On a Quest to Reclaim My Personal Style
Call it turning 40 this year or maybe feeling slightly overwhelmed and uninspired but I’m determined to reclaim my personal style in 2026. I’ve been feeling very disconnected in what I wear these days. Like no two looks make sense and everything in my closet feels either too youthful or too serious. I think a big part of being in the content creator space is you’re constantly fed products. I usually have a really good feeling about things that feel the most like me but there are also a ton of products that maybe I’ve already experienced in one way or another but I know my community would love. Or I find myself impulsively grabbing something at a store only to put it on and think, “what was I thinking?” It is almost a game to find pieces that no one else has only to end up with a closet that feels a little disconnected from who I am and how I want to feel. This confusion has been holding me back when it comes to getting dressed and this year, I am reclaiming my style!
I went back in my archives to pull inspo from looks that I felt had “good styling” - need to go the extra mile when it comes to getting dressed this year.
What I need:
Here is what I already saved as things “to buy” to elevate what I already own. I’ve been saving items that whenever I’m out and about a notice things on others and think to myself “I really don’t own a chic pair of low heels to wear casually with jeans” or “I need a classic jacket” and so on.
a cool midi skirt in a vibrant color that could be worn seasonally.
a trench coat that isn’t too long and not too short. I’m on the waitlist for this one!
a pair of kitten heels that instantly elevate a pair of jeans.
a colorful statement bag! something like this structured red bag, a chic colorful clutch or this citrine cutie, for day or night.
The funny thing is I am very aware of what does and does not look good on me. I can quickly tell if something is a hell yes or a hell no. Being petite is often a challenge with clothes so you really need to know your proportions. I am also not someone who leans in hard to trends. In my head I really gravitate towards a laid back, tailored vibe but with some detail (love a ruffle, embellished collar, puff sleeve) and color. Then when I’m shopping it’s like I have a heyday with prints because they feel special and I notice that these novelty items are the first to go when it comes time to purge my closet. I’m ready to grow up from the “cutesy” unless it is balanced with something casual (like this top with my favorite relaxed jeans and classic flats for spring).
I think one of my biggest issues is wearing vs. styling my clothes. I can wear my clothes all day! Give me a pair of jeans, white tee and a cardigan and I’m out the door. But the difference between wearing vs. styling is what makes you look interesting in my opinion. I’m starting to feel like a lot of my printed dresses or fun tops that pair back to jeans, where you think those are an easy way to feel styled, you end up looking kind of boring! You need that third layer of thought when it comes to getting dressed. That is one of my goals this year! Add the scarf, layer the necklaces, add some interest in your shoes and bag, put a barrette or scrunchie in your hair. The little deals add interest!
I’ve been putting together this Pinterest board of looks that are inspiring me and the style I want to reflect.
Here is the inspo:
Classic but fun, styled but casual, detailed but cohesive. I honestly may hire a stylist to come help me revitalize what I already own. I’m having some visual fatigue when it comes to what I already own and need to bring some new energy into it!
7 months until 40! I’m excited.
As a stylist, I love this! You are pointing out something that I often tell clients about their own relationship to style, which is: you have a point of view. You know what you like and what you don’t. What works and what doesn’t. I think we embody multiple styles at once. And that it should change with our moods, feelings, and of course, over time.
I love the inspo images you pulled together as well. I always tell my clients two pieces of advice too that I think will help on your journey:
1. Your closet is not a museum, so don’t save anything for “special occasions”. Just wear it all whenever you want! Style is created daily, in the mundane, not in highlight reels of “special moments”. Everyday is a special moment.
2. Wear something that scares you. At least once a week. This means breaking outside your comfort zone and trying what you normally wouldn’t. It creates curious and adventure and keeps you from getting bored! Plus it means you are willing to reinvent yourself!
The last thing I will say is that 40 in astrology is a year of creativity and self-expression. So you are right on time with all of this! Make this your most creative styling year yet! 💕
Love this! After having three littles back to back, I’m in this same boat! Love your idea of creating an inspo board and then identifying a few must have items to add to your wardrobe! Totally doing this!