If your TikTok feed has ever made you question your entire wardrobe, you’re not alone.

One minute it’s 'clean girl aesthetic', the next it’s 'Y2K baddie”, then suddenly everyone’s dressing like they’re in an indie film. Trends move fast, really fast, and for a lot of us, it feels like we’re constantly trying to keep up. But in a world where everyone’s copying everyone, personal style can start to feel kind of lost and not personal.

So how do you actually find your own style?

First, stop thinking you need to fit into just one aesthetic. That’s one of the biggest myths social media pushes. You’re not a Pinterest board; you're allowed to like multiple styles at once. Some days you might want to dress minimally; other days, boldly or in a vintage style. That doesn’t make you inconsistent; it makes you human.

A good place to start is your saved posts. Scroll through what you’ve liked or saved – there’s usually a pattern. Maybe it’s baby tees, bold tones, low-rise jeans, or statement accessories. That’s your taste starting to show. The key is to build from what you like, not what’s trending.

But here’s something we don’t talk about enough: sometimes the best way to find your style is to step away from social media. When you’re constantly consuming other people’s outfits, it’s easy to lose sight of your own preferences. Try putting together outfits without checking your phone first. Pay attention to what feels comfortable, what makes you feel confident, and what you naturally reach for in your wardrobe. That’s where your real style lives.

Look around you for inspiration instead. Friends, people on the street, old photos, and even your parents’ wardrobe.... Style existed long before algorithms. Thrifting, mixing old pieces with new ones, or reworking clothes you already own can help you create something that actually feels original.

Also, don’t underestimate trial and error. Not every outfit is going to look the way you imagined, and that’s fine. Finding your style is low key... just experiment until something clicks. Confidence doesn’t come from wearing the 'right' thing; it comes from wearing something that feels like you.

At the end of the day, style isn’t about chasing trends; it's about expressing identity. And the best part? It’s allowed to change. Because in a world full of trends, the real standout is originality.

Channel Mag's youth contributors, Fantasia Nair and Billy Brown, bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz, and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.