Styling Your Subject: You
Finding your personal style is more than just putting together outfits—it’s about discovering what makes you feel the most yourself. Fashion is an extension of your identity, a way to tell your story without saying a word. At Found Vintage, we believe the best wardrobes are built with intention, history, and a deep connection to what you love. Here’s how to explore and define your personal style, the vintage way.
1. Look Back to Move Forward
Start by drawing inspiration from the past. Think about the decades, movements, and aesthetics that speak to you. Are you drawn to the effortless cool of 90s NYC streetwear, the structured elegance of 50s tailoring, or the free-spirited flow of 70s bohemian fashion? Pay attention to the silhouettes, fabrics, and details that make you feel something. Vintage fashion is full of stories—find the ones that resonate with yours.
2. Tap Into What Makes You Feel Good
Style isn’t just about how you look—it’s about how you feel. Think about the outfits that give you confidence. Are you at home in oversized, relaxed fits, or do you prefer sharp, structured tailoring? Do you gravitate towards earthy, muted tones or bold, statement colors? When you feel good in what you wear, it becomes an extension of who you are.
3. Curate Instead of Accumulate
Fast fashion pushes constant consumption, but personal style is about selecting, not stockpiling. When shopping vintage, focus on quality over quantity. Invest in pieces that are well-made, timeless, and versatile. A great vintage denim jacket, a perfectly worn-in band tee, or a classic wool coat can last a lifetime when chosen with care.
4. Express Yourself Through Textures & Prints
Your style isn’t just about clothing—it’s about textures, patterns, and materials that tell a story. Whether it’s the softness of handwoven African prints, the structure of heritage workwear, or the elegance of Art Nouveau-inspired details, let the materials speak for you. Play with textures like suede, raw denim, silk, and wool to add depth to your wardrobe.
5. Break the Rules & Make It Your Own
Style should be fun, freeing, and a way to experiment. Mix high and low, masculine and feminine, vintage and modern. Layer unexpected pieces together, play with proportions, and don’t be afraid to break so-called ‘fashion rules.’ Some of the best personal style moments happen when you take risks and make an outfit your own.
6. Let Your Lifestyle Inspire Your Style
Your personal style should fit how you actually live. If you’re constantly on the move, you might lean towards functional, workwear-inspired pieces. If you love nostalgia, you might gravitate towards retro silhouettes and vintage band tees. Style should be effortless—reflecting your personality, passions, and daily life.
7. Build a Wardrobe That Lasts
Sustainability isn’t a trend—it’s a mindset. Instead of chasing fast fashion cycles, curate a wardrobe that lasts. Look for natural fibers, timeless cuts, and well-constructed garments. When you buy vintage, you’re not just shopping—you’re preserving history and reducing waste.
At Found Vintage, we believe that style is personal, intentional, and always evolving. Whether you’re drawn to bold statements or subtle classics, your wardrobe should feel like a collection of pieces that tell your unique story. So take your time, explore, and build a style that’s truly yours.
