Upgrading your wardrobe
How to find your personal style
By sneakersInn team · Updated
You find your personal style in five steps: notice what you already feel best in, collect pictures of outfits you admire, choose a colour palette, pick a few signature pieces, and then repeat them until they feel like yours. Style isn't buying everything new; it's making consistent choices so your clothes say the same thing about you every day.
| Step | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Notice | List the five outfits you feel best in | One week |
| 2. Collect | Save 20 to 30 outfit images you like | Two weeks |
| 3. Palette | Choose 4 to 6 colours | One day |
| 4. Signatures | Pick 2 or 3 pieces that feel like you | Ongoing |
| 5. Repeat | Wear and refine | Months |
Step 1: What do I already like wearing?
For a week, note which outfits you reach for and why: comfort, fit, colour, how people react. Those are the roots of your style.
Step 2: Where do I find references?
Instagram, Pinterest, magazines, people you admire in your city or industry. Save images, then look for patterns: colours, fits, shoes, whether they're relaxed or sharp.
Step 3: How do I choose a palette?
Pick three neutrals (such as navy, white and grey) and one to three accent colours that flatter you (such as olive, burgundy or rust). See best colours for dark skin and colour matching for men.
Step 4: What are signature pieces?
Items people associate with you: a style of sneaker, a print shirt, a watch, a type of jacket. Keep it to two or three. See the 5 accessories that finish every man's outfit.
Step 5: Why repeat?
Repetition is what makes a style recognisable. Wear your best combinations often, adjust small things, and drop what doesn't feel right.
Common style directions
| Direction | Key pieces |
|---|---|
| Classic | Navy suit, oxford shirts, chinos, loafers |
| Smart casual | Knitted polos, overshirts, leather sneakers |
| Streetwear | Boxy tees, cargos, chunky sneakers |
| Afro-modern | Print shirts, smocks, tailored trousers |
| Minimal | Black, white and grey, clean sneakers |
Most men mix two directions. See Friday wear and retro runners.
Questions
Do I need a lot of clothes to have style?
No. A small, consistent wardrobe shows more style. See the capsule wardrobe for men.
How do I stay true to my style with trends?
Take only the trends that fit your direction.
Where do I start?
With basics that fit. See the 5 clothing basics every man should buy before anything else.