Ditch Trends. Find YOUR Style!
In today’s fast-paced fashion world, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of ever-changing trends. One minute it's oversized jackets, the next it's miniskirts. But have you ever stopped to think about your personal style? Not the trend of the moment, but something that truly reflects who you are? In this post, we’ll show you how to discover your unique style without contributing to fashion waste or overconsuming.
1. Start by Understanding Your Personal Aesthetic
Before you dive into your closet and start purging, take a step back and think about what makes you, you. Your personal style is an expression of your lifestyle, personality, and values, so it's important to take time to figure out what resonates with you.
Start by asking yourself:
- What colors do I feel most confident in?
- Which fabrics and textures do I love to wear?
- How do I want my clothing to make me feel? Comfortable, bold, classic, edgy?
- What are the key items in my wardrobe that I wear repeatedly?
Make a Pinterest board or mood board to visualize your aesthetic (we're Pinterest-obsessed over here). Pin outfits and styles you gravitate toward—don’t just focus on what’s trendy. Look for patterns. Maybe you love the simplicity of neutral tones or the elegance of minimalist designs. This is the foundation of your personal style.
2. Build a Capsule Wardrobe (The Secret to Sustainable Style)
One of the most impactful ways to avoid overconsumption is by curating a capsule wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe is a collection of timeless, versatile pieces that you can mix and match. It’s all about investing in quality over quantity and creating outfits with fewer but better items.
The key pieces for your capsule wardrobe include:
- Neutral basics: A well-fitted white shirt, black pants, and a tailored blazer.
- Classic accessories: A statement bag, a good pair of shoes, and timeless jewelry.
- Versatile outerwear: A trench coat, leather jacket, or tailored coat that works for various seasons.
- Quality denim: The perfect pair of jeans you can wear day after day.
The beauty of a capsule wardrobe is its ability to make getting dressed easier while helping you avoid the need for endless shopping. By selecting timeless pieces that suit your style, you’ll find yourself feeling more confident and put-together without constantly chasing trends.
3. Focus on Quality, Not Quantity
When it comes to sustainable fashion, quality matters more than quantity. Instead of purchasing five fast-fashion items that will fall apart in a season, invest in high-quality pieces that last. Look for items made from natural fibers like organic cotton, wool, or linen, which are not only better for the environment but also more durable and timeless and better for your skin.
Some tips for shopping with quality in mind:
- Choose pieces made from eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, Tencel, or linen.
- Buy from brands with a transparent supply chain and ethical manufacturing practices.
- Look for clothing with strong stitching, well-made zippers, and quality finishes—these details are a sign of durability.
Investing in quality pieces not only reduces the amount of waste you create but also gives you clothing that will last for years to come.
4. Embrace Your Unique Style (And Don’t Follow the Crowd)
We all love a good trend, but when you focus on finding your personal style, you'll stop feeling pressured to buy into every fleeting fashion craze. Instead of trying to fit into the latest Instagram-worthy looks, focus on what feels right for you. If you love vintage fashion, seek out secondhand pieces that reflect your personality. If you're into boho chic, build a wardrobe of flowing skirts, crochet tops, and unique accessories.
Remember, fashion is about you. Embrace your individuality. Wear what feels authentic and makes you feel good. The beauty of personal style is that it’s not about conformity—it’s about expression.
5. Sustainable Fashion Starts with Mindful Shopping
The overconsumption of fast fashion has a significant environmental impact, but we can all make small changes to reduce our carbon footprint. By practicing mindful shopping, you can still enjoy fashion while making more sustainable choices. Here’s how:
- Buy less, buy better: Before making a purchase, ask yourself if the item truly aligns with your personal style and if it will last long enough to justify the investment. Buy better quality and focus on the long-term value of the clothes.
- Embrace secondhand shopping: Thrift stores, vintage shops, and online resale platforms like Depop and Poshmark are fantastic ways to find unique pieces without supporting the fast-fashion industry.
- Take care of your clothes: Extend the lifespan of your clothing by washing them properly, mending small holes, and learning how to care for delicate fabrics.
Sustainable fashion is all about shifting your mindset to quality and longevity rather than quantity and immediate gratification.
The Unclad Takeaway: Discover Your Style with Confidence
Finding your personal style doesn’t require endless shopping sprees or constant chasing of trends. With a capsule closet, mindful shopping, and a focus on quality, you can create a closet that’s both stylish and sustainable. By embracing pieces that align with your values, you’ll not only look amazing but also contribute to a more sustainable future in fashion.
So, next time you think about adding something new to your closet, ask yourself: Does this reflect my personal style? Will I wear this for years to come?
Let go of the pressure to keep up with trends and embrace what makes you feel amazing.
xx
Laura