Recognize the Style You Love—Then Copy It (and Make It Your Own)

Forget the magazines and mannequins—real style inspiration is all around you. Here’s how to spot it, break it down, and build your own version.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant flood of fashion advice—from influencers, in-store displays, and glossy magazines? You’re not alone. And here’s a fresh idea: instead of chasing trends or buying full outfits straight off mannequins, try this simple strategy—observe real people and copy what you love.

Style isn’t about duplication—it’s about inspiration. When you see someone with a look that speaks to you, pay attention. Break it down. Think like a stylist. What are the key elements? What makes it work? Then try it for yourself—with your own twist.

People-Watch Like a Stylist

Start seeing others as walking inspiration boards. When you admire someone’s look, assume it’s their personal uniform—something they’ve fine-tuned over time.

Imagine you’re at a seminar. Across the aisle, a woman’s outfit catches your eye: slim black pants that look like they were tailored for her, a spicy-colored jewel-neck cashmere sweater, simple ballet flats, and delicate fine jewelry. She looks sophisticated and completely at ease in her look.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want to feel like that? If so, take mental (or real) notes.

• Do you have similar pieces in your closet?

• Could you build your own version of this look with what you have—or with just one or two intentional additions?

  
  

  

Notice the Unexpected

Style inspiration doesn’t just come from classic looks—it can also come from bold personalities who mix things up.

Picture this: You’re boarding a plane, and you spot a woman with a vibe you’d call feminine rocker chic. She’s not a rock star, but she looks like she’s friends with one. She’s wearing sleek leather pants, an oversized pink leopard print sweater laced with metallic thread, pointy-toed ankle boots with kitten heels, and layered necklaces. She’s pulling out noise-canceling headphones from a slouchy hobo bag.

That’s a full-on vibe. If that excites you—even just a little—look for pieces in your wardrobe that echo those details: a touch of leather, animal print, bold accessories, and boots with a little drama. Style isn’t about copying perfectly—it’s about channeling an energy that feels right for you.

Watch for Artful Dressers

Events with a creative flair—like art exhibits, talks, or galleries—often draw stylish people who’ve put thought into what they’re wearing.

Let’s say you’re at a museum symposium, and one of the panelists is wearing a crisp wrap blouse paired with a black, pleated cotton skirt with asymmetrical detail. Her platform oxfords bring in a touch of masculinity, while the blouse keeps things feminine. Her accessories are minimal—she’s letting her outfit do the talking.

This is another kind of inspiration. Look at the ingredients: a standout skirt, a simple top, unexpected shoes. Do you want to try mixing masculine and feminine elements too? Could you pair something edgy with something classic? Let yourself experiment.

Compliment and Connect

If you see someone wearing something you love, say so! Especially if it's something simple, like a crisp white shirt that catches your eye.

You could say, “I’ve been on the hunt for a great white shirt—yours looks perfect. Would you mind sharing where you found it?” Most people love talking about their outfits, and you may walk away with more than just a shopping tip. You might learn how she organizes her closet or her go-to brands or even her personal style philosophy.

A little fashion curiosity can open big doors—and unexpected conversations.

Want Help Building a Look You Love?

Once you’ve spotted a few looks that speak to you, let’s chat. I’ll help you recreate one and try it on—literally and figuratively. If it feels as good as it looked on someone else, we can build out a week’s worth of outfits based on that vibe.

Who knows? You might be the next woman someone across the room is silently admiring.