8 Tips for Defining Your Personal Style

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

Blouse: Target Who What Wear (similar) | Denim: Ann Taylor | Necklace: Gorjana (similar) (via Rocksbox) use code laceandpearlsblogxoxo at checkout to receive your first month free | Gold bracelet: Tory Burch for Fitbit| Pearl Cuff: Pretty Particular c/o (use code laceandpearls to receive 20% off your order) | Ring: Madewell | Purse: via thredUp  | Sandals: Josef Sebiel |  Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Smokin Hot Pink)

This post is for anyone who has ever suffered from the dreaded feeling of having nothing to wear. You know the scenario, it’s early morning and you’re in a rush to head out the door. You look at a closet full of clothes, but there are no wearable options.

Knowing who you are and what you like will make getting ready a cinch.  Keep reading for tips on defining your personal style.

Know who you are and what you like. How does this translate to the clothes that you wear?

I grew up in a pretty sheltered environment. I always like to play by the rules and I am a perfectionist. I feel best when my mind and body are at ease, and life feels balanced. I also enjoy cutesy things (critter sweaters or anything with ruffles).

When getting ready, I always go for comfort (minimizing my waist) and something girly. These two things define my personal style and what I like.

What words or phrases define your personal style?

Know What You Don’t Like

If you struggle with knowing what you like, start by figuring out what you don’t like. From there, everything else will fall into place. Easy right?

These are the building blocks for defining your personal style.

Assess and Clean Out Your Closet

I recommend that you take everything out of your closet, and assess each piece. Ask yourself these questions:

• When was the last time I wore this? And how often do I reach for it? If you can’t answer this question it’s time to sell, donate, or giveaway that piece.
• Does it still fit? If something no longer fits, there is no reason to keep it. If you’ve gained weight and are loosing, keep it. If you’re on the opposite spectrum, get rid of it. I promise you if you do lose weight you will want to celebrate and buy something new. Win win.
• Do I love it? If the answer is no, then you know what to do.
• Does it need repair? Get it fixed or donate it.

Identify Gaps in Your Closet

After you’ve purged, it’s time to make a list of what you need. What would you like your personal style to be? Do you want to incorporate more color, dresses, and skirts into your wardrobe? Make a list and keep it handy for the next shopping trip.

Curate Pinterest Inspiration Boards

Create a few boards on Pinterest and break it out by season, categories, etc. Be creative and have fun. Once you’re done, review your pins and take note of the styles that you pinned the most.  Some people will have more than one style that they identify with, so don’t worry if this is you. Be sure to download the Pinterest phone app so you can reference your boards while shopping.

Make Sure Your Closet Choices Are Interchangeable

When you go to the store, avoid pieces that don’t work with the other items in your closet. The last thing you need is a closet full of pieces that don’t work.

If you are unsure if a piece will work, take it home and try to create several outfits using that one piece. If you find this exercise challenging, then return the item. Use that money to invest in classic, timeless pieces that you can wear every season.

Focus on building more outfits over picking out individual pieces.

Take a Selfie

On days that you’re feeling stylish, snap a photo so you can remember what you liked about that look. This will help you curate similar outfits that define your personal style.

Choose a Signature Piece

My signature piece is my jewelry. Whatever yours is, figure it out and own it! No one can do you better than you.

My Personal Style – Girly and Classic

Today’s look is an “Asa outfit.” From the ruffle to the color palette, every thing is girly.

When it comes to your personal style, remain true to yourself. But do give yourself a little push to try something new. You might find that you like it.

What is your best tip for finding your personal style? Share and inspire others by commenting below.

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