Discovering Your Authentic Style
As a pre-teen, I was obsessed with Seventeen Magazine’s personality quizzes. They promised to reveal my fashion style, categorizing me as a Summer, Autumn, Spring, or Winter. I thought it was crucial to know which clothes truly represented me. Was I sporty or girly? The answer held the key to shopping for myself.
Recently, I complimented a friend’s wardrobe, and she shared her own experience with those quizzes. She said, “They tried to put me in a box, but when I realized personal styles could cross over, that’s when I found clothes I loved.” Her words struck a chord. I realized that my adult self was still trying to dress within the confines of those quizzes.
Breaking Free from Stereotypes
Personal style is more complex than a simple label. It’s not about being told you’re “the sporty girl” and expecting to dress accordingly. I, too, have a laid-back style, but I’ve recently discovered a love for green linen wide-leg pants. They make me feel confident and stylish.
Step 1: Educate Yourself
The first step towards building a wardrobe I loved was reading a book about personal style. I chose “The Curated Closet” by Anuschka Rees, which helped me define my style based on my authentic self, not a fashion magazine. You can also borrow the book from your local library.
Step 2: Evaluate Your Purchases
How many times have you bought something because of its label or price, not because you truly liked it? To avoid wasting money, I ask myself: Would I buy it if it was from Forever 21? This question helps me determine if I’ll truly wear what I’m about to buy.
Step 3: Invest in Alterations
I used to hate spending extra money on alterations, but visiting a tailor has been a game-changer. It’s allowed me to focus on finding pieces that make me happy, rather than worrying about fit. Now, I’m more concerned with the aesthetic and style of a piece, knowing that fit can be fixed.
By following these three steps, I’ve refined my personal style, saved money, and now wear everything in my closet. I no longer feel the need to purge my entire wardrobe every few months. I wish you luck on your own fashion journey.
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