What is a style rut? To me, it’s about not being inspired by your look and overall aesthetic. A style rut can often lead to you purchasing items that you wouldn’t normally wear (or ever wear, come on, let’s be real) or buying just for the sake of buying. Let me tell you beautiful; I’ve been there.
Yes, even me, a style/fashion blogger. I’ve been caught up in trends or completely uninspired. Getting caught up in trends is more difficult today with Social Media being a part of everyone’s life. For example, you see this fashion influencer who wears boho like a dream. So then you want to wear boho and buy all of these maxi dresses, scarves, and floppy hats. In the end, you ultimately discover that you don’t wear any of it because your style is more classic chic. And, worse of all you’re still in a style rut. It’s a tale as old as time (to quote Beauty and the Beast).
So I’m here to offer some tips based on what I’ve learned through research and my personal experience.
1. Look at What you Currently Like to Wear
By looking at what you currently wear, you will get a better understanding of what you will wear vs. what you won’t wear. For example, if you always wear neutrals because you love them, then neon pink pants might not be an option for you. Understand what makes you feel comfortable and what you love to wear. I love if you want to experiment with different colors, but start small like a handbag or shoes (see step 5).
So understand what colors you like (this could change per season as well), the fit you’re trying to achieve (loose, tight, both), and the style that you resonate with the most.
2. Clean out Your Closet
In addition to looking at what currently works, also take a look at what doesn’t work. This step is the purge step. Getting rid of the items that aren’t working for you is essential. By cleaning out your closet and getting rid of the unwanted and unworn items; it will give you more clarity into understanding what you have that you truly love. It will also give you less stress when browsing through your closet in the mornings. And we all know that can be a bitch at times. I don’t care if you do the Mon Karie Method, but toss those items (donate or sell, please).
3. Use Pinterest and Instagram as Inspiration
Pinterest and Instagram are my two favorite places to look for style inspiration (cough, cough, my Instagram tag is @relmstyle). Create a Pinterest board called “My Style” or “Style Inspiration.” Make it secret or public, your choice. Pin the looks that you like and write notes in the caption (such as “love the wide-leg denim look”). Now we’re still in the learning phase, so easy on the purchases. This is not the time to go crazy.
Look for outfits that you could see yourself wearing. Once you get several items, you will start to recognize a theme.
4. Purchase Slowly and with Purpose
Once you think you understand what you’re looking for, then you can start the shopping process. Please start small and with purpose. When I say with purpose, I mean seriously think about why you’re buying something. Before you buy, ask yourself the following questions.
- Is this item within my budget?
- What do I already own that I will wear this with?
- Do I understand my size and fit?
Try to stay away from things that are out of your budget. Great style doesn’t mean expensive. There are so many affordable and stylish pieces available. When starting, try to find items (whether clothes or shoes) that go with pieces you already own. And finally, make sure you’re shopping your correct size and fit. Most online stores have size guides, and if you’re in the store, try on a couple of sizes.
5. Don’t be Afraid to Experiment
By following the first 4 steps, it will allow you to experiment. Again, start small. Accessories are the perfect way to elevate any style (check out my 3 tips here) as well as dipping your toes into something different. I generally start with inexpensive items; that way; it’s not too much of a waste.
Outfit Details
Closing Statements
As I mentioned above, I recently went through this experiment to get out of my own style rut. If you scroll down my Instagram feed, you will see how my style has evolved over the last couple of years. I’m ecstatic with my look today, but it didn’t happen overnight. Be patient, really think through these steps. Slide into my DM’s if you need any assistance, I’m always happy to help.
Photos by Anthea Marette Photography
This article is not sponsored by any of the brands mentioned above. However, some of the links may contain affiliate links which may generate revenue for the site when clicked, or when a purchase occurs. The information in this post is my thoughts and preferences.
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