Personal style is, by nature, highly personal. Finding yours can often be a daunting and exhausting task, so much so that many people dismiss it with a shrug and settle for, "I just wear whatever I want." You might have encountered this approach before, but Allison Bornstein has made discovering your personal style much more accessible with her “three-word method.” This method is quite straightforward: you select three adjectives that describe your usual style and apply them to everything in your wardrobe.
As an impulsive shopper, I initially struggled to pinpoint my three words. Influenced by what I see online and at work, I thought it would be impossible to come up with just three. However, after some reflection (and quite a bit of it), I realized I did have three words in mind—I just needed to evaluate my closet more carefully. With a vast amount of clothing, I often felt like I had nothing to wear. Now, I’m excited about investing in pieces that I’ll wear repeatedly and look forward to "shopping my closet."
Three Words for My Personal Style
One of Allison’s key tips is to reflect on outfits where you felt your best—those where you felt most “you.” Fortunately, I photograph nearly every outfit I wear, making it easy to review my favourite looks. I noticed recurring elements in my preferred outfits (such as ballet flats or blazers), which helped me identify my style words. Browsing through my Pinterest board or saved outfit inspiration on Instagram, I found that many ideas still fit within my three style words. Here are the words I use every time I get dressed:
- Classic This word came naturally to me. I’ve always been drawn to classic pieces like trench coats, cashmere sweaters, striped t-shirts, and button-down shirts. I love incorporating these timeless items into my wardrobe, as they’re versatile and enduring, like a great pair of jeans. Classic style is definitely a defining element of my look.
- Fun I enjoy experimenting with trends that align with my personal style and that I find genuinely enjoyable. "Fun" is my second word, encompassing items like mesh flats. Trends come and go, but I love exploring them, especially when they complement my classic style.
- Approachable Lastly, I describe my style as approachable. I aim for outfits that anyone can recreate or adapt from their own wardrobe. I also believe my style is quite affordable. While I invest in pieces like bags, shoes, or premium denim, I view these investments as a practical way to enhance my fashion choices.
Ultimately, these three words act as a guide for my personal style. When I’m not feeling my best or am tempted to shop, I refer to my three words to determine what I need and what I can let go of. Using this method to declutter my closet is incredibly helpful, preventing overwhelm and ensuring I keep only the items that align with my style. This approach simplifies outfit building and sharing them online, helping me stay consistent and offer value to my followers.
What do you think about the three-word method for personal style?
