Personal style has this self-aggrandizement imposed on it when in reality it is no more arduous a task than eating better or getting your financials in order. You can hire a health coach, you can work with a wealth advisor, you can do your own research, and you can work with a stylist.

Everyone has to eat, everyone needs money to live, and everyone needs clothing. Yet it is socially acceptable to work with experts on the first two and we are left to our own devices with clothing. Yet there is almost no industry chock-full of smoke and mirrors than the fashion industry. Yeah, I said it! Here are some simple adjustments to get you started.

1. Narrow down the brands you shop with. Without knowing you I can tell you there is a go-too shirt in your closet. What is it about that shirt, is it the fit, the pattern, maybe it was the place you bought it. Do you have other items you enjoy from the same brand? Narrow down your closet to a handful of brands and stores. Write them down, and keep them stored in your phone. That way when you feel the urge to shop, these become the first options you choose.

2. Find a local boutique you can shop at. This isn’t a shameless plug to shop local. I’m just saying it is the superior way to buy your clothing. At a local store you can develop a relationship with an employee who starts to understand what you’re looking for. This person will begin to recommend items that will compliment your existing wardrobe. When I worked in stores, clients would text me about an upcoming event and I would have items waiting and ready for them to choose from because I understood their style. Sometimes they would buy them without even seeing them because they trust me wholeheartedly.

3. Understand what you like about your clothing. What do you like about those pants? Is it the length, the rise, how they move when you walk, the material, country of origin? When you understand what you like about particular items you can begin to look for that in new items and it becomes easier to say no to others.

4. Stop buying things in a pinch. 90% of the time when you bought something in a pinch it was completely avoidable. Of those items, 90% don’t fit and you would never buy. Stop relying on the fact that there are so many options out there, that when you need something you know it’ll be there. It is a waste of your money. Plan out your weddings and events!

5. Listen to what people say. Listen to the compliments people give you. Listen to your significant other say “that’s my favorite shirt”. Read the room when you walk in. Do you feel like you’re having to work to explain who you are, or do people feel like they get you based on your look? If you’re not hearing compliments……my email is matthew@bardsclothing.com i’d love to help.