts or cuff your pants, do not just copy your style icons. Use their style as inspiration, but not something to copy.
8. Make a style board.
Relying solely on social media for inspiration can get a little old. Make an inspiration board with a collage of photos to remind you of the things you love. This can serve as a reminder when you wake up in the morning of who you want to be, and can inspire new outfit ideas and a constant flow of creativity.
9. Pull a Macklemore and go thrift shopping.
Thrift shopping is an easy way to put a unique spin on your personal style. It is also a sure way to make sure no one is wearing the same dress as you at a party (yes, please)!
10. For the love of shoes, avoid shopping malls.
Look for boutiques, online shops, and brands that are not at every mall in America. Put in the extra effort to support local shops and brands that are not being worn by everyone else.
11. Make sure to have fun with it!
Style is all about expressing yourself, so buy clothes that flatter you, and make you feel like your best self. Also, don’t assume that you have to limit yourself to one particular style, but dare to experiment with mixing sporty items with chic ones, or pairing an indie hat with a boho dress! There are no limits to fashion, so make it your own!
