Style consultant Mamtaa Joshi helps you flaunt your true personal style.
Your personal style is an expression of who you are. It is not about following trends or mimicking your favourite celebrity, but taking what inspires you and making it your own. And that is the interesting thing about it, your style is something no one else can create. It comes from within – the clothes you pick, your grooming choices and the way you hold yourself, all come together to create a look that is uniquely you.
Make it personal
Self-doubt and worrying about what people will think or say are often the biggest obstacles to experimenting with what makes you comfortable in your skin. However, it is important to remember that style is individual. Two people can wear the same outfit but they rarely wear it the same way. The key is to feel like yourself because that is what exudes confidence and speaks for you – no words necessary.
How to find your personal style
Finding your personal style starts with analysing three things: Lifestyle, body type and colour. Let’s take a closer look.
Lifestyle: So much of who you are is made up of everyday choices and activities. Take a moment to write down all the activities you do in a day and make a note of how many hours a week you spend on each. Then take a look at your wardrobe. Does it reflect your interests?
For example, if your activities list suggests you are a party person, then 65% of your wardrobe should be fun or glamorous, party-ready ensembles. Or, if you spend most of your time in the gym or playing sports, your wardrobe should have a lot of workout gear. This will help you categorize your overall style.
Body Type: Understanding your body shape and how/ when it folds is crucial. It allows you to choose outfits that work proportionally and accentuate your silhouette. Remember that being drawn to a certain outfit or cut is natural but often what you think you like, is not the best fit. An outfit should make you look and feel good too.
Colour: It is always fun to play around with colours, but bear in mind that some colours just do not work with certain skin tones. So, embrace your skin tone and choose shades that complement it.
Own your style
Research shows that well-tailored and high-quality clothing in the right colors helps you to feel more confident and gives you the courage to take on daily challenges in life and at work. And that’s because owning your style changes the way you see and approach situations. It also inspires confidence in others. However, do not be in a rush to figure it out in a day or be too strict with sticking to rules. Style evolves over time, so trust yourself and find a flow that works for you. Like we said earlier, your style is an expression of who you are. So do not be afraid to do it your way – and maybe set a few trends along the way.
