5 Steps to Achieving Your Own Fashion Style

Do you have your own personal style? A style that is distinctively you?
Following trends, and copying your icons is a safe way to always look good. Unfortunately, what ends up happening, are the creation of fashion clones. Masses of people, that dress exactly the same, looking rather okay but nothing that would make you look twice. There are a billion articles explaining how to be on trend or copy a look, but here are some of my tips to help you uncover your own personal STYLE.

1.) Inspiration Board The best way to uncovering your jumbled mind of a billion opinions, are imagery boards. I constantly fiddle around with inspiration boards or dream boards when I plan goals or projects. For a fashion Inspiration Board, simply start by collecting photos of everything that interests you. This will uncover your personal taste. Don't be afraid to add things that have absolutely nothing to do with fashion. This a clear way to see what you find beautiful, and from there you can start getting inspired to add it to your fashion. Some things I added to my current fashion board, are flowers, lakes, ballet, sun, rainbows, music, paintings, etc. I have attached my Inspiration Board below to give you an idea of what mine looks like.

2.) Don't Be Afraid. Nothing kills personal style, quicker than you. We all have that little voice in our head that asks you what others will think, and whether it will be "liked" or disliked in the eyes of others. If you want your own "Style", you need to take a chance and to be strong enough to express your ideas. Some fashion looks will be horribly wrong, and a total,"What was I thinking moment?", but these mistakes will only strengthen your style, creativity and confidence, a trio of attractive qualities.
3.) Think Outside the Box As Alexander McQueen once said, "There are no more rules in fashion", do not be afraid to do something different. Tie your scarf as a belt, or use a chained belt and style it through your hair. You can even try clothes upside down, backward, inside out, just play around with fabrics, and see if you can find something that gets you excited.

4.) Vintage, Antique, Thrift! Going to shops that are not "franchised" and have history will only guarantee you added uniqueness. You have no way of being influenced by pre-styled mannequins or promotions telling you how to style their clothes. Nothing gets my creative juices flowing quite like a good rummage through a antique market, or Vintage shop. I was once in Den Haag, and came across the most adorable vintage shop filled with the most amazing vintage buttons! I have a bit of an obsession with vintage buttons, not only are they unique, they are a fantastic way of personalizing a shirt, bag, or even make jewelry!

5.) Mix it UP Don't be afraid to mix it up. Olivia Palermo became famous for her ability to mix high and lo fashion, meaning couture with affordable pieces. Play with different textures. Before it was a fashion don't to wear stripes with polka dots, but now it is on trend. Keep in mind fashion rules, are really just fashion opinions. Every person has a different look, charisma, personality and body type. Finding what is your signature look is a fashion journey that continues to evolve and grow.

Good Luck!
xo Maya