One question I get asked frequently is, “How do I change my style?” While the simple answer may be to update your wardrobe or adjust your beauty routine, this doesn’t truly capture what most people mean. At the heart of it, the real question is: What do I want my style to be? If you’re unsure about your style direction, it might be time to strengthen your fashion intuition.

A strong fashion sense means knowing exactly what you like and what works for your body. It’s about making confident choices and trusting your instincts when it comes to what looks good on you. Once you develop this, style evolution becomes effortless.

Let’s break down some practical tips that will help you define your personal style.

Understand Your Shape

The first step to refining your style is understanding your body. Start by assessing your shape. A helpful trick is to have a friend trace your outline on a mirror with a dry-erase marker. This will give you an objective view of your body, helping you see which areas you might want to highlight or downplay.

Clothes that flatter your body shape will add balance and symmetry. For instance, if you have narrower hips, look for styles that add volume in that area. On the other hand, if you have a larger bust, try clothes that help streamline your silhouette. High-waisted trousers or skirts can also create the illusion of longer legs.

Remember, certain design elements like pleats, bold colors, and horizontal hems can add volume, while darker colors and form-fitting styles can provide a slimming effect.

Shop In-Store

While online shopping is convenient, it lacks the immediate feedback that in-store shopping offers. The ability to try on clothes helps you assess what looks good and what doesn’t. Try different styles, colors, and fits in person. Don’t be afraid to experiment. For example, try a ruffle top if you think it might add volume to your bust, or pair a sleek top with wide-legged pants to see how it feels.

When shopping, try different sizes — sometimes, you might find that a smaller or larger size works better than you thought. Also, experiment with colors and patterns you wouldn’t usually wear to see how they make you feel.

Browse Fashion Magazines

Fashion magazines can be a great source of inspiration. While they often showcase runway models, which might not be relatable to everyone, they can still offer valuable style ideas. As you browse, pay attention to the colors, fabrics, and cuts that catch your eye. Consider how accessories and makeup are used to complement the outfits. Over time, you’ll start developing a clearer understanding of what resonates with your style.

Observe Others’ Styles

Don’t overlook the fashion around you. Take note of what your friends, family, and colleagues are wearing. This doesn’t mean judging their choices, but rather evaluating what you like or don’t like. You can learn a lot by observing how others put their outfits together, and sometimes, it can help you refine your preferences.

Learn from TV and Film

TV shows and movies are another great source of fashion inspiration. Whether you’re watching a period drama or the latest news broadcast, pay attention to how characters are styled. For example, you might admire how a TV personality like Hoda Kotb dresses casually yet confidently, or how a character’s wardrobe expresses their personality.

Pay Attention to Fit

Fit is one of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects of style. A lot of fashion confusion can stem from poor fit — if clothes don’t fit properly, they won’t flatter your body, no matter how trendy they are. Look at how clothes fit other people — clean lines and smooth drapes are signs of good fit, while puckers and tight spots are not.

Once you understand what good fit looks like on others, you’ll be able to identify issues in your own clothes, like a shirt that’s too wide in the shoulders or pants that pinch at the waist. Some problems can be solved with a different cut or fabric, and for other issues, a good tailor can work wonders.

Start Simple

If you’re still unsure about your style, start by thinking in terms of opposites. Do you prefer sleek lines or more flowy shapes? Bright colors or muted tones? Casual or dressy styles? Try playing a game of “would you rather” with a friend — for instance, would you prefer wearing a flowy dress with sandals or a crisp pair of straight-leg jeans with a structured blazer? This simple exercise will help you identify your personal style preferences.

Finding Your Personal Style

Your style is an evolving expression of who you are. It doesn’t need to follow trends or be overly formal; it should simply reflect your personality and make you feel good. With the right mix of observation, experimentation, and confidence, you’ll soon develop a style that feels uniquely yours. Embrace what works for you, and know that whatever that is, it’s perfect.