Break Out of a Style Rut
October 21, 2011
We all have go-to pieces in our wardrobes that we gravitate to naturally. Maybe you’re a jeans and t-shirt gal or you can’t get enough of tailored black dresses. Having a signature style that instantly makes you feel good isn’t a bad thing. However, it is a problem when your entire range of attire has little variation. Think about it. Do you ever go shopping and return home only to realize that you just bought another black top that looks suspiciously similar to the three other ones already in your closet? If the answer is yes, you are in a style rut. Here’s how to break the cycle:
Put a ban on banal.
Whatever your weakness is – boot cut jeans or white blouses – put a shopping moratorium on it. Go through your closet, figure out what your most common repeat purchase is and ban buying anything even remotely similar to it for the next three months. Sound like a long time? It is. But if you already have more than three similar pieces, it will fly by.
Let compliments direct your way.
The next time you receive a compliment on something you’re wearing – pay attention. For example, if you always wear black and one day opt for a brightly-colored shirt instead and your coworkers comment on “how great you look in blue” make a mental note of this. The next time you go shopping try on some items in that color or style.
Get inspired.
Is there a celebrity whose style you just adore? Flip through magazines or look online for an A-lister whose wardrobe you covet. The stylist they hired worked hard to create the look, so take note of the ensemble and try to replicate it for yourself – no professional help required. What do you like about the look? Is it the color or the fit? Do you love the multiple accessories? Once your figure out what you love most, go shopping with a friend and try to recreate the outfit in your price range.
Once you start pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, you’ll take on more fashion risks in the future. Remember, it’s just clothes. If you don’t like it, don’t wear it. But ask yourself the next time you are in a store at the same rack you always gravitate to – do I really need another (insert your wardrobe kryptonite here)?
Image source: gotoglamourgirl.com
