How to Identify Your Personal Style
Define Your Style in Three Simple Words—A Stylist’s Guide to Building a Wardrobe That Feels Like You.
Spring is almost here, and we know how easy it is to fall into a wardrobe rut around this time. That’s why we’re launching a special Spring Style Series to help you.
Each Sunday, we’ll walk through my step-by-step styling process—the same method I use with clients. Here’s what to expect:
The Art: we will start by redefining your style (that is kicks off today, below)
The Science: then a deep dive into measurements & defining your body type
The Logistics: how to curate an everything wardrobe
The Edit: how to edit at home with a step by step daily guide
The Style: and lastly, we will put the fun back in getting ready with how to revive & restyle your wardrobe
This series is all about helping you gain confidence in your wardrobe choices and make intentional style decisions that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Plus, I’ll be available in the chat to answer your questions and guide you through the process. (We might even have a giveaway so join below).
Let’s dive in and start with the first step: identifying your personal style.
Finding your personal style can feel overwhelming, but there’s a simple, effective method that can help: The Three-Word Method. Originally created by celebrity stylist Alison Bornstein, this method has been adapted by many stylists (myself included) to help clients refine their wardrobe and shopping habits. Let’s walk through how you can use this technique to define your personal style and shop with confidence.
Step 1: Determine Your Three Words
Your three words serve as a blueprint for your style. They should reflect what you actually wear, what inspires you, and how you want to feel in your clothes. Here’s how to determine them:
Hate reading? This video will guide you through the process. Prefer to read, check out the guide below.
Find accompanying worksheet to complete this lesson at bottom of this article!
1️⃣ Your Practical Word
Close your eyes and picture your closet. Now, ignore everything you don’t actually wear. Focus only on the pieces you reach for time and time again. What is one word that describes these items?
For some, this word might be comfort—if they prioritize soft fabrics and relaxed fits.
For others, it might be ease—if they love outfits that are effortless and quick to put together.
Maybe it’s structured, if you favor tailored pieces and well-defined silhouettes.
Jot down this word somewhere—it’s the foundation of your style.
2️⃣ Your Aspirational Word
Next, think about what inspires you. It could be a fashion icon, a piece of art, a city, or even a mood that resonates with you. What’s one word that captures that inspiration?
Maybe it’s bold—if you admire striking, statement-making outfits.
Or romantic—if you love soft fabrics, flowing silhouettes, and feminine details.
Perhaps it’s minimalist, if you gravitate towards clean lines and a neutral palette.
This word will help elevate your style and bring more personality to your wardrobe.
3️⃣ Your Emotional Word
Lastly, consider how you want to feel when you get dressed each day. Confident? Sexy? Powerful? Happy? This is your emotional connection to your style, and it’s just as important as the first two words.
If you want to feel effortless, you might lean towards neutral colors and classic silhouettes.
If you want to feel playful, you might gravitate towards fun patterns and bold accessories.
If you want to feel sophisticated, you might prefer polished, tailored looks with timeless appeal.
Step 2: Apply Your Three Words
Now that you have your three words, they should act as a filter for your wardrobe and shopping habits.
✔️ Shopping: Before buying something new, ask yourself: Does this item check all three of my words? If not, will it support pieces that do? This ensures your purchases align with your style and won’t sit unworn in your closet.
✔️ Outfit Building: When putting together outfits, use your three words as a guide to make sure each look is a true reflection of your personal style. This will make mixing and matching effortless and maximize your wardrobe.
✔️ Editing Your Closet: Take a hard look at your current wardrobe. Do the items you own align with your three words? If not, it may be time to donate, sell, or repurpose pieces that no longer fit your evolving style.
✔️ Experimenting With Confidence: Your three words should be a foundation, not a restriction. Give yourself permission to evolve. If a certain piece doesn’t check every box but still excites you, try styling it in a way that aligns with your overall aesthetic.
Step 3: Examples of Three-Word Style Identities
To help you get started, here are a few combinations of three-word style identities:
Comfortable | Classic | Confident – A wardrobe filled with timeless silhouettes, tailored denim, and easygoing knits.
Minimalist | Elegant | Chic – Clean lines, monochromatic outfits, and luxurious yet understated textures.
Bold | Playful | Feminine – Eye-catching colors, statement accessories, and fun silhouettes that showcase personality.
Relaxed | Edgy | Effortless – Leather jackets, oversized knits, and unexpected pairings that feel cool yet unforced.
Once you’ve found your three words, try curating your wardrobe with them in mind. These words will help keep you on track and make your wardrobe feel cohesive, personal, and uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
Your style isn’t just about trends—it’s about curating a wardrobe that truly represents you. By identifying your three words, you’ll create a cohesive, intentional wardrobe that makes getting dressed easier and more enjoyable. You’ll also find that shopping becomes more intentional and less overwhelming.
I’d love to know your three words! Drop them in the comments so I can help tailor future styling advice to your needs.
xoxo,
Worksheet:⚡READY TO ALWAYS HAVE SOMETHING TO WEAR?
✔️Apply to work with me. My signature process will transform your style in just two sessions. I've helped tons women identify and bring their style to life all while saving them 10's of hours and $1000 of dollars each season.
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