The best advice I’ve ever seen when it comes to describing your style is to follow the “three word method” – a method popularized by the creator of TikTok, Allison Bornstein. Planners and designers have used this method when presenting customer services for decades. It works for businesses, people, and experiences, but the idea of turning this lens on myself has taken on new meaning for me recently.
When you use a three-word formula to describe your style, those words become a filter that makes it easier for you to decide what items to bring into your home and what clothes to add to your wardrobe. It’s about finding a unique driving force you. Once you know your style, it’s easier to live like yourself—with more confidence and less desire to compare yourself to others.
Today, I’m sharing three words that describe my current style, plus a few things to help you define yours.
Use three words to describe my style
1. Knowledge
When I look at my things Saved from Tumblr many years ago, I realized that I still like many of them. There’s something about classic, timeless and simplicity that I’ve always loved, and this comes through in my home decor and clothing choices. Fashion is not always “in” as the most popular thing at any time, but it will never disappear.
2. Play music
This is where modern thinking comes in. There is always one element about what I put together that just doesn’t “fit.” I like to add a little twist to the design of two rooms in my house and my wardrobe.
3. Preppy
My classic sense of style lies in the preppy realm. My definition of ready-made items has changed over the years, but they have been at the forefront of my mind for a long time. They are things my lizard brain wants and things I like.
Wants to help you define your personal style
If you’re struggling to define your own three-dimensional vocabulary, I’d encourage you to give it a try. As a start, I’ve compiled a list of inspirations below to help you become more aware of your own style preferences. Allison Bornstein also a great resource on this topic, especially when it comes to fashion!
- If money was no object, what would my house look like? What will my wardrobe look like?
- What kind of clothes do I usually wear every week?
- What is my favorite type of decor piece?
- What should I wear if I take myself out to dinner?
- What do I like to do when no one is watching?
This is walking around and doing our own activities in our own way every day.
Kate is now learning to play the Ukulele, much to the dismay of her husband, children, and dog. Follow him on Instagram at @witanddelight_.