Personal style is self-expression without saying a word. Being who you are no matter what event or situation you might find yourself in. We all have those “no one can stop me” days when things just click; you’re feeling beautiful and confident­­– like the best version of yourself. Take note of what you’re wearing, these are the outfits that embody your true personal style and serve as a great foundation for developing a better understanding of your personal style and also serve as inspiration for style updates.

How do I know what my personal style is?

Start with the things that you know really work for you, that signature item or two that has become part of your ongoing style persona. You might be drawn to statement handbags, or scarves might be your obsession. These are things that you gravitate towards; they make you feel comfortable and confident and are the foundation from which you can build on. This is how your personal style evolves. This is your style identity.

Reassess your closet

Do a style audit. Get rid of things that you never wear. Holding onto them may just be holding you back from evolving your personal style. Categorize what you have left. Casual, dressy, special occasion– look at each piece. Ask yourself what pieces work together? Where would I wear this? You may even want to take pictures of these outfits for reference later and build a library of go-to looks for certain occasions. This process will help you find “holes” in your wardrobe. You might discover that you need a statement jacket, or an easy layering sweater this process will help keep you on track.

Versatility is key

Choose versatile styles such as our best selling Tiburon Tunic that can be worn in several ways. Dress it up or down, style it as a dress over leggings, or even open as a lightweight jacket. This type of silhouette goes a long way and accessories can help fine-tune each variation to keep your look fresh and on-point

Get inspired

Collect pictures of looks you love, find a fashion mentor, someone whose style you admire and try to replicate their look. This will help you focus on what you really need to add to your wardrobe and keep you from being distracted and making a wrong purchase on a whim. Your own personal style will evolve from there. Define your style in words. Is it bohemian, classic, or modern? Sassy or conservative, you’ll more than likely pick several words that don’t necessarily blend, but these can simply be described as your style moods.

Ask a trusted friend

We all wear many hats and need to “dress for the occasion” but your personal style is the common thread that makes all these looks personal. Ask a good friend what they consider to be your personal style, ask them what looks stand out and which ones fall short. It’s nice to get an idea of how you are perceived in the world and see if it matches what you are trying to put out there. Is there something people compliment you on? Whether it’s your taste for amazing jackets or your ability to accessorize like no one’s business, wearing clothes that play up your style strengths will always look stylish, no matter what is currently trending.

Step out of your comfort zone

True style consists of overall health and beauty, too. A change in hairstyle or fresh makeover can super-charge your personal style and boost your confidence– that’s the root of personal style. It radiates from within and that’s what people really see. Switch things up. A new routine of meditation or exercise, even if it’s just a walk around the block will retrain your mind for change. Take small steps, once your body and mind are activated it will become your new habit. Step a little bit out of your comfort zone. Is there a certain style that draws you in but you haven’t had the nerve to take the plunge, a printed caftan or statement dress? These are your style outliers. Incorporating these into your wardrobe will push your personal style and keep your look fresh and updated.

It starts with you

Trust your instincts, and wear what makes you feel the most comfortable in your own skin. Take inventory of your favorite pieces. The ones that always make it into your suitcase. Replicate these pieces in a different color or texture. Figure out what about this piece works and look for similar shapes. Once you’re confident in a few key looks, finding updates will just come naturally.

Chances are you’ve likely already got a basic sense of style, so don’t fight it, build on it, refine it– and embrace it!