CHAPTER 4: Finding Your Personal Style

  

Rediscover Your Edge: Three Simple Steps to Personal Style (Even When You're Busy)

Do you ever feel like you've lost your edge? Maybe you’re a busy mom juggling endless tasks, keeping it all together for everyone else. Maybe you're working full time towards a dream or goal of yours. Maybe you hit a rough patch and just keeping it together is all you've got. Whatever chapter in your life you are in, you're doing great! It’s easy to feel like you don't have the time or energy to think about putting an outfit together.

But here’s the secret: Personal style doesn't have to break the bank, and it isn't a competition. It's about what makes YOU feel like YOU—confident, comfortable, and good.

Sure, we have events that require a polished look, but let’s be real: most of life is running errands, managing work, and conquering chores. So why bother with style?

Because your personal style is your statement. Each of us is unique, bringing something only we can bring to the world around us. If you feel uninspired or have forgotten what makes you tick, The 2nd Story is here to help.

I like to lean into the space that feels most like myself. Wearing something you’re genuinely excited about is the best place to start. If you’re looking for those key pieces, here are three steps to rediscover your style edge:

Step 1: Master the Basics (With a Twist)

Solid staple pieces are your foundation and will take you far!

Don't settle for the bare minimum. The key to successful basics is finding materials, cuts, or patterns that set them apart. Think:

• A great-fitting pair of vintage jeans (the perfect wash is everything).

• An elevated t-shirt in a silk blend or with a unique neckline to instantly spice up the everyday plain tee.

• The right items for layering - blazers, jackets, jewelry and accessories.

What's "best" is a matter of opinion—your opinion! Find those basic staples that have a little twist to make them feel special.

Step 2: The Essential Art of Layering

Layers aren’t just for fall; they are essential for adding depth and interest to any outfit. Even in warmer weather, a lightweight jacket, vest, or jewelry can elevate a look.

To keep it simple, let's look at a core uniform I love:

Envision this: A nice pair of fitting jeans, a basic tee (maybe a band or graphic tee), and a blazer on top.

This combination is casual yet put together. The blazer brings a sophisticated presence to the look while the tee keeps it comfortable.

The Shoes and Accessories

This look is incredibly versatile, especially when you factor in your accessories:

• For a polished event (like a work meeting or a nice dinner): Throw on loafers, cute flats, or even a low heel to instantly elevate the look (and yes, keep that band tee!).

• For pure comfort (errands or a parent-teacher conference): A great pair of sneakers instantly makes the outfit effortless, comfortable, and still totally put together.

And don’t forget jewelry! Adding a chunky bracelet, a statement necklace, or a pair of bold earrings is the simplest way to truly finish and personalize the look, while keeping it comfortable. These simple additions get the ball rolling, but ultimately, what looks best is what makes you feel good.

Step 3: Find Your Inspiration (The "Twist")

Ready to level up those basics? This is the fun part!

Think about what you're naturally drawn to. Are you more girly, edgy, or chic? This is the "twist" you can incorporate into your staple pieces.

Let’s take the blazer outfit from Step 2:

• If you're more girly: Swap in a pink blazer, add some pearl earrings, and finish the look with ballet-inspired flats. You've just created a whole new aesthetic with the same core pieces!

• If you like a more edgy look: Try some black leather        pants instead of jeans, and you have a completely            different spin.

Find the style, era, decade, or vibe that appeals to you, and keep those details in mind when you are searching for your next piece.

Join the Movement!

I am so excited to be able to take my passion for thrifting and styling and share it with you. I enjoy combating fast fashion and the copy-paste look that has flooded our lives. It is so important to stand out and show your personal style. You are memorable.

With so many unique items sitting on the racks at secondhand shops, there is no way you can't find something you like! And if you don't have the time to hunt, that's where we come in. At The 2nd Story, we are here for the circular fashion movement, keeping clothing out of landfills while promoting your unique style.

Follow along and head to The2ndStory.co to find your next favorite look.

Stay Chic,

Gabriella Dolce Commander-In-Chic, The 2nd Story