It’s Time to Start Building Your Own Style - Here’s How
- Tom Goedhart
- May 14, 2024
- 4 min read
At some point, you might suddenly realize that you no longer want to wear those easy-to-find, fast-fashion clothes. You’ll crave something more meaningful, investing in depth and detail. And that’s a huge milestone - congratulations on maturing in how you approach your style!
I’m going to guess you’re in your twenties. If so, there’s no need to stress about where to begin. The best part of being young is that you can make mistakes as you discover your personal style. This journey will require time, effort, and yes, a bit of money - but don’t worry, you’re on the right track!
Discover What You Love
First, think about the image you want to project. How do you want to be perceived by others? Polished and sharp? Relaxed and casual? Free-spirited? Strong and rugged? What vibe resonates with you?
If you don’t have a clear idea yet, that’s okay. Start by looking at celebrities or style icons who inspire you. But don’t get too caught up in their red-carpet looks - everyday street style offers much more authentic insight into their true aesthetic. Remember, those red carpet outfits are curated by stylists and brands, not the celebrities themselves.
Think about the materials, colors, and patterns that make you feel good. What makes you feel confident? It’s all about what you love - no one can argue with that.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
The beauty of being young is that you have the freedom to experiment. Try different looks until you find what suits you best. Sure, it can be hard to stand out in a sea of similar outfits, especially on social media, but take the plunge! You won’t know if something works until you give it a shot.
A simple way to elevate an outfit is through accessories - think bracelets, watches, or a unique hat. They can totally transform a basic look.
Don’t Get Sucked into Trends
Don’t get too carried away with fleeting TikTok trends. Trust me, in a few months, you probably won’t care about those oversized sneakers or viral styles anymore. If you’re drawn to trends, pick a few elements that fit your style and make them your own. Remember the “ugly sneakers” trend? Those giant, clunky shoes? They’re all but forgotten now, but sneakers with thicker soles, like the ones from New Balance, are still cool.
And don’t fall into the trap of mixing too many trends at once - it’s a quick way to end up in a fashion disaster. You need to refine your style and adapt trends in a way that works for you.
Nail the Right Proportions
Proportions are everything in fashion. Even the most beautifully designed items can look off if the fit is wrong. Keep in mind that skinny fits aren’t for everyone. A more relaxed, comfortable look - like regular fit or relaxed fit - works for many body types. The key is choosing the right size and making sure it flatters your silhouette.
Find Your Core Pieces
Over time, you’ll naturally gravitate toward certain styles and pieces. These become your “core” items, the ones you wear again and again because you know they suit you perfectly.
Avoid buying items you’ll only wear once or twice. The real key to sustainable style is building a wardrobe with pieces you truly value, both in terms of quality and the memories they create. It’s better to have a few meaningful items you wear regularly than a closet full of things that never quite feel right.
Purposeful Investment
Once you know what you like, it’s time to invest in those essentials. For me, it’s all about simple staples - white t-shirts, indigo jeans, minimalist sneakers, and loafers. Of course, depending on the season and your lifestyle, you’ll have other must-haves, but these items always come first.
Think of it this way: Everyone has their favorite everyday pieces. The goal is to invest a little more in these items so that they last. Quality materials and timeless designs will ensure they stand the test of time. Personally, I’ve had a pair of white Common Projects sneakers for 8 years, and they’re still in great shape. My white t-shirts? Most are 2+ years old and still going strong, with just a slight fade in color.
It’s Okay to Make Mistakes!
Not every outfit will be perfect, but the key is to keep pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. With time, your personal style will take shape.
Style is ever-evolving. Your tastes and preferences will shift as you grow, and your style will reflect that change. When you look back at old photos and think, “What was I wearing?” it’s a sign that you’ve grown - your fashion sense has evolved. Keep experimenting and making mistakes. The more you do, the closer you’ll get to finding the style that feels 100% you.
In the end, your style journey is all about progress, not perfection. As you refine your look, you’ll reach a point where you feel completely in tune with your wardrobe. When you look at old photos and realize they could’ve been taken just yesterday, that’s when you know you’ve truly found your personal style.
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