Do you ever feel as if you are a tad lost when it comes to putting together creative outfits, for fear you will look as if you are "dressing out of your league" or "trying too hard?" If someone were to ask you what your style is like, would you be able to define it in two or three words, none of which being "nice," "kind of," or "girly?"
Delicate Romantic. Boho Bold. Aloof Parisian. Fashion Forward. Rocker Fierce. Free Spirit. Ultra Femme. Classic European. Vintage Chic.
Defining your style can help you to feel confident in your unique way of dressing and to be more creative in outfit choice. Giving yourself even a general "label" of sorts can reveal your own boundaries and allow you to experiment on your more confident days.
Step One.
Pick three outfits from your wardrobe. These outfits should be complete with jewelry, belt, or whatever else is required. Be willing to explore all your options, do not just grab whatever necklace you have been wearing lately! Do not bother trying to create a context for these outfits (a "who to wear this with" or "where to wear").
The first outfit should be a tried and true set that you feel confident and attractive in.
The second, an everyday sort of outfit that you pick out on your more lazy days.
Lastly, the third outfit should be completely new: an assemblage you have never worn before. It can be something you've put together in your mind before but have never worn, or have been nervous about wearing.
Step Two.
Grab a notebook and make three categories for Outfit A, Outfit B, and Outfit C. Now, start with Outfit A and list off the words that come to your head as you look at it. Be willing to work a little: try to list off five or six, and use a thesaurus if need be! Do this for each outfit. Using words more than once is definately allowed!
Step Three.
Look at all those words! Go ahead and draw lines between similar adjectives. Make a fourth list then with those similar words.
Step Four.
Lastly, get a second (or third and fourth!) opinion. Phone a friend or two and ask how they would define your style! Keep an eye on your fourth list and note if you hear them suggest any of the words you have already documented.
Step Five.
You should have a pretty good idea of your individual style now! In two or three words, create a definition for yourself. You can borrow a word or two from my list above, but try to stick to the words from your fourth list.
A Few Further Exercises...
Take pictures of your outfits and create a lookbook folder for yourself on your computer (or print them out and actually make a lookbook).
Wear your more creative outfits when you are out with the girls. They already love you.
Never be afraid to experiment. Your style definition is maleable and will change as you do!Please post your results!
