Although I don’t consider myself to be the most fashionable person I know (I’m not a fashion blogger, after all!), I do think that as I’ve gotten older I’ve been able to hone my signature style, what I like, and what works best for my body type. And there’s something freeing about opening up your closet door and knowing that whatever you grab that day will work for you! Granted, this was a process that took time, lots of poor wardrobe choices, and more afternoons spent inside Forever21 than I’d like to admit. But thankfully those days are long gone! Instead, I can spend less time digging through my closet in an attempt to pull together an outfit that’s a bit more elevated than yoga pants, and I can spend more time walking through each day feeling confident and comfortable. Curious about how I reached that point? Well, I’m sharing the very steps I took over the years to hone my signature style without wasting hours on Pinterest or stuck inside a poorly lit dressing room! 

First of all, if we’re going to figure out your signature style then we should start with what you already have. Rather than building an inspirational Pinterest board, throw open the closet door and dig around a bit! What pieces do you find yourself reaching for time and time again? What outfits are you wearing the most? Once you’ve identified those trends, ask yourself why you keep going back to those specific pieces. Is it the fit? Do you love the fabric? Do you find yourself gravitating towards the same colors over and over? Personally, I find that neutrals like grey and white make up the bulk of my closet, and if it’s an oversized piece in a cozy material I am sold on it!

Next, ask yourself how those favorite pieces of yours make you feel. You’ll probably notice a trend of emotions that each piece inspires and, because of that, you’re more likely to gravitate towards those items on a consistent basis! I love oversized pieces, flowy fabrics, and feminine details because they make me feel comfortable yet polished. This sweater looks fairly basic from the front but the reverse side has this really unique open back that kicks things up a notch. Layered over this silk blush dress, I can create a look that’s elevated, casual, and super comfortable. There aren’t many places in my day-to-day where I can get away with wearing a silk midi dress on its own, but with a good layer over it the entire look feels cozier, more approachable, and it fits into my daily lifestyle. 

If there’s one idea that’s been most helpful as I’ve discovered my signature style, it’s this — ignore trends or what others might say and make choices based on what you like. Your style is your own, so it should be made up of colors, fabrics, styles, and textures that speak to you. When I was younger, I focused heavily on staying on-trend. Now, I’m not too afraid to reach for my favorite old cardigan over a trendy bomber jacket because I know what I like and that’s what matters. I think this has also made me feel the freedom to choose what trends I like and want to incorporate into my wardrobe while leaving others in the dressing room where they belong.

What has helped you to find your signature style, boss lady? Let me know in the comments below!

Curious about this outfit? Here are the juicy details: Madewell sweater, Grana silk slip dress c/0, Matisse Chelsea boots (old).