Through the years, I created a personal style made up of pieces I genuinely love, regardless of what others were wearing.

But I’ve learned that personal style is always evolving. My taste changes constantly, and when I feel stuck or notice my closet becoming chaotic, I turn to a few strategies that help me reset.

Whether you’re just starting to define your style or looking for a refresh, here are seven tips to help you create a wardrobe that works for you.

1. Reevaluate Trends

Because of my job, I track trends every single day, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t tempted to buy into all of them.

I remember almost buying a pair of carrot-leg jeans, but I paused to ask myself: Did I really love them, or did I just want them because I kept seeing them everywhere?

In the end, I realized they didn’t bring me as much joy as my go-to mom jeans, so I passed. This taught me that there’s a big difference between appreciating a trend and forcing it into your wardrobe just because it’s popular.

I also stopped putting myself in boxes. For example, I never thought of myself as a “Dr. Martens person” because I associated them with a rocker aesthetic. But eventually, I bought a pair of white platform Chelsea boots, and they became my favorite shoes to wear with almost everything.

The takeaway? You don’t need to fit a stereotype to wear something you love. If there’s a piece you keep thinking about, try it on — it might be the key to unlocking a new side of your style. You can also try online styling services or clothing subscription boxes to explore new looks.

2. Identify Your Go-To Pieces

Another game-changer for me was figuring out which items bring me joy no matter what’s trending. At one point, it was bandanas.

Later, I gravitated toward puff sleeves, ruffles, and polka dots. At work, people even jokingly called me “Fashion Clown” because I was known for wearing those details all the time.

Think about the items you naturally reach for again and again. If you love Birkenstocks, don’t just save them for casual outfits — pair them with dresses, jeans, or even style them with socks.

Over time, these pieces will become your signature staples — the things people instantly associate with you in a positive way.

3. Reinvent the Clothes You Already Have

Do you own something you adore but never wear because you don’t know how to style it?

Sometimes, all it takes is seeing it with fresh eyes. During the pandemic, stylist and TV personality Stacy London shared how she spent time “playing” with her wardrobe.

She experimented with bold, unexpected combinations and ended up creating incredible new looks. This practice can help you breathe new life into your closet without spending a dime — and it’s a fun way to boost your creativity.

4. Shop Less Fast Fashion, More Timeless Pieces

One strategy that’s helped me is shopping at vintage stores or secondhand platforms like Etsy, The Real Real, or Depop. Exploring clothing from different decades allows me to find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces, free from the pressure of current trends.

This approach helps me create a wardrobe that feels authentic and personal, instead of filled with impulse buys that don’t last. The key is to choose a few standout items that truly represent you, rather than filling your closet with dozens of forgettable pieces.

5. Expensive Doesn’t Always Mean Better

Part of discovering my personal style was realizing that price doesn’t equal value. Some of my favorite pieces are inexpensive, like $13 Gildan sweatshirts or $40 classic Vans. With thoughtful styling, even the most affordable clothes can look amazing.

6. Less Is More

Stacy London believes finding your style comes down to asking yourself the right questions:

Does my wardrobe bring me joy? Do I actually wear most of my clothes, or just 20% of them on repeat?

Are my outfits versatile enough for different areas of my life?

The ultimate goal is to have a cohesive, functional wardrobe where every piece has a purpose — and makes you feel great every time you wear it.