Your clothing says so much about who you are. It tells your story, reflects your mood, and helps you feel comfortable in your own skin. But figuring out what your personal style is? That can feel a bit daunting at first. The truth is, finding your clothing style doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Some simple tips for finding your own unique clothing style include:
- Start with what you already own
- Identify style inspiration
- Experiment with basics and trends
- Define your style language
- Build your wardrobe thoughtfully
- Discover the joy of consignment stores
Start With What You Already Own
The easiest place to begin is your own closet. If you’ve noticed you keep reaching for the same shirts and go-to pants every week, that’s because those items speak to you.
So take a moment, step back, and take a closer look. Think about what your clothes have in common. Maybe there are common colours, fabrics, or patterns in the items you love most. Or maybe a bunch of neutral tones and comfy materials that stand out.
These are the pieces you couldn’t imagine living without, like your favourite jeans or that jacket that works with everything. Building around these can create a strong foundation for your style.
Identify Style Inspiration
Sometimes, finding your style means looking outward. It helps to spend some time online, and scrolling through websites. Save outfits that catch your eye—this narrows down your inspiration.
Pay attention to celebrities or influencers whose style you admire. Then, ask questions to help you narrow down what each piece means:
- What colours do they wear most often?
- Do they favour patterns or solid pieces?
- Are their outfits casual, formal, or a mix of both?
- What accessories do they use to complete their look?
Once you gather enough ideas, patterns will start to emerge. It makes it easier to learn what draws your eye most often. And if you find common patterns, you’re one step closer to defining your own individual style.
Experiment With Basics & Trends
You don’t need to revamp your entire wardrobe in one go. Instead, start with versatile basics.
A well-fitted white tee, a tailored blazer, or dark jeans can work wonders as the backbone of multiple outfits. This sets a foundation for your style—it’s reliable, easy to work with, and simple.
Once you’ve got your staples down, venture into new trends—but in small doses. Try a fun scarf, bold earrings, or trendy shoes to dip your toe into the waters. The key is finding what works best for you, not what everyone else is wearing. Your style is as much about comfort as it is about flair.
Define Your Style Language
Think of your wardrobe as its own unique language. It’s how you speak to the world without saying a word. How would you describe it? Minimalist? Playful? Sophisticated?
Start by narrowing your style down to three or four words. For example, “classic, feminine, and bold” or “edgy, casual, and sporty.” These words become your focal point whenever you add new pieces to your closet, and help you know what to look for.
Understanding fashion aesthetics can also help. Research styles like “bohemian,” “preppy,” or “streetwear” to see which vibes align with your vision. This “style language” is all about honing your fashion identity, and locking down how you want to dress.
Build Your Wardrobe Thoughtfully
Building a wardrobe takes time, so don’t rush it. If your closet feels chaotic, start by decluttering. Try to focus on clearing out:
- Clothes you haven’t worn in over a year.
- Items that no longer fit or feel comfortable.
- Pieces that don’t align with your desired style.
- Damaged or worn-out items beyond repair.
Then, create a checklist of must-haves you’d like to add. Go for quality over quantity. Think of versatility, too. Pieces that mix and match effortlessly are a great place to start!
Remember, style evolves. Allowing yourself to make gradual updates keeps the process fun and manageable. Your style should change as you do, so don’t be too rigid.
Discover the Joy of Consignment Stores
If you haven’t browsed a consignment store yet, you’re missing out. It’s like the ultimate treasure hunt for fashion lovers. Consignment stores are simple—you buy and sell lightly worn clothes. It’s a great way to recycle clothes, too.
These stores are also full of unique pieces that you might not find anywhere else. If you’re someone who loves standing out in a crowd, this is where it’s at. Shopping secondhand is an affordable and sustainable option for building your wardrobe, and it’s extremely accessible!
You can score everything from timeless staples to unique statement pieces. By choosing consignment, you’re extending the life cycle of clothing and reducing waste. It’s a win-win for your wallet—and the environment!
Tips for Shopping at Consignment Stores
If you’re new to consignment shopping, here are some quick tips to make the most of your visit:
- Take your time to browse through the racks carefully—hidden gems can often be found with a little patience.
- Know what you’re looking for, but stay open to unexpected finds that catch your eye.
- Check for quality by inspecting seams, zippers, and fabric for any damage or stains.
- Don’t hesitate to try items on to ensure they fit well and feel comfortable.
Consignment stores often have a unique charm you don’t experience at big-box retailers. Enjoy the process, and take your time. You never know what you’ll find tucked in the racks!
Try Consignment for Yourself!
Finding your clothing style is all about discovering what makes you feel like your best self. So why not make the process more exciting by exploring consignment shopping? At The Peacock Boutique Consignment, we’re here to help you find incredible pieces that match your style and values.
You can shop at any of our 3 Calgary locations, conveniently located in Inglewood, 17th Avenue, and Kensington. Your future style awaits. So what are you waiting for?
