JOIN US'Personal style' takes work. Even the most fashion savvy need to re-evaluate their styles.
But where do we even begin to discover our personal style? Do we simply take to the mall and start buying everything that looks semi-interesting? Before you take action (or take out your wallet), there are several key questions you can ask yourself.
What words would you use to describe your style?
Take a moment to think about the overall vibe of your style. What are some descriptive words that come to mind? For example, quirky, polished, bold, experimental, cheerful, comfortable, sleek etc. These words will help you recognise an overall theme or feeling of your style.
What do you want your style to say about who you are?
Style is a form of self-expression, but it is also a means of communication. The way we dress gives everyone around us information on who we are. Do you want them to know that you're professional, innovative, expressive, straightforward, or confident? Or maybe boldly feminine, strong, and pulled-together?
Who inspires you, and why?
Many incredible women have come before us, and there's nothing wrong with wanting to emulate their qualities and style. Think of the women who you aspire to be like and the outfits they wore. This could be your mother, sister, friend, a celebrity, a style blogger, etc.
What is your favourite store to shop at, and how would you describe the overall vibe of the store?
What stores do you find yourself drawn to? How would you describe the overall vibe or look of your favourite stores? All brands have a target audience and specific women in mind for whom they make their clothes. Do you fit that description?
What are the first items you gravitate towards to while shopping?
Upon walking into your favourite store, what items do you look at first? Do you feel attracted by those flouncy floral dresses? Or maybe that smart tailored blazer is calling out to you? Noting the type of clothing you naturally gravitate to can help you understand which styles you actually like and will most likely wear.
What items do you repeatedly wear?
It's one thing to want to wear a certain style and another thing to actually wear it. Being practical will help you stay true to your personal style rather than getting carried away with an idealised look that isn't comfortable or doesn't suit your everyday life.
How does your style fit into your lifestyle?
Your lifestyle greatly impacts your style, and you want to make sure that your wardrobe matches your everyday activities.
Make sure you keep your lifestyle in mind when defining your style because you want to create a wardrobe that reflects reality.
After answering the questions above, you should have a better idea of what your style is and how you want to develop it. Naming your style is hugely helpful in defining your trademark look.
(Contributed by Pooja Gajraj)