By Safina Khimani of Faith Style

It is critical that when we make choices based on our style we are honest with ourselves and we are authentic to who we are at our very core. To ensure we make the best choices for us and our bodies take the Style Self-Exam. Part I was created by the most authentic woman I know Danielle LaPorte of White Hot Truth. Part II is my personal extension of the process:

Part I Prep Work…

Why do you buy what you buy? Do a mental scan of your wardrobe. Think of the your most recent purchases, or your most-worn pieces, or the regrettables collecting dust in your closet. What motivated those choices? Were you feeling…elation? Rebellion? The deep craving to belong? The drive to appear powerful? Sentimental for the past? Sweet, sensual inklings? At one with the style gods?

Who do you take shopping with you? Not literally, but, psychically. Do you have your own what-not-to-wear committee on your shoulder? Are your inner style advisers jeering at you or cheering you on?

Do your clothes feel like friends or foe? Do you have to psyche yourself up to get into that navy suit that sucks the innovative thinking right out of you? Or do you look at that linen tunic and think, “Ahh, old friend, we work so well together?”

Part II Critical Shopping questions...

Do you love it? Buy What You Love & Wear What You Love. If you buy something now that you love, it will fit into your life, instead of following the trends and mimicking others. If your heart isn’t moved, leave it so something more incredible can make its way to you.

 Do you feel great in it? Not good, not good enough but GREAT!

Does it fit you? Does it fit you PROPERLY? It should feel comfortable but be fitted. Not tight where breathing is manageable or a bit big that it reminds you of your Lululemon yoga pants. It should lie flat against your body. Be smooth as it was your second layer of skin.

Does it flatter you? It should be showing off your assets while camouflaging your challenge areas. Do you notice yourself standing taller? Smiling from ear to ear? These are usually good indicators that a piece truly flatters you.

Do you have at least 2 things to wear with it? This is a simple and direct question. Try and train yourself to shop in outfits vs. pieces and both you and your wardrobe will thank you for it.

Women have a great sense of instinct. If you put something on and you’re not quite sure listen to your gut. There is a reason why you’re not feeling 100% trust your gut and avoid a bad purchase just because you need a white button down cotton shirt is not a good enough reason to buy it.  

Every choice is an expression of what we believe. Style tells an intimate journey of self discovery. It’s the way we express ourselves through our tastes, desires, passions, inspirations and lifestyle. Whether you are Elegant, Sophisticated, a Rock star or a Bohemian spirit it’s about being authentic to your essence and that has very little to do with the number on the label or the size of our bodies. 

By exposing yourself to all kinds of influences and dressing with an open mind you’ll discover new things that will inspire you to change and embrace the parts of yourself you already love.

By Safina Khimani of Faith Style

“Authenticity is energizing, economical, and efficient. The better you know yourself, the clearer your choices. Self-awareness leads to true style.” Carrie & Danielle

Find Your Key Item

A key item is the central piece your outfit will be based around. It can be anything – shoes, a dress, a necklace – the only criteria is it must be something you really, really love!

Build Around Your Key Item

Take a look around your wardrobe – is there anything that complements your key item? Do you have a belt that goes well with this purse? Or a dress that looks fabulous with these boots? Put it on. Continue adding more pieces that work well with your ensemble. If you don’t see any obvious matches, start trying stuff on at random – you might come across something unusual and fresh!

Some basic rules … neutrals go with EVERYTHING. Neutral colors include tan, beige, gray, brown, black, white, and navy.

“How do I know if something ‘works’?”

This would depend purely on your personal style and your vision. If you’re unsure of your personal style listen to your gut. With time, you will learn to trust yourself and your eye.

Sometimes you may simply not have the right item to bring it all together. When this happens, you can either put the outfit on hold and finish it later, once you have the item, or substitute it with something else.

Add an Element of Surprise or your “Signature”

What’s the difference between a good outfit and a great one? A great outfit has a hook, something that makes it memorable and sets it apart from the rest! Once you have most of your outfit together, look for something bold and unexpected to offset the equation! Something you’d never normally consider, like cobalt blue shoes in an otherwise white/gray ensemble, or a large chunky necklace in an otherwise simple understated outfit. Adding the unusual will make your outfit look more interesting.

To have style, there must be an emotional and physical connection and passion to the clothes you buy and own.