Don’t you ever feel overwhelmed by going clothes shopping?

Everything looks so good, the mannequin’s outfits are amazing, and you just want to own every last piece of clothing in the shop. The unfortunate outcome of your shopping experience is that when you look into your bag, you realize it’s a collection of random garments from all kinds of styles. It makes you think, “How can I take these little bits of fashion to form my own style?” Sometimes I find this hard to do myself, since I like to test a variety of styles. One day it could be sporty-chic, then the next day I could try the hipster style. I’ve learned to find your own style is easy as long as you have these helpful hints.

No style is off limits

My style has changed drastically over the years, and I am no longer the Hollister Co. and Abercrombie & Fitch teen I once knew. I’ve experimented with many different outfit choices, but one thing I do is remind myself to have an open mind to all styles. If I like a shirt that fits the grunge or rocker type I’ll get it. I can add a blazer to it for flare. Clothes are clothes and what you’re wearing expresses who you are or how you feel.

Read fashion magazines

I know this might not be everyone’s favorite thing to do, but trust me it helps: If you are having a hard time finding the “you” in clothing then take a look at pictures or read some of the fashion columns in magazines. Magazines like “Elle” and “Glamour” give helpful outfit breakdowns and even show you where to find certain clothes. The options and tips are endless.

Don’t feel intimidated.

It takes a while to find your style and to experiment with different things. You also have to keep in mind you may not fit into just one particular genre or style–maybe you’re a combination of two or more. Whatever you decide or whichever style feels most comfortable, don’t forget the most important accessory: confidence. Nobody–no matter how beautiful–ever looks good without confidence. Keep your head held high and sport whatever style you want.

Three times is never the charm… maybe not even four or five

Like I’ve said, finding your style takes time. Things change and times change, and you may be influenced by certain things in your life now that determine your style, but maybe in a few years you’ll live across the country or even out of the country and then you might adopt and find a new style for yourself. Don’t worry, there are always those signature looks that will stick around forever, like a little black dress. For me it just happens to be horizontal stripes–who would have guessed?