When we think about style, the first thing to pop into our minds is clothing and fashion. But style is a concept beyond that. It is a vibe, an energy that multiple elements add up to create a finished look that stays true to your personality, values and ideals. It takes time, energy and patience to plan your wardrobe that feels 100% you! And without realising, you have experimented with all kinds of styles for years in the hope of finding the one that suits you.
How to Find Your Personal Style
Developing a personal style is a long process that is different for every individual. You cannot simply wake up one day and suddenly figure out what style you want to follow. It requires an adequately curated strategy and several trials and errors to reach the peak. However, there is no set-in-stone rule for building a personal style since the process differs for each person. But here are four of the most common ways to begin your journey in finding a signature style:
- Understand the Style Archetypes
Before getting started with creating a personal style for yourself, are you aware of your style archetype? Commonly, archetypes are properties that allow individuals to identify patterns in human behaviour. We see them everywhere – zodiac signs, body types, psychology (to analyse human behaviour). Let’s take the example of astrology. Most people have defined Cancers as cry babies or Scorpios to carry hints of mystery. As you continue agreeing to these traits, we all know not every Scorpio or Cancer is the same, yet they somehow carry similar traits.
This definition applies to the field of styling as well. Style archetypes are a combination of ideals, interests and personality traits. By using these elements, one can formulate design elements and textile preferences to stick to their archetype.
There are several types of style archetypes, namely: modern minimalist, bohemian, preppy, edgy, glam, romantic, vintage, trendy, urban, athletic, classic, downtown, conservative, chic and street style fashion. These are just the common ones. They are further divided into more categories in the group.
- Ensure Your Archetype Suits Your Personality
Once you thoroughly understand the different archetypes, pick one that suits your personality and, most importantly, lifestyle! To comprehend which archetype works for your personality, ask yourself questions like:
- What’s my lifestyle like? Do I have a lifestyle that requires me to attend VIP meetings, charity balls and luxury events? Or do I have more of a corporate lifestyle, like board meetings and a 9-to-5 job?
- What kind of personality do I carry? Am I elegant and confident? Or am I more low-maintenance and easy-going?
- What type of impression do I give out? Do I give out a more elevated, influential and in-demand impression? Or hold a relaxed, laid-back and comfortable aura?
There’s a signature style for every personality! You just need to search for it. You might question why it is important to match your style with how you live. Well, think about it this way, if you have frequent luxury events or charity balls to attend, it only makes sense to fill your wardrobe with outfits that speak luxury and elegance, like evening gowns. Now, if you are a corporate individual with frequent board meetings to attend, it makes no sense to have gowns and dresses in abundance. You would need more classic apparel like crisp and tailored suits.
- Select Clothing That’s Comfortable for You
Once you have decided what style archetype suits your lifestyle and personality, it’s time to start wardrobe planning! Select pieces that elevate the way you feel and boost your self-confidence. There is no point in shopping for clothes you will not wear later. So, make sure your apparel makes you feel like a boss!
- Hire an Image Consultant
An image consultant is an individual who works hard to help their clients enhance their social, professional and personal image. They assist people from different backgrounds to achieve their desired image by aligning their personalities with their lifestyles. Further, they work on your communication, behaviour and appearance. If you are having a hard time determining what style suits your personality and lifestyle, you can always turn to the experts and hire an image consultant to make your life easier!
What’s Next?
After achieving the basics of building a personal style that fits your vision, goals and mission in life, focus on investing in the right pieces of clothing. Following what makes you comfortable rather than getting trapped in the web of trends is more important!
Author Bio:
Suman Agarwal is an award-winning image management professional. She has helped students, home-makers, women on sabbatical as well as people seeking second career alternatives to explore Image Management and Soft Skill Training as a vibrant professional choice.
