The journey to your personal style: Dress for who you are

orianetonnerre
May 16
3 min read

If you're here, you've likely encountered “style categories.” Streetwear, boho, vintage, romantic, and they're like… well, they're labels. And sure, they might offer a starting point. But let's be honest: seeing wardrobes that are looking like copies of each other online? That's not personal style; it's a fashion echo.

Someone might say, “That’s my style”, pointing to a category. And while it can be a helpful guide, it’s not the destination. True personal style is something else entirely. It's when someone takes those categories and remixes them, adding their own distinctive touch—a singular jacket, a signature color palette, a bold lip that's unmistakably theirs.

Even those “signatures” can feel a bit… confined. They don't always fit the diverse demands of everyday life—events, meetings, casual outings. And let's face it, we’re complex beings. Trying to box that into a single category? It’s like trying to capture a rainbow in a tiny box.

And no, finding your personal style isn’t just about knowing your colors or your body type. Those are tools, not the masterpiece itself.

woman wearing a blue blazer with matching pouch

Why your personal style is your story, not a label

Let me share a bit of my own journey. I’ve always appreciated a wide range of styles. But that doesn’t mean I want to wear them all every day. My personal style? It’s more about an essence, a vibe. It's when people say, “That’s so you”, or “Only you could pull that off”. It’s not just the clothes; it’s how they reflect you.

Growing up, I was fortunate that my parents let me experiment with my wardrobe freely. In junior high, I was known for not following trends but showing up every day in a completely different look. For me, wearing the same outfit as someone else felt like losing my individuality. Over time, I built a wardrobe where every piece,from the simplest to the most extravagant, feels authentically me.

Whatever I wear, people around me recognize my personality in it. And you know what? That makes me happy. Playing with my style is like playing with a canvas; it’s creative, joyful, and empowering.

Style in action: More than strategy, it’s connection

Let me share a story that highlights how personal style isn’t just about strategy; it’s also about identity, communication, and connection.

During a past job, I had the opportunity to travel to France for an international tradeshow. As the person responsible for communicating with clients in both French and English, I knew I’d be meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and leaving a lasting impression was key. I also wanted to feel confident and fully myself during those five intense days.

I decided to let my wardrobe reflect not only professionalism but also my personality. Each day, I wore a different outfit that showcased bold colors and patterns while staying business-appropriate:

Day 1: A striking red suit. Bold, energetic, and confident
Day 2: A vibrant green ensemble. Fresh, creative, and full of life. It brought a unique energy to the day.
Day 3: Beige and brown pied de coq. A nod to classic elegance with a modern twist. I wanted to show that classic did not mean boring.
Day 4: A sophisticated blue look. Calm, poised, and trustworthy. I needed to be seen as a reliable person.
Day 5: A head-turning pink blazer. Playful yet polished. I wanted to end the week on a high note.

These choices became unexpected networking tools and conversations starters. Hesitant clients returned, curious about my style and what color I'd choose next. Fellow exhibitors offered compliments, and someone even proposed a job opportunity! But the true victory was feeling completely comfortable in my skin. My clothes facilitated authentic connections. And that's the magic of personal style. It's not just about standing out; it's about letting the world see you.

Your style: your playground, your power

Your personal style? It’s your playground. Experiment, explore, be unapologetically you.

Fashion isn’t about boxes; it’s about breaking them. Mix, match, try things that make you go, "Hmm." You might stumble, but that’s part of the adventure.

True style is about curiosity, about stepping outside the lines. Ask yourself: