Finding Your Personal Style Can Help You Pinpoint What Sparks Joy

“I don’t have style.”

“I just like being comfy—I don’t really have a defined style.”

“My tastes are all over the place; there’s no way to pin them down.”

“I wish I could pull off [insert dream aesthetic here].”

“My work and personal styles feel completely disconnected.”

“I don’t feel great in anything I own, but I have to wear these clothes for my lifestyle.”

These are some of the most common things I hear from clients when they’re trying to determine which clothing truly resonates with them. Identifying what makes you feel your best can be challenging—but one of the most helpful tools I’ve found is Allison Bornstein’s ‘3 Word Method.’

By thoughtfully selecting three words that capture the key aspects of your taste, style, and inspiration, you start to see patterns—connections between the different facets of your life that might not seem related at first. It’s incredibly satisfying to uncover that common thread, and once you do, decluttering your closet becomes so much easier. (I know from personal experience how helpful finding my 3 words has been!)

Having this clarity also helps curb impulse shopping. When you know what truly fits your style and lifestyle, you’re less likely to buy items that sit unworn in your closet. Instead, you build a wardrobe with intention—one that reflects who you are and supports how you want to live.