14 Mistakes I Made While Figuring Out My Personal Style

Finding your style is a journey, no doubt. Trying different outfits, figuring out what works on your body and what doesn’t, and seeing how colors affect your mood can be incredibly fun! If you’re on this journey now, don’t let anything stop you, and feel free to express yourself in whatever way you like. However, this may be a good article if you are now seeking extra guidelines. I want to help you avoid some of the traps I fell into while scrambling between accessories and fashion pieces. I hope these will make it easier for you to find yours.

Following Every Trend

One of my biggest mistakes was keeping up with every fashion trend. While trends can be fun, they often don’t align with your style or body type. I had a closet full of rarely worn items because they didn’t feel like “me.” There is truly no point in buying a new garment just because everyone else has it. Instead, focus on trends that genuinely resonate with you and complement your existing wardrobe.

Ignoring Comfort

In my quest for style, I often prioritized aesthetics over comfort. This led to purchasing shoes that were too tight, dresses that were too constricting, and fabrics that irritated my skin. Over time, I realized that true style includes feeling good in what you’re wearing. When you choose stylish and comfortable clothes, you’ll feel more confident and enjoy wearing them more often.

Overlooking Fit

Another mistake was buying clothes that didn’t fit well. Whether it was because of sales or wishful thinking about future weight changes, I often ended up with items that were too big, too small, or simply unflattering. Knowing your body and finding clothes that fit it well is the key to a great personal style. Don’t be afraid to tailor pieces to get the perfect fit.

Not Considering Lifestyle

I used to buy clothes that looked great but didn’t suit my lifestyle. High heels for everyday wear, delicate fabrics for an active day – these pieces gathered dust in my closet. Your style should represent your lifestyle needs. When your clothes align with your lifestyle, you’ll find it easier to dress for any occasion and feel comfortable and stylish.

Skipping Basics

In the excitement of finding unique pieces, I often neglected basic items. A solid foundation of basics – like plain tees, well-fitted jeans, and neutral outerwear – is essential for any wardrobe. Basic pieces are incredibly versatile staples and can even be statement items. Building a wardrobe without these essentials can leave you feeling like you have nothing to wear.

Not Experimenting

While staples are important, I also made the mistake of sticking too rigidly to one style. This limited my ability to discover what truly worked for me. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different looks and styles. Trying new things can help you refine your preferences and find an authentic and exciting personal style. Next time you go shopping, try at least one item you would have never picked up for yourself.

Shopping Without A Plan

Impulse shopping was another pitfall. I often bought clothes on a whim, leading to a disjointed wardrobe with pieces that didn’t complement each other. Planning your purchases based on your wardrobe and style goals can help you build a cohesive and versatile collection. A strategic approach to shopping ensures that each new piece fits seamlessly into your personal style.

Allowing Others To Influence Me Too Much

It’s easy to be swayed by the opinions of friends, family, or social media influencers. I often bought items because they looked good on someone else, not considering whether they suited me. While advice can be helpful, staying true to your taste and preferences is important. Your personal style should reflect who you are, not someone else’s vision.

Neglecting Accessories

For a long time, I overlooked the power of accessories. Belts, scarves, jewelry, and bags can transform an outfit and subtly express your style. Ignoring accessories can leave your outfits feeling incomplete. Investing in key accessories can add depth and personality to your wardrobe, helping you feel more polished and put-together while giving you an extra way to express yourself.

Being Afraid To Stand Out

Sometimes, I played it too safe, afraid to wear bold or unique pieces that reflected my personality. This fear of standing out kept me from fully embracing my style. Make sure you don’t do the same mistake. Confidence comes from wearing what you love, even if it draws attention. Embrace the pieces that make you feel unique and empowered, and don’t be afraid to stand out.

Not Decluttering Regularly

Regular decluttering helps you stay aware of what you have and what you actually wear, clearing any clutter or confusion about your style and wardrobe. By clearing out the old and making space for the new, you can keep your wardrobe fresh and aligned with your evolving style and always be ready to get dressed and head out.

Focusing Solely On Appearance

Finally, I used to forget that personal style is not just about how you look but also how you feel in the clothes and accessories you choose. Clothes should make you feel confident, comfortable, and happy. When you prioritize your feelings over appearance, you’ll naturally gravitate towards pieces that enhance your well-being and express your true self.

Ignoring Body Shape

Just because that dress looks incredibly good on your friend doesn’t mean it will have the same effect on you. Different body shapes should choose different clothes, enhancing their strengths and hiding weaknesses. Research and figure out what body shape you have and what type of clothes fit you best. Of course, always prioritize practical experience over theoretical one. If some random influencer says you should wear a certain pair of jeans, but you hate the look, don’t buy them!

Not Trying Different Colors

Open your wardrobe and see how many colors you can mention. Most people opt for basic colors like white, black, blue, and grey. Have you ever tried something different? What about a bold yellow hat, a green dress, or a red pair of trousers? Try to figure out what colors fit you best and how your mood switches based on what shade you choose for your outfit.