Style is the perfection of a point of view.

Personal style is about more than just clothes, it’s an extension of your personality, a way to express who you are and how you want the world to perceive you. Have you ever looked into your closet, filled with clothes, and still felt like you had nothing to wear? If so, you’re not alone. Many men struggle with defining their personal style, often opting for the same, safe choices they’ve worn for years. 

It is essential to understand that personal style has no singular goal or right way to go about it. In order to truly express yourself, you must continually uncover who you are and how you want to present your unique point of view to the world.

To discover and express your own style, you must identify what style means to you, cultivate it, craft it, and make it unique to you. Here are four steps to find inspiration, define your look, and project your most authentic self in your clothes.

1. Self-Reflection: Who Are You?
   The first step in finding your personal style is self-reflection. To truly understand your style preferences, you need to take a closer look at your personality, interests, and lifestyle. Start with identifying your interests, If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you might lean towards a more rugged, casual style. If you appreciate art and culture, a more refined, classic look might be your preference.Consider your daily activities and what you need to wear for them. If you work in a corporate office, a business-casual or formal style may suit you. People in creative fields might prefer a more relaxed, eclectic look. Your personality traits can influence the colours and patterns that make you feel comfortable and confident.
2. Inspiration: Who Do You Admire?
   

   

   Sometimes, finding your style is as simple as looking to others for inspiration. When taking on new clients, the first thing I do is to create a personalised mood-board. By allowing the client to envision themselves within their soon-to-be-aesthetically enhanced existence, it sets the stage for transformation.

   You can create a mood board or use the Pinterest board featuring style icons and outfits that resonate with you. It could be celebrity figures like Davido, Kounde or classic OGs like James Dean, ati bebelo. Analyze what you like about their style and how it aligns with your self-reflection.

   Don’t stop at celebrity photos, enter street, see what people are wearing and how they’re wearing it. See someone wearing something you like? Take note, literally write it down on your phone. This extra step will ensure that vital elements of your taste level are being acknowledged and tracked. You can also learn more by watching movies(old or new), reading magazines, and watching music videos.

3. Experimentation: Try New Things
   Don’t be afraid to step out of your fashion comfort zone. Experimenting with different styles is an essential part of the process. Visit clothing stores, try on various outfits, and see what makes you feel confident. You might be surprised by what suits you.Mix and match by combining different items in your wardrobe to create unique outfits. Sometimes, an unusual pairing can spark something new. Playing with accessories like watches, belts, and eyewear can be powerful tools for defining your style. Try out different accessories to see what resonates with you.Trying new things might seem daunting at the beginning, to make it easier, start with these questions:

   – What are the dominant colours in your wardrobe?
   – How about styles? (For example, do you see a lot of striped button-down shirts or graphic tees?)
   – What are the five pieces you enjoy wearing the most?
   – What are the five pieces you dislike?

   Take note of your learnings to use when shopping for new pieces. This will stop you from impulse purchases and wasteful spending by allowing you to understand exactly what you want and don’t want.

4. Edit and Refine: Define Your Signature Look
   One thing to always keep in mind when finding your personal style is to know that style is fluid, it gets affected by different factors like time, age, location, weather, ati bebelo. So, don’t feel stuck in one style.
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   We have noted self-reflection, seeking inspiration, and experimenting. After doing these three things, by now you’ll likely have a better idea of what your personal style is. The final part for me is to edit and refine your wardrobe to reflect your style consistently.

Remove items that no longer fit your style or serve your lifestyle. Donate or sell these clothes to make room for your new look. Invest in a few high-quality, versatile pieces that represent your style. Whether your style is casual, formal, or a blend of both, consistency is key. Your clothing should reflect your identity consistently in various situations.

Using the words of Layi, Wrap it up…

To sum it up, finding your personal style is an exciting journey that involves

• Self-reflection,
• Inspiration,
• Experimentation, and
• Refinement.

Your style is an outward expression of your unique personality, so embrace the process, have fun, and remember that personal style evolves over time. The most important thing is to be true to yourself and wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. With these four steps, you’re well on your way to defining your signature look.

Shameless Plug: While you are here, check out Smileys Africa, where you can shop for cool casual shirts, comfortable pants, happy socks, balls loving underwear, and head warming gears.

What’s your approach to discovering and defining your personal style? Share your thoughts and experiences with me on Twitter!