Breaking Free From Trends: Embracing Your Personal Style

For the longest time, I felt trapped. Every time I scrolled through social media or watched TV, it seemed like trends were the only options. Style, beauty, home decor—it all felt dictated by what was "in." Walking into a clothing store, I realized that what’s considered “new” is simply what’s available, creating the illusion that our choices are limited. Like many of you reading this, I followed the crowd, trying to fit in.

Then came the biggest revelation: the things that stand out are often the most celebrated. Look at social media—the influencers with the highest engagement aren’t just copying trends; they’re setting them. Interior designers are known for their distinctive vision, and fashion designers must create something entirely new to make an impact. The truth is, there’s only one you, and that is your power. Breaking free from trends—whether in your wardrobe or your home—can feel scary at first, but it’s also incredibly freeing. And let’s get one thing straight: You don’t have to box yourself into a single style. One day, you might love an all-black edgy look, and the next, you’re twirling in a flowy summer dress. Both are equally you.

So, where do you start? How do you let go of the pressure to keep up and step into a style that is entirely your own? Here are three steps that helped me reclaim my individuality:

1. Stop Seeking Validation—Start Trusting Yourself

We’ve been conditioned to look outward for approval—likes, comments, trends, brand names. But true style isn’t about what’s popular; it’s about what resonates with you. When I stopped obsessing over influencers’ choices and started listening to myself, I felt a shift. I became more comfortable in my space and my wardrobe. Start small: the next time you’re drawn to something, ask yourself, Do I love this? Or do I love that it’s trending? The more you trust your instincts, the more confident you’ll become in your style.

2. Experiment Without Fear

Trends give us a script to follow, but personal style is about exploring without boundaries. Mix textures, pair unexpected colors, or layer pieces you never thought would work together. Try decorating a room with colors and materials that you love, even if they aren’t “in.” The beauty of personal style—whether in fashion or home design—is that it evolves. Give yourself the freedom to try new things without worrying about whether they “go together” in a conventional sense.

3. Invest in Timeless Pieces, Not Fads

Trends fade, but well-chosen pieces that reflect you will always feel right. Whether it’s a wardrobe staple you can style a hundred different ways or a decor element that makes your space feel like home, focus on pieces that make you feel good. A well-loved vintage chair, a statement lamp that brings warmth to a room, a leather jacket that gets better with time—these things last because they mean something to you, not because they were a trend.

I’m still on this journey of embracing my personal style, and I can tell you—it’s worth it. It doesn’t have to be expensive to be fashionable. A brand is just a name. It’s not about what you wear or how trendy your home looks; it’s about how you wear it and how your space makes you feel. Let go of the pressure to conform. Trends will come and go, but your style? That’s timeless.