Back-to-school season isn’t just about new notebooks and schedules. It’s also the perfect time to redefine your look. Whether you’re heading to high school, a college campus, or into your first job, fashion can be a tool for self-expression and confidence.
Nikko Smith says, “Style isn’t about having the most clothes or following every trend—it’s about intention. When you know your body type, honor your style personality, and shop with a plan, getting dressed becomes easy and empowering. Your wardrobe should feel like a curated reflection of who you are.”
With TikTok, Instagram, and influencers dominating online perception, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle of what others are doing, which only pushes you further away from finding your own personal style in the long run. There are many things to factor in when on this journey, not just shopping and trend cycles.
Savannah Crosby says confidence is the most important factor when building out your closet. “So many people say, ‘I could never pull that off,’ but the truth is you can,” she says. “The outfit doesn’t wear you, you wear the outfit. Confidence is the best accessory.”
We spoke with six stylists about how to build a wardrobe that feels authentic to you, how to navigate trends, and which pieces are worth investing in. The journey to finding a personal style that feels true to you is possible with the right steps. Here’s their best advice:
Jacob Nicholas says to start small and be resourceful. “A lot of trends trace back to simpler references you can recreate with what you already own or by thrifting. Comfort and budget matter more than hype—skip chasing every “it” item and find alternatives that fit your lifestyle.”
Keema Radway says it’s important to schedule “me time” to play in your closet. She suggests putting on music to try on pieces, and then taking mirror pics of what you like. “Create a personal album on your phone—it’s a low-pressure way to experiment.”
Kathryn Lewis suggests starting with your favorite social media app. “Curate a Pinterest or TikTok mood board. Identify common themes—are you drawn to bold prints, neutrals, or sporty cuts? That’s your starting point.”
Ana Tess says that distinctive jewelry and bags are transformative in building out your personal style. “Vintage or flea-market finds often have more character than overhyped ‘it’ items. Prioritize quality fabrics that last.” Back-to-School season is the perfect time to slowly build your closet out.
Nicholas also says it’s important to invest in good-quality denim. It can be casual or dressed up. Elevated silver and gold jewelry can instantly transform an outfit, and a black crossbody bag will always be timeless, functional, and versatile.
Radway adds that it’s important to only invest where it makes sense for you: “If you love outerwear, buy quality jackets. If bags are your thing, prioritize purses. Build around what excites you.”
When it comes to trends, Nicholas suggests easing into the viral ones coming down your FYP: “Wait to see how a trend can work for you. Search Pinterest with words that are specific to your identity (like “plus-size” or “alternative”) to get realistic inspiration. Then test it out—try on outfits at home, take mirror selfies, and decide how it feels before wearing it out.
When planning out your campus sense of style, Lewis emphasizes the importance of your personal interests. “Campus fashion varies depending on the school and your major. At Florida A&M University, where I attended, students loved to show up and show out — even at 8 AM. If you're more laid back, go for a graphic tee layered with a cool jacket, jeans, and sneakers or a smart-casual look for business majors. For interviews or first jobs, I suggest a tailored pant and blouse combo, then add a fun twist like a chunky bracelet, patterned shoe, or nice handbag. It's a great way to showcase your individuality while playing it safe.
Tess also says to keep things polished yet expressive. “Loud or overly provocative outfits can work against you in these settings,” she says. “Instead, focus on well-tailored silhouettes, subtle details, and a sharp haircut — they strike the perfect balance between professionalism and individuality. Take your pieces to a tailor; a perfect fit instantly elevates even the simplest garment, making it feel as refined as a luxury item.
“Use the 'magical third piece' rule—always add one extra element,” Nicholas says. “Jeans and a tee? Add sunglasses or a belt. A midi dress? Elevate it with a scarf or bag. That final touch ties everything together.”
Radway advises stepping outside the fashion world sometimes. “Don’t limit yourself to fashion for inspiration. Pull from music, TV, or hometown culture, then create a mood board to guide your wardrobe.” She also says to experiment in low-stakes settings. Not every outfit will hit, but each attempt gets you closer to knowing your style. And most importantly, give yourself space to grow, style evolves with you.
