Finding your style is one of the hardest — and sometimes most uncomfortable — things you can do. Especially if you’re more introverted, like me. But here’s the truth: once you start figuring out your personal style, it sets the foundation for how you feel about yourself, both at home and out in public.
Being dressed for the day empowers you. It helps you have confidence in yourself and it signals to your brain, we’re not resting, we’re getting in gear. And when you feel confident in what you’re wearing, you carry yourself differently.
I’ll be honest — it has taken me years to find the perfect fit between what makes me feel sleek and put-together versus what makes me feel like a sore thumb. (Being 5’11” doesn’t make the process any easier.)
So how do you find your style without wasting years? Let’s break it down.
Audit Your Closet
You can’t build your style without first knowing what you’re working with. That’s why the first step is simple. Audit your closet.
- Pull everything out.
- Ask yourself: Do I actually like how I feel when I wear this?
- Keep the pieces that make you feel confident.
- Donate or toss the ones that never see daylight.
This process gives you clues about what you’re drawn to — whether that’s certain colors, cuts, or fabrics. For me, anything bulky or fussy just made me feel bigger than I was, so out it went.
Tip: Don’t hang onto clothes that are completely different from the style you’re aiming for. They’ll only clutter your progress.
Tap Into Inspiration
Once you’ve cleared space, it’s time to fill your mind with inspiration.
Scroll Pinterest boards, flip through a magazine, or check out Instagram accounts with outfits you like. Don’t just save them randomly — look for patterns.
- Do you see a lot of neutrals?
- Are you drawn to sleek silhouettes?
- Do textures like linen or denim show up again and again?
When I was younger, I stayed practical because I grew up raising animals for show. Skirts and anything flashy were a hard no. These days, I’m still drawn to understated and classy looks — even in my cosmetics — because they make me feel sleek and not like I’m standing out in the wrong way.
“Fashion insiders say you should experiment and stay true to yourself — even when trends call. It’s about finding what makes you feel most like you.” – Vogue
Consider Your Accessories
When it comes to accessories, less is usually more. A helpful rule of thumb is to think in terms of a “points” system each accessory adds visual weight to your look, so you want to balance them instead of piling everything on at once.
For example, a statement necklace might be your main focal point, which means you’d keep earrings simple or skip them entirely. A pair of bold earrings could be balanced with a delicate bracelet, while rings can add subtle interest without overwhelming your outfit.
Even if you’re looking to get jewelry for your septum piercing, you’ll want to make sure it works with the rest of your accessories so your overall look stays polished and intentional rather than cluttered.
Lifestyle Shapes Your Style
One thing people often overlook is how much lifestyle impacts your choices.
- A mom running errands and working from home may need practical staples.
- A corporate consultant might lean on polished, professional basics.
- Someone creative may naturally gravitate toward statement pieces.
Your day-to-day life will guide what feels most wearable.
Start Simple & Build Slowly
Here’s the part nobody tells you: finding your style takes time. It’s trial and error.
- Start on a budget — thrift shops, sales racks, or online clearance sections are your friend.
- Try one or two new pieces that feel closer to the style you want.
- Test them in your everyday life. Do they feel comfortable? Do you feel you in them?
Over time, you’ll start to see what works and what doesn’t.
Refresh Without Replacing Everything
You don’t have to throw out your whole wardrobe to update your look.
- Swap outdated accessories for modern ones.
- Choose a fresh color palette and mix it into what you already own.
- Replace one key piece at a time (like upgrading your go-to jacket).
This way you stay on budget while slowly moving toward the style you really want.
Why It Matters
Finding your style isn’t just about clothes. It’s about confidence, comfort, and even productivity.
When you’re dressed in a way that feels aligned with who you are:
- You don’t waste energy worrying about how you look.
- You show up more confidently in your work and social life.
- You feel empowered to take action because your mindset shifts into ready mode.
According to fashion psychology research, clothing choices reveal a lot about our mindset and identity — they help you communicate who you are before you even speak.
FAQ: Finding Your Style
Final Thought
Finding your style is a process, not a one-time decision. It took me years — and plenty of failed outfit choices — to get to a place where I feel comfortable and confident. But every small step has been worth it.
So take it one piece at a time. Try things. Let go of what doesn’t fit the person you want to become. And remember: style is less about following trends and more about learning what makes you feel your best.
Ready to Get Intentional Beyond Style?
Finding your style is just one piece of building a life that feels like yours. If you’re ready to figure out what you really want your days to look like — and what projects deserve your focus — grab my Focus Filter guide here.
