Lilly Pulitzer Dress c/o || Earrings (under $25!) || Shoes || Bag || Lipstick

The other day I got a DM on Instagram from a TCC reader with a great question. She asked how to create your own sense of style, when the brand’s your peers are currently coveting aren’t really up your alley. 

Right after reading this DM, I sat down to write this post because I once had this personal dilemma in college. I grew up in Connecticut and embraced classic American Style until I decided to go to college in San Diego. 

& oh boy guys, did my personal style go down a windy road once I was living full time in California. 

All of a sudden I was being introduced to brands I’d once never heard of, which is an amazing experience. My roommates taught me all about Wildfox, Brandy Melville, LF Stores[lfstores.com] and of course Free People; serious 70’s California vibes. 

& oh was I excited. My personal style went from zero to one hundred here, I went from a classic Jackie Kennedy look, think Lilly Pulitzer, to the California extreme of maxi skirts, crop top sweaters and dare I say vintage Nirvana band tees.

Who was I… 

Looking back I can’t believe I wore some of the items I did, they were so NOT me, BUT they are a part of who I am today! By having fun and embracing the California clothing style and lifestyle, I’m where I am today. 

Now I digress, just because you try something out doesn’t mean you have to commit. So after a year of boho Free People Dresses and graphic tees; I packed up my suitcase and headed back East for summer.

Once summer break was in full swing and my duffle bags of vintages tees arrived in Connecticut, I realized it just wasn’t me. I wanted to go back to wearing brands and cuts of style that made me feel like, well ME!

I think finding a sense of style, is kind of like finding a sense of self…

To deep? I’m not kidding though, my blog is about embracing New England lifestyle which includes a clothing style; it’s part of who I am and who New Englanders are in their roots. 

Just like how Texans love Wrangler Jeans and Californians rock Brandy Melville bralettes left and right.

Your style tells a story and speaks to a culture you relate too. This whole experience actually promoted me to start the TCC, to help you guys embrace a New England lifestyle no matter where you are or what stage of life you’re in. 

& guys, style is meant to be fun and fluid, just because you like bell-bottom jeans today doesn’t mean you have to sign a marriage license to them tomorrow. 

So TCC Reader my advice on how to create your own sense of style when the brand’s your peers are currently coveting aren’t really up your alley, is to dress for YOURSELF! 

Yeah sure, sometimes I looked overdressed walking to class in this Lilly Dress, amongst San Diego yogis and beach babes but I felt darn good and that’s what mattered to me. 

I can vividly remember arriving back in San Diego for my sophomore year of college, Lilly Dresses and Vineyard Vines Shep Shirts in hand with roommates asking to borrow the dresses for dates or special occasions. Bringing something different to the table, style wise, was fun for both parties. 

Anyway, finding your own style is totally trial and error and it still is for me today. To this day my closet has elements of California and New England, you’d be surprised how many preppy pieces I find in Urban Outfitters of all places, while in CA, like this dress I just purchased. 

Overall, don’t worry about brands or labels, in fact, pulling a piece no one else has purchased might inspire others to take the preppy style out for a spin. As long as you wear your outfit with confidence and grace, you’ll fit in just find. 

Okay, that’s my experience and tips, I’d love to hear any advice you guys might have for creating your own sense of style. xx Aubrey 

Shop This Post: