Create A Style Equation From Pieces In Your Closet
What do you own multiples of in your closet?
If you’re like me you are probably have multiples of similar items in your closet. Normally we buy multiples because they suit us, make us feel good about ourselves and communicate effectively how we want to be seen by the world.
You can create a style equation from these pieces.
It’s dead simple.
I realized I own a few (ahem…cough, cough)… leather and suede full midi skirts. They work for my body shape, are extra comfy to wear and make me feel good about myself. I love them so much I’ve accumulated a small collection in different colours.
I’m also attracted to bold, colourful, wildly patterned vintage tops and blouses of which I have multiples of in my wardrobe. They declare my love of vintage to the world and ensure I stand out from the crowd.
When I created my first outfit with a midi skirt, a wild blouse and a neck scarf I felt so much like myself, so comfortable and confident, I knew others outfits were imminent. They were extra easy to pull together once I understood the style equation,
Midi Skirt + Wild Blouse + Scarf + Boots = Me
So I’ve been using this equation on repeat lately and it suits my personality and my closet just fine.
And this is what I wore to the Dior exhibit I went to recently which was awesome!
Other family members getting in on the photo op.
I’m always in need of photos of us together for our annual family calendar.
As it was a FREEZING day I chose to add another layer of warmth with a leather jacket. This whole outfit was hidden under my long vintage coat but we checked our coats at the door. It was a frigid -20 C but feeling like -30 C that day with the wind. I’m so thankful it has warmed up to above zero now. Even if it only lasts a few days it is a much needed break.
Here are two other outfits I created with the same style equation that I’m itching to wear.
4 Tips To Create A Style Equation Using Pieces From Your Closet
- Find specific items you have multiples of in your closet.
- Take some time and put together one outfit from those multiples. Make sure the outfit makes you deliriously happy about yourself and your body while communicating the image you want to convey to the world.
- Take note of that outfit. How did it come together? Break it down into your style equation and be specific; top, bottom, shoes, accessories.
- Use your new equation to create more fun outfits.
Once you get on a roll with your new formula it will be hard to stop.
Have you figured out what you want your clothes to say about you, aka your personal style statement?
Here is a post and a little quiz to help you create a personal style statement. Clothing communicates how we want to be perceived by others and ourselves. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make a lasting impression and boost your self esteem.
Do you rely on any style equations to help you get dressed?
beate says
swooooooon*******
love this look on you!!! and still heavy skirt envy 😉
<3
i just realized via this post that i use this dressing formula/silhouette for years now. only that i wear sweaters if temps drop – i find jackets under coats not comfy. but beside of that i love a full skirt and an interesting blouse (do not like my bod in tees) every day, a chic scarf is a must even in summer…. when i change from boots/booties into sandals/flats.
it is the most classic look – but gets lifted and fun with interesting textures, patterns, colors and the mixing of all them!
wish you pale pink boots weather! xxxx
suzanne carillo says
Thanks Beate. I have a feeling that pink boot weather is a ways off yet.
Ann says
You look fabulous in all of them, which is proof that you’ve found your style equation! This post is making me think about my own way of dressing, which tends to be a bit all over the place. I mostly wear dresses, and although I have them in several styles, there’s a go to style which is perfect for my figure, accentuating my best bits, and which make me feel more fabulous than any other style. But then I often get compliments when I’m wearing something out of my comfort zone. But I do know my perfect style equation if I’m in need of a confidence boost! I do hope your weather starts improving, so that you can wear those awesome suede boots! xxx
suzanne carillo says
I really think you have your style equation down pat Ann. Great pattern combos and lots of fun accessories.
Señora Allnut says
what a fabulous advice! and You Look So Gorgeous!, lovely outfits!
I’m in love with this “Midi Skirt + Wild Blouse + Scarf + Boots” ensemble, you rock it! and I love particularly that you always create something interesting, it looks fresh and new every time!
You made me think on my own style, as I’m also a repeat offender. My crime: lots of trousers in ‘tropical prints’ that I’m used to wear with striped t-shirts!
besos
suzanne carillo says
When I think of you I think colour! (and lots of it!) and pattern which I love as well. Your ability to combine colours is award winning.
Veronica Cooke says
Yes, this is definitely your ‘look’. You look fabulous in every outfit and it’s a winning combination for sure. In your final two photos you remind me of ‘Annie Hall’ – I expect it’s the glasses!
I think my style equation (if I have such a thing) centres around wearing three items; for example trousers+tunic+waistcoat/vest OR skirt+top+jacket/cardigan and lots of accessories. of course!
I didn’t realise pugs could stand so tall…
suzanne carillo says
Ha ha! Pugs can stand tall when they have help ; P
Jess says
Suzanne, love these outfits on you, an equation that works very well. I’m in need of more patterned blouses! Love all but especially the pink and brown combo and that fab rust Jacquard topper!
Have a great weekend!
Jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
suzanne carillo says
I find it difficult to believe you need anything in your wardrobe Jess ; P
Melanie says
Every time your styling combos are such winners. The pattern-on-pattern blouse/scarf is so good and definitely suits you. And what I great way to keep all your leather in rotation. Thanks for the link to your style statement quiz. I had to go back and see what I wrote. Heh. And I love the family shots!!
suzanne carillo says
I still haven’t switched over my dress closet to winter, thus all my skirts are having free reign right now.
Lana says
Every outfit is prettier than the last! You are gorgeous.
My style equation this time of year is jeans + sweater + booties. Not nearly as exciting as yours but it works for me, I guess.
I just saw that bold prints are on trend for spring.
suzanne carillo says
It totally works for you Lana. Plus it is very much a Seattle vibe.
Shybiker says
This style suits you so well. It’s attractive, distinctive and flattering. Few of us find the best style for us, so consider yourself fortunate.
suzanne carillo says
With so many years spent experimenting I’m glad that I have found a few things that I know work for me. The more you practise…the better you get : )
Elle says
It is fabulous to know who you are. And better still to know you are fabulous!
The equation is YOU: luminous and original !
❤️❤️❤️
Elle,
https://theellediaries.com
suzanne carillo says
Awww…thanks Elle : ) You are right…knowing yourself is the key to dressing with intention.
Debbie Stinedurf says
This is definitely 150% your style equation. When I think of you, this is what I picture. I absolutely love the mock turtleneck with the rust/green/gold floral print…beautiful!
Debbie
http://www.fashionfairydust.com
jodie filogomo says
I can totally see how this would work, Suzanne!! Because we do tend to buy the same things over and over—because we like them!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
suzanne carillo says
Yep, we are always drawn to the same thing. Hopefully that is because they look good on us ; P
Anna Parkes says
I love how this sounds formulaic and yet always looks so individual on you. I can see the permutations are endless (well, with your magic, bottomless pit of a closet it would be), but always very you with that Suzanne signature style. I must double back to take that quiz and find out about my style next.
Excuse me for being so blunt, but how many pairs of boots do you own? I have severe boot envy.
Anna x
suzanne carillo says
Ha ha! Please don’t ask me to count my boots! I’m a collector Anna ; P.
Also I am a reseller. Whew! Thank heavens for that!
Sherrie says
I do this! I live in Florida, so just imagine when I discovered I could still wear my summer dresses in winter if paired with leggings, boots, jacket and scarf. I’m currently wearing this combo. On warmer days I don’t need the scarf, sometimes flats instead of socks/boots.
And since I shop thrift, jackets (which used to be harder to come by because of the expense) are plentiful in my closet.
Marilee Gramith says
I love the premise that we “repeat buy” certain items or genre of items. A few years ago when Bohemian looks began reappearing I was thrilled and delighted. However, I hadn’t realized that this term described my style! I was actually rather perturbed by the fact that I so cleanly fit into that so easily defined slot!!
I’m over that now…:-):-):-)
I couldn’t help but smile when you revealed your “formula”. I certainly recognized it as a look you love and wear divinely , BUT I’ve come to think of you as adventurous about breaking out of any mold that becomes too tight or comfortable as well!
I’m scrolling back to that quiz now. Thank you for another post not to be missed Suzanne!
Nicole says
I love this style equation! All of these are so gorgeous- and even though they are all very similar, the different fabrics etc make them look completely different too. Separates for the win!
Shelley@ForestCityFashionista says
What a cute family photo! The blouse/skirt/scarf/boots combo is one I definitely associate with you. I used to own a couple of long full suede skirts, but could never style them so they looked good on me so off to the donation bin they went. I don’t know that I have a style equation as I have lots of different shapes in my wardrobe. I know that Big pants are a favourite.
Sarrah says
I just came across your blog and I think I can now put you on the short list of bloggers who have actually made my jaw drop with the immediate burst of inspiration I felt from your outfits! Absolutely stunning!
Also this week I realized that cardigans + collared shirts + jeans + funky socks + boots is definitely my work style equation, with nerdy jewellery and pins to brighten up the office!
suzanne carillo says
I’m delighted you dropped by Sarrah!
Your style equation sounds wonderfully detailed and artsy. I’m a hug fan of funky socks and so is my husband.
No Fear of Fashion says
Oh how I love this formula on you. You are right, it suits you to a T. Especially the second but last one with the purple leather skirt. Beauty!
My style formula is jeans with a jacket. Have to try and create an equally good style with a dress or skirt. I think pencil skirts are my thing. But I have to stay away from too severe, too classic. Could use you as a stylist.
Greetje
Anna says
Loving that black leather skirt. Absolutely consumed by it, right now. Pockets. Perfect. Wow! <3
– Anna
http://www.melodicthriftychic.com