If you struggle with defining your style, I have a tip for you that may help.
Long ago, I was definitely style-challenged. I lacked confidence in my own taste and style – really because I didn’t have one. I “liked what I liked” without regard to how it looked on me, how it completed my wardrobe or how it portrayed my lifestyle in general.
And while I’m still not exactly a fashion influencer, I have developed my own sense of style. I feel more confident and comfortable now than I ever did before.
It all started from my general love of Pinterest, and my enjoyment of looking at things that – to me – are beautiful.
At first, I focused on homes, flowers and landscapes, but then it occurred to me that some of the photos I saw spoke to me as a sort of ideal vision that inspired the way I decorated my own home. Couldn’t I pull together collections of photos that encompassed the way I wanted to live, look and feel?
As I collected pins for my vision board to determine my own personal style, I included everything – from vignettes of tea parties and Christmas celebrations, to art studios and ballet lessons – that I felt reflected my vision of my ideal life.
Gradually, I noticed common themes emerging, and edited out those that didn’t seem to fit in with my aesthetic. I evaluated the style of any women that appeared in the photos. Were these all beautiful looks that I would be happy to be seen in? I took out any that were a distraction.
I collected a wide range of scenarios – gardening, playing with children, going out for the evening, going to work, having a tea party, eating dinner with family – and kept focusing on finding the outfits – the looks – that I was going for. And over time, it stuck. I pulled clothes from my closet that didn’t belong and kept only those that reflect my style, so that I always presented myself the same way, regardless of whom was around me or what I was doing.
If you feel less than confident about your own style choices, I encourage you to try this, too. The end result can be anything you like – but it will feel like “your style”, rather than a bunch of random decisions.
Here’s how to quick start your Pinterest style board:
Go to Google or Pinterest and start with the phrase “beautiful woman who is”. Trust me, this is key. You’re not just finding clothes—you’re creating a style that feels like you, and beginning with “beautiful woman” centers that search on the fact that you, too, are beautiful.
From there, start adding descriptive words in three categories:
1. Words that describe the theme you love (e.g., elegant, classic, bold, colorful)
2. Words that reflect your lifestyle (e.g., business, busy mom, outdoor casual)
3. Words that express the impression you want to make (e.g., confident, unique, graceful, smart, approachable)
It’s okay if some words overlap between categories; just add or tweak them as you go. Once you hit “search,” take some time to explore the images. Pay attention to what catches your eye and feels right for you.
This process is a fun, creative way to start piecing together a cohesive style that’s authentic and aligned with how you want to show up in the world.
Give it a try—you might be surprised by how much clarity and inspiration it brings!
