TIP: I highly recommend using Pinterest for inspiration when looking for certain pieces of clothing, accessories, and/or styles you like.

I’ve always had a Pinterest board full of dream styles and accessories, but my wardrobe never seemed to represent that. The biggest part that played in that was…

having no money.

I allowed the reason of having no money to make me think that achieving my dream style was unattainable until I became rich enough to buy all the clothes I liked. I thought that I could never match their vibe if I didn’t have the exact clothing prices that the person wore.

Clothing

Look through your Pinterest board and write down all of the repeating items you see online or on paper. If you’re constantly seeing baggy pants write that. If you’re constantly seeing light, pastel-colored shirts, note that as well.

Next, go deeper. Look at the outfits and try to point out what you're most drawn to. Is it the graphics on the clothing? The colors? The way the clothing pieces are styled and placed? Really dig deep. You may find out that it wasn’t at all the outfit you liked but just that certain piece of clothing.

After you’ve gone through all of your photos, look at your list and try to see if all of these items point towards a certain style/aesthetic. Your Pinterest may contain more of an “earth girl vibe” or “streetwear”. It may even be a mix of multiple things. But keep in mind,
even if you notice that you lean more towards a certain aesthetic, don’t tie yourself down to it. Your self-expression could change in a year, a few months, or even next week. You don’t want to place yourself in a box.
Now all that is left is to use those clothing elements and turn them into an outfit. If your closet is missing some of the crucial elements that make up your own style, I recommend thrifting and looking for similar (or exactly if you can find them) pieces.

By following these steps, I discovered that I liked colorful shirts with graphics, baggy pants of every color(especially if they have an embroidery design), contrast tops, etc.

Jewelry

Make a Pinterest board full of jewelry pieces that you like or outfits that you like how the jewelry is styled. When you're done, search for the pattern. Are you more of a minimalist or a maximalist? Silver, gold, or both? Colorful jewelry or not?

Break it up into categories. Lost your observations for bracelets, necklaces, rings, etc. (See the screenshot of my notes above)

After doing these things, wear it! Layer the jewelry you have to elevate your outfits and express yourself! If you only own a little bit of jewelry while finding yourself to be someone who likes a lot, go to thrift shops, flea markets, or cheap online stores like Shein or Amazon.

More Accessories

If you notice that your Pinterest outfits contain extra accessories like head wraps, ties, maximalist belts, and more, don’t be afraid to implement those into your outfits!

Remember to not be afraid t experiment and try new styles. You style taste may change, but don't be afraid to continue to express yourself. 💗🫶🏿