1. DETERMINE YOUR TRADEMARK STYLE
The first step in establishing your dress sense is to build your message. Think of this as your personal branding – an external package that shows the world exactly who you are on the inside and highlights your strongest qualities.
2. BE AUTHENTIC
The clothing you wear is an extension of who you are. It should strengthen your image and be an expression of your true self, so don’t force it. If you’re unsure how you feel in something, take the authenticity test by asking yourself 3 simple questions: Does the outfit feel comfortable or will I be constantly adjusting it? Do I recognize myself in the mirror or am I trying to be someone I’m not? Does this clothing bring me joy and am I excited to wear it?
3. DON’T PRIORITIZE FASHION OVER COMFORT
If torn between style and comfort, always opt for what feels the best. When you’re uncomfortable or restricted in any way, you’re not able to exude power. The old adage that beauty is pain is not a reality we should ascribe to.
4. IDENTIFY YOUR INSPIRATION
Studying the work of those who’ve already mastered a skill is a useful place to start when learning something new. As you begin to determine the framework for your sense of style, it’s helpful to draw inspiration from people who fit your mold. This helps you identify your preferences when creating a unique personal style for yourself.
5. BUILD A VISUAL STYLE GUIDE
Create a collection of images that reflect your desired sense of style – search for outfits you’d like to try, icons who embody your aesthetic, and anything else you can use as reference to help build your personal brand. An example of a great platform for compiling ideas is Pinterest.
6. ASSESS WHAT YOU OWN AND LET GO OF WHAT DOESN’T ALIGN
Getting clear on the image you’re creating for yourself will help you assess what’s in your closet with honesty and objectivity. Chances are you’ve been wearing the same thing for years, not because you chose it strategically but because it was familiar. It’s time to be more methodical about what you’re wearing.
7. GIVE YOUR CLOTHES A SECOND LIFE
Clothing is a gift that keeps on giving, and what no longer works for you will most certainly provide value for someone else. Check with family and friends to see who may be in need of a clothing refreshment.
8. USE HANGERS TO SEE WHICH ITEMS DON’T GET WORN
After you’ve done a major edit, you’ll still want to keep an eye on everything you’ve kept in case you held on to something that isn’t getting used. To see which clothes you never wear, try the hanger test. Start by turning all the hangers in your closet with the hook towards you, and as you wear items, re-hang them back with the hook facing away from you in the normal direction.
9. SHOP YOUR SHAPE
Understanding your body shape is a key piece in successfully achieving a great sense of personal style. When you know which cuts and silhouettes work best for your body, you eliminate a lot of the confusion around what to wear and a closet filled with items that go unworn.
10. DON’T FOCUS ON FADS
Fads or trends are the items that gain overnight attention but have little staying power. A key style rule is knowing not to waste too much time focusing on these pieces, spending money on something that won’t be relevant for long. Establishing your sense of style means not getting overly distracted by trends so that you don’t have to continuously update your closet.
11. BUILD A PERSONAL LOOK BOOK
Even if you’re not working with a Personal Stylist, you can easily build one of your own. When you wear outfits you feel really good in, snap photos of them so you can remember them for later. It helps make selecting an outfit that much easier and also guarantees you never forget a killer look.
12. PLAN YOUR OUTFITS IN ADVANCE
Mornings come with a busy to do list. Automating your routine as much as possible is one of the easiest ways to eliminate decision fatigue and ensure you’re out the door on time.
13. BUILD A COLLECTION OF COATS AND JACKETS
If there’s one item that can easily bring an ensemble to life without requiring much thought, it’s a fantastic coat or jacket. Investing in light weight trenches, dusters, wool topcoats, blazers and moto jackets is always a good idea.
14. GIVE PRIORITY TO FOOTWEAR
A small handful of your shoes are doing majority of the work, so it’s important to choose them wisely. Three criteria to keep in mind when shopping for new styles are: quality, comfort, and versatility. Invest in shoes that work with majority of the clothes you own.
15. CHOOSE STAPLE ACCESSORIES
To round out your look, it’s key to have a selection of accessories on hand. And as with personal style in general, less is often more.
A bonus tip, which doubles as a secret style weapon, would be learning the art of high-low dressing by mixing high-end designer with fast-fashion affordable items.
Source: mikadopersonalstyling.com