You could find that you are in love with vibrant, statement jewelry or flowy, summer dresses. Finding these small patterns might take time, but it’s worth it.

In the long run, it will help you narrow the key pieces to look for the next time you go shopping.

Expert Tips:

• Print out some pictures and keep a journal entirely dedicated to hunting down those essential patterns.
• Jot down your thoughts and discoveries right away, that way you don’t forget and have a reference sheet.

Determine Your Colors

I know this tip may remind you of women in the ’70s asking each other, “I’m an autumn, what are you?” but I’ve noticed that having a personal color scheme is a hallmark of all truly stylish women.

To determine your colors, you need to assess your hair, skin and eye color as well as what colors you feel you look the best in. Determining your “season” can introduce you to a whole new palette of colors!

The point of doing this is to use these colors as a guide while shopping so that you can select the pieces that will look best on you.

Clean Out That Closet

This might seem a little extreme, but what’s the point of having pieces in your closet that just don’t make you happy?

Clear it out, donate, or toss any unwanted pieces. Use that space to fill your closet with items that speak to you.

During this process, it’s important to try everything on before you stick it back in your closet. If it no longer feels right and you can’t see yourself wearing it again, then it might be best to let it go.

Don’t overlook this step. It is a key part of finding your style. Out with the old, in with the new.

Expert Tips:

• Refer to our closet organization tips post to discover the most effective ways of de-cluttering and organizing your new wardrobe.

Experiment On A Budget

Now that you’ve cleared out your closet, you’re left with space and a yearning for new, fresh items to fill up your wardrobe.